Superstition S1

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<img class="img-invert" src="images/bumstudios.png" width="500" height="111" align ="center"> @@.center; ©2022-2024 Bum Studios LLC. All rights reserved. @@ All images and audio are licensed under Bum Studios LLC. Copyright infringement is punishable by law. Audio belongs to respected artists and courtesy of Storyblocks Audio, Envato, and Incompetech. Incompetech attribution found in ''CREDITED MUSIC'' section. ''CONTACT'' If you have any questions or issues please contact me @ ... email: 13leaguestories@gmail.com tumblr: 13leaguestories.tumblr.com ''TWINE WIDGETS'' By [[HiEv|https://qjzhvmqlzvoo5lqnrvuhmg.on.drv.tw/UInv/Sample_Code.html#Main%20Menu]] and [[Chapel|https://twinelab.net/custom-macros-for-sugarcube-2/#/]] [[Return|$return]]

Select the title image for an in-depth look at each category when applicable. <a data-passage="Sidebar_Personal"><img src="images/personal.png" alt="Personal"/></a> ''Name'': $name Roe ''$name's Sanity'': $sanity ''$name's Reaction'': <<if $reaction is "flight">>Flight<<elseif $reaction is "fight">>Fight<<elseif $reaction is "freeze">>Freeze<<else>>Balanced<</if>> <<if $fstyle>>''Fighting Style'': $style<</if>> <img src="images/skills.png"> ''Honesty'' <meter @value="$honesty" min="0" max="100"></meter> ''Deceit'' ''Daring'' <meter @value="$daring" min="0" max="100"></meter> ''Cautious'' ''Optimist'' <meter @value="$optimistic" min="0" max="100"></meter> ''Pessimist'' ''Stubborn'' <meter @value="$stubborn" min="0" max="100"></meter> ''Reasonable'' ''Pacifist'' <meter @value="$pacifist" min="0" max="100"></meter> ''Violent'' ''Serious'' <meter @value="$serious" min="0" max="100"></meter> ''Comical'' ''Leader'' <meter @value="$leader" min="0" max="100"></meter> ''Follower'' <<link 'see number version'>><<dialog 'Personal'>>''Honesty'': <<print $honesty>> ''Daring'': <<print $daring>> ''Optimist'': <<print $optimistic>> ''Stubborn'': <<print $stubborn>> ''Pacifist'': <<print $pacifist>> ''Serious'': <<print $serious>> ''Leader'': <<print $leader>> <</dialog>><</link>> ''Charisma'': $charisma ''Combat'': $combat ''Medical'': $medical ''Creativity'': $creativity ''Engineering'': $engineering Tip: Click the names below for more information on them. <a data-passage="Sidebar_Affiliates"><img src="images/affiliates.png" alt="Affiliates"/></a> <<if $ChrisRichardson>>\ <<link "Chris Richardson">> <<popover 'opaque'>>\ <img src="images/char_chris.png" alt="Chris Richardson" align ="left" width ="30%" HSPACE="50" VSPACE="50"/><h1>Chris Richardson</h1> Chris is a Caucasian-American male (he/him) described as having short wavy brown hair, blue eyes, and a beard usually in the style of long stubble. He has an athletically tone body despite his love for junk food and smoking habits. He is 5'8 in height and constitutes as average. He is a caring, intelligent, and laidback guy who loves learning new things, even if that means never applying them to life. He enjoys listening to others talk about their passion and supporting those in his life. His initial trust in others is lacking, and he’d much rather keep strangers at a distance. He is determined, and when he puts his mind to it, he can accomplish anything, though it might take a bit more time than he originally planned. His laid-back nature easily hides some of his achievements, and though he doesn’t boast, he loves when others point it out. Though flirting comes easily to the man, he struggles to voice his thoughts more often than not. This typically leads to miscommunication, and things that should be said are left to be buried. ''Status'': Alive ''Relationship'': $chris (The <<if $chris >=50>>Outsider<<else>>Dreamer<</if>>) ''Romanceable: <<if $flirt_chris>>Yes<<else>>No<</if>> <<if $flirt_chris>>''Romance'': <<if $CRomance is <=3>>Chris is interested.<<elseif $CRomance is "4" or $CRomance is "5" or $CRomance is "6">>Chris has a crush on you.<<elseif $CRomance is "7" or $CRomance is "8" or $CRomance is "9">>Chris really //really// likes you.<<else>>Chris can't get enough of you. He doesn't want to.<</if>><</if>> <</popover>>\ <</link>> 22-year-old human male <meter @value="$chris" min="0" max="100"></meter Loyalty: <meter @value="$chrisLo" min="0" max="100"></meter> <</if>>\ <<if $SyderoTheron>>\ <<link "Sydero Theron">> <<popover 'opaque'>>\ <img src="images/char_sydero.png" alt="Sydero Theron" align ="left" width ="30%" HSPACE="50" VSPACE="50"/><h1>Sydero Theron</h1> Sydero is an Arab-American female (she/her) said to have long black hair, commonly straight but at times is known to be curly. She has amber-colored eyes and a light beige complexion. She is 5'9 in height and constitutes as tall. Mostly described as being unbearable to put up with, Sydero's first impression for many is usually the same. Her stubborness and determination to do things her way, regardless of morality, often leads to her butting heads with others. She's not much of a talker, choosing rather to sit in silence than carry an entire conversation with those she's in attendance with. When she does speak, it's either off-brand and straightforward, or has her saying something either flirtatiously inappropriate or being sarcastic. She is first and foremost a loner, keeping her secrets close to her chest and refusing to let anyone close enough to uncover them. ''Status'': Alive ''Relationship'': $sydero (The <<if $sydero >=50>>Rogue<<else>>Loner<</if>>) ''Romanceable: <<if $flirt_syd>>Yes<<else>>No<</if>> <<if $flirt_syd>>''Romance'': <<if $SRomance is <=3>>Sydero would fuck you, but she'd fuck anyone.<<elseif $SRomance is "4" or $SRomance is "5" or $SRomance is "6">>Sydero would fuck you and mean it.<<elseif $SRomance is "7" or $SRomance is "8" or $SRomance is "9">>Careful, Syd is rethinking your fuckability.<<else>>Sydero doesn't want to fuck you.<</if>><</if>> <</popover>>\ <</link>> female <<if $sydknown>>cambion<<else>>witch<</if>> <meter @value="$sydero" min="0" max="100"></meter> Loyalty: <meter @value="$syderoLo" min="0" max="100"></meter> <</if>>\ <<if $TheEntity>>\ <<link "Zillah">> <<popover 'opaque'>>\ <img src="images/char_zillah.png" alt="Zillah" align ="left" width ="30%" HSPACE="50" VSPACE="50"/><h1>Zillah</h1> Zillah, originally known as 'the Entity' is a malevolent <<if $ep4unlock>>shade<<else>>spirit<</if>> (he/him) whose purpose, origins, and reasons for being present are mostly unknown. He appears as a Though much of his background is unknown, Zillah's personality is more than obvious. He's traditionally cocky and rude, asserting his power knowingly without much care for the consequences. There is little that he takes seriously and the things he does, turn into a cryptic mess of riddles and half statements that help no one. ''Status'': Alive ''Relationship'': $zillah (The <<if $zillah >=50>>Rogue<<else>>Loner<</if>>) <<if $flirt_zillah>>''Romance'':<</if>> <</popover>>\ <</link>> a malevolent <<if $ep4unlock>>shade<<else>>spirit<</if>> <meter @value="$zillah" min="0" max="100"></meter> Loyalty: <meter @value="$zillahLo" min="0" max="100"></meter> <</if>>\ <<if $ChanaraMitchell>>\ <<link "Chanara Mitchell">> <<popover 'opaque'>>\ <img src="images/char_chanara.png" alt="Chanara Mitchell" align ="left" width ="30%" HSPACE="50" VSPACE="50"/><h1>Chanara Mitchell</h1> Chanara is a African American female (she/her) with long, dark red kinky hair that she typically wears down, though there are times where she will tie it back, creating an afro puff. She has dark brown eyes and an athletically toned body. She is 5'5 in height and constitutes as average. Keeping to herself more often than not, she's a fan of minding her business and staying out of issues that don't involve her. If the problem has nothing to do with her, she goes the opposite way, not even wishing to hear about the drama from second or third-hand sources. If it does concern her, she likes to see the facts when making decisions, completely ignoring the irrational and emotional side of things. To those she's close to and believes in, she sometimes comes off as harsh and unyielding due to wanting to see them thrive and succeed. And for some, this is the dealbreaker that causes a budding friendship to wilt. But she is a steadfast and caring friend who still can awe at a world she once thought she was jaded by. ''Status'': Alive ''Relationship'': $chanara (<<if $chanara >=50>>Friendship<<else>>Rivalry<</if>>) <<if $flirt_chanara>>''Romance'':<</if>> <</popover>>\ <</link>> female reaper <meter @value="$chanara" min="0" max="100"></meter> Loyalty: <meter @value="$chanaraLo" min="0" max="100"></meter> <</if>>\ <<if $BradleyWhittaker>>\ <<link "Bradley Whittaker">> <<popover 'opaque'>>\ <img src="images/char_bradley.png" alt="Bradley Whittaker" align ="left" width ="30%" HSPACE="50" VSPACE="50"/><h1>Bradley Whittaker</h1> Bradley is a young, Caucasian-American male (he/him) in his mid-teens, he has a light rosy complexion, medium-length disheveled brown hair that stops at his eyes in front, and the nape of his neck in the back. He has dark brown eyes and is the average size and height for boys at his age. As a young child, Bradley was extremely inquisitive about the world around him and how it worked. He had an interest in everything and thus was unable to focus like other kids his age. This behavior came to a halt after his curious nature caused a domino effect of things to occur. Though it hasn’t totally disappeared, Bradley is more likely to think things through before jumping into them immediately. He adores problems and fixing them with both an analytical and creative view. He would rather focus all of his attention on one issue and come up with multiple ways to fix it than to focus on various problems or take the easy way out. The closer to home the problem is, the more Bradley is dedicated to fixing it. Despite his knowledge, skill, and how fast he had to grow up due to his circumstances, Bradley is still a teenager and behaves as so. Though surrounded by those older and more mature than him (or at least they should be), he has teenage tendencies. He gets flustered when meeting pretty girls, throws tantrums at moments when he doesn’t get his way, and enjoys being teased and teasing those he considers his family. On his good days, Bradley is hugely playful and joking, always ready to downplay the seriousness of an event and help pick up the spirits of those around him. On his worst days, Bradley is an introvert and can even be toxic to those he loves. He has a hard time figuring things out, and he becomes one-track-minded. ''Status'': Alive <</popover>>\ <</link>> human male <meter @value="$bradley" min="0" max="100"></meter> <</if>>\

@@.center;<h1>BIOGRAPHY</h1>@@ ''Name'': $name Roe ''Gender'': <<if $trans>>Trans <</if>>$gender ''Pronouns'': ?he/?him ''Sanity'': $sanity ''College Major'': $cmajor ''Car'': $car ''Reaction'': <<if $reaction is "flight">>Flight<<elseif $reaction is "fight">>Fight<<elseif $reaction is "freeze">>Freeze<<else>>Balanced<</if>> ''Appearance'': Your eyes are $eyes and you <<if $length is "bald">>are bald.<<else>>have $length, $color <<if $hair is "braids" or $hair is "dreads">>$hair<<else>>$hair hair<</if>><</if>>. You have <<if $tattoo is "none">>no<<elseif $tattoo is "few">>a few<<else>>several<</if>> tattoos. You are $height for your height. Your genitals are <<if $sex is "v">>a vagina<<elseif $sex is "p">>a penis<<else>>not disclosed<</if>> and you have <<if $chest is "p">>visible breasts<<else>>no visible breasts<</if>>. <<if $fstyle>>''Fighting Style'': $style<</if>> ''Bad Habit'': <<if $badhabit is "cigs">>Smoking<<elseif $badhabit is "nails">>Nail Biting<<elseif $badhabit is "sleep">>Insomnia<<else>>None<</if>> ''Coping'': <<if $coping is "rational">>You cope by rationalizing your thoughts and providing explanations that will comfort you at the end of the day, no matter how much they are actually lies.<<elseif $coping is "risky">>You cope by indulging in risky behavior and even riskier distractions.<<elseif $coping is "comfort">>You cope by seeking out things that bring you comfort and may fill you with a false sense of safety.<<else>>You have not chosen a way of coping just yet. Keep playing!<</if>> @@.center;<h1>PERSONALITY & SKILLS</h1>@@ ''Honesty'' vs ''Decit'': <<if $honesty >=50>>Honesty<<else>>Deceit<</if>> ''Daring'' vs ''Cautious'': <<if $daring >=50>>Daring<<else>>Cautious<</if>> ''Optimist'' vs ''Pessimist'': <<if $optimistic >=50>>Optimist<<else>>Pessimist<</if>> ''Stubborn'' vs ''Reasonable'': <<if $stubborn >=50>>Stubborn<<else>>Reasonable<</if>> ''Pacifist'' vs ''Violent'': <<if $pacifist >=50>>Pacifist<<else>>Violent<</if>> ''Serious'' vs ''Comical'': <<if $serious >=50>>Serious<<else>>Comical<</if>> ''Leader'' vs ''Follower'': <<if $leader >=50>>Leader<<else>>Follower<</if>> ''Charisma'': $charisma ''Combat'': $combat ''Medical'': $medical ''Engineering'': $engineering <<if $bartending>>☑<<else>>☒<</if>> Bartending <<if $cooking>>☑<<else>>☒<</if>> Cooking <<if $plants>>☑<<else>>☒<</if>> Botanist <<if $scouts>>☑<<else>>☒<</if>> Scouts <<if $tailor>>☑<<else>>☒<</if>> Tailoring [[Return|$return]]

''Romantic Gender Interest'': $int ''Virginity'': <<if $virgin>>Yes<<else>>No<</if>>1 ''Sexual Attractiveness Levels'': <<if $s_att is "absent">>non-existent<<elseif $s_att is "present">>existent<<else>>fluctuating or neutral<</if>> ''Romance Attractiveness Levels'': <<if $r_att is "absent">>non-existent<<else>>existent<</if>> <<if $int is not "none">>''Available Romances'': <<if $flirt_chris>>Chris<<else>><s>Chris</s><</if>> | <<if $flirt_syd>>Sydero<<else>><s>Sydero</s><</if>> | <<if $flirt_zillah>>Zillah<<else>><s>Zillah</s><</if>> | <<if $flirt_chanara>>Chanara<<else>><s>Chanara</s><</if>><</if>> Below are the list of characters that you are able to romance. This is here to better choose a LI but is not needed if you do not care for such things. Along with their names the following are also introduced in the following order: gender, orientation, libido, and romantic attraction will also be mentioned. ''Chris Richardson'': Male | Queer2 | High | Present3 ''Sydero Theron'': Female | Bisexual | High (Dominant) | Nonexistent/Aromantic ''Zillah "The Entity"'': Male | Bisexual | High (Switch) | Present ''Chanara: Female | Bisexual | Average | Present4 It should also be noted that ''not'' every choice needs to be chosen to become romantically invested in a character. This is especially true in favor of keeping true to your character. For example: a situation may be perfect for a Roe who wnats to toughen up Chris and have romantic options to show for it, but may not be opportune for a Roe who wishes for Chris to stay his usual bubbly self and there will be no options for them. In situations like this, it is totally fine to not choose a romance option and instead wait for a better representing choice later on. 1At the moment the virginity answer may be wrong. When you get to the appropriate episode it will switch to whichever answer you choose. 2If Chris is being romanced by a female character then he will remain straight. Otherwise he is queer and will begin transitioning from straight to queer to bisexual/pansexual. 3Chris is not romanceable by a aromantic Roe. 4Though Chanara is not aromantic she can be romanced by someone who is and will be fine with reciprocating with the same energy as an aromantic person would. [[Return|$return]]

@@.center;<h1>SCARS</h1>@@ There are three different scars that you can receive from your guardian. These scars appear on different areas of your body and allow Roe to have different, unique abilities. *''Heart'': Natural armor. +10 with no armor and an additional +5 with any kind of armor. The Baron's experiments have drastically changed Moran's skin and its durability, providing an almost armor like effect. *''Arms'': Additional moi̥ ability. Moran's blood has been intertwined with a high percentage of trarkran, changing their moi̥. *''Cheek/Jaw'': Health boost +10. Moran's health has actually gotten better due to the experiments, miracles come in the oddest ways. *''Eyes'': @@.center;<h1>STATS</h1>@@ Below are personality stats and what they mean for Moran as a character. <<link "NERVE">> <<popover 'opaque'>>\ Roe's nerve measures the willpower that Roe possesses in the face of the supernatural and their new circumstances. In these situations Roe can respond by either choosing one of the three: freeze, flight, or fight. *''Freeze'': A Roe that typically freezes will mostly see an overload of emotions and thoughts all at once and an inability to act on anything. These Roes are the most anxious and typically needs someone to shake them out of whatever stupor that they enter into. *''Flight'': A Roe that leans more towards flight will typically run away from dangers and situations *''Fight'': Roes that find themselves fighting more often than not will <</popover>>\ <</link>> [[Return|$return]]

<> <<unset $claw, $BradHill, $doglike, $catlike, $afterhim, $answer1>> <<set $Alyrian = false; $Cimmerian = false; $offering = false>> <<playlist "ambience" loop play>> <>\ <img src="images/epeight.png"> <img src="images/actone.png"> The feeling of having all of your senses nulled in a mysterious place is possibly the weirdest experience to have. I could hear just fine, but I’m not familiar with the sounds coming from deeper within. Fire crackling, a deep and melodic hum, and something else, something that I couldn’t put my finger on. I can also feel, but of course when you’re in a pitch-black hallway that doesn’t allow for one’s eyes to refocus, then it’s hard to figure out what you are touching. The building is unnecessarily cold. And as I follow behind Sydero, listening to the sounds of my footsteps echoing off the tile floor, that thought is what stays at the forefront of my mind. My own footsteps constantly remind me that I make too much noise with no way to cease it. I know there is some secret to it, since I can't hear Sydero but know she resides right in front of me. <<if $cp>>Even Chris is silent, the loudest thing about him is his uncontrolled breathing. The deeper we go, the more fearful he becomes.<</if>> “I think we’re here,” Sydero says, stopping at what I can only presume is a door, “remember, witches die just like any mortal.” I nod, reaching for my gun to make sure it’s still there. Can never be too careful. Sydero pushes the door open and we dash inside, but there’s no one there. <<if $cp>>\ “I think you got the wrong room, Syd,” Chris points out, lowering the gun in his hands. “Shut up,” Syd growls, shoving him out of the way and walking towards a reversed pentagram. She crouches and begins going through a large mixing bowl that sits at one of the points. <<else>>\ Sydero groans as she heads towards a reversed pentagram. Crouching, she begins to go through a large mixing bowl that sits at one of the points. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC0"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The room is a complete mess, even if they aren’t here now, they were a few minutes ago. The room holds at least three windows, but each has a shabby wood panel blocking the outside world. The floor holds a mix of dirt, trash, and what I can only assume is animal feces. Large holes rest on the floor, while smaller ones can be seen in the ceiling. The ones in the ceiling have small horrible patchwork done to them, the floor ones are left untreated. “What are you doing?” I ask Syd who picks up several thick strands of what looks like cheese. She sniffs it and frowns. “Ginger root. Ginger root. Ginger root,” she repeats again and again, tapping her foot. “What about it?” <<if $cp>>Chris questions<<else>>I question<</if>>. “I forget what it’s used for. It’s the only thing in this bowl I don’t know. Shit! What is it used for?” she asks in frustration. “Passion, wealth, success, long life. It has many uses young one,” a voice says behind us. We each twist around to see a group of six people enter the room. The one in front, and I suppose the speaker, is an old crone with a cigarette resting in her loose grasp. “But for us, we’re using it for means of power.” She lifts a finger and everyone behind her surges forward to attack. <<if $cp>>Two head for me, one for Chris, and the other two have<<else>>Two head for me and the other three have<</if>> their eyes set on Syd, but she seems more interested in the old woman. “Don’t go near the pentagram!” Syd screams before engaging her assaulters. The two heading towards me is a man and a woman. The woman remarkably smaller than the man but will make it to me first. [[Take out the woman’s leg.]] [[Trick the lady.]] [[Use the environment to my advantage.]]

I raise my gun and aim for the woman’s leg, hoping to slow her down. She is remarkably deft on her feet, managing to avoid each of the three shots aimed at her. Her power may have to do with agility, no normal human can move like that. And soon she is upon me. I begin to throw a punch when she swiftly dodges it and strikes me in my stomach, kicking my feet out from under me. //Cute//, I think to myself, rolling out of the way before the guy can deliver a punch. She’s fast, but lucky for me I scrimmage with a woman whose style is similar, only the woman I scrimmage with is quicker and a lot more ruthless and a lot less sloppy. Syd taught me how to read others, and I personally learned how to combat her style of fighting. It doesn’t take long for me to figure out her pattern and where to strike. She screams in agony as she goes down, lunging out and bringing her leg closer to her. Hopefully, she doesn’t have some insta-heal potion, because I have to deal with her friend now. <<if $cp>>I hear Chris shout, and look just in time to see his body get flung across the room. <</if>>The man is upon me before I can plan my next moves, he grabs my wrist and wrestles the gun out of my hands, it goes skidding across the floor, almost falling into one of the holes. Great. I try to shove him off of me, but his grip is unyielding, in one smooth move, he lifts me up and tosses me over his shoulder. I gaze around, searching for anything to give me an advantage. [[Lunge towards him.]] [[Use the ... animal droppings.]] [[Put more space between us.]]

I learned the move by messing with my gun and then testing it out on Sydero, who actually was impressed. I trip the guy and put space between him and me, putting my gun on safety before aiming for the woman and taking the shot. Of course, nothing happens, but she does’t know that. She dodges the invisible bullet, and those few, valuable seconds that give me an opening. While her body still adjusts to the dodge, I take my second shot. My finger flips the safety off, and I aim for her leg, hitting her shin straight on. She screams in agony as she goes down, bringing her leg closer to her. Hopefully, she doesn’t have some insta-heal potion, because I have to deal with her friend now. <<if $cp>>I hear Chris shout, and look just in time to see his body get flung across the room. <</if>>The man is upon me before I can plan my next moves, he grabs my wrist and wrestles the gun out of my hands, it goes skidding across the floor, almost falling into one of the holes. Great. I try to shove him off of me, but his grip is unyielding, in one smooth move, he lifts me up and tosses me over his shoulder. I gaze around, searching for anything to give me an advantage. [[Lunge towards him.]] [[Use the ... animal droppings.]] [[Put more space between us.]]

I can always use my environment. There’s furniture and other objects all around the room. Obstacles that she won’t be able to maneuver around so well. I shoot towards a lone table with plates, and other items on it – items that I don’t want to know the name of. I grab the plate and toss it toward her, watching as she dodges it with finesse. She begins to round the table, and I play the game of moving at the same time. She realizes this and chuckles, jumping on top of the table. Without doing much thinking, I push the table as hard as I can, watching as she falls on her face. The man is getting closer, I need to finish with her quickly. [[Knock her out.][$zillah -=3]] [[Shoot her.][$zillah +=3]]

I pistol whip her, rolling my eyes at the long speech that she probably had prepared for me. I’ll let Syd kill her, I’m still not comfortable with the idea of taking another’s life. “You’re such a weak and pathetic little thing,” the Entity sighs, their words echoing through my head. I mentally tell them to shut up before putting my attention on the rest of the room. I still have the man to deal with. <<if $cp>>I hear Chris shout, and look just in time to see his body get flung across the room. <</if>>The man is upon me before I can plan my next moves, he grabs my wrist and wrestles the gun out of my hands, it goes skidding across the floor, almost falling into one of the holes. Great. I try to shove him off of me, but his grip is unyielding, in one smooth move, he lifts me up and tosses me over his shoulder. I gaze around, searching for anything to give me an advantage. [[Lunge towards him.]] [[Use the ... animal droppings.]] [[Put more space between us.]]

I aim and shoot, my heart lurching just a little at the sight and feeling. Like last time, a small piece of me comes alive, it revels in the sensation. It wasn’t necessarily the act of taking a life that awakens this half of me, more so the act of being around a new soul who has walked across the veil. “Hmm, it tastes nice, doesn’t it?” the Entity questions, their low laugh giving me a slight headache. I mentally tell them to shut up before putting my attention on the rest of the room. I still had the man to deal with. <<if $cp>>I hear Chris shout, and look just in time to see his body get flung across the room. Making sure to get a good shot off, I attempt to held him as much as I can in the moment. <</if>>The man is upon me before I can plan my next moves, he grabs my wrist and wrestles the gun out of my hands, it goes skidding across the floor, almost falling into one of the holes. Great. I try to shove him off of me, but his grip is unyielding, in one smooth move, he lifts me up and tosses me over his shoulder. I gaze around, searching for anything to give me an advantage. [[Lunge towards him.]] [[Use the ... animal droppings.]] [[Put more space between us.]]

Nothing rests around me, and so my possibilities grow tremendously small. Only being able to think of one thing, I decide to lunge for the man coming towards me and take out his legs. He joins me on the ground. <<if $style is "Aikido">>In all honesty, this isn’t equal at all. My style isn’t suitable for both of us being on the floor, instead, it’s better for both of us to be standing. I guess I didn’t think that part through. I improvise, just raining down punch after punch until his head rolls to the side and all of his fight disappears.<<elseif $style is "Kenpo">>I immediately surge forward, striking him two times in his stomach and then placing a perfectly timed palm strike to his face when he sits up. As soon as his head goes back, hitting the ground, I strike his face again and then get to my feet, stomping his head next.<<elseif $style is "Taekwondo">>This isn’t my ideal position for fighting, but there is little I can do. I crawl back just enough to give my leg the necessary room it needs to execute the move I envision. The man sits up and is about to lunge for me when I push up, and then kick my leg out. The force of my leg whips across his face, sending him straight back to the ground. It probably isn’t hard enough to crack his neck or anything, but he will be out for some time.<<elseif $style is "Judo">>I roll over him so that I’m in a position to use a chokehold move. While wrapping one of my legs around his midsection, one hand reaches out and grabs his thigh, the other settling on his collar. I apply pressure to this, and though the action is slow, he slowly loses all fight and his head rolls to the side.<<else>>I immediately move on top of him and begin raining down punches, not giving him a second to put his guard fully up. I keep it coming, watching as his face begins to turn from its usual peachy tone to one of red. My actions leave multicolored bruises on his face and my fists. His blood stains my fingers, and only when his guard totally goes down do I stop. His head rolls to the side, and I get to my feet, just now realizing that I’m breathing harshly.<</if>> <<include "FC1">>

After some searching, I spot a decent pile of feces next to me. It’s sickening, but it’ll give me some much-needed time. //Just don’t think about it//, I tell myself and reach out and grab it. I chuck it straight at the man’s face and with his attention elsewhere, race to my gun. I grab it with my cleaner hand and take the shot, the bullet soaring through his chest. He takes two more steps before falling face first to the floor. <<include "FC1">>

I get to my feet and take numerous steps back, continuing to go until I feel the wall behind me. Backing up was no longer an option. The only direction now is forward, though I guess I can go to the side, but that only leads to the hallway where Sydero and the old woman fights. <<if $style is "Aikido">>I let the man come to me, blocking the two punches that he sends my way. On the third punch, I block it and then grab his fist, using my free hand to come down on the cubital part of his arm. He falls to his knees, easily allowing me to straighten out his hand and push him farther down. I put my knee on the back of his neck and take advantage of his exposed pressure point.<<elseif $style is "Kenpo">>I immediately surge forward, striking him two times in his stomach and then placing a perfectly timed palm strike to his face, shoving him hard enough so that he falls to the ground. As soon as his head goes back, hitting the ground, I strike his face again and then get to my feet, stomping his head next.<<elseif $style is "Taekwondo">>He continues to come towards me, and when he gets close enough, I deliver a high-powered and precise kick to the side of his face. A teacher would probably scold me on my stance and other areas, but the kick did what I needed it to do. The man falls to the ground with a large thump.<<elseif $style is "Judo">>I walk towards him and once close enough, hook my leg under his to throw off his balance. I throw all of my weight onto him and place my elbow near his collarbone, as we head down I let gravity do the rest, timing when I apply pressure. I do it as soon as he hits, and his body does a slight bounce back up, my elbow keeping him down. I hear air, and a surprised groan escape him, but he doesn’t get back up.<<else>>As soon as he gets into striking distance, I hit him with two jabs and then, upon seeing an opening, an uppercut. He stumbles back, and I push on, throwing out more punches until my actions leave multicolored bruises on his face and my fists. His blood stains my fingers, and only when his guard totally goes down do I stop. His body hits the floor, and I flex out my sore fist.<</if>> <<include "FC1">>

<<if $cp>>\ The building once again descends into silence with all the witches and warlocks now taken care of. I go to Chris’s side, mostly since I can’t find where Sydero was. “Good job,” I say, helping him to his feet. “Yea, thanks to you,” he grumbles. His words aren’t said sarcastically but there is a lack of genuine gratitude resting amongst them. “Seriously? What more did you want from me, I had two to deal with. I couldn’t just drop everything to come and handle yours as well.” “That’s not the point. I didn’t ask for your help.” [[“That shout said differently.”]] [[“Get over it, Chris.”]] [[“Well, nothing I can do about it now.”]] <<else>>\ The building is again quiet, all the witches and warlocks taken care of. I approach some of the bodies to make sure they are down for good, mostly since I can’t find where Sydero is. “I feel like I threw out my own back trying to put that old bag down,” Sydero states, coming back in, her hand on her hip. I don’t say anything to her as I continue checking the bodies. That, and Sydero made a good point a few hunts ago – looting bodies is not something that only video game characters do. While I check bodies, Sydero approaches the reversed pentagram with interest. “This coven wasn’t made up by some amateur witches who didn’t know what they were doing,” she tells me. She crouches down and lightly traces her fingers over the pentagram, examining them. “Yea, they were the real deal.” [[“Which is a good thing, right?”]] [[“Why do you say that?”]] [[“Sounds like killing them wasn’t enough.”]] <</if>>\

“That cry for help, shout, whatever you want to call it, said differently. Thank you is quite easy and simple to say,” I huff, wishing to end this silly conversation there. <<include "FC1_1_1">>

“Seriously, Chris? You seem to be running out of material to get mad over now. Just get over it.” <<include "FC1_1_1">>

I shrug, rolling my neck as well, “there’s nothing I can do about it now.” “That’s what you choose to reply with? Really?” Chris asks, and I sigh, tired and not feeling like getting into this. <<include "FC1_1_1">>

“I feel like I threw out my own back trying to put that old bag down,” Sydero states, coming back in, her hand on her hip. She raises a brow at the tension between Chris and me, looking back and forth in interest. “And what did I just interrupt?” [[“Chris is just throwing another, ‘woe is me’ fit.”]] [[“Nothing, what’s next?”]] [[“Chris is mad that I helped him.”]] [[Ignore both of them and walk off.]]

“Chris is just throwing another, ‘woe is me’ fit,” I tell her, throwing a sneer Chris’s way. “Give it a break,” he tells me, his attention now on Sydero, “I had my person and $name thought it better to insert ?himself into the fight.” “You probably needed help and $name supplied it.” she questions in confusion, and I clap as my way of agreeing. “Thank you!” She rolls her eyes, “but he also will never get better. Worse thing that’ll happen is he’ll get his ass beat. Let it happen.” I stop celebrating, glaring at her as she walks back to the reversed pentagram. “This coven wasn’t made up by some amateur witches who didn’t know what they were doing,” Sydero starts. She crouches down and lightly traces her fingers over the pentagram. “Yea, they were the real deal.” [[“Which is a good thing, right?”]] [[“Why do you say that?”]] [[“Sounds like killing them wasn’t enough.”]]

“Nothing, what’s next? Are we done here?” I question, watching as Sydero abandons our side and approaches the reversed pentagram with interest. “This coven wasn’t made up by some amateur witches who didn’t know what they were doing,” Sydero starts. She crouches down and lightly traces her fingers over the pentagram. “Yea, they were the real deal.” [[“Which is a good thing, right?”]] [[“Why do you say that?”]] [[“Sounds like killing them wasn’t enough.”]]

“Chris is mad that I helped him,” I tell her straight up, no anger or much of any other kind of emotion in my voice. “You probably needed help and $name supplied it.” she questions in confusion, and I clap as my way of agreeing. “Thank you!” She rolls her eyes, “but he also will never get better. Worse thing that’ll happen is he’ll get his ass beat. Let it happen.” I stop celebrating, glaring at her as she walks back to the reversed pentagram. “This coven wasn’t made up by some amateur witches who didn’t know what they were doing,” Sydero starts. She crouches down and lightly traces her fingers over the pentagram. “Yea, they were the real deal.” [[“Which is a good thing, right?”]] [[“Why do you say that?”]] [[“Sounds like killing them wasn’t enough.”]]

I don’t answer her, and I pay no more mind to Chris. Instead, I turn on my heel and approach the supposedly dead bodies, nothing wrong with making sure. That and Sydero made a good point a few hunts ago – looting bodies is not something that only video game characters do. While I check bodies, Sydero approaches the reversed pentagram with interest. “This coven wasn’t made up by some amateur witches who didn’t know what they were doing,” she tells me. She crouches down and lightly traces her fingers over the pentagram, examining them. “Yea, they were the real deal.” [[“Which is a good thing, right?”]] [[“Why do you say that?”]] [[“Sounds like killing them wasn’t enough.”]]

“Uh, that’s a good thing, right? I mean, we were able to take them out, and that’s good for us.” “I suppose,” she shrugs, grabbing the body closest to her and ripping off part of their shirt. With the fabric in hand, she begins to wipe at whatever material was used to make the pentagram. She breaks the symbol and motions to follow her out. We are done with this, and that’s all that I can hope for. <<include "FC1_1_2">>

“Why do you say that?” I question. “They’re using baby blood.” “Why is that? Sheep’s blood or something wouldn’t have worked?” “It would’ve, but baby blood is pure. Whoever’s attention you’re trying to capture, you capture quickly. You have to be seriously devoted to use baby blood.” She grabs the body closest to her and rips off part of their shirt. With the fabric in hand, she begins to wipe whatever material was used to make the pentagram. She breaks the symbol and motions to follow her out. We are done with this, and that’s all that I can hope for. <<include "FC1_1_2">>

“You make it sound like killing them wasn’t enough,” I remark. “No, it’s fine. Doesn’t really matter much now anyway, they’re all dead,” she tells me, grabbing the body closest to her and ripping off part of her shirt. With the fabric in hand, she begins to wipe the material that was used to make the pentagram. She breaks the symbol and motions for me to follow her out. We were done with this, and that’s all that I could hope for. <<include "FC1_1_2">>

Despite my tiredness, I have a small skip in my step as we walk back to the car and then drive to the motel. There’s only one thing that could make me happier, and when we get back to the motel, we find it sitting on the table waiting. “Sorry, I was hungry,” Bradley snickers as the rest of us instantly see what is left. I grab some nuggets and fries, grabbing a book as I go to the bed I claimed. Bradley grabs a pack of cards and sits at the table, “did it all go well?” “Yea, good intel by the way. How’d you track them?” Sydero asks, grabbing a seat while she eats her fries. “It was pure luck. I connected dots from their last home and that was the only way I realized what and who they were. They kept their noses down mostly. I mean I easily figured out they were witches, but if it wasn’t for that one slip up, I would’ve never known.” [[“We would’ve gotten them either way.”][$Alryian = true; $sympathy -=2; $sydero -=3]] [[“To think, they would’ve gotten away otherwise.”][$Cimmerian = true; $sympathy +=2]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> “Doesn’t matter if they slipped up or not, we would’ve gotten them either way,” I tell him while trying to find my last spot in the book. “But they would’ve seemed innocent,” Bradley reminds me, and I shrug. “Monsters are monsters.” I catch sight of Sydero side-eyeing me, eyes narrowed before she puts them back on Bradley. <<include "FC1_1_3">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> “Wow, to think then they would’ve gotten away if they hadn’t slipped up.” “Right. Can you imagine them still alive? Who knows how many people they killed,” Bradley says, shuddering at the thought before focusing back on the cards. <<include "FC1_1_3">>

Moments like this have become increasingly rare. <<if $cp>>As soon as we left Sydero’s safehouse and done our first hunt as ‘more trained’ hunters, we’ve been on hunt after hunt.<<else>>As soon as we left Sydero’s safehouse and I did my first hunt as a ‘more trained’ hunter, we’ve been on hunt after hunt.<</if>> Half of the reason we’re on the move is that of the police. They weren’t giving up on me, and it had made the job harder. Another reason is that we need the money. When you have <<if $cp>>four<<else>>three<</if>> mouths to feed, a car needing gas, and other essentials – money isn’t the easiest thing to keep. Most of the hunts we’ve been on have been just that, hunts. Sydero wanting <<if $cp>>Chris and <</if>>me to get more acquainted to the job before attempting to take on a specialist job. [[I was adjusting reasonably easily.|FC1_1]] [[This life wasn’t the easiest.|FC1_1]] [[I was indifferent, wasn’t like I had much choice.|FC1_1]]

The Entity is no longer quiet either. As soon as we were out of Bladenboro, they piped back up, reminding me of their presence. Times that should have been silent were the opposite. There were times where I felt like there was an EDM concert going on in my head. The repetitive thumping would at times bring me to my knees. A headache so powerful that it would cause nosebleeds and even at one time, an ear bleed. I was a prisoner in my own mind, and it wasn’t getting better. <<if $cp>>\ <<if $chris >=50>>\ “I’m done!” Chris shouts, grabbing my attention as I look up from my book. “There is no way you haven’t been called out by now, no way,” he continues, his words aimed at a carefree, and of course smirking, Sydero. “It’s your job to call //me// out, I’m not about to just out myself for your pleasure,” she snorts. “I mean, your poker face is a bit too good Syd,” Bradley says, his words causing Syd to smile proudly. Chris points an accusing finger at her, “I know you have a tell, I just gotta figure out what it is.” She leans in, cocking her head to the side as if she had some deep secret to share, “good luck, and it’s your turn.” Chris snorts and slams down his card. “Naw, I’m calling bullshit.” Bradley picks up the card, proving that Syd was right and that Chris was about to have a very large pile of cards now. “You want in, $name?” Bradley asks, his gaze on me as he fiddles with the cards in his hand. I can only assume that it’s his turn. <<else>>\ “Ugh, why am I even playing this game with you?” Bradley shouts, grabbing my attention as I look up from my book. “Because last time we played slapjack, my hand was red from your delayed reactions. And we both know why poker is out of the question.” “There is no way you haven’t been called out by now, no way,” Bradley continues, his words aimed at a carefree, and of course smirking, Sydero. “It’s your job to call //me// out. I’m not about to just out myself for your pleasure,” she snorts. “Playing one on one with you is exhausting, any of you want in?” Bradley questions, snatching the cards from Sydero’s hand and then shuffling them. “No thanks, I’m reading,” Chris tells them, and I peek over to get a better look, seeing //The Lore// in his hands. “If you think that book is supposed to save you from getting your ass kicked then you have another thing coming. The best way to learn is from experience,” Sydero tells him, motioning for Bradley to continue his shuffling. I look over at him and nod, “I can agree to that. The book is to give you the basic information on the things we might find, and their weaknesses.” “Thanks, for the –,” he pauses as he looks for a suitable word, “advice. But I’m going to continue reading.” Aggravation is laced within his words, causing all three of us to raise a brow. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ “Ugh, why am I even playing this game with you?” Bradley shouts, grabbing my attention as I look up from my book. “Because last time we played slapjack, my hand was red from your delayed reactions. And we both know why poker is out of the question.” “There is no way you haven’t been called out by now, no way,” Bradley continues, his words aimed at a carefree, and of course smirking, Sydero. “It’s your job to call //me// out. I’m not about to just out myself for your pleasure,” she snorts. “Playing one on one with you is exhausting, you want in, $name?” Bradley questions, snatching the cards from Sydero’s hand and then shuffling them. <</if>>\ [[Join in.]] [[Continue reading.]]

<<if $cp>>\ <<if $chris >=50>>\ I shrug and close my book, “I’m guessing we’re playing BS?” I question, putting my stuff in the trash and then sitting between Chris and Bradley. “You guess right. Chris, give $name six cards,” Bradley commands, and just like that, I was in the game. I begin to see Chris’s frustration with Sydero. She puts down cards so casually, and after attempting to call her out, I find that whether she is lying or not, she has no facial tics to give such information away. Bradley’s tell is that he rubs his lips together, making extra sure to avoid eye contact. While Chris tilts his head to the side and it is always paired with some kind of action. Whether that means he leans in his chair, rubs his forehead, or just messes with his clothes. Syd though, I don’t notice anything. And after a few rounds, she retires knowing that we are all playing to just call her out. <<else>>\ I shrug and close my book, moving it to the side as I also collect my trash. “I’m guessing we’re playing BS?” I question, putting my stuff in the trash and then sitting beside Bradley. “You guess right,” Bradley tells me as he passes out the cards, each of us getting eight. I begin to see Bradley’s frustration with Sydero. She puts down cards so casually, and after attempting to call her out, I find that whether she is lying or not, she has no facial tics to give such information away. Bradley’s tell is that he rubs his lips together, making extra sure to avoid eye contact. Syd though, I don’t notice anything. And after a few rounds, she retires knowing that we are all playing to just call her out. Chris stays to himself, ignoring us and our shouting as he continues flipping through the book. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I shrug and close my book, moving it to the side as I also collect my trash. “I’m guessing we’re playing BS?” I question, putting my stuff in the trash and then sitting beside Bradley. “You guess right,” Bradley tells me as he passes out the cards, each of us getting eight. I begin to see Bradley’s frustration with Sydero. She puts down cards so casually, and after attempting to call her out, I find that whether she is lying or not, she has no facial tics to give such information away. Bradley’s tell is that he rubs his lips together, making extra sure to avoid eye contact. Syd though, I don’t notice anything. And after a few rounds, she retires knowing that we are all playing to just call her out. <</if>>\ <<include "FC1_1_4">>

“No, I’m fine over here,” I tell them, turning the page as I continue reading. If I stopped reading now, then I had no idea when I would get this chance again. Plus, I was at an enticing part, the wedding was approaching, and the blood assassin was about to have to make a choice on whether to kill her prince or to aid him. <<include "FC1_1_4">>

<img src="images/divider.png"> Feet, shuffling across broken floorboards, causing dust to take flight. Her body shaking as eyes go from one familiar face to the other. These faces weren’t just faces that she saw on a daily basis, forced to deal with them and their obnoxious stories and thoughts. These faces are family. People who she adored and grew up among. People who taught her all she knew and helped her understand that amongst a sea full of normality, she was to be something amazing. They shielded her from the bigots and taught her the true meaning of unity. And now they lay at her feet, bathing in a pool of their own blood. Spilled for no other purpose but fear and hatred. Her trembling turned to sobs, and her sobs to screams. Her knees buckle as she collapsed near the woman who took her in, who showed her that death was not an option. Mother Circe, they all called her. The wisest and oldest of them. It was she who had adopted all of them, bringing them into a coven – a family. But only she now remained. <a data-passage="FC1_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Shakily, she got to her feet and headed towards the shelf next to their now destroyed pentagram. If her memory serves correct, Mother Circe hid her spellbook here, full of all the magic she knew. This was supposed to be a joyous night, one that was to end with her being a fully recognized witch. She flipped through the pages until she came to the spell in question. Completing it was no problem. The ingredients were either gathered already or could be found in the building. The worst part was repairing the pentagram, having to use the blood of her fallen sister. “May you rest by the side of he who sees all,” she whispers, placing a light kiss on the woman’s forehead. She goes back to the bowl, chanting the words and performing the ritual as it was meant. She waits patiently for the sign to say that it works when she hears whispers in the bowl. “Speak,” it screeches lowly, drawing out the word. “A hunter group has decimated my coven – your coven, I wish to seek guidance on how you wish for me to continue.” “I have seen their faces,” it hisses in disgust, “and their deaths will come soon enough.” An unseen wind begins to turn the pages of the spell book. “Read and gather and execute.” The voice disappears, and the ripples within the blood disappear, leaving the girl alone yet again. She returns to the book, her eyes skimming over the words – reading, gathering, so that she could execute. <a data-passage="FC1_2_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> Later that night I close my eyes, feeling as if I was stuck in a maze. Despite how many different twists I take, I always end up at the beginning, utterly miffed about my state of being. “Try one more time, you’re bound to get out of here some way,” the Entity chuckles menacingly overhead. I gaze up and see an endless dreary grey sky. “Why can’t we go back to a week ago when you were silent?” I continue on, turning to see if that will lead to anywhere, but it only sets me back at the beginning. “You say this as if you don’t have full control. The reason I’m still here is because you want me here. You enjoy this.” “Tell me how to get rid of you, and I’ll do it.” “I’m not really here, $name,” they chuckle, their voice going in and out, much like a radio signal on an unknown country backroad. [[Try and get rid of them.][$zillah +=3]] [[Continue finding a way through the maze.][$serious +=3; $zillah -=2]] [[Question the Entity further.][$zillah -=3]]

I take a deep breath and focus on erasing them. “Focus,” I hear them repeat in my ear. I finally open my eyes, but I see no one there, the voice stopping along with it. “You lie,” I scowl, “you’re here. This isn’t my imagination.” “You sure? You have a pretty wild imagination. But it’s fine, you’re just using me as an excuse. You like being messed up in the head, you’re psychotic, and I’m your fall back plan.” Suddenly, they appear in front of me, a goofy relaxed smile is there, but that’s all that is there. They throw their hands in the air and squeal, “guys, I have this voice in my head, it’s not me, it’s the voice. Please believe me.” Their form disappears as they chuckle, disappearing. “Pathetic.” As soon as they say this, blackness creeps in, devouring everything until I am surrounded by it. The ground disappears, and I feel myself falling, my heart picking up as the thought of dying comes to mind. I hear confused mumbling from the Entity but it fades. I kick and scream, attempting to grab something but my body just falls faster, faster, faster. Until I am no longer falling, but the blackness devours me as well. <a data-passage="FC1_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.statShow>>Serious ++<</if>> I ignore them. Speaking to them will go nowhere, and I don’t have time to waste on them. Especially when I need to get out of here. I continue to try different paths, even trying to climb to see if this maze is just one big trap. “Look at you,” they sigh, sitting on a bench that wasn’t there before, “you’re stuck in your own mind, determined to get out of it. Now, what sane person does that?” “A sane person wouldn’t be trapped in their own mind.” “No, a sane person wouldn’t think of their mind as a trap. They would see it as a delightful retreat from the wicked world. Hmm, I think I’m onto something,” they chuckle, “this //is// your retreat, $name. You messed up devil, you. You like this, which is why you keep me around when you only must snap your fingers, and I’d disappear.” With a blank face, I snap my fingers, their figure still there. “Idiot, you have to //want// me to go. You are slowly losing your mind and your grip on reality. And you like it.” As soon as they say this, blackness creeps in, devouring everything until I am surrounded by it. The ground disappears, and I feel myself falling, my heart picking up as the thought of dying comes to mind. I hear confused mumbling from the Entity but it fades. I kick and scream, attempting to grab something but my body just falls faster, faster, faster. Until I am no longer falling, but the blackness devours me as well. <a data-passage="FC1_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“What do you mean, I can get rid of you at any time? I’ve been trying this, and you don’t seem to go anywhere.” “Hmm,” they state, tapping their chin, or what I believe is their chin, “maybe that’s because you secretly like me, like this?” “That’s crazy,” I snort. “Is it? I disappeared for years not because I wanted to, but because I had no choice. Because I am a figment of your imagination. And now, when your life goes to shit, you suddenly think me back up. I have no control over my existence, in your hands rest it all.” “If you cared about your existence then you wouldn’t tell me this.” I believe I’ve won the debate when the Entity chuckles, appearing in front of me. “I tell you this because I have no fear,” they lean in, “because you enjoy this wickedness, and you never want to see it gone again.” As soon as they say this, blackness creeps in, devouring everything until I am surrounded by it. The ground disappears, and I feel myself falling, my heart picking up as the thought of dying comes to mind. I hear confused mumbling from the Entity but it fades. I kick and scream, attempting to grab something but my body just falls faster, faster, faster. Until I am no longer falling, but the blackness devours me as well. <a data-passage="FC1_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I gasp, shooting upwards. I feel severely lightheaded, and no matter how many times I inhale, I can’t seem to take in enough air. I feel like I’m drowning in invisible water. My mind and eyesight adjust slowly. One look at my surroundings and I jump back in fright and confusion. I’m not even inside a building anymore, let alone the motel. I sit outside, <<if $Cimmerian>>a darkened sky resting above though this doesn’t quite make it hard to see. The ground is the color of coal, with specks of different grays sprinkled in. There are trees and plants each in their own shades of purple, blues, and greens and reminding me of neon.<<else>>a cheerful bright pastel blue sky resting above, hardly a cloud in the sky. The grass in which I sit in is decorated with colorful wildflowers, and further out, a forest resides. The grass is a lovely chartreuse, and oddly soft. The type of grass that one would run through and then fall in happiness, sleeping under the sun.<</if>> <<if $Cimmerian>>“I think I landed on something hard,”<<else>>“Please tell me this is my bed,”<</if>> I hear Sydero say. Jerking in my spot, I see her resting nearby, or who I think is her. Voice-wise, it’s her, no doubt. But appearance is another thing entirely. She is a pale brown, as if someone had colored her but then drained all saturation from her body. Her iris is black, appearing like any normal iris would, but her sclera is all red. <<if $cp>>\ <<if $Cimmerian>>“Yea, that would be me,”<<else>>“If only,”<</if>> Chris groans and I look but see that he is himself. Instead of his clothes. They remind me of medieval times, not that of a peasant or noble though, perhaps a soldier? Chris gazes around, his face falling. “Where the hell are we?” “The hell, Roe?” Sydero grimaces, looking me up and down, “what is this, cosplay? Why do you look like that?” “You’re the one to talk,” I snort. <<if $Cimmerian>>“Both of you are looking pretty ridiculous,” Chris tells us, getting to his feet, “you look like some wannabe vampire.” I gaze down at my hand and find myself staring at a dark grey skin tone.<<else>>“Agreed,” Chris speaks, getting to his feet, “you look like some wannabe vampire, Syd.” While she freaks out about her new skin tone, I look down at my clothes. My clothes are similar to Chris’s, but mine appear much more formal.<</if>> “Where are we!” Chris repeats, less patience and more panic in his voice. <<else>>\ <<if $Cimmerian>>“Well, you did land on the ground,”<<else>>“Close, but not quite,”<</if>> I tell her, gazing at our surroundings yet again. “Where the hell are we?” “The hell Roe?” Sydero grimaces, looking me up and down, “what is this, cosplay? Why do you look like that?” <<if $Cimmerian>>“You’re the one to talk,” I snort. I gaze down at my hand and find myself staring at a dark grey skin tone.<<else>>“You’re the one to talk,” I snort. I gaze down at my clothing as she freaks out about her new skin tone. My attire instantly reminds me of medieval wear, though formal it wasn’t quite noble wear, perhaps soldier.<</if>> “Ugh, where are we?” Sydero shouts impatiently. <</if>>\ [[“We’re not in Kansas anymore.”][$serious -=3]] [[“What do you remember?”->FCRemember][$serious +=3]] [[“This is oddly familiar.”]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Comical ++<</if>> I clear my throat, wiping the dirt off of me as I stand, “well, we’re not in Kansas anymore. I’ve always wanted to say that.” <<if $cp>>Both companions stare at me, neither portraying their inner thoughts.<<else>>Sydero stares at me, not portraying her inner thoughts.<</if>> “I just wanted to sleep,” Syd complains, falling to the ground with a soft thump, dust flying up as she does so. <<include "FC1_3_1">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Serious ++<</if>> “What’s the last thing <<if $cp>>everyone remembers<<else>>you remember<</if>>? I was falling, or I thought I was, I really don’t know anymore. I thought it was all part of a dream.” <<if $cp>>\ Chris nods violently, “same. I remember lying down to sleep and then I thought the falling part was all part of a dream. I would like to think I’m still dreaming.” <</if>>\ “Well, I can tell you this is no dream,” Sydero responds, “nightmare maybe, but the last thing my dream would have is you<<if $cp>> two.<<else>>.<</if>>” <<include "FC1_3_1">>

I stand, wiping the dirt off of me as I look around again, and then look at Sydero<<if $cp>> and Chris<</if>>, “this all seems oddly familiar.” “I would tell you to think harder if I thought it would lead to anything helpful,” Sydero grumbles, slapping the hard ground, watching with little interest as the dust flies up. <<include "FC1_3_1">>

<<if $cp>>“Where the hell are we?” Chris yells for what feels like the tenth time, pure exaggeration since I’m sure it was only the third or fourth.<<else>>“Where the hell are we?” I yell in frustration.<</if>> “Well, if I had to guess, I'd say we were in that book you were reading, $name. What was it called?" Sydero asks, fiddling with her clothing. <<if $cp>>\ “Um, For the Crown, I think. Some kind of medieval style book with assassins and crap.” “So we should be safe right? We just gotta get out of here?" Chris asks, and of course, his words only doom us further. We all hear an animal snort and turn to see a group approaching us, and they don't look too friendly. <<else>>\ “Um, For the Crown, I think. Some kind of medieval style book with assassins and crap. We should be safe right? We just gotta get out of here?” I ask, and of course, my words only doom us further. We all hear an animal snort and turn to see a group approaching us, and they don't look too friendly. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="EP8-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a>

<> <<set $notfromhere = false>> <<set $feast = false>> <<set $inn = false>> <> <img src="images/acttwo.png"> <<if $Cimmerian>>\ We stand frozen as the soldiers approach on mounted armored lizards, each a different color than the lizard beside it, yet each the same amount of fearsome. Once at a safe distance, the soldiers disappear from the back of their lizards, and I make out their shadows gliding across the ground towards us. They materialize directly in front of us, their weapons still sheathed<<if $cp>> as one of the soldiers grab Chris harshly.<<else>>. As soon as they get a good look at us, they calm down, their shoulders relaxing.<</if>> <<if $cp>>“Fine work catching the Alyrian,” one of them says, his eyes on Chris. They land on us next, and with a raised brow he looks us over, “I do not believe we have met. Or have we?” Syd pushes me forward, and I clear my throat.<<else>>“Ah, excuse us for the rude introduction,” one of them says, looking almost sheepish, “we have been told to keep a sharp eye on our borders. I do not believe we have met. Or have we?” Syd pushes me forward, and I clear my throat.<</if>> “Uh, no sir. Guess we haven’t had the pleasure.” They each look at me, raising a brow at something I said I suppose. “Ah, well I am Asher, Shadow Assassin of Pryce.” Oh crap, Sydero had guessed correctly, this was my story. I distinctly remember Asher’s character, and even if I had somehow forgotten the name of the sarcastic loveable assassin, him claiming that he is a shadow assassin was enough to tell me. I suppose my panicked look shows clearly on my face, as Asher’s eyes widen and he tries to calm me down. “Do not worry,” he chuckles, “I am not as ill-tempered as my partner, the blood assassin. Between you and me, I am the nice one.” His words calm me, but only because they prove that I am showing far too much emotion. I look over at Sydero who stands in confusion, possibly waiting for me to tell her why I’m suddenly beginning to panic. <<if $cp is false>>“Have you seen anything worth noting?”<</if>> <<if $cp>>“Oh, of course, I’m sorry sir. But yea, as you can see, we’ve captured the Alyrian.” We all turn to Chris who stares at me as if I betrayed him. I give him the slyest wink I can, hoping that he will just let whatever happens, happen. Asher nods, approaching him.<<else>>“No sir, no Alyrians here.” I’m pretty sure that’s what they were called. Asher cocks his head to the side.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “A soldier I suppose,” Asher growls, “not dressed like the spies I have seen. Who sent you to our lands? The King?” <<else>>\ “You are not dressed like elite soldiers or soldiers at all.” The two soldiers behind him mumble in agreement, “what are you?” “Bounty hunters,” I immediately say, knowing that the few bounty hunters they have are far freer to do what they please. He nods in acceptance of this. Asher turns to the two soldiers, discussing something with them in a low voice. <</if>>\ With his attention <<if $cp>>on Chris<<else>>off of us<</if>>, Sydero quietly approaches me, tapping me on the side as she whispers in my ear, “exactly what the hell is going on?” <<if $cp>>\ [[“Does it look like I know? You’re the weirdo expert.”]] [[“You were right, we’re in my book.”]] [[“Apparently Chris is a soldier, not a spy.”]] <<else>>\ [[“Does it look like I know? You’re the weirdo expert.”]] [[“You were right, we’re in my book.”]] [[“We’re bounty hunters.”]] <</if>>\ <<else>>\ We stand frozen as the soldier’s approach on horseback, whispering to one another. Once close enough, two of them pull out their bow and arrows and aim. Two more hop off of their horses and approach with their swords drawn. The last stays on his horse and pulls out an intimidating appearing sword. Everyone’s weapon is trained on one figure, Sydero. “You each have five seconds to point those weapons away from me,” Sydero growls, her voice sounding more feral than ever before. “Secure the beast,” the mounted soldier shouts, judging by his uniform and the way the others immediately do as he says, I would think he is their leader. [[Stop them.][$sydero -=3; $daring +=3]] [[Allow them.][$sydero +=3; $daring -=3]] <</if>>\

“Does it look like I know?” I hiss, “you’re the weirdo expert, you tell me.” “I already gave you my best guess.” “I think your best guess is right. I remember him from the book I was reading. I’m just confused about how this could happen.” <<include "FC2_C0">>

“You were right, we’re in my book. The one I was reading before all of this happened.” “I’m sure that should make me feel better, but it doesn’t,” Sydero sighs, “we know where we are but not why, how, or anything –” <<include "FC2_C0">>

I clear my throat, pointing at Chris, “apparently he’s a soldier, and not a spy. Right now they’re trying to figure out if he was sent by the King or not.” Sydero doesn’t reply, instead opting to give me the blankest stare that she can muster. I’d laugh if she didn’t seem two seconds away from choking me. “You know what I mean,” she growls lowly. “Well, I think your previous guess was right. I remember him from the book I was reading. I’m just confused about how this could happen.” <<include "FC2_C0">>

I clear my throat, pointing at the two of us, “apparently we’re now bounty hunters, really weird bounty hunters but don’t try to act too weird. Just know that our species is called Cimmerians and we hate Alyrians.” <<include "FC2_C0">>

Sydero is unable to answer when Asher turns back to us, a friendly smile on his lips. <<if $cp>>“Excellent, Lord Doran will wish to speak to you and learn more of how you captured the prisoner. Follow me.” He gives orders for the other two soldiers to mount the same giant lizard, and motions for Sydero and I to mount the now free one. We do as he says, quite unprofessionally and clumsily. While we try to figure out how to work the lizard, Chris is tied to the other soldier’s mount, forced to keep up with the lizard’s gait as they start forward.<<else>>“Lord Doran will wish to speak to you and inform you about the new target that he wishes captured. Follow me.” He gives orders for the other two soldiers to mount the same giant lizard, and motions for Sydero and I to mount the now free one. We do as he says, quite unprofessionally and clumsily.<</if>> Sydero and I take up the rear, putting enough space between us and them so that we can speak. “What could be powerful enough to send us here?” I whisper to her, “has this ever happened to you before?” “Being transported into a book? No. I’ve been transported to other places though. As for who could’ve done this, the only beings powerful enough are the higher up creatures and witches with demon backing.” “But we killed all the witches, it couldn’t be them. Could it?” “We think we killed them all, the bad thing about covens is that you never know who could be hiding or just didn’t show up to the party. For all we know there’s one left. For them to do a spell like this though, they either followed us back and slipped hexes somewhere, or they summoned a demon to aid them.” “Which is worse?” “Definitely the demon summoning. Witches can get insurmountable power from them, most of the time they go too far with this power though and promise things they can’t give.” Sydero’s voice trails off, and her eyes seem to look past everything in front of us. She shakes her head, clearing her throat as she taps the lizard’s side. “But if they are being backed by a demon then they’re here with us, making sure they finishes us off.” [[“Did you make a deal with a demon?”][$sydero -=2]] [[“Could Bradley help?”]] [[“What happens if we die here?”]]

I glance at her face, trying and failing to read her. “Did you make a deal with a demon?” “What?” she shouts in shock, laughing after realizing what I had asked, “hell no. There’s nothing a demon has to offer that I would want.” I’m not wholly sure on her honesty, but I let the question die out, my attention on the town that we approach. <<include "FC2_C1">>

“Could Bradley help us out?” “The kid’s asleep, I’d rather him keep sleeping than save us which is really weird to say.” I suppose I don’t blame her. Bradley’s been sleeping routinely every day, but it’s just because he’s catching up on some much-needed rest. In a day or so, he will be back to weird sleeping schedules and not sleeping again for a whole other month. I don’t question her further, not because I don’t have more to say or ask, but because my attention goes to the town that we approach. <<include "FC2_C1">>

“What do you think happens to us if we die here?” It’s not a thought that I want to think much about, but it is something that I need to know. “Two things I know might happen. We might slip into a coma-like state, never to wake up but never really dying. Or, we die in both worlds.” She turns to look at me, “either way, dying isn’t really something we want to do.” “You mean we don’t just magically wake up in the real world?” I whimper sadly. “Maybe, but I highly doubt it. Us being here is an extension of our spirit. You kill someone’s spirit, and they’re what I said earlier.” I open my mouth to question her further but close it a moment later. It isn’t that I don’t have more questions, but because my attention goes to the town that we approach. <<include "FC2_C1">>

It’s one thing to read about fantasy lands in books. To close your eyes and picture what the author attempts to paint with their words. But it is another to actually be in it, seeing the world in all its fantastical wonder. This is every fantasy and sci-fi loving kid’s dream. Being able to abandon their world and travel to another where they become the hero and slay the mighty beast. I chuckle in disbelief, here I am, all because a witch has a vendetta against me. The Deadlands is a simple beauty. With Pryce in mind, I’m sure the aesthetic here doesn’t match that of the capital in any shape or form. But it still holds a sort of simple grandeur to it. Up against the darkened soil and dreary sky and landscape are tawny and cream houses, built up by smooth and un-splintered wood. Crowds of people mill about, going about their business. Children play games on the side of the street, shrieking as the game continues and victors begin to show themselves.<<if $cp>>Only a few stop and look towards Chris, but soon after go back to not caring.<</if>> Many of those we past whisper to one another upon seeing Asher and I notice that he keeps his gaze forward. His shoulders stiff and his posture even more so. “You’re going to hate me for this but, do we have a plan?” I ask Sydero. “More like goals. We need to figure out how to get out of here which might have to do with finding our witch. So, we need to ask around, see if anyone else has popped up. If this world has witches, then that’s who we need to speak to.” I nod, my attention now resting on the enormous castle before us. When thinking of the Deadlands, this is the first image that pops in my head. A large and foreboding castle that stands high above all the other buildings in the area. And yet, even with its dark nature, I feel oddly at peace near it. It’s almost welcoming. “That is a really large and ominous castle, and every fiber in my body is telling me to go inside,” Sydero whistles, nudging me in excitement before hopping off the mount and shooting towards the castle. <<if $cp>>Passing the soldiers who escort a still panicked Chris.<<else>>Passing the soldiers who are already walking up the stairs.<</if>> “Is this the first time she has seen Lord Doran’s castle?” Asher asks me once I catch up to him. “No, she’s just always excited to see it. She’s a Lord Doran fangirl.” I smile, but Asher gives me another quizzical look. “You speak oddly, you know?” [[“I blame the jungle folks.”]] [[“I’m not originally from Pryce but across the sea.”]] [[“Ah yea, uh let’s go.”]]

“Yea. You know I blame the jungle folks. Spending too much time around them and their weird dialects.” “Ah, you must mean those deep within the Kuno Jungle. I have heard strange tales of them.” I nod, hoping that would answer that. Asher can be an asset in helping us get out of here, but I doubt he will believe a word I tell him. It’s similar to telling someone in my world that supernatural creatures are real. <<include "FC2_C2">>

“Oh, well that’s because I’m not originally from here. I’m from across the sea, and there, it’s you guys who talk weird.” I chuckle after saying it, as to not come off as rude or offensive. “Ah, I suppose it only makes sense for Cimmerians to be in other countries as well.” I nod, hoping that will answer that. Asher can be an asset in helping us get out of here, but I doubt he will believe a word I tell him. It’s similar to telling someone in my world that supernatural creatures are real. <<include "FC2_C2">>

“Ah yea, uh let’s go, they’re leaving us,” I state, and by them, I mean Sydero who is disappearing down a long dark corridor. Asher doesn’t question me or my weird behavior, perhaps placing it in the same category as my speech. Asher can be an asset in helping us get out of here, but I doubt he will believe a word I tell him. It’s similar to telling someone in my world that supernatural creatures are real. <<include "FC2_C2">>

“Or you can rely on me to help you get out,” I hear the Entity whisper gently, as if literally right at my side. “And here I was hoping that world jumping would kick you out,” I snort, thinking the words and projecting them towards them. They can’t read my thoughts, but if I think them with the intention of them hearing, then they can. “I can help you. You just need to accept me.” “No.” I block them out and continue to follow Asher. The corridor that we travel down seems to go on forever. Giving me a perfect amount of time to look around. A handful of wall torches light our path, enough to give me an easy time<<if $cp>>, but I can guess that Chris was blind<</if>>. I suppose being Cimmerian has its benefits. Complex and intricate designs carry up the side of the wall and to an arched roof overhead where an even more elaborate painting rests. I don’t know the figures that exist in the painting, but I can only assume that they represent this world’s deities or gods. The door in front of us opens, and we walk into a large room full of patrons who stand about, seeming to be there for the aesthetic. It’s a bare room filled with simple decorations such as paintings, rugs, and small lamp posts. The only thing genuinely worth noting is the throne that sits on a small dais. The throne is completely black with small gold and silver gems positioned in the sides. The gems give the throne some much-needed color but do nothing to make it look less intimidating. A crown of spikes resides on the back of the chair, their points looking considerably sharp. The man sitting on the chair only adds to the intimidating factor. “All kneel for Lord Doran.” Everyone in the room kneels, besides Asher who does a polite upper body bow. Sydero mirrors Asher, bowing.<<if $cp>> Chris stands upright, refusing to bow or kneel.<</if>> [[Bow.]] [[Kneel.]] [[Stand there.]]

I bow along with the two of them, copying Asher when he rises. Lord Doran nods to each of us, motioning for us to come closer. <<include "FC2_C3">>

I kneel like all the others in the room. I have a feeling that only Asher is allowed to bow in such a way. Lord Doran nods to each of us, motioning for us to come closer. <<include "FC2_C3">>

I stand, refusing to bow to a Lord that isn’t mine. That, and in the story, this guy is an ass. I feel eyes swivel over to me<<if $cp>>, completely ignoring Chris.<<else>>.<</if>> A steward takes a step forward, his dark eyes on me. “I said ‘everyone kneel for Lord Doran.’” “It is quite alright,” Lord Doran snickers, waving him off as he looks me over, “I have been meaning to exercise my strength for a while now.” I don’t know what he means until my body begins to contort painfully. An invisible force pushes me down to my knees, my face slamming against the hard-wooden floor. I attempt to rise but find myself unable. “Now, was that so hard?” I hear him chuckle and suddenly the force disappears, and my body is mine against. <<include "FC2_C3">>

“What is this, Asher?” <<if $cp>>“The bounty hunters have returned with the ...” he pauses and looks over at Chris, still unsure if Chris is a spy or a simple soldier, “with the Alyrian.”<<else>>“Bounty hunters who I believe have not yet heard your message of the new Alyrian targets.”<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “And you decided to let his eyes grace the inside of my castle for what reason? Take him to the dungeon immediately, we shall deal with him in time.” “Whoa dungeon?” Chris calls out, fighting against the soldiers. He looks over at me, “help me, $name!” I groan inwardly, feeling all eyes turn to me. As if Sydero wasn’t right there, he just had to call me out. [[Help him out.][$chris +=3; $sydero -=3]] [[Condemn him.][$chris -=5; $sydero +=3]] <<else>>\ “And what makes you think they are skilled enough to hear my message? Why should I repeat it solely for them?” Asher rolls his eyes and grinds his teeth together, “because, my Lord, the more people you have searching, the faster we find these heathens.” [[Tell him that we’re great trackers.]] [[Stay out of it.]] <</if>>\

“We don’t know if he knows anything or if he was just a lost soul. Perhaps torturing is a bit much?” “You must wish to join him?” Doran questions in a bored tone, already seeming to be done with this conversation, “take him to the dungeon like I said. And if you have anything else to say, then you will be joining him.” I shut my mouth, giving Chris a saddened look. <<include "FC2_C4">>

“You deserve that and more you hideous beast,” I shout at him, wondering if I should slap him in the face for additional measure. I choose against it, his hurt expression is enough to tell me that my words have hit a nerve. I look over at Sydero who nods. She’s right, we have to keep up appearances. It will do us no good if we all end up in the dungeon. <<include "FC2_C4">>

<<if $hairlength is "bald">>\ “My Lord, if I may be so bold,” I start and his eyes land on me, narrowing. “This must be your servant?” he asks Sydero, pointing to me. I raise a brow and she holds in a laugh. “I am not her servant, my Lord,” I answer, and he stares at me in utter disgust. “Then why are you bald? No one of any significance would dare rid themselves of their personal crown.” Before I can say anything, Sydero steps up to speak, “?his hair loss is a misfortune. ?He was momentarily captured by Alyrians who, as a message, shaved ?his hair off. ?He weeps for it every day.” The room mumbles and even some bow their heads in anguish. Lord Doran nods and gives me his condolences but doesn’t seem convinced of our importance. Sydero notices this as well, clearing her throat. “The Alyrians in question were royal soldiers, escorting a caravan holding the heir to the throne. Something about peace talks with distant lands.” This seems to pique his interest, and he smiles ruefully, “then perhaps I have misjudged both of you.” <<else>>\ “My Lord, if I may be so bold,” I start and his eyes land on me, narrowing but allowing me to continue, “we are excellent trackers that have been away this entire time. Tracking down your enemies and putting an end to them. Or playing them for information.” I pray that this will please him, and it seems to do just that. He smiles ruefully and sits back on his throne, “then perhaps I have misjudged both of you. We will see.” <</if>>\ <<include "FC2_C4">>

I keep my mouth closed, listening to Asher as he continues to try and persuade our importance to Doran. I must wonder why Asher is even trying at all, perhaps not trying would make him look foolish for even bringing us in the first place. He finally is able to persuade Doran, and he looks at us. <<include "FC2_C4">>

<<if $cp>>\ Chris’s shouts and screams fade out, but Lord Doran fails to excuse Sydero and I. He studies us, and I can only hope that he doesn’t know every soldier under his command. If so then we will be joining Chris. <<if $hairlength is "bald">>\ “This must be your servant?” he asks Sydero, pointing to me. I raise a brow and she holds in a laugh. “I am not her servant, my Lord,” I answer, and he stares at me in utter disgust. “Then why are you bald? No one of any significance would dare rid themselves of their personal crown.” Before I can say anything, Sydero steps up to speak, “?his hair loss is a misfortune. ?He was momentarily captured by Alyrians who, as a message, shaved ?his hair off. ?He weeps for it every day.” The room mumbles and even some bow their heads in anguish. Lord Doran nods and gives me his condolences, straightening up and going back to business. <</if>>\ “A witch has foretold of a group of Alyrians, one by his appearance, bringing the downfall of my kingdom. How did you come by him when my assassins failed to apprehend him for so long?” He doesn’t look at Asher, but I can tell that his words cut him just the same. Sydero gazes over at me, once again allowing me to take the lead. [[“We’re skilled trackers.”]] [[“It was completely random.”]] <<else>>\ “A witch has long since foretold of two Alyrians bringing the downfall of my kingdom. I would rather not wait around and see this destruction, especially if we can capture it before it lays waste to our land. Your task is simple, find these Alyrians. Something others have failed to do.” He doesn’t look at Asher, but I can tell that his words cut him just the same. Sydero and I both nod, accepting the task. We nod and bow, turning and leaving the throne room and going back the way we came. <a data-passage="FC2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

“It’s hardly shocking,” I begin, remembering that in the book, Lord Doran seemed to respect those confident under his command, “we’re skilled trackers. We’ve trained for this all our lives.” Doran strokes his chin, smiling at my words. “Indeed.” We nod and bow, turning and leaving the great throne room and going back the way we came. <<include "FC2">>

“Actually, it was completely coincidental that we came across him. We were just walking around, discussing our next move, and there he was,” I tell him, lightly shrugging. “So, fate just chose you two is what you mean to say? Doran asks, unamused. Someone is apparently not a fan of fate. I don’t answer him, deciding that it is smarter to just stay quiet. We nod and bow, turning and leaving the great throne room and going back the way we came. <<include "FC2">>

Sydero is unusually quiet, tapping her chin as she stares at the slate grey wooden floor. “What are you thinking?” “About what Lord Doran said. It seems like a coincidence. We show up just when this witch appears to tell him some future that concerns <<if $cp>>three<<else>>two<</if>> Alyrians ruining him?” She quiets down as Asher passes us, raising a brow at our halted figures. “Asher, did you see this witch?” she asks, and he shakes his head. “Doran spoke to her in confidence.” “And you let him? Without any guards to keep an eye on her?” I question, taken aback when he chuckles. “Lord Doran can take care of himself, trust me.” He had a point, I haven’t finished the book, but so far, everyone is fearful of Doran, even the assassins. <<if hasVisited("Stand there.")>>And if what he did to me was a simple exercise of his abilities, then I can only guess what his wrath would look like.<</if>> “Interesting,” Sydero chimes, trailing off as she gazes back towards the throne room, “This could be our witch. $name, you go and see if you can get any information from those around. See if you can find witches as well. I’m going to talk to Doran, see if I can get him to tell me all about this secret meeting and what the witch looked like.” Before I can answer, she walks off, heading back towards the room with a purpose. I gaze around the hallway, finding myself alone. <a data-passage="FC2_1_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I walk through the streets of the Deadlands, curious at everything that I come across. From the weird plants to the even weirder animals that are on sale. Everything about this world is strange and exciting. Information that I won’t gain by reading now rests at my fingertips. I walk up and down the black market, observing and sampling everything that I can. I’m standing in front of a shaggy goat when Asher approaches me. “What are you doing? Why do you look as if you have never been to the market before?” I gaze over at him, thinking up a quick lie and failing. “I was just admiring this goat.” Asher looks at the creature in front of me and then back to me. “That’s a Giant Wooly-rat.” “Wow, when you guys say giant, you really mean it,” I chuckle nervously, I wasn’t doing an excellent job at blending in. Asher continues to stare at me with a blank face before saying, “that was a jest, that is a goat.” Asher grabs my bicep and yanks me away from the market, and away from any intrusive ears. Once we’re a good enough distance away from everyone, he turns on his heel to face me. “Who are you? Really. Are you a spy? Did the northern witches agree to make you look like us so you can infiltrate our ranks?” He throws out accusation left and right, but I stop listening after he mentions northern witches. Asher knows where they are then, though I doubt he will agree to help me without some kind of answer to his allegations. [[Tell Asher the truth.][$honesty +=5]] [[Make up a lie.|FCAsherLie][$honesty -=5; $Asher to 0]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Honesty ++<</if>> “Okay,” I begin, motioning for him to shut up so that I can get my thoughts in order. How do you tell someone that their entire world is just a story and that you’re from another dimension entirely? This world doesn’t even have internet! It almost sounds like when Sydero informed me about the supernatural, I guess I can just copy her. As soon as the thought surfaces I’m against it. Probably not wise to call the guy an idiot and that he should’ve stayed out of your business because he won’t like the truth. “This is going to sound crazy, but I’m not from here.” “You are from Nidinia then. Treces perhaps?” “What? No. Your planet is called Jiwenia, mine isn’t. I live on a planet called Earth.” He stares at me, trying to wrap his mind around it. I choose to continue, knowing that leaving him with just that thought will make everything else harder. “In my world, yours is just in a story. I was reading about you and your world in a book. In my world, Alyrians, we’re everywhere along with animals and other creatures like werewolves.” “Werewolves?” “Half human, half canine. A witch from my world is mad at my <<if $cp>>friends<<else>>friend<</if>> and me for killing her family, and so she sent us here to try and kill us I guess.” “Your ... <<if $cp>>friends<<else>>friend<</if>>?” “Yea, the girl you met, Sydero.<<if $cp>> And the Alyrian that you think is a spy, Chris, he’s my friend too and wouldn’t hurt a fly. Well, that’s a lie, but he’s not here to kill or overthrow anyone.<</if>>” Asher is quiet, and I can only imagine what’s going through his head. He walks ahead of me, and I follow behind him, staying quiet so that he can process everything. It honestly feels like hours go by before he turns to me, his brows still pinched with concern. “Can you prove anything of what you say?” [[Search my pockets.]] [[Talk about Asher's past.]]

I think of ways to prove my words to him, instinctively digging in my pockets to see if I had accidentally left my phone in there. Thankfully, I did. Of course, there are no bars, but that’s not what was important. I call Asher to my side and show him all the things I can on the phone, bringing up my messages and games as well. It takes about ten whole minutes just for Asher to tear his attention away from the phone, but he seems more than convinced that I’m not from here. His amazement is replaced by a stricken look. <<include "FC2_1_2">>

I remember reading some stuff about Asher’s past in the book. Things that some random person shouldn’t know. “Lord Doran once asked you and your partner to go and kill a mother and child. You refused, and when Doran offered you a second chance, you refused again. He let them go, but you were punished, Doran used his powers on you to teach you a lesson.” It was minor I suppose, but the only thing that has already happened and wasn’t public knowledge. And by the way Asher is staring at me, I assume that I’m right. His eyes widen, and he nods, seeming to be convinced since I couldn’t possibly know such a thing. A stricken look appears on his face. “In your world, my world is but a book? A story to be passed on?” “Yea. But obviously your world is more than that, I mean, here I am. It’s just a whole other dimension or something.” “Would I be able to read about your world in a book?” I can’t tell if he asks me out of anger or genuine curiosity. “Perhaps. Maybe in the Alyrian kingdoms though.” I chuckle at the thought, and he nods. “You read about me then? What did you think?” [[“You’re a loyal friend, as far as I can see.”]] [[“You’re afraid of Doran, why?”]] [[“You’re proud to be a Cimmerian, you don’t actually hate Alyrians, do you?”]] <<if $int is "men" or $int is "both">>\ [[“I thought you were um ... attractive.”][$Asher +=1]] <</if>>\

“As far as I can tell - well, read - you’re a loyal friend. You and your partner, the blood assassin, you have each other’s backs.” “Or, at least we attempt to. There are times where I stand alone, and I fear more trials will await us in the future.” He has no idea. I want to tell him about those trials that obviously haven’t happened yet, but I have no idea if that will mess up this world, and mine. It is better to leave the contents of the story in my world. “So, will you help me?” I finally ask. Asher looks around, his gaze going to the castle that stands in the distance. <<include "FC2_1_2">>

“You’re afraid of Lord Doran, why is that? Your abilities make you almost as powerful.” “You have yet to see Doran’s true abilities. They are not to be trifled with. Even I have not seen the full extent. And his behavior makes him unpredictable. I can see that even I, as an assassin, am expendable. That is why I fear him.” <<include "FC2_1_2">>

“You’re proud to be a Cimmerian, and some of your actions make me think that you don’t exactly hate Alyrians like the others. Do you?” “I do not know if I do or not,” Asher tells me with an embarrassed smile, “they murdered my people and forced us off of land that was ours. I believe our people are as extraordinary as any other, and I wish to show this to others.” <<include "FC2_1_2">>

I blush, scratching the back of my head as I fight to get the words out, “I thought ... well I thought you were um ... attractive.” Asher’s eyes widen in shock, but it doesn’t last long, a broad smile appearing as he turns to me entirely. “I have been known to woo a few in my day,” he tells me, and I laugh, ignoring his lingering gaze. <<include "FC2_1_2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Deceit ++<</if>> I didn’t have time to stand here and tell him the truth. It would take too long, and he wouldn’t believe me either way. It’ll be similar to when I told Chris about the supernatural, only this is far more farfetched. “The truth is, my partner and I have been undercover as Alyrians all this time, trying to discover their plans and then, catch that guy. Doran knows about it but he wants to keep the information confidential. Only us three knew what was going on.” “And the witches I am suspecting?” Asher points out, motioning to me, “Alyrians would kill you on sight if they saw you. The witches must have put an illusion spell on you.” Agreeing would mean that I knew the witches and therefore didn’t really need his help. That, and when I did meet them then he would suspect they already knew me. Lying is such a chore. [[“My friend is a witch. She did the illusions.”]] [[“Doran brought someone in, and then killed them.”]] [[“I don’t remember who did the spell.”]]

“My friend, Sydero, she’s a witch. She did the illusion and then took it off when we came back.” The only lie there is the illusion part, everything else is true. I guess the truth in my words helps me sell it because Asher, though seems shocked, seems to accept it with a shrug. <<include "FC2_1_2">>

“Doran brought someone in and then after they did the spell, killed them.” Doran seems like the type. The type not to care about another’s life, and if he did care, he cared long enough for them to be useful to him, and after that, his care vanished. It seems that I’m not the only one who can see such a thing happening. Asher seems to accept it, shrugging though I suppose saying he accepted it was a stretch. A look of distrust still rests in his eye. <<include "FC2_1_2">>

“I don’t remember who did the spell, I’m guessing they wanted to remain anonymous.” Witches do that right? They do the spell because they were threatened or asked, and sometimes they didn’t want to be known. Whether they did or not, Asher seems to accept it, shrugging though I suppose saying he accepted it is a stretch. A look of distrust still rests in his eye. <<include "FC2_1_2">>

“So, will you help me?” I finally ask. Asher looks around, his gaze going to the castle. “I shall. We should not be missed, but we should not dawdle either. Your friend should be able to hold Doran’s attention at least. Come, we shall take a few horses. I will introduce you to the witches.” I smile and walk after him. One step closer to hopefully finding out what’s going on and <<if $cp>>saving Chris from whatever fate he will soon meet.<<else>>how to get back.<</if>> <a data-passage="EP8-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> “Wait!” I shout, moving closer to stop them but they do no such thing. They continue forcibly putting chains over her hands, despite her protests and fighting them at every step. One earns a wicked scratch on his cheek before they successfully accomplish their mission. “Stand aside, friend, a beast is still a beast no matter how pretty a face,” the leader tells me, and the scratched guard slaps Sydero across the face. “Secure her to a horse.” Everything was happening too fast<<if $cp>>, I still was standing confused with Chris at my side.<<else>>.<</if>> <<include "FC2_1_2_1">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> I don’t move in to stop them for two good reasons. One, they had weapons, and I didn’t want to be at the end of them. And two, everything is happening too fast<<if $cp>>, I was still standing confused with Chris at my side<</if>>. Sydero doesn’t go down easy though. She manages to give one guard a nasty scar before they are able to put chain links on her wrists. “Secure her to a horse,” the leader tells the guards, and the scratched guard slaps Sydero across the face. <<include "FC2_1_2_1">>

The man turns his attention to <<if $cp>>us, looking both Chris and<<else>>me, looking<</if>> me over curiously. Finally, a smile appears on his face, and he leans over in his saddle with an outstretched hand. “Good work <<if $cp>>soldiers, or well – what are you guys<<else>>soldier, or well – what are you<</if>> exactly?” <<if $cp>>I glance over at Chris who nudges me forward.<</if>> I grab his hand and say, “bounty <<if $cp>>hunters<<else>>hunter<</if>>, actually. Just doing <<if $cp>>our<<else>>my<</if>> job.” “I have not seen too many of you, but I am not complaining. I did not completely recognize your colors and wear. But who am I to turn down foreign help? Especially when it comes to catching these creatures?” He looks back towards Sydero whose glaring at him, ready to tear his throat out. Instead, she spits at him, earning another hit from the guard whose horse she is tied to. “Rabid creatures I tell you,” he sighs, his attention back on <<if $cp>>us<<else>>me<</if>>, “come, the King will want to hear about this, and perhaps even speak to you.” <<if $cp>>Neither Chris nor I was<<else>>I wasn’t<</if>> in the position to say no, that and they were going to take Sydero somewhere and <<if $cp>>we<<else>>I<</if>> needed to know where. She was the expert on weird stuff, and she might have a better idea at what to do and what’s going on than us. <<if $cp>>We follow behind the mounted riders, happy that they were at least going at a slow pace for us to keep up with. As we walk behind them, Chris grabs my shoulder and pulls me back a few more steps.<<else>>I follow behind the mounted riders, happy that they were at least going at a slow pace for me to keep up with.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “Where the hell are we and what’s going on?” [[“That’s your new favorite question, huh?”][$chris -=3; $serious -=2]] [[“I still know as much as you do.”]] [[“Pretty sure Sydero was on to something.”]] <<else>>\ I follow behind the men, walking down a worn-down path that saw frequent activity from wildlife. A few of the rabbits and deer that I see pick up their heads. Their eyes follow us until they decide that we’re non-threatening. With that, they go back to eating and foraging. <a data-passage="FC3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Comical ++<</if>> “That’s your new favorite question, huh?” I ask with a small smile, but Chris fails to see the humor in anything I had just said. “I’m serious. I don’t like this.” “What do you like?” I question, rolling my eyes at his behavior, “and what makes you think I know what’s going on?” “Because –,” he pauses, thinking my question over before closing his mouth. He mutters something to himself and walks at a brisker pace. <<include "FC3">>

“I don’t know what you think has changed since the last time you’ve asked this question, I’m still just as confused as when we first woke up here.” “Then how are we supposed to figure out?” “By doing what we’re told and not bringing attention to ourselves,” I tell him. He couldn’t argue my words, but he doesn’t seem pleased by them either. He mutters something to himself and walks at a brisker pace. <<include "FC3">>

“Sydero said that there was a chance that we were in the book that I was reading. I don’t know how or why, or anything really other than that, but she might have a point.” “This is still pure speculation,” Chris points out. “What do you want me to tell you, Chris? I don’t know.” He mutters something to himself and walks at a brisker pace. <<include "FC3">>

We follow behind the men, walking down a worn-down path that saw frequent activity from wildlife. A few of the rabbits and deer that I see pick up their heads. Their eyes follow us until they decide that we’re non-threatening. With that, they go back to eating and foraging. We continue up the trail when I see smoke above the tree line. A few minutes later we leave the trail and the forest behind, walking onto a poor gravel road that goes past numerous of hastily built huts. Those that are out and about do themselves a favor and quickly disappear, and those who don’t hide don’t pay us a second glance. This was the rural part of whatever town we were approaching, but it was also made up by peasants and those who didn’t have the fortune to have their names remembered. Further up the road, our surroundings change yet again. The huts turn into houses, each with a medieval Tudor feel to them. The road improves as well, done with more care than the path that we had traveled across before. Those walking around are more smartly dressed, and though they ignore us, it seems only because they have better things to concern themselves with. I can see a large splendid castle in the distance. It wasn’t exactly a fairytale castle, but I can’t help but think of such fantastical stories when I gaze at what I can. Upon getting closer, I’m able to judge it far better. The castle was made up by a multicolored stone that was all light shades of grey. Thick vines and foliage cover some parts of the castle, adding to the aesthetic. It’s the top of the castle that immediately makes me think of childish fairytales. Each tower’s roof was coned with a decorative flag waving from the top. The ramparts feature a soldier, and I can easily see the bows that sit on their backs. “Come, come,” the leader beckons, grabbing Sydero’s chains harshly, pulling her behind him as if she was some disobedient puppy. Her eyes meet mine. [[“I’ll lead the prisoner.”]] [[Don't do anything.|FCDoNothing]]

“I’ll lead the prisoner,” I suddenly say, taking a step forward and grabbing the chain even though he hadn’t agreed yet. He releases it and looks to me for a reason. “She’s not your burden.” That’s all I say, but it seems to be enough. The leader nods and walks inside, the others following him. “Surprised you haven’t killed the man yet,” I snicker from beside her, making sure my voice is low. “Trust me, I’ve tried. I don’t have my abilities for some reason.” “Oh, isn’t that grand,” I mumble and end our conversation there. The number of guards has increased, and I’m sure that if any of them see me talking to her, they’ll probably suspect something. <<include "FC3_0_1">>

I don’t say anything, allowing the man to drag her behind him. Hopefully, Sydero could keep her calm and not do anything foolish, especially before we know what is going on. <<include "FC3_0_1">>

We walk into a crowded yet tastefully designed room, a throne resting at the end where a tall man stands beside it, chuckling with someone at his side. Sydero’s chains rattle, echoing through the room and grabbing everyone’s attention. The room descends into silence as we march forward, the King’s focus on us. “King Barda,” the man says, doing an extravagant bow. The other guards bow as well before straightening. “I think you’ll be pleased with what we found.” All eyes fall on Sydero, the room guessing at what was found. If I had any doubts before, I knew for sure that this was my story. King Barda was a name that I had grown accustomed to seeing while reading. The story did a terrific job of describing him, he looked just like how the book said he would. But even with all of his grandness, it is easy to see the wickedness that rests in his eyes. It had the potential to grow, and only a bit of his honor kept it restrained. “Is this?” King Barda asks, his eyes widening. <<if $cp>>I exchange a nervous glance with Chris.<<else>>I exchange a nervous glance with Sydero, who of course doesn’t catch it. Her attention is on the King, and only him.<</if>> Why did it sound like they were all expecting her? “We believe so your majesty, and if she is who we have been forewarned about, then her aid might cripple the entire savage system.” “For pity sake, call them Cimmerians,” the man the king had been speaking to earlier states, “they have a functioning government. Don’t call them such simply because of past actions.” I hear whispering from those scattered across the throne room, it would seem that the man holds an opinion that many don’t share. “Give her a cell. We will let Ivan get the information we need out of her.” The guards nod and lead Sydero away. She doesn’t fight them this time, merely following them out. <<if $cp>>Chris and <</if>>I remain, standing awkwardly beside the leader. He clears his throat and motions to the two of us. “And I would like to introduce to you the <<if $cp>>two hunters who are<<else>>hunter<</if>> responsible for her capture.” “Hmm, <<if $cp>>bounty hunters<<else>>a bounty hunter<</if>>,” he mumbles, scratching his beard, “and what do you want in return for your services.” [[“Gold.”]] <<if $cp>>\ [[“Simply a place to rest our heads.”|FCRest]] <<else>>\ [[“Simply a place to rest my head.”|FCRest]] <</if>>\ [[“A feast.”]]

“Gold, what else is there to want?” I question. <<if $cp>>We were bounty hunters<<else>>I was a bounty hunter<</if>>, bounty hunters only do things for money, nothing else. I was just acting the part. Plus, <<if $cp>>we don’t know how long we would<<else>>I don’t know how long I would<</if>> be stuck here, gold might buy more than just some food and a place to rest <<if $cp>>our heads<<else>>my head<</if>>. “Of course,” he grumbles but seems pleased nevertheless, “in the meantime, you <<if $cp>>two<</if>> must be tired. Lieutenant Kenan will direct you to a local inn to rest your head. Or at least direct you to a servant that will aid you.” Lieutenant Kenan does a deep bow before turning to <<if $cp>>us, ushering us out.<<else>>me, and ushering me out.<</if>> <<include "FC3_0_2">>

“I would be gracious for a magnificent feast if that is not too much trouble,” I ask, hopefully. “Not too much trouble at all, and with her capture brings a means to celebrate anyway,” he claps his hands with a large smile, “tonight there will be a feast. Stewards make sure invitations have been sent out. In the meantime, you <<if $cp>>two <</if>>must be tired. Lieutenant Kenan will direct you to a local inn to rest your head. Or at least direct you to a servant that will aid you. Please return tonight at sun fall.” Lieutenant Kenan does a deep bow before turning towards and ushering <<if $cp>>us<<else>>me<</if>> out. <<include "FC3_0_2">>

“All <<if $cp>>we<<else>>I<</if>> ask is for a please to rest <<if $cp>>our heads<<else>>my head<</if>>,” I tell him, hoping that meant it would be some room in the castle.” “Ah, a reasonable if not odd request. I do believe we have some guest rooms open here in the castle. Lieutenant Kenan will direct you to these rooms, or at least direct you to a servant who may be able to aid you.” Lieutenant Kenan does a deep bow before turning to us, ushering us out. <<include "FC3_0_2">>

<<if $cp>>Chris and <</if>>I follow Lieutenant Kenan out of the throne room and down numerous hallways until he calls out to a fast walking servant. “Esther, what have you on your list of tasks?” The woman in question does a quick curtsy before answering, “nothing, sir.” “Good. I have other things to do, <<if $cp>>these two hunters will be under your guidance for the remainder of their stay. See them to a reputable inn in the area.” Kenan turns on his heels, congratulates and thanks us one more time, before marching off. Esther motions for us to follow her, walking back down a long hallway.<<else>>this hunter will be under your guidance for the remainder of their stay. See them to a reputable inn in the area.” Kenan turns on his heels, congratulates and thanks me one more time, before marching off. Esther motions for me to follow her, walking back down a long hallway.<</if>> I catch up to walk alongside her, this was the Esther from my story. It’s one thing to read about fantasy lands in books, to close your eyes and picture what the author was attempting to paint with their words. But it was another to actually be in it, seeing the world in all its fantastical wonder. This was every fantasy and sci-fi loving kid’s dream. Being able to abandon their world and to travel to another where they became the hero and slew the mighty dragon. I chuckle in disbelief, here I was, all because a witch had a vendetta against me. “Did I do or say something odd?” Esther asks, eyes widening. “No, of course not. I was just thinking of something, and it made me chuckle. Are you always so fearful of how others act?” We walk outside, and she immediately beckons for a waiting carriage to come to us. “I am actually,” she smiles shyly, “nobles are not afraid to tell you what they think of you, and even the smallest thing can be seen as an offense to them. Unless I wish to get a lashing, it is wise for me to stay on everyone’s good side.” [[“Smart move.”]] [[“Well, I’m no noble.”]] <<if $int is "women" or $int is "both">>\ [[“You’re too beautiful to be a servant.”][$Esther +=1]] <</if>>\

“Smart move. Stay in your lane and do your duty,” I huff and though she nods, her gaze falls to the ground. <<if hasVisited("“Gold.”") or hasVisited("“A feast.”")>>She quietly enters the carriage, <<if $cp>>Chris and I following<<else>>and I follow<</if>> after her as she gives directions to the driver.<</if>> <<include "FC3_0_3">>

“Well, I’m no noble. You don’t have to treat me like you owe me something,” I tell her, and she looks up at me with a grateful smile. <<if hasVisited("“Gold.”") or hasVisited("“A feast.”")>>She quietly enters the carriage, <<if $cp>>Chris and I following<<else>>and I follow<</if>> after her as she gives directions to the driver.<</if>> <<include "FC3_0_3">>

<>\ <<if $CRomance >=3>> <<set $CRomance -=1>> <</if>> <>\ “A shame,” I sigh, “you’re too beautiful to be a servant.” Esther’s cheeks immediately turn a bright red, and she tries her hardest to keep the subtle smile from widening. <<if hasVisited("“Gold.”") or hasVisited("“A feast.”")>>She quietly enters the carriage, <<if $cp>>Chris and I following<<else>>and I follow<</if>> after her as she gives directions to the driver.<</if>> <<include "FC3_0_3">>

“If I can ask, Esther, do you know what the king meant about Sy – um, the prisoner being forewarned about?” <<if $cp>>Chris questions<<else>>I question<</if>>. “I should not say, it is not my place. And I do not wish to seem like I am putting my nose in another’s business. Especially the business of the king.” “This’ll stay between you and us.” Esther <<if $cp>>gives us both nervous glances<<else>>sends me a nervous glance<</if>> before nodding her head. “A witch that was not of Cimmerian origin came to the castle three days ago. She told the court that a Cimmerian fitting the description of the prisoner would come and attempt to murder the king. She also said that her presence would cause a string of unfortunate events to occur, rendering the kingdom weak and open to invasion. The only way to make sure it never comes to past was to kill her.” “Wait! When?” Esther shrugs at <<if $cp>>Chris’s<<else>>my<</if>> question<<if hasVisited("“Gold.”") or hasVisited("“A feast.”")>>, coming to a stop near a large oak door with a shiny bronze handle.<<else>>.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("“Gold.”") or hasVisited("“A feast.”")>>\ “I do not know. Lieutenant Kenan will want to torture her first, to get as much information out of her as he can. Her execution will probably be tomorrow or the day after.<<if hasVisited("“Gold.”") or hasVisited("“A feast.”")>> Here is your room, if you need me, please call.” Esther bows and quickly head back down the stairs. I go into the room, <<if $cp>>Chris following and once the door closes, we both panic.<<else>>my mind attempting to wrap around what Esther had just told me.<</if>><<else>>”<</if>> “Your destination has been reached,” the driver calls out, bringing the horses to a stop. I look out the carriage’s window at the large and immaculate inn before me. It was even better than some in my world. <a data-passage="FC3_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ “I do not know. Lieutenant Kenan will want to torture her first, to get as much information out of her as he can. Her execution will probably be tomorrow or the day after.” <<if $cp>>\ “What are we supposed to do? The only thing we know is that we’re inside some book!” Chris reminds me, pacing back and forth the long width of the room. I had expected to be guided to a one-bedroom, but two large beds rest on opposite ends of the room. A chest lays at the end of both beds, and besides a large wardrobe, a table, a mirror, and a long fur rug nothing else resides in the room. “We need to speak to Sydero pronto.” “You have an idea in getting to her?” “Might take a lot of persuasion or something else but it’s the only thing we got. We also need to get a look at that prison if we want to somehow find a way to get her out.” Chris nods, taking a minute to finally look around the room. I watch as he tries to relax but is unable too, sitting on the edge of the bed, staring into the distance. Despite neither of us wanting to say anything to the other, the room suddenly seems to get congested and the silence that fills it is awkward. This was going to be a long day. <<else>>\ I pace the long width of the room. I had expected to be guided to a one-bedroom, but two large beds rest on opposite ends of the room. A chest lays at the end of both beds, and besides a large wardrobe, a table, a mirror, and a long fur rug nothing else resides in the room. But the layout of the room was less important than the reason I was there. I needed to speak to Sydero as soon as possible. Hopefully, she had an idea about what was going on and how to get out of this. I would need to do this as soon as possible. As soon as they separated us, they put us on a time limit, and I fear that there wasn’t much time at all. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="EP8-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

Esther thanks the driver and quickly heads toward the inn. The inside was simplistic in it’s decorating but still had such great beauty that it was hard to notice all the open space. “Your rooms are on the first floor, I will see you to them and then retire to one of my own. <<if hasVisited("“A feast.”")>>I will come by later to escort you back to the castle for the feast later tonight<<else>>If you need me, please call<</if>>.” <<if $cp>>The two of us follow her to our rooms, and she immediately hurries off, still highly timid. I don’t immediately go into my room though, choosing to join Chris in his to decide what to do next.<<else>>I follow her to my room, and she immediately hurries to her own, still highly timid.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ As soon as I’m inside and I close the door, Chris panics, “what are we supposed to do? The only thing we know is that we’re inside some book!” He paces back and forth the long width of the room, racking his brain on solutions. The room held a single midsized bed, a large wardrobe, a table, a mirror, and a small rug in the middle of the floor. “We need to speak to Sydero, pronto.” “You have an idea in getting to her?” “Might take a lot of persuasion or something else but it’s the only thing we got. We also need to get a look at that prison if we want to somehow find a way to get her out.” Chris nods, taking a minute to finally look around the room. I watch as he tries to relax but is unable too, sitting on the edge of the bed, staring into the distance. Despite neither of us wanting to say anything to the other, the room suddenly seems to get congested and the silence that fills it is awkward. This was going to be a long day. <<else>>\ I pace back and forth the long width of the room, racking my brain for possible solutions. I also check out the room that I would be resting my head in. The room held a single midsized bed, a large wardrobe, a table, a mirror, and a small rug in the middle of the floor. But the layout of the room was less important than the reason I was there. I needed to speak to Sydero as soon as possible. Hopefully, she had an idea about what was going on and how to get out of this. I would need to do this as soon as possible. As soon as they separated us, they put us on a time limit, and I fear that there wasn’t much time at all. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="EP8-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

“I’m not much of a dancer,” I tell her, “unless I’m in my room that is.” She giggles as she adds some fruit to the side of the plate. “I sing when no one is watching.” “Is that because you have a great voice or because you don’t?” She shrugs, “I think I do, but what woman would not think her voice heavenly?” I can’t argue with that, and I take the plate that she hands me, her eyes landing on all the dancing ladies. I eat the food silently, happy that Esther stays close in case I have any question or just need to look like I wasn’t that person who shows up to a party knowing absolutely no one. Once done, I straighten my clothes out and make myself presentable again. <<if $cp>>I spot Chris heading my way, trying to hide his face, lest he is asked to dance again.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ [[Dance with Chris.]] <</if>>\ [[Dance with Esther.]] [[Stay seated.]]

“I haven’t danced in forever, especially ballroom style dancing. I don’t know if I can keep up.” “Understandable, but then, most of those dancing right now are depending solely on their partner for the correct guidance.” I nod, taking the plate that she hands me, her eyes landing on all the dancing ladies. I eat the food silently, happy that Esther stays close in case I have any question or just need to look like I wasn’t that person who shows up to a party knowing absolutely no one. Once done, I straighten my clothes out and make myself presentable again. <<if $cp>>I spot Chris heading my way, trying to hide his face, lest he is asked to dance again.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ [[Dance with Chris.]] <</if>>\ [[Dance with Esther.]] [[Stay seated.]]

I meet Chris halfway, seeing the sweat dribbling down his face when he gets to me. “Wanna dance?” I ask with a smirk and though he rolls his eyes, he accepts. He leads me back out to the main part of the floor and takes lead. “So, while you were over there, did you get any more information on what we need to do?” I roll my eyes but indulge him, “exactly what did you want me to ask her that we already didn’t?” “How about how we get out of here. They don’t have witches but there has to be some wise figure that might be able to help us.” “Asking her that means we have to tell her the truth.” “Then tell her, whatever gets us out of here, right?” [[“Yea, fine.”]] <<if $flirt_Chris>>[[“I was hoping to just be able to dance with you right now.”][$CRomance +=1]]<</if>>

“Esther,” I question, finishing my food and then joining her, “would you like to dance?” Her blush is furious, but it wasn’t because she was humble that I asked her. Her eyes dart from one noble person to the next, and she shakes her head so fast that her hair slaps her across the face. “I cannot,” she begins to tell me, but I wave that excuse away. “Because you’re a servant? If someone says something, then I’ll just put the blame on my ignorance and my lack of decorum.” “But this will tarnish your reputation,” she continues. “I’d care if I had one,” I smirk and nudge her gently, extending my hand towards her. “Think of it this way, if I’m your better, then you can say that you were too afraid to tell me no.” She takes one last look around before putting her hand in mine. I lead her to the dance floor, and though the steps to the dance elude me, I fake it till I make it. I’m more than aware of the eyes that land on us, of the whispering and even some of the pointing that the braver nobles partake in. But I don’t care, and after a few minutes, it would seem that Esther doesn’t either. Perhaps she was stiff, to begin with since she feared someone would approach us. But after no one does, her posture relaxes immediately, and she even sends me a thankful smile. [[Question her while dancing.][$offering = true]] <<if $int is "women" or $int is "both">>[[Bring her closer.][$Esther +=1]]<</if>>

I take my time eating, I had no desire to dance, and I’d rather be left alone. <<include "AfterDancePart">>

I blush as the words come out of my mouth, though the blush only lightly paints my cheeks, the other half of me was still annoyed with Chris. “We have work to do,” he tells me, “we don’t have time for pointless dancing.” “Of course we don’t,” I say sarcastically, “we also don’t have time for this attitude of yours. Which, I should mention, you still haven’t told me the origins of. What? Are you still mad about me not helping you earlier?” “Let it go, $name. I don’t care about that anymore.” That’s all he says as we continue to dance, an action that not two full minutes ago, I was excited about doing. Now, it seemed as empty and pointless as this feast. I pull away before the song finishes, causing Chris to look at me in shock, as well as me impeding upon a nearby duo. With my head low, I mutter an apology and retreat back to my seat from earlier. I was ready for this day to come to an end. <<include "AfterDancePart">>

I roll my eyes as I say it, suddenly no longer feeling up to dancing, especially with Chris. I wait until the song is over though, seeing that the other dancers were too close for me to safely retreat without messing them up. As soon as the song does end, I depart almost immediately, going back to the table I was at before. <<include "AfterDancePart">>

As I take her through the steps, I begin to question her, innocent questions that wouldn’t spur suspicion at first. After getting to know her a bit better, I finally ask the question that I wanted to ask in the beginning. “So, this place doesn’t have any witches?” I ask, and she sends me a questioning look. “No, only humans live here. Why?” “I need … guidance,” I try out, “and my previous town had a few mystical beings that could provide assistance?” “The Kre, then?” I nod my head as if knowing what that word meant. She becomes silent, spinning around before an idea lights up on her face. “Would the temple be helpful? If you believe in the gods, then you can make an offering to them, and if they find you worthy, they might help you.” I nod. I remember reading about the gods here, far more active in this world than the religious figures in mine. It might even be interesting to see what will happen. Once the song is done, we return to our seats. <<include "AfterDancePart">>

I slowly pull her closer to me, tightening my grip around her waist as we sway. She blushes softly, beginning to hide her face before realizing that the only way to do that, would mean resting her head on my chest. “I think I can get used to you smiling, it’s beautiful,” I tell her, copying the moves of someone close by and taking a step back, twirling her, and then resuming our previous stance. “You are far too kind,” she murmurs. “Tell me, Esther. Do you have someone special here?” Her eyes bulge at my words, and she chuckles softly while shaking her head. “No, I never thought to start looking.” “Hmm,” I murmur. Though, I don’t know how fair this would be since I wouldn’t be here forever. As we head back to our seats, I think about it deeper. I was attracted to Esther, no doubt, but it would be foolish to get attached. <<include "AfterDancePart">>

“Everyone,” I hear a boisterous voice call out and turn in my seat to see the king on his dais, a cup in his hand and raised. <<if $cp>>\ “We have gathered here today to celebrate two hunters who were successful in bringing in the monster that wanted to see our end.” The crowd boos at that, the king allowing it before continuing on. “We have much to be grateful for with her capture. In two days time, we will have a public execution. Long live Pryce and her people.” The crowd cheers but neither I, nor Chris, cheer along with them. The two of us exchange a look, realizing that we were now on a time limit, a very short one at that. <<else>>\ “We have gathered here today to celebrate the hunter who was successful in bringing in the monster that wanted to see our end.” The crowd boos at that, the king allowing it before continuing on. “We have much to be grateful for with her capture. In two days time, we will have a public execution. Long live Pryce and her people.” The crowd cheers but I stay frozen, realizing that I was now on a time limit, a very short one at that. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $feast>>\<<audio "forthecrown" fadeout>><</if>>\ <<if $offering>>\ The next day, I search for Esther in hopes that she can lead me to the temple she told me about the other day, as well as to tell me exactly what I need for the offerings. The book didn’t have much on it or at least the part that I could recall reading. I remember something about the moon, and darkness, I believe. Other than that, I can’t think of anything else. Maybe those were the only gods, though I suppose it would only make sense for the sun to be one as well. <<else>>\ <<if $cp>>\ The next day, I get up early and search for Esther. She wasn’t in town or in the castle, and the more I look for her, the more lost I become. It would’ve been wise to at least invite Chris to come, but then, I didn’t want to hear his voice or experience that record winning attitude of his. Chris was a laidback kind of guy, attitudes were rare for him, which only meant that whatever was bothering him was big. But I couldn’t do anything about him not wanting to tell me. I put my mind back on the temple and if I would need an offering or not. The book didn’t have much on the deities or at least the part that I could recall reading. I remember something about the moon, and darkness, I believe. Other than that, I can’t think of anything else. Maybe those were the only gods, though I suppose it would only make sense for the sun to be one as well. <<else>>\ The next day, I get up early and search for Esther. She wasn’t in town or in the castle, and the more I look for her, the more lost I become. I think about this temple and if I would need an offering or not. The book didn’t have much on the deities or at least the part that I could recall reading. I remember something about the moon, and darkness, I believe. Other than that, I can’t think of anything else. Maybe those were the only gods, though I suppose it would only make sense for the sun to be one as well. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if not hasVisited("A feast.")>>\ As I walk through the town in search of Esther, I freeze, my eyes landing on a large piece of parchment that was nailed to a sturdy wooden board. The largest words are those that say ‘Execution’. Underneath that, the paper details the execution, when, where, and who. Of course, it was Sydero’s execution and it was to take place tomorrow, giving us almost no time. It was bad enough that we were still at square one with figuring out how to get out of here, but now, there was this. In anger, I tear the paper down and ball it up, throwing it to the side as I walk further into the town. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC3_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

After what felt like an hour of searching, I finally find Esther in the market part of the town, a basket resting on her arm as she examines a few fruits. I notice that there are other servants with her, all looking at other produce. “Esther,” I say, sliding up to her. “Oh, $name, can I help you with something?” “I need your help with finding the temple.” She frowns, looking at her near-empty basket and then the other servants. “I will be able to help you later today, but I have work to do right now.” “This is urgent.” “The gods are not low on patience,” she jokes, continuing her inspection. I understood why she didn’t want to help me. This was her job and stopping could probably land her in more trouble than I’m worth. But I needed her help. [[Tell Esther the truth.]] [[Lie to her.|FCEstherLie][$Esther to 0]]

<>\ <<set $moon1 = false>> <<set $darkness1 = false>> <<set $sun1 = false>> <>\ <img src="images/actthree.png"> <<if $Cimmerian>>\ I follow behind Asher on horseback as he leads me down twisting and busy streets. Having never ridden a horse before, I was doing nothing more than just hanging on and hoping that the horse was trained enough to follow behind Asher. We go further to what I presume is the northern half of the Deadlands, journeying towards the mountains that were tall enough to have snow peaks but, from what my eyes could see, there was no such thing. The higher parts of the mountains are shrouded with clouds, making visibility impossible, even with eyes as good as the Cimmerians. “This place literally encompasses the aesthetic of Deadlands,” I chuckle, allowing my gaze to move across the dull surroundings. Even with the assortment of plants and trees, this place had an air of melancholy that went with it. “Any rules when messing with these witches?” I question Asher as soon as he dismounts in front of the mouth of a cave. Three orb shaped torches hang from the roof, and further in there are other torches meant to light up an otherwise dim path. “None that I can think of. They are nice, and though I have not dealt with them as much as others, I know that if anyone can help you, it is them.” I nod, and we walk further into the cave, Asher leading the way. The cave is hardly decorated, other than the few orbed shaped torches and what I assume are charms hanging from random jagged rocks. We’re deep within the cave when I begin to hear two voices chanting. Their voices sweet and harmonious, a gentle whisper in the air that beckons an individual to come closer. Though I suppose that’s what siren’s voices did as well. I exchange a nervous look with Asher who smiles softly, ushering me to continue following him. “And there we have it. I do believe we have outdone ourselves, sister,” I hear a sweet voice state. Asher leads me around a corner where two, almost identical, women stand. Between them rests a calm fire that spews white flames. A pot rests atop of the fire, inside is a clear liquid that doesn’t boil whatsoever. Instead, it shimmers, at moments reminding me almost like stars twinkling on the clearest of nights. “Lucia and Solania,” Asher greets, performing a respectful upper-body bow before resting his hand on my shoulder, “this is $name. ?He has asked me to bring ?him here to ask for your help.” [[Tell the witches the truth.]] <<if not hasVisited("Tell Asher the truth.")>>[[Sum it up.]]<</if>> <<else>>\ <<if hasVisited("“A feast.”")>>\ <>\<<audio "forthecrown" loop volume 0 fadeto 0.60>><>\ I walk into the ballroom <<if $cp>>with Chris at my side, our eyes moving from one grand sight to the other<<else>>alone, allowing my eyes to move from one grand sight to another<</if>>. You see them in movies, read about them in books, but rarely do you ever see yourself actually going to one, not to mention a fantasy one. Hundreds of people mill about in their ballroom attire, socializing and dancing. Each individual holds themselves with grace and poise, something I can already tell will cause <<if $cp>>Chris and I<<else>>me<</if>> not to fit in. The way they interact and lounge about, fitting into their roles perfectly, I wonder if they would’ve thrown a ball anyway, regardless if <<if $cp>>we<<else>>I<</if>> had captured Sydero or not. The steward looks over at us and clears his throat, “Hunter <<if $cp>>Chris and <</if>>$name.” The attendants of the ball applaud, and <<if $cp>>we continue making our way down the steps, behind us<<else>>I continue making my way down the steps, behind me<</if>> the steward calls out another name that is foreign to my ears. <<if $cp>>\ “So, what exactly is our angle here?” I ask Chris once we make it to the main floor, right as a woman approaches, grabbing Chris’s hand and yanking her to him. “Would you dance with me, good sir?” Before he can either say yes or no, she whisks him away. I watch with a light smile, before finding myself alone with no familiar faces. As Chris is asked by women after women for a dance, I head towards a table with a vast expanse of food on display. <<else>>\ After a few minutes of getting my bearings, I head towards a table with a vast expanse of food on display. <</if>>\ “Would you like me to make your plate?” Esther asks, suddenly appearing beside me. “That’s customary, huh?” I question, and she nods. Esther disappears for a moment before returning with a wooden plate, questioning me about my tastes as she begins to fill it. “Will you not dance?” she asks me, her eyes going to <<if $cp>>Chris, who is probably dancing with his fifth partner.<<else>>all those doing such thing.<</if>> “Perhaps,” I state, looking over the food. [[“I’m not much of a dancer.”]] [[“I haven’t danced in forever.”]] <<else>>\ <<if $cp>>\ “I don’t know how we’re supposed to do this without getting caught,” Chris tells me, staring at the building we were coming up on in fear. “We wing it, like always,” I snicker but he doesn’t seem convinced. I hear him grumble something as we continue on. “If anyone asks, we’ll say that we learned something new that might be useful and must question her. The entire capital knows about us, it shouldn’t be that hard.” Chris simply nods his head as we continue into the building, coming across our first guard. “Purpose, Hunters?” he asks, and I send Chris an, ‘I told you so,’ look. “We wish to question the creature. We think we might be able to get more information out of her based off of some things that we found out.” The guard immediately nods and lets us through, no questions asked, and probably no care given. As long as we were saying that we weren’t here to release her, I’m sure he didn’t care what we did. We head up a short staircase into a room that was lit mostly by torches hanging along the walls, as well as the corridors. The large room that we now found ourselves in had a long walkway, on both sides were stone cells. <<else>>\ I approach the dungeon, the thought of being caught and what my cover would be, constantly coming to the forefront of my mind. I suppose I’ll just say that I learned something new that might be useful and must question Sydero, that seemed substantial enough. “Purpose, Hunter?” a guard asks when I approach. “I wish to question the creature. I think I might be able to get more information out of her based off of some things that I found out.” The guard immediately nods and lets me through, no questions asked, and probably no care given. As long as I was saying that I wasn’t here to release her, I’m sure he didn’t care what I did. I head up a short staircase into a room that was lit mostly by torches hanging along the walls, as well as the corridors. The large room that I now found myself in had a long walkway, on both sides were stone cells. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC3_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<if hasVisited("Tell Asher the truth.")>>\ “I’m not from this world,” I begin, trying to figure out the best way to say it all, “I’m from a world named Earth, probably a different dimension entirely from this one. A witch there cursed my group and sent us here, and now we’re confused about how to get back to our world, and what might happen if we stay here for too long. I’ve come to you guys, hoping that you can help me return and give me more information, if that’s possible.” <<else>>\ I look over at Asher, giving him a small smile that I hope is genuine enough to not raise concern. He notices and apologizes, excusing himself and telling me that he’ll wait for me at the mouth of the cave. I thought I would have to do more explaining, but it will seem that people in this world are just more considerate. As soon as he leaves, the two women hit me with suspicious looks, both interested in why I sent Asher away. “When telling him about my true purpose, I might have left some things out.” “And why would you do that?” the one I believe is Lucia asks, plopping something into the cauldron. Her sister claps her hands and throws something else into it that makes the water produce a low popping sound. “I doubt he’ll believe me, and I don’t have time to persuade him.” They don’t say anything, only motioning for me to continue on. “I’m not from this world,” I begin, trying to figure out the best way to say it all, “I’m from a world named Earth, probably a different dimension entirely from this one. A witch there cursed my group and sent us here, and now we’re confused about how to get back to our world, and what might happen if we stay here for too long. I’ve come to you guys, hoping that you can help me return and give me more information, if that’s possible.” <</if>>\ The two women are silent, both staring at me. It is Solania who breaks the quiet, clapping her hands in excitement. “I have always wondered about the possibility of other dimensions,” she tells me. Lucia nods, “indeed, but we are limited in our powers, and the Gods here quietly observe us more than interfere. We find what you have said most interesting.” “So, you can help me? Or at least tell me what’s going on?” I ask in excitement. “We cannot be completely positive, but I do believe we know a spell that might get you back to your own world,” Lucia wanders off, stopping at a shelf and peering through it. “Does Lord Doran know of this?” The question is directed towards Asher. He shakes his head, “the Great Lord has enough to worry his mind over. That, and I do not wish to see what his thoughts on $name’s situation would be.” The two witches nod in understanding. “As for your situation, I can only think of a few possibilities,” Solania begins to explain, “your bodies still exist in your dimension and death or time away from them will lead to an unconscious state or death. Or, your bodies are here and in your dimension, you have disappeared. This means death with either cause you to resurrect as a child of Jiwenia, or your death will simply be your death.” I think about her words, my stomach churning at the possibilities that she had given me. The resurrection wasn’t so bad, - <a data-passage="TellWitchesTruth2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Before I can think any further on the thought, a pain pulses through my head, reminding me of what lives there ... or what doesn’t. Asher rests a hand on my back, giving me a concerned look that I wave away, giving him a small smile. Lucia comes back with a book, tapping her chin in thought. “The spell is do-able, but we will need the blood from the witch that sent you here. And it might not work since we don’t have a connection with your world.” “My friend is a witch, could she do the spell?” Both women perk up at that. “Indeed. In fact, this will be much easier if she completes it. Do send her to us, we would love to speak to her about the magic of your world.” I attempt to conjure up an image of Sydero answering the questions of these two women and fail. But I nod anyway, thanking them but stopping before I leave. <<include "FC2_1">>

Asher was here and sending him away would cause to much suspicion. That and I had a feeling that these witches wouldn’t believe me any more than Asher would. “A witch has cursed my group, and I’m trying to figure out where she could be,” I begin, trying to figure out the best way to say it without giving away my true origins, “I’ve come to you, hoping that you can help me find this witch.” “A simple location spell then,” the one I believe to be Solania, asks and I nod. Lucia nods next, “a simple enough spell, one that we can have prepared for you by tonight. Though we do require payment.” Asher rests a hand on my shoulder and speaks to the witches, “I will pay you for your troubles. We can speak about the payment later.” They nod, and Lucia goes to grab a book, flipping through it. Asher motions for me to follow him out but a thought occurs to me. <<include "FC2_1">>

“Something else?” Solania sings. The Entity comes to mind and every mysterious secret that surrounds them. Maybe, just maybe, I could get answers. “This might sound weird, but I have a voice in my head,” I begin, waiting to see their reaction. Their faces stay neutral, and I suddenly wish Sydero was more like this, willing to listen to even the craziest things. “I don’t know their origins or if this is just my mind playing tricks on me. Is there a way for you to find out?” Solania looks to Lucia, who looks to the book in her hands, flipping between pages before nodding. “We can prepare a spell for you. Return tonight, and we shall give you the answers you wish.” I nod and thank them, leaving the cave feeling a bit more hopeful about our predicament. <a data-passage="FC2_1_1_0"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ Once back in the central area of the Deadlands, I focus in on the area that was meant to act as the ground’s gallows. Chris would be there, and I needed to update him and see if he was at least okay. As I make my way in that direction, I seem to forget the lingering shadow. Asher is hot on my heels, only reminding me of his presence when he asks me why I’m heading towards the prison. <<if hasVisited("Tell Asher the truth.")>>\ [[“I need to update Chris on what we learned.”]] <<else>>\ [[“I need to interrogate the prisoner again.”]] <</if>>\ [[“Just checking up on him.”]] <<else>>\ Once back in the central area of the Deadlands, Asher wants to check in with Doran, as well as being curious about whatever Sydero was supposedly doing. I agree, wanting to know if whatever she was doing was actually helping us get out of there. When we enter, Sydero is leaning up against a wall, watching as Doran hits a man upside the head in anger. <<include "FC2_2">> <</if>>\

“I need to update Chris on what we learned back there. And to check up on him, knowing him he’s panicking and making your guards want to kill him faster.” Asher chuckles and nods as he walks past me and towards the first guard. The guard automatically lets him pass, though I notice the look that he sends Asher once he can no longer see him. <<include "FC2_1_2A">>

“Uh,” I start and then cough, turning to Asher who has to quickly stop to avoid running into me. “I need to interrogate the prisoner again. Something the witches told me has made me want to question him further.” Asher seems to take this excuse, nodding as he walks past me and towards the first guard. The guard automatically lets him pass, though I notice the look that he sends Asher once he can no longer see him. <<include "FC2_1_2A">>

“I’m just checking up on him,” I say plainly, still walking. I don’t come to a halt until Asher grabs me to slow me down, passing me and heading towards the first guard. The guard automatically lets him pass, though I notice the look that he sends Asher once he can no longer see him. <<include "FC2_1_2A">>

The staircase down is dark, not a torch in sight. Yet, here I was, able to spot every step and even notice some of the small dust particles that lazily float by. I eye the grime on the wall and struggle to figure out whether that grime was blood or simply dirt. As we get deeper, a foul metallic stench invades my nose. It doesn’t take me long to guess that it’s probably old dried up blood that was never cleaned, though I suppose in this world one can only be so sanitary. At the bottom of the stairs Asher approaches a few of the guards and I watch as they excuse themselves, heading back up the stairs in which we had just descended. “What was that?” “I told them that they are needed by the prison captain, you have only so many minutes to talk to the prisoner,” Asher tells me, starting towards the stairs but I stop him. “Wait, why did you do that though? Could you not just tell them that I need to talk to him?” “They would report it to Doran, and –” he begins but seems to hesitate, “my authority only goes so far.” I release him and he continues up the stairs, giving me a handful of minutes to speak to Chris. I would need to hurry indeed. Fighting past the stench, I search the cells for him. I’m surprised to find that the cells are actually clean with semi-comfortable looking bedding. I was expecting to see rats and bones and other things in each. <a data-passage="FC2_1_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I finally find Chris in the second to last cell, staring up at the ceiling from his mat. “Chris?” I question in a hush voice, though I’m wondering why I’m speaking quietly. //Cimmerians have good hearing//, I remind myself. “$name? Is that you?” “Yea, you can’t tell?” “Well let’s see, it’s pitch black in here, so dark that my eyes can’t even adjust. So yea, I’m having a problem with telling.” He still has a snarky tone to his voice, a tone that makes me immediately roll my eyes. “Are you still upset about the witch thing? About me not helping you? Get over yourself, we have bigger issues.” “You’re a bigger issue,” Chris grumbles but I hear him loud and clear, ignoring him. “I came down here to update you on what’s going on. Long explanation short, don’t die and we have to find the witch who did the spell to get out of here.” “Well it’s not like I can help much. As you can see,” I watch as he spreads his arms out, motioning to his surroundings, “I’m stuck.” [[“You’ll be out in a little while.”]] [[“Again, get over yourself.”]] [[“I’m sorry Chris.”]]

“Don’t worry, you’ll be out in a little while, and we’ll be back home.” “Yea, like that's a big improvement,” I hear him grumble yet again. I’m ready to question his grumble this time but stop when I hear someone approach. Asher peeks his head in and motions me over, a sign that our time was over. I give Chris one last look, though he still stares at the ceiling, and then leave. <<include "FC2_2">>

“Again, get over yourself,” I warn in irritation. I didn’t have time to deal with his attitude plus our current situation. At least this way he was out of the way and couldn’t squeal for help again. A new sound grabs my attention, and I look up to see Asher peek his head in and motions me over, a sign that our time was over. I give Chris one last look, though he still stares at the ceiling, and then leave. <<include "FC2_2">>

“Whatever,” I hear him grumble yet again. A new sound grabs my attention, and I look up to see Asher peek his head in and motions me over, a sign that our time was over. I give Chris one last look, though he still stares at the ceiling, and then leave. <<include "FC2_2">>

We leave the gallows behind and head back to the castle, Asher wanting to check in with Doran, as well as being curious about whatever Sydero was supposedly doing. I agreed, wanting to know if whatever she was doing was actually helping us get out of there. When we enter, Sydero is leaning on a wall, watching as Doran hits a man upside the head in anger. Asher leaves my side, turning into a shadow and gliding over to the others to calm everyone down, everyone but Doran. I notice that he makes sure not to get in the Lord’s way, instead he puts his attention on everyone else. “What happened,” I question Sydero who smirks. “Doran is just upset that clear strategic moves were never thought about and looked at until now. Each of his generals have been earning some of his wrath.” “You don’t think that’s dangerous? Doran might like you but you’re bringing attention to us still.” Sydero shrugs, “it’s fun.” To back up her words, a large smile flashes onto her face as he yells at another of his generals. She turns to look at me, “I also got him to send out riders to look for this witch. I said that the witch needed to be questioned further, to make sure all fortunes smile in his favor. What did you learn?” <a data-passage="FC2_2_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if hasVisited("Sum it up.")>>\ “That they can give us a location spell to find the witch.” “That’s it?” “I didn’t exactly tell them everything.” Sydero growls and shakes her head, “yea, because you keeping it to yourself helps us out so much. Whatever, I’ll have to go talk to them then.” <<else>>\ “That we shouldn’t die and that we need the witch to get out of here. I told the witches that you could do the spell, so they want to speak with you about that. I also think they just want to pick your brain about Earth’s magic.” Sydero growls and rolls her eyes, “great, just what I need.” <</if>>\ “Are you going to go now?” I ask Sydero and she shakes her head, smirking as she looks over at Doran. <<if $SRomance >=5>>\ “I think I’m going to stick around for a bit longer. If only to see how powerful he really is.” The smirk on her face is unsettling, but I know it all too real. I’ve seen it countless times, used on me most often than not. I clear my throat, but her eyes are still on Doran, the best way I can describe the look is that she is observing him, sizing him up. “You’re interested?” I ask, trying my best to not sound upset, “in him?” “I’m interested in powerful people, simple as that.” [[Belittle Doran.]] [[Wish her luck.]] <<else>>\ “I think I’m going to stick around for a bit longer. If only to see how powerful he really is.” I watch as her eyes take Doran’s figure in. The best way I can describe the look is that she is observing him, sizing him up. “You’re interested?” I ask, trying my best to not sound upset, “in him?” “I’m interested in powerful people, simple as that.” “Why?” She turns to me with a devilish smirk, “it’s fun to see what can bring powerful people down to their knees.” Her eyes return to Doran, relaxing her stance on the wall but not moving. “Well, have fun with that. I’m going to go speak with the witches again.” She nods, and I go, leaving her and the castle behind. <a data-passage="FC2_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

“Not really a powerful man if he needs advice from others or he likes to bully people around. Plus, he’s a lord, he’s nothing without his people, so they’re the real powerful ones.” Sydero’s eyes flicker over to me, and she raises a curious brow. <<include "FC2_2_2">>

“Well, all the luck to you and your pointless endeavor. Try not to get us all killed because you can’t keep it in your pants.” Sydero’s eyes flicker over to me, and she raises a curious brow. <<include "FC2_2_2">>

“Roe? Are you jealous of Doran?” “Hell no,” I growl, crossing my arms but then stopping, realizing that I was almost pouting. Sydero’s finger touches my chin, her nail digging into my skin as she forces my gaze up to meet hers. “Aw, Roe, you should know by now that no one interests me more than you,” she removes her finger and goes back to her previous stance of propping herself up on the wall, “but, I need a break from figuring you out sometime.” I roll my eyes, fighting every impulse within me, “I already said I’m not jealous of him and I don’t care.” Sydero says nothing more, and even if she did have more to say, I leave the building before she can respond to me. I needed to get back to the witches. <img src="images/divider.png"> Sydero’s eyes followed Roe as ?he practically stomps out of the throne room, truly embodying the phrase, “I hate to see you go, but I love to watch you leave,’ for her. //Hmm, jealous Roe is almost as cute as pissed off, annoyed Roe//, she thinks to herself, still wondering if she would get any other emotion. <<if $syderoBar>>She almost succeeded, in the bar. That was a moment that Sydero still has yet to forget, try as she might. She was so close to finally striking up a new emotion in those $eyes eyes of ?his.<</if>> Damn those eyes. Damn that racing heart of ?his, and the way ?his body always seemed to shake pleasurably when she was too close. Mostly damn the way ?he always made her forget who she was. <<if $syderoBar>>In the bar, she was so close to just forgetting. To letting ?his words move her to uncharted waters that both of them desperately wanted to explore. <</if>>Next, she would curse herself out for being so weak in Roe’s presence, and then remind herself of who she was and who Roe wasn’t to her. It was a cycle it seems. The only thing she can do now is to see who broke first – Roe’s constant imploring and curiosity, or her will. <img src="images/divider.png"> <a data-passage="FC2_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I grab a horse and make my way back to the witches, pulling the thick coat tighter around me. The Deadlands themselves weren’t cold but pushing further into the mountains was a different story. Interesting enough, I was cold, yet I also felt empowered, as if the lack of light was making me feel even more inhuman than I already was. I dismount and tie my horse up loosely to a nearby tree, shouting my presence to not shock the witches. I was surprised that I was able to find this place without Asher’s guidance again, guess I paid more attention than I presumed I did the first time up here. I step into the area that I had found the witches last time, shocked when I see that the small hole in the cave was no longer small, nor a hole. The cave opens up into an extremely large opening in the mountain. Two large huts sit on opposite ends of the clearing, facing one another. In the middle is a large cauldron that sits still, and behind that, further to the back is an actual dragon. The dragon looks mighty, perched upon a rock and watching me closely. I get closer, but it doesn’t attack, it just follows me. “Ah, our friend from earlier, welcome back,” Solania shouts from her hut, clapping and approaching me. “What happened to the small hole you were in last time?” I question. “Sweetheart, did you forget that fast?” she questions, “we are illusion witches. That whole room was but an illusion, we do not like meeting with others without a meeting.” I nod in understanding as Lucia comes out, her arms full of ingredients. “Do you mind helping, dear sister?” Solania chuckles softly and snaps her fingers, a doppelganger appears and rushes over to Lucia’s side, grabbing some of the materials as they both walk to the cauldron. <<if hasVisited("Sum it up.")>>\ “Here is the location that we promised you. Make sure you do it and then immediately seek the witch out, it is only accurate in the moment.” I nod and thank them both as I take the paper from Lucia. <</if>>\ “Now, for your friend,” Solania tries, getting the dragon’s attention. The dragon doesn’t leave its spot, but it does shoot a fireball to the cauldron. The cauldron lights up with life, blue and white flame licking the sides of the large pot, calming down slowly. [[Ask them more about the spell.]] [[Ask if you need to do anything.]]

“So, what exactly can you tell me about the spell?” I question, walking closer to look inside the now glimmering cauldron. The colors inside shift from one shade of orange to another, never staying one hue for long. “If you are worried about your health, do not fret, this will do nothing but give us a look into your mind. To walk areas that are not usually walked,” Solania answers. “The spell will take us, and you, into your mind. There, we will be able to meet this friend of yours and with our abilities, hopefully, grant you the answers you seek.” I nod and let them continue preparation. I take a seat on the fur mats, and they instruct me to try and fall asleep. The ambiance is the crackling of the fire and the deep breaths of the dragon. Solania and Lucia don’t speak, or it might be that I just don’t hear them. In little to no time, I’m fast asleep. <a data-passage="Inside my own mind."><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Um, is there anything you need me to do?” I ask, peering at the dragon who has done more than me. “No, simply sit and clear your mind. Think of nothing,” Solania tells me. “In other words, try to fall asleep,” Lucia adds. I nod and take a seat on one of the fur mats that is lying nearby. The ambiance is the crackling of the fire and the deep breaths of the dragon. Solania and Lucia don’t speak, or it might be that I just don’t hear them. In little to no time, I’m fast asleep. <a data-passage="Inside my own mind."><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<>\<<audio "darkness" loop volume 0 fadeto 0.60>><>\ I open my eyes on a world that I have seen a couple of times. The grayscale space shrouded in fog. I yell out but realize that I have my voice. I can move without complication, and when I turn around, I spot the two witches. The two of them stare at the world, and I can practically feel their uncomfortableness. “What lies here is a very malicious being,” Lucia begins, walking to my side, “this world, this part of your mind, it is filled with horror and malevolence.” “Trust me, I know,” I tell them motioning for them to follow me. The more we walk, the more I’m able to see what really surrounds me. I soon determine that we’re on a road, an oddly familiar road. Four paths rest before me, one heading to the [[right]], another going [[straight]], the third leading off into the fog going [[left]], and the last rests [[behind]] us.

I head to the right, walking past hills and trees until I get to a building. My old schoolhouse, I realize. The building held a few unhappy memories, mainly because it was the reason for me having to wake up at irregular hours and then focus for far too long. But it wasn't the worst school. No, compared to high school, this place was paradise. "What is this building?" Lucia questions, coming up to stand beside me. "A schoolhouse, do you not have them in the Deadlands?" I ask, and they both nod their heads. "We do, but they don't look like this. They are simple buildings, this looks large enough to house countless families." I nod in understanding, that's what most of the schools looked like, but that was possibly due to the larger population of my world. "Do you sense anything here?" I ask them, and Solania shakes her head. Seeing there was nothing left here but memories I'd rather leave undisturbed, I turn and head back. <<include "IMOM">>

I take one step forward, and then another. Each action brings up an irrelevant memory that I can’t dare touch. It runs away like a child, wishing for me to chase after it and staying just away from my fingertips. The fog slowly rolls by, revealing a large suburban house that I haven’t seen for many years. The house isn’t exactly what I remember it as. Firstly, it was never this eerie. The house was always dark blue and brown. I remember mother had a bird fountain in the front and some wind chimes on both sides of the door. The house always carried a lively spirit, especially in summer and autumn. “Does this home hold significance to you?” I hear Lucia ask and see her walking off to the side. “Yea, this was my childhood home. My parent’s home.” “I sense death,” Solania says in disgust, “the air is thick with it and the foul stench of evil.” “My parents died, the home was never the same after.” With my words, the house begins to crumble until nothing stands there anymore, nothing but burnt heaps of debris. I turn, leaving the scene behind. <<include "IMOM">>

I lead myself and the two ladies to the left, walking down a winding road until we get to a large white and blue building. I’m unsure what this building has to do with my memories and this journey until the building disappears, leaving a single room behind. We wander closer and find two civilians inside, alongside them is a doctor and two nurses. “That was a miracle birth,” one of the doctors say, pressing a dry rag to his head, collecting the specks of sweat there. “I thought the mother wouldn’t make it,” a nurse inputs, clutching the clipboard in her hands tightly against her chest. I look over at the couple, the father kissing the mother’s head multiple times. The mother clutches the baby close to her chest, tears intermingling with beads of sweat. This was, me? I’m about to wander closer, to get a better look, when an unsettling presence feels like it has perched itself on my shoulders. I look around, just in time to see an eerie black mist approaching. My eyes widen as the figure rests its hand on top of the child’s head. The scene vanishes. “What just happened?” I ask the two witches who are both looking forward, at where the scene once laid. “I do not know, but … did you feel that?” Solania asks her sister, and she nods slowly. “I do not wish to speak on it yet, I wish to gather further evidence of my thoughts.” The two of them nod before ushering me to once again lead them. <<include "IMOM">>

I turn and take the path resting behind us, leading them further into the fog. They don't question, and at some points, I forget that the witches are even there. They are here to observe and sense, and then later tell me what is going on. I come to a stop, my eyes falling on a playground. I remember this playground, barely, but the memory rubs against my mind, always just barely out of reach. I take a step closer, and the fog vanishes. The playground is still dreary appearing, that doesn't change, but I now watch as a group of children run by. They run through daffodils and dandelions, trampling them in fits of laughter as they chase one another. But there is one who sits, unbeknownst of those nearby, on the swing set. Beside the small figure is a darker one, appearing like a black ghost with two deep and innocent eyes. "You see them too?" I question the witches, and they both murmur a low yes. We approach them but the duo 'doesn't seem to notice us, they continue their conversation that is now audible. "I don't understand," little me says, kicking up dirt with the toe of ?his foot. "Mom hated when I did that," I find myself smiling, "it messed up the shoe and just made it dirty." "You don't need to understand," the figure growls but quickly stops, taking a deep breath and slapping on a childish grin, "you 'don't have to worry about anything little friend. I'm going to take care of everything." Little $name shakes ?his head, turning to who ?he thought was ?his friend, "so all I have to do is, let it happen?" "Yes," the dark figure says happily, "just let everything happen. It'll all be okay, trust me." "But what's gonna happen?" The figure doesn't immediately answer, resting a smoky tendril on ?his lap. For a figure with only so many expressions, they sure were pulling off sympathy well. "Your destiny. What you were made for, what only you can do." Little $name puffs out ?his cheek but nods. [[Interrupt them.]] [[Stay back.]]

I surge forward, angrily approaching them. <<if $darktruth>>\ “No, $name! Don’t listen to them, they aren’t your friend. They are everything but that.” Suddenly the black figure’s eyes go red, and it attacks Little $name. It goes straight for their cheek, swiping their tendril across ?his cheek. $He, no I, scream out as the side of my cheek flares up in pain. It drags me to the ground, and when I open my eyes, I’m surrounded by darkness, falling further and further. <<elseif $darkburns>>\ “No, $name! Don’t listen to them, they aren’t your friend. They are everything but that.” Suddenly the black figure’s eyes go red, and it attacks Little $name. It goes straight for their arms, grabbing both of them and refusing to let go as the figure stares Little $name down. $He, no I, scream out as both arms flare up in pain. It drags me to the ground, and when I open my eyes, I’m surrounded by darkness, falling further and further. <<else>>\ “No, $name! Don’t listen to them, they aren’t your friend. They are everything but that.” Suddenly the black figure’s eyes go red, and it attacks Little $name. It goes straight for their chest, jumping on top of Little $name and constantly striking the heart. $He, no I, scream out as my heart flares up in pain. It drags me to the ground, and when I open my eyes, I’m surrounded by darkness, falling further and further. <</if>>\ “It was always meant to be,” a new voice adds in, caressing my pained cheek. Before I can get too far, I’m suddenly shot back to the grayscale world. Fog again surrounds us, and the two witches kneel beside me, worry on their face. “Are you alright?” Solania questions and I nod, feeling something in my hand. I open it and see a dandelion there, not yet ruined. I raise it, and it blows away, but the memory stays. <<include "IMOM">>

I stay where I am, watching as the interaction comes to an end. I shake my head as the memory comes back to me. And then the next day, that night, my world fell into pieces. But the Entity made it seem like something big was supposed to happen, something that I doubt actually did. I suddenly feel something in my hand and open a hand that I didn’t know was closed. I open it and see a dandelion there, not yet ruined. I raise it, and it blows away, but the memory stays. <<include "IMOM">>

<<if hasVisited("right", "straight", "left", "behind")>>\ All of the other pasts disappear, leaving one left for us to venture down. We head down it, the witches taking the lead as I follow behind them absentmindedly. Each step gets heavier, and I feel massive weights rest themselves on my shoulder. I yawn loudly, stopping when I see that my breath is a black mist. “Uh, guys?” I question, breathing out again so they could see. “Hmm, your assumptions were right sister,” Solania says, spinning her finger just beneath the black mist. The mist looks like it’s being sucked into a tornado as it wraps around Solania’s finger. “This creature is nothing like we have ever seen. But tell me, is the presence the same?” “No, I recognized two extremely different ones. One thing is for sure,” Lucia says and looks at me, “the creature is not your imagination. It is here and as long as you breathe, so does it.” [[“So, this isn’t my imagination?!”]] [[“Are you saying I can’t get rid of them?”]] [[“So, my past?”]] <<else>>\ The path we have previously gone down disappears from view, swallowed by the fog. <<if hasVisited("right")>>The right path is no longer there<<else>>We could head down the [[right]] path.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("straight")>>The straight path is now gone.<<else>>The [[straight]] path still exists and we could choose that one.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("left")>>The third one, the one heading to the left, is no longer there.<<else>>The third leading off into the fog going [[left]] is still there.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("behind")>>The last one, that was behind us isn’t there anymore.<<else>>The last that rests [[behind]] us is present and can still be explored.<</if>> <</if>>\

<>\<<audio "darkness" fadeout>><>\ “So, this isn’t my imagination? Everything is real?” “Indeed,” Lucia tells me, “so much is still unknown, and most of that is due to us not being of your world. Lucia tells me, each word making me shiver profusely. She snaps her fingers and I’m back in the mountains, trying to think over her words. <<include "FC2_3_1">>

<>\<<audio "darkness" fadeout>><>\ “Wait, are you saying I can’t get rid of them?” I ask, panic in my voice. “I do not know for sure. I am not from your world and so most of this will rely on you. Remember, we have never seen something such as this.” She snaps her fingers and I’m back in the mountain. <<include "FC2_3_1">>

<>\<<audio "darkness" fadeout>><>\ “So, my past?” I ask, “did it actually happen?” “We are not sure. Nor can we truly answer that question for you. The most that we can say without doubt, is that the creature in your head is real,” Lucia tells me, each word making me shiver profusely. She snaps her fingers and I’m back in the mountains, trying to think over her words. <<include "FC2_3_1">>

“You speak of this creature as if it is only one being. It is not.” I stop at that, what could they possibly mean. That the Entity is two beings in one, two different buildings altogether? “What do you mean?” “As soon as we arrived in your mind,” Solania begins, “we picked up on the malicious being’s presence. A presence so extreme that it caused the air to feel thick and toxic. This presence is powerful. And yet, during the scenes, there was a different presence altogether. This second one is weaker, hardly noticeable.” “Are you saying that the presence with me now, is the stronger one?” “Indeed. We would say that the two could be the same if not for the sudden power difference.” Great … but why didn’t the Entity tell me this? Why would they pretend to be the same creature? What was going on? And like expected, the Entity is quiet. <a data-passage="FC2_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if hasVisited("Sum it up.")>>\ Something they said, about not being part of my world, suddenly strikes me and I give them a small smile. “Sorry, about not telling you the truth before. I just didn’t wish to sum all of that up.” Lucia doesn’t seem to mind, but Solania is the one to answer. “It bothers us not. We easily figured out that you were not telling us the entire story.” Lucia adds in, “we also did a spell to learn more about you. When it refused to show us anything, we could only estimate that you were not of this dimension. A theory that my sister and I have now proven true.” I nod and apologize once again. <</if>>\ I thank both sisters for their help and then leave, thinking over everything that has happened. Despite the all of a sudden quiet Entity, I have almost no time to really think about what I learned, I just wanted to rest my head for the night. The Deadlands, upon my arrival, is mostly silent, the most noise coming from the black market that seems to never rest. I deliver the horse back to the hand I had borrowed him from and then set on my way to finding an inn or someplace similar. The feeling of walking through the night without any light source, yet not needing a light source at the same time, is unnatural and bugs me. A part of me desperately wants to walk up onto someone’s porch and just turn it on. I’m sure I would get used to this ability one day, though I doubt I would be here very long. [[If only, this world seems much more interesting.|FC2_6]] [[I was fine with the disaster that was life on Earth.|FC2_6]]

I approach the guest houses that Asher had pointed out earlier to me, going inside to get a room. The first floor is nothing but a tavern, filled with random patrons and a large number of soldiers. They are all boisterous, and a few of them have definitely had one too many to drink. I approach the bartender when I spot Asher at the far end. “A room please, Doran knows of my need for one,” I tell him before turning to speak to a quiet drinking Asher. “A man like you drinks alone and quietly at a bar?” I question, sneering as I lean on the wooden surface beside him. He cracks a smile and shrugs his shoulder. “Rarely. But I am rarely without my partner, the blood assassin. And guards do not look at me as a friend.” “Yea, about that, what’s their problem with you?” “If my partner were here then I would perhaps receive more respect. But because I am the most common assassin, only a step up from elites, many do not see the reason I am held higher than they. But many do not treat me unkindly. All Cimmerians have respect for one another, I have not yet seen one who has belittled another simply because they are not strong.” I nod, wondering how that dynamic would look like on Earth. If all humans treated each other with even the smallest bit of respect, simply because. “Did you find the answers you seek?” Asher asks after a minute of silence. I nod, thinking about tomorrow and about the witch that we would need to locate. “Speaking of answers, do you know where my friend is?” The last thing I remember was Sydero wishing to spend more time with Doran, for ... sexual reasons. Asher shakes his head, and I sigh glumly, not knowing or wanting, to find this woman. “Both of you look too sad to be in a bar,” the bartender tells me, giving me a key and a drink with a slight smile. He nods to Asher before turning to other patrons. I notice Asher sit up, squaring his shoulders. “He is right. We are among good company, yes?” Asher asks, raising his half-empty mug to me. [[Drink with Asher.]] <<if $int is "men" or $int is "both">>\ [[Compliment Asher.][$Asher +=1]] <</if>>\ [[Call in early.]] <<if $cp>>\ [[Visit Chris.]] <</if>>\

I smirk and grab my own mug, tapping it to Asher’s before both of us chug as much as we can. We laugh as we bang the mugs on the top of the bar, asking the bartender for more. He’s happy to oblige, especially since there’s coin in it. The night goes by, and I learn one important thing that night, Earth alcohol has nothing on Cimmerian ale. <<include "FC2_7">>

I give him a gentle smile as I grab my own mug, clinking it with Asher’s and winking before drinking the contents inside. “You’re far more than //just// good company,” I tell him. “Then what kind of company am I?” he asks, leaning in with an interested smile. “Hmm, once in a lifetime kind of company probably.” I shrug at the answer, but I can always just blame it on the buzz from the ale. This stuff was mighty strong, strong enough to probably even cause Sydero to pause. “Then to once in a lifetime company. For it will be a shame when they depart,” he shouts, and we again clink our mug as the night rolls on. <a data-passage="FC2_7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I slide the drink to him, “nothing against you Asher but I’ve had a long day. That, and I don’t think waking up with a hangover is going to do me much good.” Asher nods in understanding, grabbing my drink and chugging it down. I chuckle, shouting goodnight before disappearing up the nearby stairs. <<include "FC2_7">>

I was really hoping that only one or two guards were watching over him since I wouldn’t have Asher’s persuasive and knowledgeable tongue on my side this time. I tell Asher that I was going to go for a walk before grabbing my mug and walking towards the gallows, seeing only one guard there. He nods his head at me, perhaps recognizing me from earlier, though I can’t say the same. With permission to continue, I do so. “Hey Chris, want something to drink?” I question, holding out the mug, but forgetting that he couldn’t see. I guide him to the mug and watch as he messily guzzles the entire thing down, handing it back to me. “How the talk with the witches go?” “How do you know about that?” I ask. I don’t recall telling him such thing, only that we needed to find the witch that sent us here in the first place. If anything, there were way too many witches in my life at this point in time. “Sydero came by earlier to tell me what you had gone to do. So, she beat you to it.” “What is up with this attitude of yours, huh?” I see him roll his eyes, but I refuse to leave it again. This was becoming outrageously annoying. “Is me telling you what’s bothering me going to change anything? Change or situation or where I’m at?” he asks, knowing the answer but asking as if he was inquisitive. “It will –” “Yes or no question, $name.” I grind my teeth together as I barely say the word, no. With his answer received, he nods and returns to his mat, laying down with his back facing me. I could throw an attitude, but it would gain the attention of the other guards, and so I quietly leave. <a data-passage="FC2_7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The next day, I head to the throne room where I know Sydero is bound to be, especially if she still has her mind set on entertaining Doran. When I arrive though, she is sitting on the steps to the castle, fiddling with a multi-colored rock. <<if hasVisited("Sum it up.")>>\ “Hey, here’s a location spell to find the witch.” I grab the parchment with the spell and hand it to her, still gazing at the shimmering rock in her hand. It begins to pulse when she looks away, gaining her attention once again. “What is that?” “Some kind of magic rock that the wielders here use to focus. It pulses when you drop your concentration.” “Must be easy for you,” I remark, saying this before noticing the sweat stuck to the side of her face. “Actually, it’s not. This place literally has magic in the air, it’s suffocating, almost like I have to learn how to breathe differently unless I want to blow up. You’d think that make concentrating and using my abilities easier, but I don’t know how to even begin processing this stuff.” She stuffs the rock into her pocket and then clears her throat, motioning for me to follow. “Now that we can find this bitch, we should be able to end all of this quickly.” I nod and add, “the witches said we need to be fast. The location spell is only accurate as soon as we do it. So, if she’s on the move, then we might lose her.” Sydero nods in understanding, looking the parchment over, “seems simple enough. Which means it’s going be hard as hell for me.” She sighs and then stands, “come on, and bring your friend.” “Asher?” Sydero nods as she heads towards the stables, and I go to search for Asher to bring him along. <a data-passage="FC2_7_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ “The riders that Doran sent out haven’t come back with anything helpful yet, meaning the bitch is still in the wind.” As she says this, she’s still gazing at the shimmering rock in her hand. It begins to pulse when she looks up at me, gaining her attention once again. “What is that?” “Some kind of magic rock that the wielders here use to focus. It pulses when you drop your concentration.” “Must be easy for you,” I remark, saying this before noticing the sweat stuck to the side of her face. “Actually, it’s not. This place literally has magic in the air, it’s suffocating, almost like I have to learn how to breathe differently unless I want to blow up. You’d think that make concentrating and using my abilities easier, but I don’t know how to even begin processing this stuff.” She stuffs the rock into her pocket and then clears her throat, motioning for me to follow. “So, back on the witch. How do we even know that she’s still on the same continent as us?” I question. “We don’t, but if she wants us dead, then the smartest thing for her would be to stay close. I say we ride around and act like we’re just as confused as we were yesterday. Maybe she’ll think we’ll be easy to pick off that way.” <<if $cp>>[[Suggest using Chris as bait.]]<<else>>[[Agree to the plan.]]<</if>> <</if>>\

After Sydero finds the witches location, we immediately ride out with Asher as our guide. We go deeper into the Deadlands, riding the lizards into a more steppe environment. “Not really smart to hide out here, seeing that there’s a lack of places to hide,” I point out as we go. My eyes dart from one place to another, hoping to catch a glimpse of her or some makeshift shelter as we go. “I agree, but a witch can make do. I doubt that the creatures here will mess with someone who holds magic in their palm,” Asher tells me. “Still foolish,” Sydero grumbles. Asher turns to face us, a contemplating look on his face. We continue on in silence, each of us busy keeping our eyes out for movement. “Such a stupid plan,” I hear a voice speak, snickering to myself. “So now you wish to appear. After everything that has happened,” I growl. His voice feigns hurt, “I thought you would appreciate me standing out your little discovery session.” “I want answers, who are you?” “You have bigger issues, don’t you think? The potential you have to die here hasn’t escaped my notice. Give me control so I can get you out of this mess.” I chuckle, acting like I was sneezing when I realize that I had done so in front of the others. They continue to ignore me. “You must be crazy,” I remark but stop upon seeing a makeshift tent not too far off. I wave his existence away and focus in on the now. “Whoa,” I tell my Heilo Steppe Lizard, the others following my example. “What?” Sydero asks, and I point into the distance, the direction that the tent lies. “Unless random creatures can make a structure like that to spend the night,” I say to Asher who shakes his head. “So, what is the plan then? How do you plan on apprehending her?” Sydero gazes at me, silently asking me for my thoughts. [[Sneak and ambush.]] [[Have Asher go in first.]]

“Or,” I begin, stopping us, “we could use Chris as bait. If we announce that his execution is going to be tomorrow, then it might draw her here. Think about it, she told Doran that humans were going to pop up and ruin him. I don’t think she knows that we were turned into Cimmerians. If we can blend in, then jumping her would be the easy part.” Sydero stops, stroking her chin slowly, “you would risk Chris’s life like that?” I bite the side of my cheek, knowing he wouldn’t be happy when he notices us not trying to stop them, and warning him beforehand will just piss him off more. And so, I nod. Sydero nods, “then, I like the plan. But we’ll need an illusion, to make it also seem like we’re up there, or at least tell Doran to make an announcement that two other Alyrians are dying with him.” [[Speak to Doran.]] [[Speak to the twin witches.]]

“I say we speak to Doran, it’s faster, and there’s no way we can’t fool her.” With our minds made up, Sydero and I head back to the castle and request an audience with Doran. Asher is in the throne room when we arrive, nodding at both of us as Doran sits on his throne. He listens to us, but he doesn’t seem happy. “This lie seems unneeded; the witch will come.” <<if $hair is "bald">>\ “It is less about the witch coming and –” “Again, why is this one speaking?” Doran questions, refusing to even look at me. The lack of hair on my head reminds me that I have no claim to speak, much less stand here. <<elseif $nowbow>>\ “It is less about the witch coming and –” “Insolent Cimmerians do not have a right to speak here,” Doran shouts, refusing to even look at me. I almost forgot about the disdain that he has for me since I refused to bow. <<else>>\ “It is less about the witch coming and more about the believability of the announcement,” I start. “And why would there be doubt in an announcement personally made by me?” Doran questions, his grip on the side of his throne tightening in annoyance and anger. <</if>>\ Sydero holds her hand out and with a slight bow, takes a step closer. “My apologies, my Lord, but what my compatriot speaks is true. This witch is clever, clever enough to play you.” I think this will cause a rise in him, but Doran just continues to listen to her, though I see his eyes narrow at the reminder. “If our sources prove true, she is searching for three Alyrians to die. If we give her three, then she will come. If we give her one, she may not care enough to leave the safety of her hideaway.” Doran watches Sydero and with a slight smile leans forward. “I hear you,” he begins, and I see a dark, twisted gleam appear in his eyes, “but I still don’t see the reasoning to lie.” I growl, but Sydero is already on top of it. “Then allow us to talk about this in length, in private company.” I raise a brow and gaze over at her, the same dark gleam in her eye as well. I was having trouble trying to figure out whose eyes held the most mysterious shimmer. Doran rises and agrees, commanding Sydero to follow. She leans towards me, “make sure everything is ready for the execution. We only have one shot at this.” She gives me no time to argue or even stop her as she follows after Doran. “Your friend,” Asher says, coming up to me, “she either has a death wish, or she is the bravest person I have ever spoken to.” <<if $SRomance >=5>>\ “A mix of both,” I mumble and look at where she disappeared, a pit opening in my stomach. If I had thought that anything could reside between Sydero and me, then she had just given me her answer. <<else>>\ “A mix of both,” I mumble and take one last look to where the duo disappeared. I turn with Asher at my side to do as she suggested, prepare. <</if>>\ [[Execution Day|FC2_8]]

“We should speak to the witches,” I tell Sydero, knowing what their magic could do. Doran didn’t need to know more about our plan, I’d rather he didn’t as well. “Fine, you go to them and tell them. I’ll go tell Doran to announce the execution.” I give her a look, and she chuckles, waving my warning look away. “Someone must, and who better to do so, than me?” “You only wish to have another go at him if you hadn’t already.” “Oh I haven’t,” she sings as she goes back to the castle, leaving me standing there. <<if $SRomance >= 5>>\ A pit opens in my stomach. If I had thought that anything could reside between Sydero and me, then she had just given me her answer. <<else>>\ I take one last look at her retreating figure. Turning to go tell the witches our plan, and to hope that they could pull such trickery off. <</if>>\ [[Execution Day|FC2_8]]

“Sounds like a plan, and the only thing that we have at the moment that doesn’t put one of us in extreme danger.” “Going up against the witch is extremely dangerous,” Sydero points out. “True, but at least we know she’ll be coming for us.” “Yes, because that just sounds so wonderful. Come on, and bring your friend.” “Asher?” Sydero nods as she heads towards the stables, and I go to search for Asher to bring him along. <<if hasVisited("Sum it up.")>>\ After Sydero finds the witches location, we immediately ride out with Asher as our guide. We go deeper into the Deadlands, riding the lizards into a more steppe environment. “Not really smart to hide out here, seeing that there’s a lack of places to hide,” I point out as we go. My eyes dart from one place to another, hoping to catch a glimpse of her or some makeshift shelter as we go. “I agree, but a witch can make do. I doubt that the creatures here will mess with someone who holds magic in their palm,” Asher tells me. “Still foolish,” Sydero grumbles. Asher turns to face us, a contemplating look on his face. We continue on in silence, each of us busy keeping our eyes out for movement. “Such a stupid plan,” I hear a voice speak, snickering to myself. “So now you wish to appear. After everything that has happened,” I growl. His voice feigns hurt, “I thought you would appreciate me standing out your little discovery session.” “I want answers, who are you?” “You have bigger issues, don’t you think? The potential you have to die here hasn’t escaped my notice. Give me control so I can get you out of this mess.” I chuckle, acting like I was sneezing when I realize that I had done so in front of the others. They continue to ignore me. “You must be crazy,” I remark but stop upon seeing a makeshift tent not too far off. I wave his existence away and focus in on the now. “Whoa,” I tell my Heilo Steppe Lizard, the others following my example. “What?” Sydero asks, and I point into the distance, the direction that the tent lies. “Unless random creatures can make a structure like that to spend the night,” I say to Asher who shakes his head. “So, what is the plan then? How do you plan on apprehending her?” Sydero gazes at me, silently asking me for my thoughts. [[Sneak and ambush.]] [[Have Asher go in first.]] <<else>>\ With Asher with us, the three of us ride out on the lizards, searching far and wide for the witch. We check the less populated areas at first, and as our search begins to turn up nothing, we then turn our focus to the steppe. The Deadlands, though embodying the name in every way it could, still held a subtle beauty about it. The grayscale tones of the world were offset by the bright neon colors that some of the fauna held. Adding to that was how each flower held a different shape and appearance, rarely ever resembling that of their neighbor. Any a place as flat as the steppe held wonder, and further into the distance, mountains that one could only hope to reach. “Someone needs to focus,” I hear that voice coo as if I was a little kid who needed a different kind of scolding. I chuckle to myself, “now you want to show up, huh? How about earlier? When everything was happening. I would’ve thought you would come to defend yourself.” “Defend myself against what? Witches reminding me of how powerful I am? No, I basked in everything. But that is beside the point, your search isn’t going to turn up anything, you need my help.” “I don’t know where you got that thought from, but I don’t.” “Hmm, I think you do. In fact, you //want// my help. The power that I can send coursing through your veins. Come, tell me you don’t want a taste.” “I don’t want what you’re selling,” I scoff, silence following my thought. “That witch is possessed by a demon, and your dear Sydero has yet to learn how to use her abilities here. What weapon do you have on you besides a puny blade?” I freeze up but continue to pay them no mind. They had a point though. My eyes travel to Sydero who had a dagger only inches longer than my own. “You’ll be the savior of the day. Or do you wish to once again be saved by her?” “Whatever you’re trying to do, it won’t work.” I shut them up, doing everything I can to block their voice. “Hey,” Sydero states, nodding to something in the distance, I can barely make out a poorly done tent, resting oddly against the steppe’s background. “What is our plan?” Asher questions. [[Sneak and ambush.]] [[Have Asher go in first.]] <</if>>\

<<if hasVisited("Speak to the twin witches.")>>\ In the end, Doran agrees to push Chris’s execution forward, and the witches agree and confirm that they can set up two more illusions to make it seem like Chris isn’t the only one being executed that day. <<else>>\ In the end, Doran agrees to push Chris’s execution forward and to announce that two more will be joining him. Which only makes me wonder what Sydero had to do to persuade him. <</if>>\ I stand beside Asher, watching as the crowds gather around the execution platform, murmuring about the news that had brought Cimmerians from far and wide. “See the witch anywhere?” I ask Asher, and he shakes his head. “I will tell you when I do, she had an unforgettable appearance.” <<if $int is "men" or $int is "both">>\ [[“Unforgettable, huh?”][$Asher +=1]] <</if>>\ [[“Just tap me when you see her.”]]

“Unforgettable, huh?” I ask with a small smile, looking towards Asher who returns the smile. “Perhaps unforgettable is too strong a word. Your appearance is unforgettable, hers was simply odd.” “Now you’re just trying to save face,” I laugh but Asher doesn’t join in, shooting me a soft smile. “I am simply delivering a truthful compliment, to someone who truly deserves it.” I bite my cheek and drop his gaze, perking up when I hear someone shouting to be let go. <<if hasVisited("Speak to Doran.")>>\ The voice can only belong to Chris, and when I look in his direction, I see him being led out. No chains decorate his wrists or ankles, the only guard nearby is that who guides him. “You guys must be certain that he won’t escape?” I ask Asher, and he shrugs. “Many of those who are executed are not dumb enough to try. They will simply see death quicker, not to say that some do not attempt.” Chris fights with all of his strength, which isn’t much compared to the Cimmerian guard that drags him onto the platform. A man in dark golden silk garb stands at the end, clearing his throat as he speaks about Chris’s crime. This was the moment of truth. <<else>>\ The voice can only belong to Chris, and when I look in the direction, I see him being led out. No chains decorate his wrists or ankles, the only guard nearby is that who guides him. Behind him are two more Alyrians that look similar to Sydero and I, but don’t quite look like our human forms. I suppose the witches could only do so much, never having seen our human forms before. They don’t make as much commotion as Chris, but they do fidget and gaze around in fear. “Hopefully this works?” I say to Asher and he nods once. Chris fights with all of his strength, which isn’t much compared to the Cimmerian guard that drags him onto the platform. A man in silk garb stands at the end, clearing his throat as he speaks about Chris’s crime. This was the moment of truth. <</if>>\ I search to see if Sydero is anywhere, only seeing her for a quick minute before she disappears within the crowd. My eyes go from one Cimmerian to the next, finally pausing when I see a figure in a black hood. Despite those standing around them, they stand out perfectly, a lively flower amongst the dead. Asher taps my side, and I see that he’s looking in the same direction, “that is she.” I nod my head in thanks, sending him to tell the guards to slow down or stop altogether. With him gone, I begin moving towards the figure, my eyes never drifting. I feel for the dagger that I had grabbed earlier that day, exquisitely made from what Asher said, and beautiful to the eye. [[Walk by her, weapon drawn, and threaten her.]] [[Stand beside her and wait for backup.]]

“Just tap me when you see her then,” I tell Asher and he grunts in acknowledgment. “You will perhaps see her yourself,” Asher tells me. I hear him, but my attention is on another now, a voice closing in, showing to be let go. <<if hasVisited("Speak to Doran.")>>\ The voice can only belong to Chris, and when I look in his direction, I see him being led out. No chains decorate his wrists or ankles, the only guard nearby is that who guides him. “You guys must be certain that he won’t escape?” I ask Asher, and he shrugs. “Many of those who are executed are not dumb enough to try. They will simply see death quicker, not to say that some do not attempt.” Chris fights with all of his strength, which isn’t much compared to the Cimmerian guard that drags him onto the platform. A man in dark golden silk garb stands at the end, clearing his throat as he speaks about Chris’s crime. This was the moment of truth. <<else>>\ The voice can only belong to Chris, and when I look in the direction, I see him being led out. No chains decorate his wrists or ankles, the only guard nearby is that who guides him. Behind him are two more Alyrians that look similar to Sydero and I, but don’t quite look like our human forms. I suppose the witches could only do so much, never having seen our human forms before. They don’t make as much commotion as Chris, but they do fidget and gaze around in fear. “Hopefully this works?” I say to Asher and he nods once. Chris fights with all of his strength, which isn’t much compared to the Cimmerian guard that drags him onto the platform. A man in silk garb stands at the end, clearing his throat as he speaks about Chris’s crime. This was the moment of truth. <</if>>\ I search to see if Sydero is anywhere, only seeing her for a quick minute before she disappears within the crowd. My eyes go from one Cimmerian to the next, finally pausing when I see a figure in a black hood. Despite those standing around them, they stand out perfectly, a lively flower amongst the dead. Asher taps my side, and I see that he’s looking in the same direction, “that is she.” I nod my head in thanks, sending him to tell the guards to slow down or stop altogether. With him gone, I begin moving towards the figure, my eyes never drifting. I feel for the dagger that I had grabbed earlier that day, exquisitely made from what Asher said, and beautiful to the eye. [[Walk by her, weapon drawn, and threaten her.][$pacifist -=3]] [[Stand beside her and wait for backup.][$pacifist +=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> I pull my blade out slyly, still hiding it in the sleeve of the long shirt that I had on. I weave my way through the crowd until I get right behind the witch, deftly grabbing the hilt in my hand as I walk by her. “Pardon me,” I say. “No, it is my fault,” she says but immediately stops as I settle the blade up against her throat. “You need to come with me,” I whisper, gazing around to see if any of the guards were watching, or if I could spot Sydero. “Lord Doran’s request, I take it?” she asks me, visibly looking frightened. I remind myself that she again doesn’t know that it is me. She still believes that I was an Alyrian, preparing to face whatever kind of execution the Cimmerians have planned. [[“My Lord wishes to question you further.”]] [[“Indeed, he seeks your audience.”]] [[“He wishes to thank you.”]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> I walk to her side, behaving as if I just needed a better position to see what was going on stage. She doesn’t turn and doesn’t regard me, probably believing me to be just another bystander, curious to see the execution take place. I look around, hoping to spot Sydero or to at least see how Asher was faring. I see Sydero first, gazing around. When she spots me and our eyes connect, I nod to her beside me, making sure it was obvious what I was trying to say without words. I see Syd nod once and then she was on the move. I spot her randomly, blending in with the crowd one minute, and then the next, standing out. Each time I see her, she’s yards closer until she is right behind me. She passes behind me, and I spot the light reflecting off the blade in her hands. Suddenly, a guttural howl emerges from the witch, and black smoke rushes out of her, clashing straight into Sydero and sending her flying through the crowd. The Cimmerians surrounding us scatter in fear and shock, all trying to get away from the witch. Seeing that I wasn’t running, the witch turns to me, her eyes slowly widening in horror and understanding. “You,” she growls. I let out an involuntary shriek as her pupils become two, and each one of them has murderous intent inside of them. “You killed my family!” she shouts, rushing towards me. Everyone in her way, moving as the crowd hustles to get out of the way. The black mist coming from her body knocks body after body out of her way, any guard that dares get to close. One of the tendrils wraps around my neck, cutting off any kind of air supply. I claw at it, but my fingers go straight through, doing nothing. “$name,” I hear the Entity speak, his voice on the edge of my consciousness, sounding uncharacteristically calm, “she has the power to kill you. Let me help.” The tendril holds me in place as she glares at me in the face, “you will pay.” The tendril squeezes. Though it is merely a tendril, I can feel it prickling my skin. “$name!” the Entity shouts, “just let me take control. Don’t let your pride kill you.” I’m slipping, I can feel that much, and staring into her eyes, I know that no sympathy rests within them. [[Yes.|EP8-Act Four][$entitytakeover = true]] [[No.|EP8-Act Four]]

“My Lord wishes to question you further upon whatever you discussed.” “Then why the blade?” she growls, spitting. The spit that flies from her mouth barely misses the Cimmerian in front of her. “He spoke that you may be ... unwilling and that such force may be required.” She seems to believe me, and I tug her, but she refuses to move. “Can I see the executions first?” “Doran sits to the left of the platform; your view will be much better there.” She falls for my lie and allows me to guide her away from the crowd, and to the outskirts. As we walk, I see Sydero separate herself from the crowd, walking towards us, though her attention is solely on the stage. She walks closer to us and right before she passes, I see the light reflect off of a blade. Suddenly, a guttural howl emerges from the witch, and black smoke rushes out of her, clashing straight into Sydero and sending her flying. I release her in shock, and she turns to me, horror and understanding slowly appearing. “You,” she growls. I let out an involuntary shriek as her pupils become two, and each one of them has murderous intent inside of them. “You killed my family!” she shouts, rushing towards me. Everyone in her way, moving as the crowd hustles to get out of the way. The black mist coming from her body knocks body after body out of her way, any guard that dares get to close. One of the tendrils wraps around my neck, cutting off any kind of air supply. I claw at it, but my fingers go straight through, doing nothing. “$name,” I hear the Entity speak, his voice on the edge of my consciousness, sounding uncharacteristically calm, “she has the power to kill you. Let me help.” The tendril holds me in place as she glares at me in the face, “you will pay.” The tendril squeezes. Though it is merely a tendril, I can feel it prickling my skin. “$name!” the Entity shouts, “just let me take control. Don’t let your pride kill you.” I’m slipping, I can feel that much, and staring into her eyes, I know that no sympathy rests within them. [[Yes.|EP8-Act Four][$entitytakeover = true]] [[No.|EP8-Act Four]]

“Indeed. He seeks your audience immediately.” “Then why the blade?” she growls, spitting. The spit that flies from her mouth barely misses the Cimmerian in front of her. “He spoke that you may be unwilling and that such force may be required.” She seems to believe me, and I tug her, but she refuses to move. “Can I see the executions first?” “Doran sits to the left of the platform; your view will be much better there.” She falls for my lie and allows me to guide her away from the crowd, and to the outskirts. As we walk, I see another Sydero separate herself from the crowd, walking towards us, though her attention is solely on the stage. She walks closer to us and right before she passes, I see the light reflect off of a blade. Suddenly, a guttural howl emerges from the witch, and black smoke rushes out of her, clashing straight into Sydero and sending her flying. I release her in shock, and she turns to me, horror and understanding slowly appearing. “You,” she growls. I let out an involuntary shriek as her pupils become two, and each one of them has murderous intent inside of them. “You killed my family!” she shouts, rushing towards me. Everyone in her way, moving as the crowd hustles to get out of the way. The black mist coming from her body knocks body after body out of her way, any guard that dares get to close. One of the tendrils wraps around my neck, cutting off any kind of air supply. I claw at it, but my fingers go straight through, doing nothing. “$name,” I hear the Entity speak, his voice on the edge of my consciousness, sounding uncharacteristically calm, “she has the power to kill you. Let me help.” The tendril holds me in place as she glares at me in the face, “you will pay.” The tendril squeezes. Though it is merely a tendril, I can feel it prickling my skin. “$name!” the Entity shouts, “just let me take control. Don’t let your pride kill you.” I’m slipping, I can feel that much, and staring into her eyes, I know that no sympathy rests within them. [[Yes.|EP8-Act Four][$entitytakeover = true]] [[No.|EP8-Act Four]]

“My Lord wishes to thank you for your services.” “Does he now?” she questions, turning to look at me and raising a brow, “then why the blade?” It was actually a good question, and I believe my lack of answering is much more apparent than I guessed. Before I can even think up a suitable answer, my body is launched by some unseen force. Cimmerians shout and dart out of the way as I land, pain shooting up my back upon impact. I lean up, seeing her approaching me with hatred in her eye. “You,” she growls. I let out an involuntary shriek as her pupils become two, and each one of them has murderous intent inside of them. “You killed my family!” she shouts, rushing towards me. Everyone in her way, moving as the crowd hustles to get out of the way. The black mist coming from her body knocks body after body out of her way, any guard that dares get to close. One of the tendrils wraps around my neck, cutting off any kind of air supply. I claw at it, but my fingers go straight through, doing nothing. “$name,” I hear the Entity speak, his voice on the edge of my consciousness, sounding uncharacteristically calm, “she has the power to kill you. Let me help.” The tendril holds me in place as she glares at me in the face, “you will pay.” The tendril squeezes. Though it is merely a tendril, I can feel it prickling my skin. “$name!” the Entity shouts, “just let me take control. Don’t let your pride kill you.” I’m slipping, I can feel that much, and staring into her eyes, I know that no sympathy rests within them. [[Yes.|EP8-Act Four][$entitytakeover = true]] [[No.|EP8-Act Four]]

I tell them my plan, laying out as much as I had thought up. With the style of the plan agreed upon, the other two begin to add in their thoughts until it becomes a plausible strategy. Asher goes in first, shouting for the witch to come out by order of Doran. I head to the left side of the tent, while Sydero heads to the right, waiting for Asher’s signal. “What do you want?” the woman questions. He is unable to even answer when a guttural howl sounds and suddenly, a dark mist shoots out of the woman and hits me square in the chest. It knocks me off my feet and I’m sent flying a few feet away. I groan at the pain that radiates through my back, attempting to refocus. <<include "EntityTakeoverBuildUp">>

“I think the smartest thing is to have Asher go in first, we could persuade her to come out faster.” “How you figure that?” Sydero asks, leaning forward and looking at the shelter. “There’s a good chance she’s seen Asher’s face when she was there. If he can persuade her that Doran seeks her audience, maybe we could jump her as soon as she comes out.” Sydero pokes out her bottom lip and nods impressively, agreeing with the plan in that action. Asher seems less reluctant but, in the end, agrees as well. We stay back, allowing Asher to approach her tent. He doesn’t necessarily go in. Instead, he calls for her from the back of his lizard. A few seconds later and she comes out, her attention entirely on Asher. “Let’s go,” Sydero whispers and the two of us dismount, creeping closer. We’re so close to sneaking up on her when a guttural howl sounds and suddenly, a dark mist shoots out of the woman and into the two of us. It knocks us off our feet and sends us flying a few feet away. I groan at the pain that radiates through my back, attempting to refocus. <<include "EntityTakeoverBuildUp">>

“You!” the witch growls, stalking towards us, her attention off of Asher and now wholly on us. “You killed my family,” she says sadly, pinning me down to the ground. I look to Sydero for help but find her occupied with a clone of the witch, she is in the exact same position as I. “Your family was killing innocent people,” I growl, trying to grab her neck, anything that would relinquish her hold on my neck. I look her in the eyes and my own widen, she had two pupils in each eye. “What are you?” I question, barely getting the question out as the last of my air abandons me. “I am your end,” she says, her voice now much more profound. “I got you,” Asher shouts, but I see him nowhere. Then the woman over me begins to tremble uncontrollably. Blood begins to spill from her nose and the sockets of her eyes. She coughs up blood, choking on it as the blood escapes its flesh prison. I quickly move out from under her, right as her body explodes. My heart thumps wildly at the sight, nothing but organs, blood, and other gushy parts resting about. Sydero stays where she is, her gaze on the sky now that the woman’s clone was gone. <a data-passage="EntityTakeoverBuildUp2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

A shadow manifests, Asher sheepishly looking from the mess to me. “I apologize, I hate to use that ability, but I saw no other choice.” I open my mouth to respond when the voice from earlier is heard saying, “neither do I.” Asher turns in shock, only to be hit by a stream of jet-black mist, shooting him yards away from us. “Asher!” I shout and attempt to run towards him but fail miserably. Something is dragging me down, refusing to relinquish its hold. “Syd!” I shout but see that she’s nowhere in sight. I glance back to see a dark whirlwind of sand dragging me into its depths. “Seems like you’re in such a tough situation,” I hear someone chuckle, on the edge of my mind do I see their ghostly figure. “Do you need help?” “Never!” My leg goes through the whirlwind, feeling as if a million tiny insects were chomping down on it all at once. I scream out in pain, my voice distant and unclear, as if from another. “I can get you out of this,” he sings, “or you can continue to be stubborn.” His voice seems right there on my ear, tickling the nerves with his breath, “I can give you so much power.” I clench my eyes closed as the pain intensifies, traveling farther up my leg. [[Yes.|EP8-Act Four][$entitytakeover = true]] [[No.|EP8-Act Four]]

<img src="images/actfour.png"> <<if $entitytakeover>>\ I dart upwards, my eyes wide as I attempt to take in the world around me. I can make out the motel room, the tattered and ugly wallpaper, the minifridge and small television sitting on top of it. The second bed that rests beside the bed that I’m on. <<if $cp>>Chris is sleeping on the same bed as me, and Sydero on the other. Both look like they’re sleeping, but I knew better than to believe that.<<else>>Sydero rests on that bed, appearing as if she’s peacefully sleeping, but I knew better than to believe that.<</if>> I’m aware that I don’t have control of my body, the places that my eyes dart, isn’t under my influence. The feeling is otherworldly, knowing that you’re in your body and being able to concentrate on things without fully concentrating on them. For example, my own heartbeat. The way it beats creates an echoing feeling that can be felt throughout my entire body. This must be what it feels like to be hyper-sensitive. I hear a mumbling to my left and both the Entity, and I look, though he’s the one that narrows my eyes as he stares at the figure there. A woman in all black has Bradley, a sharp blade resting against his throat. “Get away from the boy,” I hear myself say in an animalistic tone. I raise a brow though at the feelings that travel through me, suddenly feeling over-protective. Was this the Entity? Did they truly feel so strongly about Bradley? “What are you?” the witch barks, her voice abnormally deep. “Are you deaf?” the Entity questions as we stand, “release him, demon.” My eyes widen as I look at the woman, nothing about her giving me any clue that she was what the Entity had just claimed. “I think not,” the woman replies but she doesn’t sound so sure. I can practically smell the fear radiating off of her. “$name!” Bradley manages to squeak out, though his shout sounds more like a nervous question. “$name isn’t here right now,” the Entity answers and I can feel myself smirk wickedly. Their gaze goes from Bradley back to the woman, taking a step towards her. “Take another step, and I’ll cut the little boy’s throat,” she purrs, pressing the blade even closer, drawing a trace of blood. The movement sends a surge of anger that I know isn’t fueled solely by me. I feel a rush of power flow through me. The sensation takes over, putting me on a high that I’ve never felt before. The only thing I could compare it to was an individual who had downed countless energy drinks and caffeine. The feeling itself put me in an almost stupor state, perhaps because I was doing nothing but existing amongst the power. [[I craved this sensation, this power.|FC4][$zillah +=5]] [[This felt wrong.|FC4][$zillah -=5]] <<else>>\ “Over my dead body,” I shout mentally. The Entity roars in displeasure, positively pissed off at my refusal to let them take over my body and do whatever they wish to do with it. The witch stands over me, she still has her hold over me, and my body is only growing weaker by the second. I needed to do something now. [[Head butt her with all my energy.]] [[Punch her off of me.]] <</if>>\

<<if $cp>>\ I clear my throat and look over at the other two, both of them looking up at me at the same time. “You don’t need me, right, Sydero?” I question, and she raises a brow at me, and then at Asher. When she realizes what I’m alluding to, and why I’m asking, she rolls her eyes but smirks, shaking her head. <<if $CRomance >=5>>\ <>\ <<set $jealousCimmerian = true>> <<if $jealouschris>>\ <<set $jealouschris2 = true>> <</if>>\ <>\ “Why?” Chris questions. “I simply wish to show $name more of the area,” Asher snorts, grabbing my hand and planting a kiss there, he yanks me away before I can add anything else. <</if>>\ <<if $virgin>>\ "Hmm," I hear Syd hum as we leave, "not a virgin for long." Half of me wants to go back in there and flick her off, the other just chuckles as I follow behind Asher. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I clear my throat and look over at the other two, both of them looking up at me at the same time. “You don’t need me, right, Sydero?” I question, and she raises a brow at me, and then at Asher. When she realizes what I’m alluding to, and why I’m asking, she rolls her eyes but smirks, shaking her head. <<if $virgin>>\ "Hmm," I hear Syd hum as we leave, "not a virgin for long." Half of me wants to go back in there and flick her off, the other just chuckles as I follow behind Asher. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ Asher leads me to a set of barracks that resides closer to the castle. There are only about three other houses set up here, and though they aren’t grand, they look better than most of the other huts that I had previously seen. “This is where me and my partner, the blood assassin, lives. Also, two of Doran’s most trusted advisors.” I note that Asher speaks of his partner with a sorrowful look in his eye and tone. “It seems like you miss your partner.” He sends me a small smile, “I do. But at least I had someone else to hold my attention in their absence.” I roll my eyes playfully as he leads me inside. The room is oddly homey. A large wolf pelt lays on the ground, a dragon head is mounted on the wall, and three candles flicker in the corner. This room holds nothing but a dark wooden table and a couch that doesn’t look like it had been sat in for some time. Asher continues to lead me through the house, not stopping until we arrive in what I presume to be his bedroom. A sizeable grand bed rests in the middle, covered by thick furs that would warm anyone up on a winter’s night. There is a single window on the left side of the wall, and a fireplace that I wonder if he uses. There is also a table and a chest on the far wall, papers scattered across the table, and clothing across the chest. I wander to the window and take a deep breath. Why did I feel like I would miss this place? <a data-passage="FC_AsherNight"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $Cimmerian>>\ <<if $cp>>\ I chuckle nervously and tell him thank you, but add that I’d rather stay with the others. Knowing Sydero, it would take her half an hour to get this spell going, and it’d be just my luck that the spell was timed, and I’d be left behind. Asher nods understandably, straightening himself out before looking at all of us. “I will make sure no one disturbs you. It has been a pleasure meeting you all,” his gaze lingers on Chris who raises a brow at his previous words, “and I apologize for your treatment here.” “Yea, maybe this will make you think twice about just locking people up because of what they look like.” Asher dashes him a charming smile, “it won’t.” With a parting hug for me, he turns and leaves us to the spell. <<else>>\ I chuckle nervously and tell him thank you, but add that I’d rather stay with Sydero and wait. Knowing Sydero, it would take her half an hour to get this spell going, and it’d be just my luck that the spell was timed, and I’d be left behind. Asher nods understandably, straightening himself out before looking at all of us. “I will make sure no one disturbs you. It has been a pleasure meeting you both.” With a parting hug for me, he turns and leaves us to the spell. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I look at Esther and shake my head. I'd rather stay here. “It will be almost quiet with you gone.” “I’m sure you can use the break,” I tell her, and she giggles softly in agreement. “I will make sure no one disturbs you,” her gaze lingers on Sydero who notices after a while and looks at her to see what she wanted, “I deeply apologize for how you were treated here. We’re better than that.” “Yea, no you’re not,” Sydero huffs, putting her attention back on the spell. Esther nods managing to still smile as she wraps me up in a tight goodbye hug, and then leaving us to the spell. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC5_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<>\<<set $virgin = false>><>\ “Will you read the book when you get back?” I hear Asher say behind me, and when I turn, jump in shock to see him standing right over me. He does so hesitantly, but he rests his hands on my hips gently, ready to pull them back if I show even the slightest sign of discomfort. “That is a … good question. I don’t know. I feel like it’s going to be different, a whole other book.” “You will have experienced the characters and the world for yourself, it does seem … fantastical,” he chuckles lowly. My cheeks heat up at the fond look in his eyes as if he’s dropping each and every defense he might’ve had up. “And how about you?” I ask, resting my hand on his cheek, looking him deeply in the eyes. “How easy will it be for you to forget me?” He moves his head and places a soft kiss that sends goosebumps running up me, and he squeezes my hand. “I do not believe that can happen. There is something about you $name, something that makes me curse even the thought of forgetting you.” I blush at his words, not noticing that he had leaned in even more, his lips carefully meeting mine. We both test the waters as if trying to figure out if this is what we wanted, if this was even a good idea. The more the seconds tick by, the more comfortable and confident we become, our bodies pressing closer until the only thing residing between us are our clothes. Asher makes sure he makes short work of the clothes, pulling them off of me before bringing me back towards him. I’m about to suggest moving this closer to the bed when I realize that he’s already doing so. He falls but his arms circle around me, lifting me up so that I fall gently on top of him. For a man that called himself an assassin, everything that he did was soft and gentle. <<if settings.showec>> <<if $sex is "v">>\ That’s it. I remove my hand and flip us over so that I’m now on top. Asher looks shocked but says nothing. He brings me closer to him, laying kisses all along my body as he tightens his grip around me. He copied my moves from earlier as he slipped his hands into me, causing me to shiver in expectancy and sudden arousal. I kissed his neck as he worked his fingers inside me, adding another and then another. My mind was everywhere as I tried to continue kissing him, but my body simply wanted to live in the moment, live in the feel of his fingers inside me. All too soon, he removes them, and I turn my attention to his cock, taking in his size before lowering my mouth onto him. His hips buck immediately as I work, pacing myself and feeling his hands just inches away from my head. He moaned loudly, pushing his hips forward and causing me to ease up so that I didn’t choke. I use my other hand to press against his abdomen, calming him back down just enough to finish the job. I could taste his pre-cum on my lips, but we weren’t done yet. Thankfully, Asher had the same idea as me, grabbing my waist and pulling me up on him, only slowing down when I was hovering over his cock. He gently slid me down onto it, guiding his cock into me as we both adjusted to the feel. We both let out a hiss as I slid down, our movements slow as we still explore one another, but then the pace picks up. I clench my eyes closed as he runs his hand over the front of my clit, massaging it roughly and causing me to whimper loudly. I lean over and clutch the blankets, kissing him frantically, swallowing his groans as I felt him grow stiff. “$name,” he whispers against my lips, and I nod, pressing myself deeper into him, the ecstasy washing over me. Right before he was to cum, I move off of him and position myself to catch it, cleaning him up and feeling my high burst as well. He doesn’t miss a beat, cradling my body closer to his as his mouth explores my clit, tongue flickering as he tastes my juices. The two of us fall onto the bed, deep breathing as we let the moment wash over us. <<elseif $sex is "p">>\ That’s it. I remove my hand and flip us over so that I was now on top. Asher looks shocked but says nothing. I lean in and growl into his ear, “flip over.” Immediately does as I ask. I run my hand along his sculpted back muscles, feeling him shiver underneath my touch. In an ideal world … my world, I would have immediately grabbed the lube but seeing that there was nothing of the sort here, I would have to improvise. I prep him, running my fingers along his ass before entering him, first with one then two fingers, then adding a third. I shiver myself when I hear him whimper underneath me. The more fingers I add, the louder his pleasurable whimpers get. “Shh,” I whisper into his ear, biting his earlobe teasingly. He nods obediently, and I wonder if I should’ve just kept my thoughts to myself, I was so enjoying the sounds of him whimpering as he allowed my fingers to fuck him. Curiosity and a need to tease him grew inside me as I curled my finger inside of him, basking in that sound that he made, even more shocked when I see part of him turn into a shadow before quickly manifesting back. He’s about to muster out an apology when I spread his cheeks and eased myself inside of him, allowing myself and him to adjust to the size and feel. His grip tightens even more on the blanket as he bit his lip in ecstasy, no longer caring about staying quiet. I’m sure if it were up to him, he would let the entire Dead Lands know that he was in here getting fucked. And I would be lying if I said that I wasn’t enjoying the sounds that were coming from him. I pull out and force my way back in, increasing my stroke each time. Asher growls backing into me and causing me to go deeper, and him to shout louder. After getting a decent pace going, I reach in front and grab onto his cock, running my hands up and down, fucking him harder. I busy my mouth on his back, kissing and nipping at his exposed skin. Asher braces himself, grunting in pleasure and then whimpering whenever he couldn’t hold his sounds of pleasure in any longer. “$name,” Asher whimpers loudly, and I can already tell that he was near the edge. I give him one last nip before speeding up my movements on his cock, encouraging him to cum as I slowly pull myself out of him. I rearrange us so that I could catch his cum when it came, cleaning him up and wrapping my arms around him. He breaths heavily in my arms, burrowing his head into my chest as he tries to gather his breath. <<else>>\ That’s it. I remove my hand and flip us over so that I was now on top. Asher looks shocked but says nothing. I lean in and growl into his ear, “flip over.” Immediately does as I ask. I run my hand along his sculpted back muscles, feeling him shiver underneath my touch. In an ideal world … my world, I would have immediately grabbed the lube but seeing that there was nothing of the sort here, I would have to improvise. I prep him, running my wet fingers along his ass before entering him, first with one then two fingers, then adding a third. I shiver myself when I hear him whimper underneath me. The more fingers I add, the louder his pleasurable whimpers get. “Shh,” I whisper into his ear, biting his earlobe teasingly. He nods obediently, and I wonder if I should’ve just kept my thoughts to myself, I was so enjoying the sounds of him whimpering as he allowed my fingers to fuck him. Curiosity and a need to tease him grew inside me as I curled my finger inside of him, basking in that sound that he made, even more shocked when I see part of him turn into a shadow before quickly manifesting back. I return my attention to his cock, taking in his size before lowering my mouth onto him. His hips buck immediately as I work, pacing myself and feeling his hands just inches away from my head. He moaned loudly, pushing his hips forward and causing me to ease up so that I didn’t choke. I use my other hand to press against his abdomen, calming him back down just enough to finish the job. “$name,” Asher whimpers loudly, and I can already tell that he was near the edge. I give him one last nip before speeding up my movements on his cock, encouraging him to cum as I position myself to catch his cum when it came, cleaning him up and wrapping my arms around him. He breaths heavily in my arms, burrowing his head into my chest as he tries to gather his breath. <</if>>\ “Yea, I shall not forget you,” he whispers, and I smile, planting a kiss on his head. He nods off to sleep later, and sadly, I don’t wake him as I leave. <<else>>\ An hour or so later I lay beside him, breathing deeply. “Yea, I shall not forget you,” he whispers, and I smile, planting a kiss on his head. He nods off to sleep later, and sadly, I don’t wake him as I leave. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC5_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ I clear my throat and look over at the other two, both of them looking up at me at the same time. “You don’t need me, right, Sydero?” I question, and she raises a brow at me, and then at Esther. When she realizes what I’m alluding to, and why I’m asking, she rolls her eyes but smirks, shaking her head. <<if $CRomance >=5>>\ <> <<set $jealousAlyrian = true>> <<if $jealouschris>>\ <<set $jealouschris2 = true>> <</if>>\ <<endnobr>> “Why?” Chris questions. “I wish to have a moment of $name’s time is all,” Esther says, grabbing my hand and bringing me close in excitement, my hand slipping to her waist to calm her. Before I can say anything more, she yanks me out of the dungeon. <</if>>\ <<if $virgin>>\ "Hmm," I hear Syd hum as we leave, "not a virgin for long." Half of me wants to go back in there and flick her off, the other just chuckles as I follow behind Esther. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I clear my throat and look over at the other two, both of them looking up at me at the same time. “You don’t need me, right, Sydero?” I question, and she raises a brow at me, and then at Esther. When she realizes what I’m alluding to, and why I’m asking, she rolls her eyes but smirks, shaking her head. <<if $virgin>>\ "Hmm," I hear Syd hum as we leave, "not a virgin for long." Half of me wants to go back in there and flick her off, the other just chuckles as I follow behind Esther. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ Esther leads me away from the dungeons and back to the castle, letting my hand go once we enter, assuming her role as a servant. “This way,” she tells me with a goofy but shy smile. I roll my eyes as I continue to follow her, having to act as well. She takes me to a part of the castle that I haven’t been at, but once I see the other servants, I immediately figure out that we are where the servants of the castle rest their heads. Many walk by without giving me a second glance, far too busy, and one track minded to care about what I was doing there. She leads me into a room, and I quickly go in, not wishing to ruin her reputation and have gossip spread. She looks around and closes the door, sighing heavily. “I do not think the servants care, but I do hope we were able to get here without being spotted by any others.” I approach her and lift her hand to my lips, kissing it softly before raising my gaze to meet hers. “I would hate to ruin your reputation, especially if I’m not here to defend it.” She giggles as I pull her closer, a bright blush decorating her golden cheeks. “I do not usually partake in this,” she admits, “but, I would not be able to live with the thought of just letting you go so easily. When … when you were right here.” I rest my hand on her cheek, staring into her eyes, at the gentle nature that existed there. She truly reminded me of a delicate flower that all should be content with looking at, not touching. A rose so pure and beautiful that it should be locked away. If only I could take her away from this place. But would my home even be better? <a data-passage="FC_EstherNight"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<>\<<set $virgin = false>><>\ “$name?” she questions, touching my cheek, gaining my attention, “sorry, it only seemed as if you had grown sad.” “How can I be, when you’re right here?” I question, lightly kissing her fingertips. “I will greatly miss you,” she whimpers, throwing her arms around my neck and hugging me tightly. “Shh, let’s not think about that right now.” When she pulls back, she bites her lip and then throws her lips upon mine, pulling back a minute later in worry. I don’t give her time to doubt her movements, grabbing her jaw gently and bringing them back to my lips. I breathed in her scent, against being reminded of a fresh spring flower. “Are you sure?” I ask, and Esther immediately nods. “I am. I want this.” That was all she needed to say before my hands began to explore her body, feeling each and every perfection and flaw that she held. I slip her clothes off, peppering kisses along her collarbone and neck, and then her cheeks and jaw. She brings me closer as I gently lay her against the bed. <<if settings.showec and ($sex is "p" or $sex is "v")>>\ My hands move over her breasts as my kisses go lower, always two places behind my hands. As they travel to her abdomen, I rest my lips against her breasts, toying with her nipples and listening to her to hear how she reacts to everything. I immediately find out that she is a sensitive young woman, just breathing against her had her shivering. I press my lips back to hers, savoring the feeling of her soft against mine. , even more, her gasp as I toy with her clit, smirking as her back arches and she whimpers loudly when I stop. “Shh,” I tell her, kissing her cheek and then making my way back down her body until I’m hovering over her core. I toy with her at first to get a reaction, before placing my tongue up against her, eating her and tasting what she had to offer. “$name,” she hisses, or whimpers, I couldn’t quite tell. I feel her hand touch the back of my head as she urges me to go faster, deeper. I oblige, flickering my tongue against her and listening to every sound that was for me, though others were probably hearing. <<if $sex is "p">>\ Once done, she yanks me back up to her, kissing me desperately as her hands now roam to my member, her hand barely grazing it before she holds it and begins to pump her hands up and down. I growl into her mouth, pushing myself into her as she sped up her movements. I could do nothing but focus on kissing her, nipping and touching all of her sensitive areas. I could feel myself coming to the edge and didn’t wish to not have her join me. With a smirk, I stop her, ignoring the confused look she sends me as I kiss her, once then twice. I spread her legs, and her eyes widen in understanding, right as I insert myself into her tight hole. She yelps in ecstasy, her body shaking as I slowly push deeper into her. “$name!” she shouts, her fingers grabbing onto my arms as I increase my pacing, my strokes going deeper each time. Her body arches forward, and I capture her right tit in my mouth, flicking my tongue across her hard nipple as she moans. “Hmm,” I hum satisfied as we both reach that peak, “are you ready?” I question, and she nods quickly. I smile and speed up, though I continue to push myself deep into her with every thrust. Suddenly, I tense up, and I come out, exploding over her before bringing his tongue back to taste her juices. She moves as well, cleaning my member up before collapsing onto the bed, both of us breathing deeply. <<elseif $sex is "v">>\ Once done, she yanks me back up to her, kissing me desperately as her hands now roam to my clit, rubbing it in circular motions before inserting her fingers. I somehow giggle up against her lips. “Are you copying me?” I question, arching ever so slightly due to the feeling. “You are a good teacher,” she whispers, and I roll my eyes though I don’t argue. Esther positions herself differently so that she was now between my legs, and though she does excellent work, I begin to miss the feel of her lips against mine. I gasp when her lips go somewhere else though, her breath triggering me to shiver as she sucks and licks at my swollen clit. I try to contain myself, not wanting to arch into her face too much. And before I can, she grabs onto my thighs as she goes deeper, her tongue working miracles I didn’t know were possible. As her tongue did this, her fingers went to my breasts, pinching my swollen nipples until suddenly I felt myself orgasming. My body spasming as she licked up my juices. “I give that performance an A,” I manage to say, and Esther laughs from beside me, cuddling up closer, kissing my neck lazily. <</if>>\ “I shall never forget you,” she whispers, and I smile, planting a kiss on her head. She nods off to sleep later, and sadly, I don’t wake her as I leave. <<else>>\ An hour or so later I lay beside her, breathing deeply. “I shall never forget you,” she whispers, and I smile, planting a kiss on her head. She nods off to sleep later, and sadly, I don’t wake her as I leave. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC5_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ “Can I help you?” one of the watcher’s question and I tell him that we’re there to see Sydero, though I again must call her monster to sell the ruse. He points us down the walkway, instructing us to go all the way to find her cell. As we go, we pass by mostly men who were stripped down to just their underwear. They sleep on hard mats, and their cells are covered in their own excrements. “I think I’m going to be sick,” Chris mumbles as we go. I nod and tell myself to keep looking forward, to ignore the smell and the lack of utter hope residing in the prisoner’s eyes. When we get to Sydero’s cell, I notice all too quickly that it’s right across from a room that looks like it was for torture. I’m only able to see some things from the other side of the slightly ajar door, but what I can see makes my skin crawl. “Syd?” Chris questions and we both look to see Sydero with her back to a wall. Her cell was the cleanest by far but was also empty, she was the only thing inside. “I just have to ask, what do you do with your … bodily waste?” Sydero snorts, sending us a wide smirk, “this wouldn’t be my first time having to hold everything in, probably won’t be the last.” She stretches out, looking oddly at home in the small cell. I see welts and bruises scattered across her body, dried blood caking most of her person. And that was just what I could see. “What the hell are they doing to you?” “Torture, if you want to call it that,” she sits up and leans forward, “here I am, thinking that medieval people would know a thing or two about torture. I mean, have you seen the torture devices? But boy, was I disappointed.” Chris taps my side, “is it just me, or does she still seem like her usual self?” I nod, placing my eyes back on Sydero. “So, any news about how we get out of here?” she asks, and we both shake our heads. “We’re still trying to figure that part out. The only thing we can think of is to ask Esther, our servant helper, to point us to someone mystical.” “But, that’s pretty hard to do,” Chris adds, “from what we know, humans here aren’t really magical.” Sydero taps her chin in thought, “$name? Anything that might help from what you read? Religious figures, maybe?” My eyes widen at her words and the idea that I begin to formulate, “the gods here, I think they’re active in some way. Maybe they have a shrine or a temple that we can go to. I can ask Esther if there are priests or any kind of ceremony that we can do.” The two nod and before anyone could say anything more, Chris turns on his heel and leaves. “What the hell is his problem?” [[“No idea.”]] [[“He’s just being a baby.”]] <<else>>\ “Can I help you?” one of the watcher’s question and I tell him that I’m there to see Sydero, though I again must call her monster to sell the ruse. He points me down the walkway, instructing me to go all the way down to find her cell. As I go, I pass by mostly men who are stripped down to just their underwear. They sleep on hard mats, and their cells are covered in their own excrements. I try to keep in the bile threatening to rise as I go. I just need to keep looking forward, ignore the smell, and the lack of utter hope residing in the prisoner’s eyes. When I get to Sydero’s cell, I notice all too quickly that it’s right across from a room that looks like it was for torture. I’m only able to see some things from the other side of the slightly ajar door, but what I can see makes my skin crawl. “Syd?” I question, finding her with her back to a wall. Her cell was the cleanest by far but was also empty, she was the only thing inside. “I just have to ask, what do you do with your … bodily waste?” Sydero snorts, sending me a wide smirk, “this wouldn’t be my first time having to hold everything in, probably won’t be the last.” She stretches out, looking oddly at home in the small cell. I see welts and bruises scattered across her body, dried blood caking most of her person. And that was just what I could see. “What the hell are they doing to you?” “Torture, if you want to call it that,” she sits up and leans forward, “here I am, thinking that medieval people would know a thing or two about torture. I mean, have you seen the torture devices? Things of beauty. But boy, was I disappointed.” She gets to her feet and leans against the wall closer to the cell’s bars. “So, any news about how we get out of here?” “I’m still trying to figure that part out. The only thing I can think of is to ask Esther, my servant helper, to point us to someone mystical. But, as far as I know, humans don’t have any magical abilities here.” Sydero taps her chin in thought, “well, is there anything else that might help from what you read? Religious figures, maybe?” My eyes widen at her words and the idea that I begin to formulate, “the gods here, I think they’re active in some way. Maybe they have a shrine or a temple that we can go to. I can ask Esther if there are priests or any kind of ceremony that we can do.” Before leaving I tell her that I’ll be back with anything new, hopefully tomorrow would be another milestone. <a data-passage="FC3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

<<if $CRomance >=5>>\ “No idea,” I tell her, sighing deeply, another pit opening in my stomach. “Aw, and that’s killing you inside, isn’t it?” Sydero asks with a shit-eating grin. “I just would like to know what his issue is.” “Well, I know what one of his issues is,” Sydero tells me, shrugging nonchalantly, “you.” “Me?” “It’s not rocket science. The two of you have enough pent up energy to fuel a nuclear reactor. I think both of you just need a good humping,” she snorts. Also, ending the conversation there. I flick her off before telling her that I’ll visit again later, to update her. <<else>>\ “No idea,” I tell her, shrugging my shoulders. If Chris wanted to have some mysterious attitude, then he could have it. As long as he didn’t do something to mess up our chances of getting out of here. I tell her goodbye, but not before telling her that I’ll visit again later, to update her with any new information. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $CRomance >=5>>\ “Oh, you know Chris, he’s just being a baby,” I tell her, sighing deeply, another pit opening in my stomach. “Hmm, and this entire ordeal with him is just eating you up inside? Isn’t it?” Sydero asks with a shit-eating grin. “I just would like to know what his issue is.” “Well, I know what one of his issues is,” Sydero tells me, shrugging nonchalantly, “you.” “Me?” “It’s not rocket science. The two of you have enough pent up energy to fuel a nuclear reactor. I think both of you just need a good humping,” she snorts. Also, ending the conversation there. I flick her off before telling her that I’ll visit again later, to update her. <<else>>\ “Oh, you know Chris, he’s just being a baby,” I tell her, shrugging my shoulders. If Chris wanted to have some mysterious attitude, then he could have it. As long as he didn’t do something to mess up our chances of getting out of here. I tell her goodbye, but not before telling her that I’ll visit again later, to update her with any new information. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The temple here didn’t compete with the churches and temples back on Earth. There, you could see the power that most churches held, their money giving them better homes and facilities than many others. The temple here looked shabby at best, as if someone knew the importance of having one but other than that, cared little. “Is this what they all look like?” I ask, running my hand along a grimy stone. <<if hasVisited("Tell Esther the truth.")>>\ “No, the one near my home was beautiful and well-kept, dozens of people flocked there every day. Pryce cares little for the gods, only seeking them out when they need something, or to be forgiven.” <<else>>\ “No, the one near my home was beautiful and well-kept, dozens of people flock there every day. Pryce cares little for the gods, only seeking them out when they need something, or to be forgiven.” She gives me a sidelong look, and I ignore it. If anything, that just meant I would fit in here if I weren’t able to reverse this. <</if>>\ We enter, and I see the truth in her words even more. Not only is the inside barely decorated, but the only light comes from the many windows located along the walls. I also notice that we haven’t seen one priest, and there’s no one else in here. I see little reason to even have this place if it is barely visited. Esther stays by my side as I venture around, noting the many cobwebs on both the statues, dying plants, and the ceiling. Besides the sparse decoration, three statues rest on each wall. One shows a hooded figure with one arm hidden and his other hand extended, palm up. Another is of a woman in a flowing dress, both her hands extended. The last is of a strong man with his chest puffed out, his left hand is open but barely. <<if hasVisited("Tell Esther the truth.")>>\ “Darkness, Moon, and Sun,” Esther tells me, pointing each one out, starting with the first one that I had seen. “Does this really work?” She shrugs, taking a seat on one of the dusty chairs. “I’ve never tried. I never thought I needed to be in the God’s favors, I have only ever prayed to Moon. Unless you ask if they truly hear you, if so, I think it all depends on your intentions and how honest you are.” “Does it matter who I ask for guidance?” “Hmm, yes. Each god has their own behavior. You have Darkness who favors chaos and emotions, Sun favors those of strength and power, and Moon craves for those who are sensitive and wise.” “So, I just go to the one I think can best help me?” “Yes, go to the one you feel most connected too.” I nod and look at the three statues, biting the inside of my cheek. <<else>>\ “I will be over here,” Esther told me, taking a seat off to the side. I look from the statues to her in a panic, not knowing what to do next. “Um, what do I do?” “You mean you do not know? Of course,” she murmurs and points to the first statue I saw, the hooded one. “That is Darkness, that is Moon, and that is Sun. You need to pray.” I nod and look at the three statues, biting the inside of my cheek. <</if>>\ [[I wasn’t religious, this was new to me.]] [[I was religious but after everything that’s happened …]] [[I was religious and felt comfortable about this.][$believer to true]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Honesty ++<</if>> “Alright,” I begin, dragging her away from the others, “here’s the truth. I’m not from here.” I start, and she nods in understanding, but I stop her. “No, I don’t mean Pryce. I mean I’m not from here, this world. I live on a planet called Earth, this world, this is just a book in mine. You’re a character that I read about while I was lounging on my bed.” “This all sounds strange,” she says, fear dotting her eyes as she moves away from me. “Please, Esther. I need your help, and I can’t get back without your help. A powerful witch brought my friends and me here, and unless we figure out how, we can’t return. Even more so, that creature, that’s one of my friends, she’s going to die unjustly if I don’t hurry up and figure everything out, now.” “Do you hear yourself?” she scolds in a low voice. “Yes, trust me. This past month, I’ve learned to never say anything is impossible. Please, help me.” “Do you have proof of this?” [[Tell her about herself.]] [[Search your pockets for proof.]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Deceit ++<</if>> I didn’t have time to stand here and tell her the truth, it would take too long, and she wouldn’t believe me either way. It would be similar to when I told Chris about the supernatural, only this was far more farfetched. <<if $cp>>\ “The truth is, my partner and I have done a few things we’re not too proud of. And a seer told us that unless we repent immediately, we will be cursed for the rest of our lives. My partner doesn’t believe it, but I do, and I’m terrified.” “What kind of things?” she asks in fear. I wanted to say, ‘nothing too bad,’ but that would downplay the importance. Yet, the look in her eyes scared me, made me seem like I was some sort of monster. “We are notorious hunters for a reason, there’s been a few toes we stepped on and a few lives that we took to get our mark. Innocent people sometimes get in the way.” The fear stays in her eyes, and I wonder if she thinks that her life could be in danger if she doesn’t help me. She gulps and turns to another servant, whispering to them before handing over her basket. <<else>>\ “The truth is, I have done a few things I'm not too proud of. And a seer told me that unless I repent immediately, I will be cursed for the rest of my life.” “What kind of things?” she asks in fear. I wanted to say, ‘nothing too bad,’ but that would downplay the importance. Yet, the look in her eyes scared me, made me seem like I was some sort of monster. “I'm a notorious hunter for a reason, there’s been a few toes I've stepped on and a few lives that I took to get my mark. Innocent people sometimes get in the way.” The fear stays in her eyes, and I wonder if she thinks that her life could be in danger if she doesn’t help me. She gulps and turns to another servant, whispering to them before handing over her basket. <</if>>\ When she returns to my side, I notice that she keeps ample space between us, but she nods. “I will show you to the temples immediately, come.” <a data-passage="FC3_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Okay, remember how I said this world is a book, and you’re a character within it?” “Yes, which oddly, is not the weirdest thing to leap off your tongue.” I ignore that, “well, I can tell you things you haven’t told me that I know. You’re a servant here, but you’re actually from Nidinia. Your father died when you were young, and your mother came here because she had connections, connections that could help you out. You became a lady in waiting after that for a Lady, but she did something, I don’t remember, and you ended up being moved to a servant for the castle. You actually knew Terryn, not much, but you did know them.” The look that comes across Esther’s face tells me that I was spot on, the pure shock and fear in her eyes, causing me to even become uncomfortable. The basket falls off her arm as she stares into the distance. I drop down to pick it up, along with the fruit that rolls away. “My entire world … is merely a book?” “Well, I don’t know. Just in my world. From what I see, this place is real. Maybe a different dimension or space or something like that, I didn’t take science that seriously back home.” “And … this Earth, that is where you’re from?” “Yea. See, we don’t have elves and Cimmerians where I’m from. We have werewolves and vampires and shapeshifters.” “Vampires?” “They’re undead people who look really attractive, their skin is glittery, and they drink everyone’s blood.” I’m pretty sure if Sydero was here to hear me say that, she would slap me. “That sounds so strange.” I give her a minute to think about everything I said and to have it sink in. If she were anything like me, then she would probably need a week. I didn’t just tell her that a bunch of creatures weren’t fictional, I told her that there’s a whole other world and that I was from it. But that was the thing, wasn’t it? We didn’t have a week. We had a day. <a data-passage="FC3_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I think of ways to prove my words to her, instinctively digging in my pockets to see if I had accidentally left my phone in there. Thankfully, I did. Of course, there are no bars, but that’s not what was important. I call Esther to my side and show her all the things I can on the phone, bringing up my messages and games as well. It takes about ten whole minutes just for Esther to tear her attention away from the phone, but she seems more than convinced that I’m not from here. Her amazement is replaced by a stricken look. “So, will you help me?” I finally ask her after a long moment of silence. Esther looks around, her gaze going to the castle that stands in the distance. “Yes. I will. Come, we must be quick if your words hold true.” I smile, and she gives her basket to one of the other servants, talking to them in a low voice. I’m unsure what she tells her, but the servant seems to nod and accept whatever Esther tells her, allowing Esther to lead me away from the town. <a data-passage="FC3_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I wasn’t the most religious person; in fact, I wasn’t even a believer. Not because I haven’t stopped and thought about it, but after thinking and coming to my own conclusions, I just realized that I wasn’t one for religion. Especially in the world that we live in. I look at the shrines again, I need now to only choose which to pray to. [[Moon|PM]] [[Darkness|PD]] [[Sun|PS]]

I was religious, once, I suppose. But after everything happened, I stopped praying. It wasn’t that I stopped believing, I just didn’t see the point or the need. I just kinda stopped. I look at the shrines again, I need now to only choose which to pray to. [[Moon|PM]] [[Darkness|PD]] [[Sun|PS]]

I was religious, I prayed whenever I could, mostly to myself seeing that I was hardly ever by myself. I look at the shrines again, I need now to only choose which to pray to. [[Moon|PM]] [[Darkness|PD]] [[Sun|PS]]

<> <<set $moon1 = true>>\ <<endnobr>> I take a deep breath in and go before Moon’s shrine. I sit down in front of her shrine and close my eyes. How does one even pray to the Moon? I think about the moon itself, the glowing orb that lights the sky up at night. I think about the symbolism that I know of, and then about what she probably represents. Words begin to formulate, and I continue on, hoping that this was working. As I pray, a light mist appears. I know my eyes are still closed, this almost feels like the world I go into when the Entity is speaking to me and playing tricks. I see a twinkle, and then another, and then hundreds more join it. <<if $cp>>\ A soft caress of a whisper tickles my ear and someone whispers, “answer me this.” Three familiar faces appear, each residing in their own star as scenes play out. “If you could only save one, who would it be?” My eyes move from Sydero, a rare smile decorating her features as she rolls her eyes playfully, yet the smile never leaves. Then I look at the star that holds Chris’s face, he’s dancing in what resembles a motel room, laughing at something. The last star holds Bradley’s face, he’s saying something, obviously getting excited the more he talks. Someone not in view says something, and he pouts, licking his tongue out at them. <<if $CRomance >= 3>>\ [[Chris.|FCChris]] <<else>>\ [[Chris.|FCChris]] <</if>>\ <<if $SRomance >= 3>>\ [[Sydero.]] <<else>>\ [[Sydero.]] <</if>>\ [[Bradley.]] [[None of them.]] <<else>>\ A soft caress of a whisper tickles my ear and someone whispers, “answer me this.” Two familiar faces appear, each residing in their own star as scenes play out. “If you could only save one, who would it be?” My eyes move from Sydero, a rare smile decorating her features as she rolls her eyes playfully, yet the smile never leaves. Then I look at the start that holds Bradley’s face, he’s saying something, obviously getting excited the more he talks. Someone not in view says something and he pouts, licking his tongue out at them. <<if $SRomance >= 3>>\ [[Sydero.]] <<else>>\ [[Sydero.]] <</if>>\ [[Bradley.]] [[None of them.]] <</if>>\

I take a deep breath in and go before Darkness’s shrine. I sit down in front of his shrine and close my eyes. How does one even pray to Darkness? I think about darkness itself, all the fear that encapsulated it, and yet the mystery and beauty that it could also hold. I knew, better than anyone, how scary it could be. I hold onto that, even if it was unwise. Words begin to formulate, and I continue on, hoping that this was working. My vision darkens, and I find myself in what I believe is a cave. Only coming to that conclusion due to the humid air, the aura that I feel, and the feeling of the walls against my hand. No lights within sight, and though I hear water nearby, I’m unable to tell which direction it resides. My view is cut off, unable to even make out figures. “Rarely am I sought out by an Alyrian,” I hear a deep masculine voice exclaim from somewhere, “but you’re not truly Alyrian, are you?” “No, but you knew that,” I speak, wishing I could see anything, even the tiniest sliver. My hopes are answered by a golden orb, it approaches me, and I realize that the spheres belong to the figure speaking to me, they were his eyes. I can’t make out the rest of his towering figure, but I do notice a hood. “Darkness?” “Indeed. What brings you to pray to me?” “I … I wanted to ask you something,” I manage to say, and he nods his head. He turns his back to me, cutting off my only light source. “I know, I have been watching you in interest since you appeared in this strange world of ours. We have never had a visitor from another world.” “Then you know I seek to get home, can you help me?” “I can. But I sense there is something else amiss within you.” I clear my throat, the thought had been forming ever since I walked into the temple, “I have … this voice, within my head. I have so many questions about them, but I need to know the truth. Can you help me with that as well?” I watch as those golden eyes of his focus on me. They stare at me, breaking past all my defenses, tearing down everything within their path, nothing would be left. Every part of my soul felt like it was nude and on display, stripped of everything that made it unique. And then it stops. “You have a malicious spirit within you. One whose soul matches the same tainted spirit as my own children,” he tells me. “So there is something there …” “Because you are not of this world, there is only so much I can see and understand. What I do know is what I have just told you and that it is still trying to learn you.” “Learn me? They know me, trust me. They’ve been with me since I was a child.” His eyes narrow, “this is not possible. I was able to read this spirit easily, and it is still new.” “Is it possible that it just seems fresh because it happened a while ago? Even though I know them?” “No. What I feel is not that. This spirit is not the same.” I take a deep breath in and out, for the first time ever, I wish for the Entity to speak. But of course, the one time I need it, they don’t. The Entity … wasn’t the Entity? “As for your other problem,” he continues, “there is a spell that I can gift you, but only someone with a firm grip on magic can use it.” [[“You can’t just send me back yourself?”|PD1]] [[“I have a friend, she can.”|PD2]]

<> <<set $sun1 = true>>\ <<endnobr>> I take a deep breath in and go before Sun’s shrine. I sit down in front of his shrine and close my eyes. How does one even pray to Sun? I think about the sun itself, or at least what it symbolizes back on Earth. I think about its pride and power, how it fuels life and brightens the day. Words begin to formulate, and I continue on, hoping that this was working. As I pray, a bright mist appears. I know my eyes are still closed, this almost feels like the world I go into when the Entity is speaking to me and playing tricks. I see a blinding light that refuses to retreat. An authoritative voice whispers, “answer the question. Do you wish you were a supernatural being?” [[Yea … I do.]] [[No, I don't.]]

<<if $sydero <= 50>>\ Suddenly, I’m back in front of the Moon’s shrine, feeling as if I was violently pushed down. I guess whoever that was didn’t like my answer. I would need to seek out the other two then, perhaps I would fit better with them. [[Seek out Darkness|PD]] <<if $sun1 is false>>\ [[Seek out Sun|PS]] <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I feel something nudging me forward, towards a massive glowing star, and then everything becomes bright. A few minutes later am I able to see and I find myself before a beautiful oasis. The water is a cerulean blue, which is paired beautifully with the pink petals falling off of nearby cherry blossoms. In the distance, the water continues, until the horizon cuts it off. The sky is a shade darker than the water, with a million stars glimmering. I search for a moon, believing it would be in the sky since that was who I prayed to, but see no one. “How can I help you, foreigner?” I turn on my heel, and my eyes widen at the beautiful woman there. Her skin is a deep rich brown, pairing wonderfully with the bold white dress that draped across her figure. This was Moon, this was the goddess, it had to be. Her beauty was ethereal, just staring at her made me feel at peace, and even in this foreign land, I felt like I belonged. “I … I wanted to ask you something,” I manage to say, and she nods her head. She moves her flowing white hair out of the way, and her silver eyes land on me. “I know, I have been watching you in interest since you appeared in this strange world of ours. We have never had a visitor from another world.” “And yet, you don’t seem surprised.” “We have had other strange occurrences, and the magic here never ceases to amaze me. You wonder how to get back home?” “I do, can you help me?” She nods but gives me a pointed look, “tell me what else ails you as well.” I clear my throat, the thought had been forming ever since I walked into the temple, “I have … this voice, within my head. I have so many questions about them, but I need to know the truth. Can you help me with that as well?” I watch as she calls down a star, the sizeable burning mass growing larger until it suddenly shrinks to fit into her hand. She kisses it gingerly and then blows on it, the star traveling my way. I don’t know what to do if I should catch it or just let it do whatever it wants. And so, I stand stiffly, watching as it floats to my forehead. As soon as it touches, my world again goes bright, and when it dies down, I’m back in the goddess’s peaceful sanctum. “Well, the good news is that you are not crazy,” she tells me, attempting to smile, but it only comes off as saddened. “But?” “Because you are not of this world, there is only so much I can see and understand. What I do know is that a malicious spirit lives within you, one that is still trying to learn you.” “Learn me? They know me, trust me. They’ve been with me since I was a child.” Her face wrinkles up in confusion, “this is not possible. The energy I received is still fresh, only recently has this spirit ever been attached to you.” “Is it possible that it just seems fresh because it happened a while ago? Even though I know them?” She shakes her head, “no. What I feel is not that. This spirit is not the same.” I take a deep breath in and out, for the first time ever, I wish for the Entity to speak. But of course, the one time I need it, they don’t. The Entity … wasn’t the Entity? “As for your other problem,” she continues, “there is a spell that I can gift you, but only someone with a firm grip on magic can use it.” [[“You can’t just send me back yourself?”]] [[“I have a friend, she can.”]] <</if>>\

<<if $bradley <= 50>>\ Suddenly, I’m back in front of the Moon’s shrine, feeling as if I was violently pushed down. I guess whoever that was didn’t like my answer. I would need to seek out the other two then, perhaps I would fit better with them. [[Seek out Darkness|PD]] <<if $sun1 is false>>\ [[Seek out Sun|PS]] <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I feel something nudging me forward, towards a massive glowing star, and then everything becomes bright. A few minutes later am I able to see and I find myself before a beautiful oasis. The water is a cerulean blue, which is paired beautifully with the pink petals falling off of nearby cherry blossoms. In the distance, the water continues, until the horizon cuts it off. The sky is a shade darker than the water, with a million stars glimmering. I search for a moon, believing it would be in the sky since that was who I prayed to, but see no one. “How can I help you, foreigner?” I turn on my heel, and my eyes widen at the beautiful woman there. Her skin is a deep rich brown, pairing wonderfully with the bold white dress that draped across her figure. This was Moon, this was the goddess, it had to be. Her beauty was ethereal, just staring at her made me feel at peace, and even in this foreign land, I felt like I belonged. “I … I wanted to ask you something,” I manage to say, and she nods her head. She moves her flowing white hair out of the way, and her silver eyes land on me. “I know, I have been watching you in interest since you appeared in this strange world of ours. We have never had a visitor from another world.” “And yet, you don’t seem surprised.” “We have had other strange occurrences, and the magic here never ceases to amaze me. You wonder how to get back home?” “I do, can you help me?” She nods but gives me a pointed look, “tell me what else ails you as well.” I clear my throat, the thought had been forming ever since I walked into the temple, “I have … this voice, within my head. I have so many questions about them, but I need to know the truth. Can you help me with that as well?” I watch as she calls down a star, the sizeable burning mass growing larger until it suddenly shrinks to fit into her hand. She kisses it gingerly and then blows on it, the star traveling my way. I don’t know what to do if I should catch it or just let it do whatever it wants. And so, I stand stiffly, watching as it floats to my forehead. As soon as it touches, my world again goes bright, and when it dies down, I’m back in the goddess’s peaceful sanctum. “Well, the good news is that you are not crazy,” she tells me, attempting to smile, but it only comes off as saddened. “But?” “Because you are not of this world, there is only so much I can see and understand. What I do know is that a malicious spirit lives within you, one that is still trying to learn you.” “Learn me? They know me, trust me. They’ve been with me since I was a child.” Her face wrinkles up in confusion, “this is not possible. The energy I received is still fresh, only recently has this spirit ever been attached to you.” “Is it possible that it just seems fresh because it happened a while ago? Even though I know them?” She shakes her head, “no. What I feel is not that. This spirit is not the same.” I take a deep breath in and out, for the first time ever, I wish for the Entity to speak. But of course, the one time I need it, they don’t. The Entity … wasn’t the Entity? “As for your other problem,” she continues, “there is a spell that I can gift you, but only someone with a firm grip on magic can use it.” [[“You can’t just send me back yourself?”]] [[“I have a friend, she can.”]] <</if>>\

Suddenly, I’m back in front of the Moon’s shrine, feeling as if I was violently pushed down. I guess whoever that was didn’t like my answer. I would need to seek out the other two then, perhaps I would fit better with them. [[Seek out Darkness|PD]] <<if $sun1 is false>>\ [[Seek out Sun|PS]] <</if>>\

<<if $chris <= 50>>\ Suddenly, I’m back in front of the Moon’s shrine, feeling as if I was violently pushed down. I guess whoever that was didn’t like my answer. I would need to seek out the other two then, perhaps I would fit better with them. [[Seek out Darkness|PD]] <<if $sun1 is false>>\ [[Seek out Sun|PS]] <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I feel something nudging me forward, towards a massive glowing star, and then everything becomes bright. A few minutes later am I able to see and I find myself before a beautiful oasis. The water is a cerulean blue, which is paired beautifully with the pink petals falling off of nearby cherry blossoms. In the distance, the water continues, until the horizon cuts it off. The sky is a shade darker than the water, with a million stars glimmering. I search for a moon, believing it would be in the sky since that was who I prayed to, but see no one. “How can I help you, foreigner?” I turn on my heel, and my eyes widen at the beautiful woman there. Her skin is a deep rich brown, pairing wonderfully with the bold white dress that draped across her figure. This was Moon, this was the goddess, it had to be. Her beauty was ethereal, just staring at her made me feel at peace, and even in this foreign land, I felt like I belonged. “I … I wanted to ask you something,” I manage to say, and she nods her head. She moves her flowing white hair out of the way, and her silver eyes land on me. “I know, I have been watching you in interest since you appeared in this strange world of ours. We have never had a visitor from another world.” “And yet, you don’t seem surprised.” “We have had other strange occurrences, and the magic here never ceases to amaze me. You wonder how to get back home?” “I do, can you help me?” She nods but gives me a pointed look, “tell me what else ails you as well.” I clear my throat, the thought had been forming ever since I walked into the temple, “I have … this voice, within my head. I have so many questions about them, but I need to know the truth. Can you help me with that as well?” I watch as she calls down a star, the sizeable burning mass growing larger until it suddenly shrinks to fit into her hand. She kisses it gingerly and then blows on it, the star traveling my way. I don’t know what to do if I should catch it or just let it do whatever it wants. And so, I stand stiffly, watching as it floats to my forehead. As soon as it touches, my world again goes bright, and when it dies down, I’m back in the goddess’s peaceful sanctum. “Well, the good news is that you are not crazy,” she tells me, attempting to smile, but it only comes off as saddened. “But?” “Because you are not of this world, there is only so much I can see and understand. What I do know is that a malicious spirit lives within you, one that is still trying to learn you.” “Learn me? They know me, trust me. They’ve been with me since I was a child.” Her face wrinkles up in confusion, “this is not possible. The energy I received is still fresh, only recently has this spirit ever been attached to you.” “Is it possible that it just seems fresh because it happened a while ago? Even though I know them?” She shakes her head, “no. What I feel is not that. This spirit is not the same.” I take a deep breath in and out, for the first time ever, I wish for the Entity to speak. But of course, the one time I need it, they don’t. The Entity … wasn’t the Entity? “As for your other problem,” she continues, “there is a spell that I can gift you, but only someone with a firm grip on magic can use it.” [[“You can’t just send me back yourself?”]] [[“I have a friend, she can.”]] <</if>>\

The goddess shakes her head sadly, “I’m unable to reach worlds beyond my own. It would mess up more than you know.” I can only gift you this spell, and you must find one who can do it.” I think of Sydero, nodding my head as she calls forth a second star. After the star gives me the memory, I suddenly feel myself zapped forward, and yet again I sit in front of the goddess’s shrine. Esther wishes to hear nothing but what the deities were like, how they looked and spoke. If they were as kind as she might’ve believed, or as ruthless as others said. Despite actually talking to them, I can’t recall much, only crucial elements. I now know a spell that was useless to me, but helpful to give to Sydero to get us back home. But even more than that, the Entity wasn’t who I thought they were, who they said they were. They were another being entirely. And more than anything, I wished to get answers regarding this. But they remained quiet as if never existing. Which we both knew was a lie. <<if hasVisited("Tell Esther the truth.")>>\ “So, what now? Will you be grabbing your friend from the dungeon and returning home?” “Not yet. We still have to find that witch and put an end to her. Otherwise, I don’t think we can just zap home.” Esther nods in understanding, and I notice a small skip in her step. Perhaps excited to be a part of something like this. <<else>>\ “Did they grant you what you sought?” I was about to reply yes when I realized that I still needed one more part of the plan done, guess I would just have to lie more. “Yes, and no. The gods told me that I need to find someone and have them answer for their crime. Atonement, I suppose.” Esther nods her head, and we hurry back to the central part of town <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC3_7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The goddess nods as she grabs another star and sends it my way. “I apologize for what you are feeling. I do hope you find what you seek.” I nod and just like that, I was back. The goddess’s shrine rests before me, gathering dust and grime. And it is only now that I realize that the statue doesn’t do the beautiful deity any justice whatsoever. Esther wishes to hear nothing but what the deities were like, how they looked and spoke. If they were as kind as she might’ve believed, or as ruthless as others said. Despite actually talking to them, I can’t recall much, only crucial elements. I now know a spell that was useless to me, but helpful to give to Sydero to get us back home. But even more than that, the Entity wasn’t who I thought they were, who they said they were. They were another being entirely. And more than anything, I wished to get answers regarding this. But they remained quiet as if never existing. Which we both knew was a lie. <<if hasVisited("Tell Esther the truth.")>>\ “So, what now? Will you be grabbing your friend from the dungeon and returning home?” “Not yet. We still have to find that witch and put an end to her. Otherwise, I don’t think we can just zap home.” Esther nods in understanding, and I notice a small skip in her step. Perhaps excited to be a part of something like this. <<else>>\ “Did they grant you what you sought?” I was about to reply yes when I realized that I still needed one more part of the plan done, guess I would just have to lie more. “Yes, and no. The gods told me that I need to find someone and have them answer for their crime. Atonement, I suppose.” Esther nods her head, and we hurry back to the central part of town <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC3_7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The god shakes his head sadly, “I am unable to reach worlds beyond my own. It would mess up more than you know. I can only gift you this spell and you must find one who can do it.” I think of Sydero, nodding my head as he stares down at me again. That feeling of being totally vulnerable washing over me, before suddenly, I feel myself zapped forward, and yet again I sit in front of the god’s shrine. Esther wishes to hear nothing but what the deities were like, how they looked and spoke. If they were as kind as she might’ve believed, or as ruthless as others said. Despite actually talking to them, I can’t recall much, only crucial elements. I now know a spell that was useless to me, but helpful to give to Sydero to get us back home. But even more than that, the Entity wasn’t who I thought they were, who they said they were. They were another being entirely. And more than anything, I wished to get answers regarding this. But they remained quiet as if never existing. Which we both knew was a lie. <<if hasVisited("Tell Esther the truth.")>>\ “So, what now? Will you be grabbing your friend from the dungeon and returning home?” “Not yet. We still have to find that witch and put an end to her. Otherwise, I don’t think we can just zap home.” Esther nods in understanding, and I notice a small skip in her step. Perhaps excited to be a part of something like this. <<else>>\ “Did they grant you what you sought?” I was about to reply yes when I realized that I still needed one more part of the plan done, guess I would just have to lie more. “Yes, and no. The gods told me that I need to find someone and have them answer for their crime. Atonement, I suppose.” Esther nods her head, and we hurry back to the central part of town <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC3_7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The god nods as he looks at me again, that feeling of being totally vulnerable encroaching once again. “I do hope you find what you seek.” Before I can respond, I was back. The god’s shrine rests before me, gathering dust and grime. Esther wishes to hear nothing but what the deities were like, how they looked and spoke. If they were as kind as she might’ve believed, or as ruthless as others said. Despite actually talking to them, I can’t recall much, only crucial elements. I now know a spell that was useless to me, but helpful to give to Sydero to get us back home. But even more than that, the Entity wasn’t who I thought they were, who they said they were. They were another being entirely. And more than anything, I wished to get answers regarding this. But they remained quiet as if never existing. Which we both knew was a lie. <<if hasVisited("Tell Esther the truth.")>>\ “So, what now? Will you be grabbing your friend from the dungeon and returning home?” “Not yet. We still have to find that witch and put an end to her. Otherwise, I don’t think we can just zap home.” Esther nods in understanding, and I notice a small skip in her step. Perhaps excited to be a part of something like this. <<else>>\ “Did they grant you what you sought?” I was about to reply yes when I realized that I still needed one more part of the plan done, guess I would just have to lie more. “Yes, and no. The gods told me that I need to find someone and have them answer for their crime. Atonement, I suppose.” Esther nods her head, and we hurry back to the central part of town <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC3_7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

If it was somehow possible, the light grows even brighter, no amount of me closing my eyes helps. When it finally dims, I find myself in a desert landscape, though it mirrors that of a healthy oasis. The sky is a faded yellow with splashes of blue, clouds dancing around as if playing tag with their neighbors. Though the land is harsh, cactuses with lush fruit and bright flowers are everywhere. A small lake resides nearby, brimming with life. “You came to sightsee?” I hear the same voice from earlier ask, though it’s much more authoritative and it belongs to a figure that looks like he could snap me in two with a blink of his eye. The man is barely dressed, wearing nothing but a chest plate and a loincloth to cover what might be his extremities. He is muscular beyond belief, every muscle decorating his golden tinted sculpted body has been given particular detail. He indeed looked like he could’ve been created by the Greeks themselves. Hercules and Zeus would fawn over this man. His white hair was braided into a bun, though a few pieces had managed to escape. Beyond that, his silver eyes look upon me in boredom, though an ounce of curiosity seems to rest within them. “No, but you knew that,” I speak, hoping I sounded confident. He’s currently sitting on a sturdy rock, leaning forward as he eyes me, “Sun, I take it?” “Indeed. What do you want mortal?” “I … I wanted to ask you something,” I manage to say, and he rolls his eyes. “Obviously, otherwise why did you pray,” he stands and goes to a nearby Phoenix, petting it lovingly, “well, spit it out. I really do not have time for this.” I suppose there was something to say for his manners. “You see, I’m not from –” “Yes, yes, I know. I have been watching you since you appeared in this world. Wondering what the hell you wanted, because, you see, we have never had a visitor from another world.” “Then you know I seek to get home, can you help me?” Faster we finished this conversation the better. “Yea, sure. Is that it?” I clear my throat, a thought had been forming ever since I walked into the temple, “I have … this voice, within my head. I have so many questions about them, but I need to know the truth. Can you help me with that as well?” He forms a cloud with his hands and pushes it my way. “Grab it.” I do as he says, not knowing what to do after that, though. I just stare at it, until he tells me to send it back his way. He seems to study it as if there was something in the cloud that I hadn’t seen before. “You have one mean spirit living inside of you. A filthy beast that needs to be exterminated,” he tells me. I wait to see if the Entity will speak up in their defense, but nothing. “So there is something there …” “Because you are not of this world, there is only so much I can see and understand. What I do know is that the thing is inside you, but it is still confused. Seems to be trying to learn you.” “Learn me? They know me, trust me. They’ve been with me since I was a child.” His eyebrow raises, “not possible. Granted, I hate these things as much as the next god, but I was able to read it easily, and it is still new.” “Is it possible that it just seems fresh because it happened a while ago? Even though I know them?” “Hey! The spirit is not the same, okay!” he barks in anger, causing me to shut up quickly. I take a deep breath in and out, for the first time ever, I wish for the Entity to speak. But of course, the one time I need it, they don’t. The Entity … wasn’t the Entity? “As for your other problem,” he continues, “there is a spell that I can gift you, but only someone with a firm grip on magic can use it.” [[“You can’t just send me back yourself?”|PS1]] [[“I have a friend, she can.”|PS2]]

“Then you don’t interest me,” I hear the voice speak and suddenly, I’m back in front of Sun’s shrine, feeling as if I was violently pushed away. I guess whoever that was didn’t like my answer. I would need to seek out the other two then, perhaps I would fit better with them. [[Seek out Darkness|PD]] <<if $moon1 is false>>\ [[Seek out Moon|PM]] <</if>>\

“It would be interesting to try, but no. I can only gift you this spell, and you must find one who can do it.” I think of Sydero, nodding my head as he stares down at me again. That feeling of being totally vulnerable washing over me, before suddenly, I feel myself zapped forward, and yet again I sit in front of the god’s shrine. Esther wishes to hear nothing but what the deities were like, how they looked and spoke. If they were as kind as she might’ve believed, or as ruthless as others said. Despite actually talking to them, I can’t recall much, only crucial elements. I now know a spell that was useless to me, but helpful to give to Sydero to get us back home. But even more than that, the Entity wasn’t who I thought they were, who they said they were. They were another being entirely. And more than anything, I wished to get answers regarding this. But they remained quiet as if never existing. Which we both knew was a lie. <<if hasVisited("Tell Esther the truth.")>>\ “So, what now? Will you be grabbing your friend from the dungeon and returning home?” “Not yet. We still have to find that witch and put an end to her. Otherwise, I don’t think we can just zap home.” Esther nods in understanding, and I notice a small skip in her step. Perhaps excited to be a part of something like this. <<else>>\ “Did they grant you what you sought?” I was about to reply yes when I realized that I still needed one more part of the plan done, guess I would just have to lie more. “Yes, and no. The gods told me that I need to find someone and have them answer for their crime. Atonement, I suppose.” Esther nods her head, and we hurry back to the central part of town <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC3_7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The god nods, seeming relieved that our conversation was now over. With one snap, I’m back in front of his shrine. Realizing just how well they captured his arrogance and cocky posture. Esther wishes to hear nothing but what the deities were like, how they looked and spoke. If they were as kind as she might’ve believed, or as ruthless as others said. Despite actually talking to them, I can’t recall much, only crucial elements. I now know a spell that was useless to me, but helpful to give to Sydero to get us back home. But even more than that, the Entity wasn’t who I thought they were, who they said they were. They were another being entirely. And more than anything, I wished to get answers regarding this. But they remained quiet as if never existing. Which we both knew was a lie. <<if hasVisited("Tell Esther the truth.")>>\ “So, what now? Will you be grabbing your friend from the dungeon and returning home?” “Not yet. We still have to find that witch and put an end to her. Otherwise, I don’t think we can just zap home.” Esther nods in understanding, and I notice a small skip in her step. Perhaps excited to be a part of something like this. <<else>>\ “Did they grant you what you sought?” I was about to reply yes when I realized that I still needed one more part of the plan done, guess I would just have to lie more. “Yes, and no. The gods told me that I need to find someone and have them answer for their crime. Atonement, I suppose.” Esther nods her head, and we hurry back to the central part of town <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC3_7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ <<if hasVisited("Tell Esther the truth.")>>\ Once I reunite with Chris, I tell him what I learned and try to brainstorm ideas about capturing the witch. “I say we just ride around and try to find her, no way she’s not still in town,” he tells me, and I shrug. I agree with him, but riding around pointlessly would take up way too much time. Especially when Sydero was due to die tomorrow. “If I can be so bold,” Esther begins, “why not use your friend’s execution? Would that not draw the witch out. She does wish you dead, right?” I look over at Chris who rolls his eyes but otherwise doesn’t say anything. “So ride around pointlessly for this witch, or lure her in?” [[Ride around to find her.]] [[Lure her in with the execution.]] <<else>>\ Once I reunite with Chris, I tell him what I learned and try to brainstorm ideas about capturing the witch. “I say we just ride around and try to find her, no way she’s not still in town,” he tells me, and I shrug. I agree with him, but riding around pointlessly would take up way too much time. Especially when Sydero was due to die tomorrow. Which gave me an idea. “What about the execution? She wants us dead, right? We could lure her in with that and take her down there.” “We don’t know what she looks like, or if she’ll even show. It’s a gamble that we can't take.” “But riding around is a much better idea?” [[Ride around to find her.]] [[Lure her in with the execution.]] <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if hasVisited("Tell Esther the truth.")>>\ Once I return to my room with Esther, I talk my way through what I need to do next, as well as what I’m thinking. At the moment, I can only think about riding around, hoping to come across the witch in the process. It would take some time, but what else could I do? I needed Esther also so that she could identify the witch. “If I can be so bold,” Esther begins, “why not use your friend’s execution? Would that not draw the witch out. She does wish you dead, right?” “So ride around pointlessly for this witch, or lure her in?” [[Ride around to find her.]] [[Lure her in with the execution.]] <<else>>\ Once I return to my room, I talk my way through what I need to do next, as well as what I’m thinking. At the moment, I can only think about riding around, hoping to come across the witch in the process. It would take some time, but what else could I do? I needed Esther also so that she could identify the witch. And I wasn’t exactly looking forward to finding another reason for her to help me. I sigh, I suppose I know what I must do. [[Ride around to find her.]] <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<if $cp>>\ The next day, Chris and I get up earlier than usual to head down to the dungeons to speak to Sydero. The guards don’t mind our presence, and many completely ignore us, tending to the other prisoners. We find Sydero sitting in a corner, sighing dramatically. “Did something happen?” She questions as soon as she sees us. With Chris keeping watch, I tell Sydero about what the deity told me, and then tell her about the spell. We stand quietly as Sydero goes over the spell a couple of times to herself, marking things off and whispering to herself every now and then. “Yea, I can do it. Hard as heck since this place’s magic is off the charts, but I got it. But the witch has to die first.” “Could we just drop a house on her?” Chris mumbles, both of us ignoring him. “We're going out with Esther to look for her as soon as we leave here.” Sydero nods, "try to be quick about it then." <<else>>\ The next day, I get up earlier than usual to head down to the dungeons to speak to Sydero. The guards don’t mind my presence, and many completely ignore me, tending to the other prisoners. I find Sydero sitting in a corner, sighing dramatically. “Did something happen?” She questions as soon as she sees me. I tell Sydero about what the deity told me, and then tell her about the spell. I stand quietly as Sydero goes over the spell a couple of times to herself, marking things off and whispering to herself every now and then. “Yea, I can do it. Hard as heck since this place’s magic is off the charts, but I got it. But the witch has to die first.” “I'm going out with Esther to look for her.” Sydero nods, "try to be quick about it then." <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC3_9"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<> <<set $lure = true>> <<endnobr>> <<if $cp>>\ The next day, Chris and I get up earlier than usual to head down to the dungeons to speak to Sydero. The guards don’t mind our presence, and many completely ignore us, tending to the other prisoners. In front of Sydero’s cell stands the Lieutenant that we had met when we first woke up in this world. As we get closer, we watch as he lunges forward and seizes Sydero up, prompting her to immediately head butt him. Once he recovers though, he backhands her, the force sending her into the nearest wall. <<else>>\ The next day, I get up earlier than usual to head down to the dungeons to speak to Sydero. The guards don’t mind my presence, and many completely ignore me, tending to the other prisoners. In front of Sydero’s cell stands the Lieutenant that I had met when I first woke up in this world. As I get closer, I watch as he lunges forward and seizes Sydero up, prompting her to immediately head butt him. Once he recovers though, he backhands her, the force sending her into the nearest wall. <</if>>\ [[Stop him.]] [[Play my role.]]

I stiffen and bark orders for him to stop, him and his guards looking at me in confusion. I help Sydero up to her feet and turn my attention to the Lieutenant. “She’s dying today, this is how you treat a prisoner who will no longer see another sunrise?” “She is not a prisoner, she is a monster,” the Lieutenant scowls but does nothing else. Instead, he shouts orders to the guards at his side before stalking off. <<if $cp>>\ “That man is a menace,” Sydero says, looking the two of us up and down, “did something happen?” While Chris keeps watch, I tell Sydero about what the deity told me, and then tell her about the spell. We stand in silence as Sydero goes over the spell a couple of times to herself, marking things off and whispering to herself every now and then. “Yea, I can do it. But the witch has to die first.” “Could we just drop a house on her?” Chris mumbles, both of us ignoring him. “We’re hoping she’ll come to see your execution.” “How do you know what she’ll look like?” <<if hasVisited("Tell Esther the truth.")>>\ “Esther, one of the servants. I told her about us, so she knows what’s going on. She said she’ll help.” Sydero nods, about to say more, when the guards come over, iron chains in their hands. <<else>>\ “Esther, one of the servants. I coerced her into helping me.” Sydero nods, about to say more, when the guards come over, iron chains in their hands. <</if>>\ We move out of their way, watching as they set the chains over Sydero’s wrist and then lead her away. “See you at the execution,” she shouts over her shoulder, a giddiness in her voice. Chris and I follow behind them, joining the crowd once we get to the execution circle. I search for Esther while Chris searches for anyone who might look even the bit suspicious. <<else>>\ I do nothing, not even looking in Sydero’s direction as I get to the Lieutenant’s side. “Hunter, good morning. Great day for an execution, isn’t it?” he questions joyfully, and I nod, throwing a look over at Sydero who wipes some blood from her mouth and rolls her eyes. I wait until the guards and Lieutenant walk off before putting my full attention on Sydero. “That man is a menace,” Sydero says, looking at me up and down, “did something happen?” I tell Sydero about what the deity told me, and then tell her about the spell. I stand quietly as Sydero goes over the spell a couple of times to herself, marking things off and whispering to herself every now and then. “Yea, I can do it. Hard as heck since this place’s magic is off the charts, but I got it. But the witch has to die first.” “I have a plan. I’m hoping she’ll come to see your execution.” “How do you know what she’ll look like?” “Esther, one of the servants. I told her about us, so she knows what’s going on. She said she’ll help.” Sydero nods, about to say more, when the guards come over, iron chains in their hands. I move out of their way, watching as they set the chains over Sydero’s wrist and then lead her away. “See you at the execution,” she shouts over her shoulder, a giddiness in her voice. She’s the only person in existence who would sound like she was welcoming her own execution. I follow behind them, joining the crowd once I get to the execution circle, searching for Esther. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC3_8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ I do nothing, and neither does Chris, both of us not even looking in Sydero’s direction as we get to the Lieutenant’s side. “Hunters, good morning. Great day for an execution, isn’t it?” he questions joyfully, and I nod, throwing a look over at Sydero who wipes some blood from her mouth and rolls her eyes. We wait until the guards and Lieutenant walk off before putting our full attention on Sydero. “That man is a menace,” Sydero says, looking the two of us up and down, “did something happen?” While Chris keeps watch, I tell Sydero about what the deity told me, and then tell her about the spell. We stand in silence as Sydero goes over the spell a couple of times to herself, marking things off and whispering to herself every now and then. “Yea, I can do it. But the witch has to die first.” “Could we just drop a house on her?” Chris mumbles, both of us ignoring him. “We have a plan to do just that. We’re hoping she’ll come to see your execution.” “How do you know what she’ll look like?” <<if hasVisited("Tell Esther the truth.")>>\ “Esther, one of the servants. I told her about us, so she knows what’s going on. She said she’ll help.” Sydero nods, about to say more, when the guards come over, iron chains in their hands. <<else>>\ “Esther, one of the servants. I coerced her into helping me.” Sydero nods, about to say more, when the guards come over, iron chains in their hands. <</if>>\ We move out of their way, watching as they set the chains over Sydero’s wrist and then lead her away. “See you at the execution,” she shouts over her shoulder, a giddiness in her voice. Chris and I follow behind them, joining the crowd once we get to the execution circle. I search for Esther while Chris searches for anyone who might look even the bit suspicious. <<else>>\ I do nothing, not even looking in Sydero’s direction as I get to the Lieutenant’s side. “Hunter, good morning. Great day for an execution, isn’t it?” he questions joyfully, and I nod, throwing a look over at Sydero who wipes some blood from her mouth and rolls her eyes. I wait until the guards and Lieutenant walk off before putting my full attention on Sydero. “That man is a menace,” Sydero says, looking at me up and down, “did something happen?” I tell Sydero about what the deity told me, and then tell her about the spell. I stand quietly as Sydero goes over the spell a couple of times to herself, marking things off and whispering to herself every now and then. “Yea, I can do it. Hard as heck since this place’s magic is off the charts, but I got it. But the witch has to die first.” “I have a plan. I’m hoping she’ll come to see your execution.” “How do you know what she’ll look like?” “Esther, one of the servants. I told her about us, so she knows what’s going on. She said she’ll help.” Sydero nods, about to say more, when the guards come over, iron chains in their hands. I move out of their way, watching as they set the chains over Sydero’s wrist and then lead her away. “See you at the execution,” she shouts over her shoulder, a giddiness in her voice. She’s the only person in existence who would sound like she was welcoming her own execution. I follow behind them, joining the crowd once I get to the execution circle, searching for Esther. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC3_8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Over here,” I hear her before I see her. I glance around, smiling when I see her fighting to get to me, a small smile on her face. “Anything yet?” I question. Looking around but again, not knowing what I was looking for. “No, but I believe she’ll be at the back of the group. In case something goes astray.” “Then let’s start there.” As we search, a low drum begins to play, playing a heavy, mournful song. I half expect dark clouds to move in and rain to start falling along with the beat of the drum. But the sun stays planted, and only a few clouds dot the light blue sky overhead. It would seem that even the weather cared little for the supposed execution. I watch as they march Sydero’s figure onto the stage, everyone booing as they throw items at her. The crowd cheers for her impending death, some even stating that they should do it slowly, to cause her to suffer. These people didn’t even know her, didn’t know her crimes, only knew what she looked like, and that was enough to condemn her. I turn up my nose as I continue searching for our witch. “$name,” Esther shrieks softly, yanking me and pointing to a figure that stood near the back of the crowd. The character wore a black hood that did an excellent job of hiding most of their features. “How do you know for sure?” <<if $cp>>\ “That is the same cloak that the witch wore when I first saw her.” I nod my thanks to Esther, gazing around for Chris. I see him closer to the stage. He wouldn’t get here fast enough, that and his help probably would be as helpful as it always was. <<else>>\ “That is the same cloak that the witch wore when I first saw her.” I nod my thanks to Esther, gazing back at the witch. <</if>>\ [[Try and get her away from the crowd.]] [[End this here and now.]]

I head towards her, trying to figure out a suitable way to get her away from the people, apart from the crowd in general. I could tell her that the King would like to thank her, sending me to fetch her, though I don’t exactly look like a servant or guard. There really wasn’t any other lie to be told. “Stop,” I hear the Entity hiss. “Oh, so now you want to surface. Mind answering some questions?” I hiss right back. This wasn’t the time; I didn’t have time to focus on them and the witch. “That can be done at a later time. This witch is not what she seems. Stop.” “Shut up,” I bark back. I was almost there, so why did I feel something creeping over me, as if trying to tell me that the Entity spoke the truth. Before I could take another step, the witch moves her eyes to me, and a thick black mist shoots from her body and into me. I yell in pain as I’m thrown back, skidding across the ground and into Esther’s waiting arms. “$name!” she shouts, my hearing, along with my vision, going in and out as I try to get my bearings back. “You!” I hear an unfamiliar voice shout, along with some screaming and the sound of feet pounding against a hardpacked ground. “You must get up now,” Esther shouts at me. “Esther, get out of here,” I tell her weakly, pushing myself up just as a force hits me again. I skid across the ground, wishing for a single minute to get my bearings. “You won’t survive this,” the Entity scolds me, “but, you can.” I raise a brow at their words, my brain asking how. “Give me control. I can get you out of this mess.” “Yea, right. Like I’m going to allow that,” I snicker. Pushing myself up to my feet, looking in the distance that I last saw the witch. Before the Entity could plead their case further, I feel something grab my neck, and I turn my gaze to see the witch standing there, her eyes burning with anger and hurt. <<if $cp>>\ “You took my family from me!” With incredible strength, she slams my body into the ground, her grip on my neck never faltering. “So I’ll take your life.” My vision begins to swim again. On the edge of my consciousness, I can hear Chris calling my name. I can hear the screams of those nearby, and the officials trying to calm everyone down as they try and figure out what was going on. And then I catch them, their words echoing in my head. “You’ll die unless you let me help.” I clench my eyes closed, tasting my own death on my tongue. <<else>>\ “You took my family from me!” With incredible strength, she slams my body into the ground, her grip on my neck never faltering. “So I’ll take your life.” My vision begins to swim again. On the edge of my consciousness, I can hear the screams of those nearby, and the officials trying to calm everyone down as they try and figure out what was going on. And then I catch them, their words echoing in my head. “You’ll die unless you let me help.” I clench my eyes closed, tasting my own death on my tongue. <</if>>\ [[Yes.|EP8-Act Four][$entitytakeover = true]] [[No.|EP8-Act Four]]

I take out the blade that I always kept on my person, hiding it, though the motion is pointless. This crowd was paying no attention to me. All of their attention on the woman on stage about to get her neck chopped off. I maneuver through the crowd, my eyes glued on the figure in the cloak, my heart hammering rapidly as I approached. “Stop,” I hear the Entity hiss. “Oh, so now you want to surface. Mind answering some questions?” I hiss right back. This wasn’t the time; I didn’t have time to focus on them and the witch. “That can be done at a later time. This witch is not what she seems. Stop.” “Shut up,” I bark back. I was almost there, so why did I feel something creeping over me, as if trying to tell me that the Entity spoke the truth. Before I could take another step, the witch moves her eyes to me, and a thick black mist shoots from her body and into me. I yell in pain as I’m thrown back, skidding across the ground and into Esther’s waiting arms. “$name!” she shouts, my hearing, along with my vision, going in and out as I try to get my bearings back. “You!” I hear an unfamiliar voice shout, along with some screaming and the sound of feet pounding against a hardpacked ground. “You must get up now,” Esther shouts at me. “Esther, get out of here,” I tell her weakly, pushing myself up just as a force hits me again. I skid across the ground, wishing for a single minute to get my bearings. “You won’t survive this,” the Entity scolds me, “but, you can.” I raise a brow at their words, my brain asking how. “Give me control. I can get you out of this mess.” “Yea, right. Like I’m going to allow that,” I snicker. Pushing myself up to my feet, looking in the distance that I last saw the witch. Before the Entity could plead their case further, I feel something grab my neck, and I turn my gaze to see the witch standing there, her eyes burning with anger and hurt. <<if $cp>>\ “You took my family from me!” With incredible strength, she slams my body into the ground, her grip on my neck never faltering. “So I’ll take your life.” My vision begins to swim again. On the edge of my consciousness, I can hear Chris calling my name. I can hear the screams of those nearby, and the officials trying to calm everyone down as they try and figure out what was going on. And then I catch them, their words echoing in my head. “You’ll die unless you let me help.” I clench my eyes closed, tasting my own death on my tongue. <<else>>\ “You took my family from me!” With incredible strength, she slams my body into the ground, her grip on my neck never faltering. “So I’ll take your life.” My vision begins to swim again. On the edge of my consciousness, I can hear the screams of those nearby, and the officials trying to calm everyone down as they try and figure out what was going on. And then I catch them, their words echoing in my head. “You’ll die unless you let me help.” I clench my eyes closed, tasting my own death on my tongue. <</if>>\ [[Yes.|EP8-Act Four][$entitytakeover = true]] [[No.|EP8-Act Four]]

<<if $cp>>\ Chris and I meet Esther in the stables. Already saddled up are three horses, each pacing with anticipation. “Are you ready?” Esther questions us, mounting her horse and looking towards us both. We weren’t, it was too early in the morning, in all honesty, but what could one do? We nod and mount up, following her away from the castle, away from the main square where I notice the execution is to take place. And then towards the countryside. “You think she’ll be way out here?” I ask, leaning forward in my horse as I catch up with Esther. “She appears as a witch and claims she is one. Whether Cimmerian in appearance or human, no innkeeper will allow her to stay in their buildings. And no one will welcome her into their home.” “So that automatically means she’ll be out here?” Chris asks, not trying to hide his unhappiness. “It is the only place she could exist in peace.” We stop asking questions, focusing on the task of finding her. We peer into different huts and buildings along the way, knocking on doors to ask if they had seen her. We try bars and other places that could be used for shelter but were also inconspicuous enough to be overlooked by others. Each area feels like a failure, and as the sun rises higher in the sky, our time begins to lessen. “Maybe we should head back, see if we can spot her amongst the people coming for the execution.” “If we spot her, then she can spot us,” I point out, but Chris doesn’t seem to care much about that. He’s already turning his horse around and making his way back towards town, ignoring me. Which, in a way, is quite funny, since we both know he’ll be the first to be disposed of in a fight. Esther follows behind him, and I do so as well, rolling my eyes and grumbling to myself as we ride. I continue to look for her as we go, searching some of the faces that head towards the center of the square. My eyes land on a figure with a conspicuous cloak. I look over at Esther, and she looks back at me, nodding. Got her. I give the reins to Esther and head towards the woman. “Stop,” I hear the Entity suddenly hiss. “Oh, so now you want to surface. Mind answering some questions?” I hiss right back. This wasn’t the time; I didn’t have time to focus on him and the witch. “That can be done at a later time. This witch is not what she seems. Stop.” “Shut up,” I bark back. I was almost there, so why did I feel something creeping over me, as if trying to tell me that the Entity spoke the truth. Before I could take another step, the witch moves her eyes to me, and a thick black mist shoots from her body and into me. I yell in pain as I’m thrown back, skidding across the ground and into Esther’s waiting arms. “You!” I hear an unfamiliar voice shout, along with some screaming and the sound of feet pounding against a hardpacked ground. “You must get up now,” Esther shouts at me. “Esther, get out of here,” I tell her weakly, pushing myself up just as a force hits me again. I skid across the ground, wishing for a single minute to get my bearings. “You won’t survive this,” the Entity scolds me, “but, you can.” I raise a brow at their words, my brain asking how. “Give me control. I can get you out of this mess.” “Yea, right. Like I’m going to allow that,” I snicker. Pushing myself up to my feet, looking in the distance that I last saw the witch. Before the Entity could plead their case further, I feel something grab my neck, and I turn my gaze to see the witch standing there, her eyes burning with anger and hurt. “You took my family from me!” With incredible strength, she slams my body into the ground, her grip on my neck never faltering. “So I’ll take your life.” My vision begins to swim again. On the edge of my consciousness, I can hear Chris calling my name, but his voice sounds as if he’s in pain as well. I can hear the screams of those nearby, and the officials trying to calm everyone down as they try and figure out what was going on. And then I hear them, their words echoing in my head. “You’ll die unless you let me help.” I clench my eyes closed, tasting my own death on my tongue. <<else>>\ I meet Esther in the stables. Already saddled up are two horses, both pacing with anticipation. “Are you ready?” Esther questions me, mounting her horse and looking towards me. I wasn’t, it was too early in the morning, in all honesty, but what could one do? I nod and mount up, following her away from the castle, away from the main square where I notice the execution is to take place. And then towards the countryside. “You think she’ll be way out here?” I ask, leaning forward in my horse as I catch up with Esther. “She appears as a witch and claims she is one. Whether Cimmerian in appearance or human, no innkeeper will allow her to stay in their buildings. And no one will welcome her into their home.” “So that automatically means she’ll be out here?” I continue to question. “It is the only place she could exist in peace.” I stop asking questions, focusing on the task of finding her. We peer into different huts and buildings along the way, knocking on doors to ask if they had seen her. We try bars and other places that could be used for shelter but were also inconspicuous enough to be overlooked by others. Each area feels like a failure, and as the sun rises higher in the sky, our time begins to lessen. “Maybe we should head back, see if we can spot her amongst the people coming for the execution,” Esther suggests. “If we spot her, then she can spot us,” I point out. The problem is that I can’t think of a better idea, and so we both turn our horses back towards the square. I continue to look for her as we go, searching some of the faces that head towards the center of the square. My eyes land on a figure with a conspicuous cloak. I look over at Esther, and she looks back at me, nodding. Got her. I give the reins to Esther and head towards the woman. “Stop,” I hear the Entity suddenly hiss. “Oh, so now you want to surface. Mind answering some questions?” I hiss right back. This wasn’t the time; I didn’t have time to focus on him and the witch. “That can be done at a later time. This witch is not what she seems. Stop.” “Shut up,” I bark back. I was almost there, so why did I feel something creeping over me, as if trying to tell me that the Entity spoke the truth. Before I could take another step, the witch moves her eyes to me, and a thick black mist shoots from her body and into me. I yell in pain as I’m thrown back, skidding across the ground and into Esther’s waiting arms. “You!” I hear an unfamiliar voice shout, along with some screaming and the sound of feet pounding against a hardpacked ground. “You must get up now,” Esther shouts at me. “Esther, get out of here,” I tell her weakly, pushing myself up just as a force hits me again. I skid across the ground, wishing for a single minute to get my bearings. “You won’t survive this,” the Entity scolds me, “but, you can.” I raise a brow at their words, my brain asking how. “Give me control. I can get you out of this mess.” “Yea, right. Like I’m going to allow that,” I snicker. Pushing myself up to my feet, looking in the distance that I last saw the witch. Before the Entity could plead their case further, I feel something grab my neck, and I turn my gaze to see the witch standing there, her eyes burning with anger and hurt. “You took my family from me!” With incredible strength, she slams my body into the ground, her grip on my neck never faltering. “So I’ll take your life.” My vision begins to swim again. On the edge of my consciousness I can hear the screams of those nearby, and the officials trying to calm everyone down as they try and figure out what was going on. And then I hear them, their words echoing in my head. “You’ll die, unless you let me help.” I clench my eyes closed, tasting my own death on my tongue. <</if>>\ [[Yes.|EP8-Act Four][$entitytakeover = true]] [[No.|EP8-Act Four]]

Before I can think further about this power, I hear an ear-piercing scream. The woman’s body is slung over our heads and into the wall behind us, freeing Bradley whose legs give out almost immediately. “Pathetic,” the Entity growls as they approach her. She raises her hand, but before she can summon any power, it freezes in the air, and her body begins to convulse. She lets out a high-pitched scream as the black mist begins to seep from her body to the floor. Her screams rise, and I start to worry about others hearing it, unlike the Entity who seems to bask in the sound. With the last of the black mist gone, her screams fade, and she falls to the ground. Before I can question them, the Entity walks towards the body and picks up the blade that the woman had still been gripping. With no mercy, no second thought, he plunges the knife into her head with unforeseen strength. The feeling that overtakes me now is different, a euphoric one that can be compared to someone relaxing on the beach with their favorite drink, and the weather just right. The feeling fades after not too long, and I find myself in control of my body again. The Entity’s laughter fades from my mind. “$name, is it you?” I hear Bradley question, slowly approaching me. I nod my head and turn to him, “how’s your neck?” “Don’t change the topic of conversation. What the hell was that? You went Super Saiyan!” “That was the thing living inside of me,” I tell him, and he blushes deeply, probably embarrassed from not believing me. He takes a seat beside me and sighs heavily, scratching the side of his head, not sure what to say next, and so, I speak. “What have you been doing this whole time?” “I only woke up because that crazy woman barged in here. When no one was waking up, I knew something was off, but I haven’t even begun to figure it out because I was fighting her.” Now that I look around, no longer focused on the dead woman not too far off, the motel room is a complete mess. The television is broken, tables flipped over, it seemed like the only thing spared were the beds. Bradley nods to the still slumbering <<if $cp>>people in bed<<else>>Sydero<</if>>, “what about <<if $cp>>them<<else>>her<</if>>?” “Sydero knows how to get out.” “You don’t think your disappearance is going to cause her to pause?” He raised a good point. <<if $sydero >=50>>\ “I doubt it. Knowing Sydero, she’ll just do the spell anyway and say that I’m SOL.” <<else>>\ “Hopefully, it doesn’t. I’m hoping Sydero just goes on and does the spell.” <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC4_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ It takes only a few more hours before Sydero and Chris both shoot up from their sleep as if waking from some nightmare. “That’s it,” Chris begins after making sure he’s back, “I’m never going to sleep again.” “Join my legion of the undead,” Bradley jokes. Sydero gazes over at me, raising a brow, but then looks past me, at the dead body that still lies on the floor. <<else>>\ It takes only a few more hours before Sydero shoots up from her sleep as if waking from some nightmare. She takes a moment to get her bearings back, her eyes wild and her pupils dilated. She gazes over at me, raising a brow, but then looks past me, at the dead body that still lies on the floor. <</if>>\ “Care to explain that?” she questions, looking from Bradley to me. [[Tell her.]] [[Let Bradley explain it.]]

I tell her everything that has happened, happy to finally have valid proof about the Entity now, and even more so a witness. She listens quietly, walking around the body in curiosity<<if $cp>>, while Chris just stays on the bed, staring at the ceiling.<<else>>.<</if>> Once I’m done, <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>she<</if>> suggests that we leave, seeing that someone might’ve heard the commotion and called the cops. Bradley also adds that for all we know, she may not have been the last. <<include "FC6">>

I listen to Bradley tell her everything from his point of view, happy to finally have valid proof about the Entity now, and even more so a witness. She listens quietly, walking around the body in curiosity<<if $cp>>, while Chris just stays on the bed, staring at the ceiling.<<else>>.<</if>> Once Bradley’s done, <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>she<</if>> suggests that we leave, seeing that someone might’ve heard the commotion and called the cops. Bradley also adds that for all we know, she may not have been the last. <<include "FC6">>

The spell was ready, it was time for us to go home. “Sure this won’t kill us?” I question Sydero, who doesn’t even look to have the energy to argue with me. She simply rolls her eyes before whispering a word, placing her bloody hand in the center of the circle that we stand in. I see a bright light, and a minute later, the feeling of falling is once again upon me. I try to grab onto something, but my hand grasps nothing. My instincts kick in, terrified of what will happen once we land. And then, everything vanishes. <<if $cp>>\ I sit on the bed, my heart racing as I gaze around the small motel room. Bradley is still in his bed, fast asleep, while Chris is deep breathing beside me, clutching the pillow close to him as he groans about something. Sydero snatches her pillow and hits Bradley with it, her cursing and the words she mutters, a bit more understandable than Chris’s. <<else>>\ I sit on the bed, my heart racing as I gaze around the small motel room. Bradley is still in his bed, fast asleep, while Sydero sits up at attention, her eyes wide as she looks around. Her eyes catch mine before gazing over at Bradley. “Are you kidding me!” she shouts, snatching her pillow and throwing it at Bradley. <</if>>\ We spend the next minutes collecting our things and informing Bradley what had happened. To my amazement, he seems far more worried and embarrassed than fascinated. He sulks around with his head down, like a puppy that had just been scolded. I don’t have time to question him right now, I’ll do that at the next motel. We didn’t feel safe here, not knowing if the witch was the last one or not. <a data-passage="FC6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

With all the energy I can muster, I shoot forward and head butt her, or whatever my head hits, I couldn’t see. I hear her cry out in pain and her grip on me loosens, allowing me some much-needed air. <<if $Cimmerian>>\ “I got you!” I hear Asher shout out, and her grip totally disappears. I take in gulps of air, each one more refreshing than the last. I really needed to stop taking air for granted. I turn to see where Asher and the witch was, the two wrestling to the side of me. I glance around for Sydero and find her further off, her eyes closed. Suddenly, a wave of darkness surged from Sydero and towards the two, knocking into both and sending them flying. Asher doesn’t seem harmed, and I lose track of him as he turns into a shadow as soon as the wave hits. The witch, on the other hand, lands against the ground and goes rolling, gasping in pain. It was time to end this before she could get her second wind. I grab my blade and rush to her side, letting the darkness of the land rush over me and help me forward. I get to her and dodge her flying fists, gripping the blade harder before plunging it into her chest. Her eyes widen as the colors in them lighten up, the black draining out of them, trickling down her cheeks and to the ground beneath us. The last of the black gives way to tears as she stares at me. “I just want my family,” I hear her whisper before she falls into my arms, dead. I stay in my spot, glaring down at the body as her words repeat in my head. “Even the monsters have a story, huh?” Asher questions, helping me up as he stares down at the body, I guess he heard what she said. “Yea, I say,” trailing off. Adrenaline had left my body, leaving me tired, ready to just fall to the ground. In fact, that was probably what I should do. <a data-passage="FC5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ “Get off ?him!” I hear Esther shout out, followed by a loud thump, and then her grip totally disappears. I take in gulps of air, each one more refreshing than the last. I really needed to stop taking air for granted. The witch is momentarily staring at her before looking back at me, but it’s that pause that allows me to act. I shoot towards her, blade in hand, and attempt to stab her again. At the last minute, she focuses back on me. The blade grazes her side, if she hadn’t focused back in, then she would be dead now. The two of us fight, her doing more dodging and whimpering in pain at her new wound, as I try to stab her for good. <<if $blades >=10>>\ The blade in my hand feels natural, all from endless days of practicing and becoming familiar with it. All those movies that made it seem like you had to be one with your weapon to truly wield it, I always believed them to be rubbish, but that was the feeling I had. The blade was an extension of my arm, it was as much as my hand as my actual hand was. Every attack had a purpose, every dodge was countered with a lunge of my own that kept her on her toes. I didn’t give her any room to mess up. And that was her downfall. <<else>>\ The blade felt strange in my hand as if both it and I knew that it didn’t belong there. The only reason I was able to keep her at bay was because of my slashing motions, making it too hard for her to stop and think of a plan to get herself back on the offensive. Though it was mostly just luck, this was going to be her downfall, her inability to strike me. <</if>>\ <<if $cp>>\ She was so busy trying to get away from me, that it was too late for her to focus in on Chris. The tip of a blade struck her back, her eyes widening as she crumpled into my arms. Her eyes widen as the colors in them lighten up, the black draining out of them, trickling down her cheeks and to the ground beneath us. The last of the black gives way to tears as she stares me in my eyes. “I just want my family,” I hear her whisper before she falls into my arms, dead. I stay in my spot, glaring down at the body as her words repeat in my head. “You both did it!” Esther cheers, bringing me away from the witch’s dying words. I smiled up at her and Chris, nodding as the adrenaline left my body. It left me tired, in need of a bed, though the ground would do all the same. In fact, that was probably what I should do. Hopefully, they would reschedule Sydero’s execution for tomorrow, giving us more time to perform the spell and leave this place. <<else>>\ She was so busy trying to get away from me, that it was too late for her to focus in on Esther. Esther stuck out of her foot and tripped the woman, causing her to stagger frantically. It was over, she knew it, and I knew it as I plunged the tip of my knife into her chest. Her eyes widened as she crumpled into my arms. Her eyes widen as the colors in them lighten up, the black draining out of them, trickling down her cheeks and to the ground beneath us. The last of the black gives way to tears as she stares me in my eyes. “I just want my family,” I hear her whisper before she falls into my arms, dead. I stay in my spot, glaring down at the body as her words repeat in my head. “You did it!” Esther cheers, bringing me away from the witch’s dying words. I smiled up at her, nodding as the adrenaline left my body. It left me tired, in need of a bed, though the ground would do all the same. In fact, that was probably what I should do. Hopefully, they would reschedule Sydero’s execution for tomorrow, giving us more time to perform the spell and leave this place. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC5A"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

I don’t know if it was really possible, seeing that my energy reserve was almost on empty. I use my adrenaline, my flight or fight response, and I throw my fist at her face, hearing the crack. I don’t know what I hit, but I know that my fist was in pain and something just cracked. <<if $Cimmerian>>\ “I got you!” I hear Asher shout out, and her grip totally disappears. I take in gulps of air, each one more refreshing than the last. I really needed to stop taking air for granted. I turn to see where Asher and the witch was, the two wrestling to the side of me. I glance around for Sydero and find her further off, her eyes closed. Suddenly, a wave of darkness surged from Sydero and towards the two, knocking into both and sending them flying. Asher doesn’t seem harmed, and I lose track of him as he turns into a shadow as soon as the wave hits. The witch, on the other hand, lands against the ground and goes rolling, gasping in pain. It was time to end this before she could get her second wind. I grab my blade and rush to her side, letting the darkness of the land rush over me and help me forward. I get to her and dodge her flying fists, gripping the blade harder before plunging it into her chest. Her eyes widen as the colors in them lighten up, the black draining out of them, trickling down her cheeks and to the ground beneath us. The last of the black gives way to tears as she stares at me. “I just want my family,” I hear her whisper before she falls into my arms, dead. I stay in my spot, glaring down at the body as her words repeat in my head. “Even the monsters have a story, huh?” Asher questions, helping me up as he stares down at the body, I guess he heard what she said. “Yea, I say,” trailing off. Adrenaline had left my body, leaving me tired, ready to just fall to the ground. In fact, that was probably what I should do. <a data-passage="FC5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ “Get off ?him!” I hear Esther shout out, followed by a loud thump, and then her grip totally disappears. I take in gulps of air, each one more refreshing than the last. I really needed to stop taking air for granted. The witch is momentarily staring at her before looking back at me, but it’s that pause that allows me to act. I shoot towards her, blade in hand, and attempt to stab her again. At the last minute, she focuses back on me. The blade grazes her side, if she hadn’t focused back in, then she would be dead now. The two of us fight, her doing more dodging and whimpering in pain at her new wound, as I try to stab her for good. <<if $blades >=10>>\ The blade in my hand feels natural, all from endless days of practicing and becoming familiar with it. All those movies that made it seem like you had to be one with your weapon to truly wield it, I always believed them to be rubbish, but that was the feeling I had. The blade was an extension of my arm, it was as much as my hand as my actual hand was. Every attack had a purpose, every dodge was countered with a lunge of my own that kept her on her toes. I didn’t give her any room to mess up. And that was her downfall. <<else>>\ The blade felt strange in my hand as if both it and I knew that it didn’t belong there. The only reason I was able to keep her at bay was because of my slashing motions, making it too hard for her to stop and think of a plan to get herself back on the offensive. Though it was mostly just luck, this was going to be her downfall, her inability to strike me. <</if>>\ <<if $cp>>\ She was so busy trying to get away from me, that it was too late for her to focus in on Chris. The tip of a blade struck her back, her eyes widening as she crumpled into my arms. Her eyes widen as the colors in them lighten up, the black draining out of them, trickling down her cheeks and to the ground beneath us. The last of the black gives way to tears as she stares at me. “I just want my family,” I hear her whisper before she falls into my arms, dead. I stay in my spot, glaring down at the body as her words repeat in my head. “You both did it!” Esther cheers, bringing me away from the witch’s dying words. I smiled up at her and Chris, nodding as the adrenaline left my body. It left me tired, in need of a bed, though the ground would do all the same. In fact, that was probably what I should do. Hopefully, they would reschedule Sydero’s execution for tomorrow, giving us more time to perform the spell and leave this place. <<else>>\ She was so busy trying to get away from me, that it was too late for her to focus in on Esther. Esther stuck out of her foot and tripped the woman, causing her to stagger frantically. It was over, she knew it, and I knew it as I plunged the tip of my knife into her chest. Her eyes widened as she crumpled into my arms. Her eyes widen as the colors in them lighten up, the black draining out of them, trickling down her cheeks and to the ground beneath us. The last of the black gives way to tears as she stares at me. “I just want my family,” I hear her whisper before she falls into my arms, dead. I stay in my spot, glaring down at the body as her words repeat in my head. “You did it!” Esther cheers, bringing me away from the witch’s dying words. I smiled up at her, nodding as the adrenaline left my body. It left me tired, in need of a bed, though the ground would do all the same. In fact, that was probably what I should do. Hopefully, they would reschedule Sydero’s execution for tomorrow, giving us more time to perform the spell and leave this place. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC5A"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

I look out at the land that I have gotten used to seeing the past few days. As I look around, I realize that one of the worst things about this life was that you can’t brag about it. I couldn’t sit in the middle of some book club circle and tell them that I actually went in a book, actually saw a fantasy land in person. I don’t even know if other hunters and specialists would believe me, this seemed pretty farfetched. <<if $cp>>\ “$name,” Chris calls out and I turn to see him standing in front of the dungeon, beckoning me to come. I follow him inside, down to where he had been held prisoner. He didn’t seem any happier to be out, probably because he was only mere inches away from meeting the business end of a sword. “You have everything you need?” Asher questions and Sydero nods, rearranging some of the ingredients that Asher had brought her. “This might take a good hour to complete, especially since I’m still not one hundred percent confident about the magic here.” <<if hasVisited("Tell Asher the truth.")>>\ <<if $Asher >=2>>\ I look over at Asher who catches my eye and comes to stand beside me. He attempts to smile, but I can see that he’s failing miserably. “So, you are leaving?” I nod. “We have to get back to our world, or who knows what’s going to happen.” “Of course,” he says in understanding, “but this spell will take some time, and Sydero does not seem like she needs you.” I raise a brow and look over at him. “What are you getting at?” “Perhaps I can send you off with a parting gift?” My eyes widen as Asher pairs his words with a wink in my direction, walking a few feet away to see what I would do. <<if $s_att isnot "none">>[[Go with him.]]<</if>> [[Stay here with the others.]] <<else>>\ I look at Asher who catches my eye and gives me a wide, friendly smile. “It will be almost quiet with you gone.” “I’m sure you can use the break,” I tell him, and he chuckles softly in agreement. “I will make sure no one disturbs you. It has been a pleasure meeting you all,” his gaze lingers on Chris, who raises a brow at his previous words, “and I apologize for your treatment here.” “Yea, maybe this will make you think twice about just locking people up because of what they look like.” Asher dashes him a charming smile, “it won’t.” With a parting hug for me, he turns and leaves us to the spell. <a data-passage="FC5_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I look at Asher who catches my eye and frowns deeply, I suppose he’s not entirely stoked about me lying to him about everything. The only reason he found out was because of Sydero, who needed to tell him what we were up to in order to get the right ingredients. “I will make sure no one disturbs you. It has been a pleasure meeting you all,” his gaze lingers on Chris who raises a brow at his previous words, “and I apologize for your treatment here.” “Yea, maybe this will make you think twice about just locking people up because of what they look like.” A charming smile plays across Asher’s lip, “it won’t.” And with that, he turns and leaves us to the spell. <a data-passage="FC5_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ “You have everything you need?” Asher questions and Sydero nods, rearranging some of the ingredients that Asher had brought her. “This might take a good hour to complete, especially since I’m still not one hundred percent confident about the magic here.” <<if hasVisited("Tell Asher the truth.")>>\ <<if $Asher >=2>>\ I look over at Asher who catches my eye and comes to stand beside me. He attempts to smile, but I can see that he’s failing miserably. “So, you are leaving?” I nod. “We have to get back to our world, or who knows what’s going to happen.” “Of course,” he says in understanding, “but this spell will take some time, and Sydero does not seem like she needs you.” I raise a brow and look over at him. “What are you getting at?” “Perhaps I can send you off with a parting gift?” My eyes widen as Asher pairs his words with a wink in my direction, walking a few feet away to see what I would do. <<if $s_att isnot "none">>[[Go with him.]]<</if>> [[Stay here and wait.|Stay here with the others.]] <<else>>\ I look at Asher who catches my eye and gives me a wide, friendly smile. “It will be almost quiet with you gone.” “I’m sure you can use the break,” I tell him, and he chuckles softly in agreement. “I will make sure no one disturbs you. It has been a pleasure meeting you both.” With a parting hug for me, he turns and leaves us to the spell. <a data-passage="FC5_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I look at Asher who catches my eye and frowns deeply, I suppose he’s not entirely stoked about me lying to him about everything. The only reason he found out was because of Sydero, who needed to tell him what we were up to in order to get the right ingredients. “I will make sure no one disturbs you. It has been a pleasure meeting you both.” With that, he turns and leaves us to the spell. <a data-passage="FC5_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

I look out at the land that I have gotten used to seeing the past few days. As I look around, I realize that one of the worst things about this life was that you couldn’t brag about it. I couldn’t sit in the middle of some book club circle and tell them that I actually went in a book, actually saw a fantasy land in person. I don’t even know if other hunters and specialists would believe me, this seemed pretty farfetched. <<if $cp>>\ “$name,” Chris calls out and I turn to see him standing in front of the dungeon, beckoning me to come. I follow him inside, down to where Sydero has, and still is being held prisoner. The Alyrians were going to be shocked when they woke up and found her gone, especially since they only rescheduled because of the hysteria that had claimed the day. <</if>>\ “You have everything you need?” Esther questions and Sydero nods, rearranging some of the ingredients that Esther had brought her. “This might take a good hour to complete, especially since I’m still not one hundred percent confident about the magic here.” <<if hasVisited("Tell Esther the truth.")>>\ <<if $Esther >=2>>\ I look over at Esther who catches my eye and comes to stand beside me. A sad smile decorating her features. “I know you must leave and that I barely know you … so why do I feel so sad?” “I would like to think it’s just my great personality,” I joke, trying to get her to smile. She manages a small one, but it disappears immediately as she focuses in on the floor, “$name,” she begins. “Would you like to … go somewhere alone?” I raise a brow and look over at her. “What do you mean?” “A minute that neither of us would forget, just you and me?” My eyes widen once I understand what Esther was talking about. Her eyes going back towards the entrance. <<if $s_att isnot "none">>[[Go with her.]]<</if>> [[Stay here and wait.|Stay here with the others.]] <<else>>\ I look at Esther who catches my eye and gives me a wide, friendly smile. “It will be almost quiet with you gone.” “I’m sure you can use the break,” I tell her, and she giggles softly in agreement. “I will make sure no one disturbs you,” her gaze lingers on Sydero who notices after a while and looks at her to see what she wanted, “I deeply apologize for how you were treated here. We’re better than that.” “Yea, no you’re not,” Sydero huffs, putting her attention back on the spell. Esther nods managing to still smile as she wraps me up in a tight goodbye hug, and then leaving us to the spell. <a data-passage="FC5_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I look at Esther who catches my eye and immediately looks away, I suppose she’s not completely happy about me lying to her, especially since I had to make countless lies to gain her aid. She definitely was feeling used, who wouldn’t? The only reason she found out was because of Sydero, who needed to tell her what we were up to in order to get the right ingredients. “I will make sure no one disturbs you,” her gaze lingers on Sydero who notices after a while and looks at her to see what she wanted, “I deeply apologize for how you were treated here. We’re better than that.” “Yea, no you’re not,” Sydero huffs, putting her attention back on the spell. Esther nods, looking as if she wanted to tear up, before leaving us to the spell. <a data-passage="FC5_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

Once we check in at the next motel, the group goes their separate ways. I stay by my car for a while, getting my head in order and hoping that the Entity would explain themselves. I try to go as far into my own mind as realistically possible, but the action itself feels alien. As if trying to root out a problem that I was in full denial against. “Entity!” I scream silently. “Shh, pet,” he whispers sleepily. His shadow figure slowly appearing. He’s lying on a flat surface made up of the fog that I have come to associate with him. “Who are you?” “Hmm, some measly <<if $Cimmerian>>witches<<else>>deity from another world<</if>> tell you I’m not who I seem, and you just take it and run with it, huh?” “Are you claiming that you’re not different from the creature that I had with me as a child? Because if so then fine. You’re still the weak figure of my childhood.” I add the last part in only because I have learned by now that if anything is going to get a rise out of him, it’s that. And like I guessed, it does. His eyes shine a bright golden, and before I know it, he’s standing over me, “you’re right, I’m not that weak creature that you knew so well.” He leans in with a dangerous smirk, “I’m five times worse.” Suddenly, I’m back inside my car, staring out the window at the miserable motel. <<if $cp>>\ I get out, [[spotting Chris]] sitting on the brick pathway that leads to a small dull flower patch. [[Sydero is off to the side]], looking over a vending machine. And I surmise that [[Bradley is inside]], doing whatever Bradley’s do. <<else>>\ I get out, spotting [[Sydero is off to the side]], looking over a vending machine. And I surmise that [[Bradley is inside]], doing whatever Bradley’s do. <</if>>\

I head over to Chris, and he grumbles upon seeing me. “Alright, time to tell me what this attitude of yours is about. We’ve literally just been transported in and out of a book, and the one thing that you manage to keep is your attitude.” “Walk away, $name,” he mumbles, rubbing his temples. “No. Not until you come clean about the origins of your pissy attitude.” He remains quiet, perhaps trying to ignore me, or get his words together. Either way, when he finally does look my way, he scowls opening his mouth but then stopping. His brows narrow and he seems to second think himself before saying, “you’re good at this shit.” I raise a brow, looking around as if someone else was going to just appear and tell me what he meant by that. “Excuse me?” “This whole, hunting thing. We practically got into it at the same time and yet, you look like you’ve been doing it for years. While at most I play a good bait.” He seems to flinch at those words. “So, let me get this straight. You’re mad because I’m doing a good job of staying alive?” Chris groans as he stands and begins to pace, suddenly stopping and turning to me. “Just forget it. I hate talking about shit, let’s just act like I stubbed my toe and forget all this.” [[“Sure.”][$chris +=5]] [[“Nope, continue explaining.”][$chris -=5]]

“Sure,” I say with a light shrug and an uncaring disposition. If he was uncomfortable talking about this, especially since it had more to do with him than me, then so be it. Chris gives me a weak smile before sitting back down, taking out his phone, and acting like he was looking at something. I stand and look around. [[Sydero is off to the side]], still looking at the vending machine. And since I still see no sign of Bradley anywhere, I surmise that [[Bradley is inside]].

“Nope, continue explaining,” I tell him, crossing my arms. “$name, I said drop it,” he commands, and I roll my eyes at his tone. “Not gonna happen, so unless you want me to be even more annoying. Explain yourself.” Chris growls loudly before beginning, “how many times have you needed saving since this began?” I think back on it, there was the whole restaurant and Morgan business, and I couldn’t forget about the faeries, but I’m pretty sure that was it. Any other time I held my own as best as I could. I say this to Chris, and he shrugs as if he was simply just waiting on me to catch up. “Exactly, then you have me. I got kidnapped by werewolves, by faeries, there was the bar thing, and I almost got turned -” He fights a shiver that overtakes him. “My point is I’m sick of being dead weight. And no matter what I do, I don’t think I’ll ever be ready for this.” “You can’t compare yourself to me, or anyone for that matter. We’re taking this differently is all.” “Your past is way more traumatic than mine though, you’d think I’d be taking to this better.” I sigh and shrug, “well, no offense, but you haven’t had to work for what you got. Not saying you haven’t had your trials, but compared to some, you’ve skated by easily. In a life like this, that’s a weakness, not a good thing.” Chris thinks about my words and nods. Giving me a small smile, though it dies a minute later. “Thanks, $name. But I think I just want to think and be alone.” I nod and pat his shoulders, rising and walking off. Whatever else he needed to go through; he would have to do that alone. This was one insecurity I couldn’t help him through. I head inside and make a beeline for one of the free beds. As soon as my head hits the pillow, sleep claims me. <a data-passage="FC6_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I approach Sydero whose glaring at the vending machine as if it ate her dollar, on second thought, it might have. “Did it eat your dollar?” I ask, and she jumps, eyes wide when she notices I’m there. Her jump makes me jump, and we both stare at each other in minor shock. “Sorry,” she grumbles, “didn’t hear you walk up.” “That’s a first.” “It is, isn’t it?” she grumbles lowly, “no, though. It didn’t eat my dollar, but it is eating my patience. I have no idea what I want. I’m not really good at these things.” “Vending machines?” “Picking sodas. Believe it or not, I don’t really drink them. I either go for alcohol or just settle on water. Sometimes fruit juices.” “That’s one of the biggest extreme jumps ever but okay.” I look at what the machine has, telling her to choose the only decent one there. Once she gets her soda, she takes a long swig and shrugs. <<if $Cimmerian>>\ “So, Doran, did it ever happen?” <<if $SRomance >=5>>\ Sydero takes another sip of her soda and looks over at me, “do you really want to know?” I bite the inside of my cheek, feeling my heart rock back and forth in curiosity, but also because it was preparing itself to be heartbroken. I knew Sydero wasn’t mine, but that didn’t mean I wanted her less. And to think, that even when she knew about my feelings, that she would still turn and seek out the pleasures of another, it made me just feel … discombobulated. Yet, that was the thing. She was single, and so was I. She holds no allegiance to me, no promise to stay faithful. Did I even have a right to ask? Suddenly, I hear a loud noise and come back to see her lowering her hands, raising a brow. “Sorry, I zoned out.” “Hmm? Imagining me, you, some chocolates, and a night to ourselves?” “Not really,” I mumble. She snorts and finishes the soda in her hands. She still hasn’t answered me, and the longer she refuses to respond, the more I feel like I already know the answer. She goes to the recycling bin and throws the can in, turning to look at me, “I already told you, Roe. Me and you won’t happen. So, let it go.” She walks into our motel room, leaving me without an answer, but a feeling. I head in a few minutes after her, making sure not to make eye contact with her as I head towards a bed. I had a headache and my body was exhausted. I wished to sleep, for it to claim me and let me forget about the world, to forget about her. <<else>>\ “You mean Person 781?” she sneers. “Please tell me that’s not how many people you’ve actually had sex with.” “Of course not … though that does give me an idea for a new goal,” she jokes, or at least I hope she does, “but honestly, it actually didn’t take as long as I thought, which made it boring. But I have no regrets. At least I can say I was able to seduce a dark lord.” I roll my eyes and laugh alongside her as we head inside. Sydero heads towards one of the free seats beside Bradley while I immediately claim a bed, while sleep claims me. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I roll my eyes and smile as we head inside. Sydero heads towards one of the free seats beside Bradley while I immediately claim a bed, while sleep claims me. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="FC6_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I head inside to where Bradley is, chugging down another energy drink. “You really need to lay off those things,” I murmur, and he shakes his head. <<if $entitytakeover>>\ “If I hadn’t fallen asleep then you wouldn’t have had to give that monster inside you control,” he tells me, his voice cracking as he avoids eye contact with me. “I could’ve realized what had happened and stopped her sooner.” “Monster, rude,” the Entity chuckles from inside my head. <<else>>\ “If I hadn’t fallen asleep, then you wouldn’t have had to go through all of that. I could’ve realized what had happened and stopped her sooner.” <</if>>\ “Bradley,” I begin, and he immediately cuts me off, wiping away tears that had yet to be shed. “You don’t have to make me feel better or say it’s not my fault. We both know that if I was awake, then I could’ve done something more … besides <<if $entitytakeover>>being taken prisoner<<else>>just sitting here //hoping//<</if>>.” <<if $entitytakeover>>“He has a point,” the Entity tells me.<<else>>“He has a point,” the Entity chimes in out of nowhere.<</if>> [[Tell him to go to sleep.][$bradley +=3]] [[Give him another energy drink.|FC_EnergyDrink]]

I take the empty energy drink and place it in the trash, turning back to him. “Go to sleep Bradley.” He doesn’t smile, but he nods as he closes his laptop and heads to the bed. In fact, all of us needed to just go to sleep. Though, I’m sure none of us trusted the idea of all of us going to sleep at the same time. Sydero would walk in later, I know if anybody would stay up, it would be her. I go to the other bed and lay down, sleep immediately claiming me. <a data-passage="FC6_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I look at him before going to his bag and setting another energy drink beside him. He gives me a small smile before opening it, taking a sip of it before looking back at his laptop. Though he didn’t want to sleep, I did. In fact, I felt exhausted just staring at the bed. And not long after laying down, sleep places its claim on me. <a data-passage="FC6_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Morning comes with a flurry of activities, mostly due to Bradley screaming for food, and the rest of us obliging his need for breakfast. We sit in a small diner, everyone but me looking like they had just got out of bed. Sydero is literally still wearing her pajamas, some highly comfortable looking sweatpants, and a tank top. Bradley in some superhero pajama pants and a League of Legends t-shirt<<if $cp>>, and Chris in a plain white tee, and grey sweatpants.<<else>>.<</if>> This was all to say that I was the only one who looked put together, which wasn’t much of a choice. I had some glasses on and a hat, along with some jeans and a hoodie in case I needed to hide who I was even more. One of the waitresses that walk by gives me a raised brow, and Bradley chimes in to rescue me. “?He just had eye surgery and is currently going through a horrible hair day. We’re hoping this breakfast turns that day around.” She nods uncaringly and gets our drinks before disappearing. <<if $cp>>\ “Not that I’m upset about getting breakfast, but is the only reason we’re here really because Bradley threw an immature tantrum?” Chris questions, still looking over the menu in his hands. “You’re got-damn right it is. Do you see this face,” he asks, pointing at the face in question. <<else>>\ “So are we here just because Bradley wanted to eat breakfast?” I ask. <</if>>\ “No, we’re not here just because of Bradley. This also seemed like the best way to have a meeting about what our next move is.” “It’s not to lay low again?” I ask, and she shakes her head. “We haven’t run into Raum since that bar accident, and I’m getting antsy. Last time he disappeared for too long, Roe became wanted across the eastern states.” She had a point. “So, what do you want to do about that?” Bradley questions. “I have something that can track him.” “And you just now bring this up?” <<if $cp>>Chris inquires.<<else>>I inquire.<</if>> “Well, that’s the catch,” she says in embarrassment, “I lost it a long time ago. But I just got a tip from an associate that they know where to find it.” “This seems so sketchy,” I moan. “Look, the bowl is helpful, and I know where to find it now. Any of you have a better idea?” Of course, we don’t. And with that, Sydero smiles in triumph. “Where are we headed to then?” I question. “Ayden, North Carolina.” <a data-passage="EP8NT"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/nexttime.png"> <img src="images/divider.png"> “You should watch where you’re going next time, Roe,” I hear a familiar voice say, the last voice I’ve ever wanted to hear. I groan though it comes out more like a whimper as I roll over just enough, staring into the golden eyes of Petri. <img src="images/divider.png"> “I could get you out of here,” they say, not looking at me, still looking out and down the hallway. “Would be easy too.” “Really?” I question, and they turn to me, shocked that I even had to ask. “Of course,” I felt the punchline, I knew it was coming, just didn’t know what it would be, “but I won’t.” They prance over to the farthest corner, sitting happily. <img src="images/divider.png"> “Bradley ... what are you saying right now.” “I’m saying that ... no one is coming for you.” [[Episode Nine: Life Without Parole]]

<> <<playlist "ambience" loop play>> <>\ <img src="images/epeleven.png"> <img src="images/actone.png"> <<if $cp>>\ “I really think we should just wait and think about this,” Chris shouts, trying to get Sydero’s attention and failing oh so miserably. She shoves past him, in one hand she has her blade, and dangling from her other arm is Bradley’s duffle bag. Oh jeez. It was still hard to believe that they had grabbed the kid. “Sydero, stop! Stop,” he shouts, turning to me, “$name, help?” [[“Maybe we really should think about this.”|HH_Stop][$sydero -=5; $nerve -=10; $chris +=5]] [[“I’m with Sydero.”|HH_LehGo][$sydero +=5; $nerve +=10; $chris -=5]] <<else>>\ Sydero heads from one side of the house to the next, collecting weapons and bottles that still hold a bit of holy water in them. [[“Maybe we should stop and think about this.”|HH_Stop][$sydero -=5; $nerve -=10]] [[“Hand me my gun.|HH_LehGo][$sydero +=5; $nerve +=10]] <</if>>\

<<if $cp>>\ “Maybe we really should just stop and think this through.” “What is there to think through?” Sydero shouts, turning to me, waiting to hear what I have to say, though she doesn’t even wait long enough for me to answer, “nothing. The only thing we need to be concerned about is going and grabbing Bradley.” She continues to grab stuff, the last thing she picks up are my keys, looking from them to me. <<else>>\ “Maybe we should stop and think this through,” I start, Sydero shoving past me as I get in her way, ultimately trying to get her to stop. She was about to do something irrational and profoundly stupid. “Sydero, just stop. Stop!” I shout, and she whips around to face me. “What is there to think about?” Sydero shouts, waiting to hear what I had to say, though she doesn’t even wait long enough for me to answer, “nothing. The only thing we need to be concerned about is going and grabbing Bradley.” She continues to grab stuff, the last thing she picks up are my keys, looking from them to me. <</if>>\ “I’m going to go get Bradley, with or without you. What’s it gonna be, Roe?” I take a deep breath and grab my keys from her, “just pass me my gun.” She nods and hands it to me<<if $cp>>, both of us looking Chris’s way. He growls and mumbles something but checks his gun, nodding at the both of us.<<else>>.<</if>> <<include "HH0">>

<<if $cp>>\ “Yea, no, Chris, I’m with Sydero. And I advise you to get on this train and stop standing around.” “Your train is going to crash,” he growls, but neither Sydero nor I look exactly bothered by that. “Yea, straight into Raum’s ass,” Sydero snaps back, throwing me my keys as I throw her an extra ammo cartridge. “I’m not going to win this,” I hear Chris murmur, but neither of us responds, that much should’ve been obvious. We continue to gather our things, Chris joining in with us. <<else>>\ I snap at her and point to my gun, which is closer to her, “hand me my gun, would ya?” She does so without question or without any smart remark, her focus entirely on preparing for what is probably going to trump the fight we just had. <</if>> <<include "HH0">>

The safehouse is totally trashed, looking like Bradley’s old place before the werewolves got their hands on it. As I load the car up with all of our stuff, and I mean all of it, Sydero stares at the house. I expect to see even a gleam of sadness, something that would prove that this place was essential to her in some shape or form. But there’s no identifiable emotion in her eyes. Instead, there are emotions that I can’t touch. I open the door, ready to shout to her that we were prepared, but she’s already on her way back. As I drive off, I notice a bright orange growing in fervor in the rear-view mirror. I take a glance behind me, just in time to get the perfect view of the safehouse going up in flames. <a data-passage="HH1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I’m cleaning my gun from the chair that I occupy, glancing up for a moment to look at Sydero as she places another charm in an unusual place. They were little sacks filled with a mixture of things that I didn’t get a good look at. Between getting the motel room and unpacking the essentials, I didn’t have much time to sneak a peek at what she was doing. We reside on the outskirts of Aspen, not wanting to go any closer just in case Raum had people posted. It was even more shocking that Sydero had agreed to stop. We were counting each hour, our hands growing antsier and our dispositions creeping closer to the edge. “We need a plan,” <<if $cp>>Chris finally says, I wonder how long he’s been holding that one in,<<else>>I finally say,<</if>> “we just can’t run in there blind.” “No thanks,” Sydero responds blatantly, “any plan we’ve ever come up with has blown up in our face.” <<if $cp>>\ “This one won’t,” he tells her, and I understand why he thinks such a thing. “And why not?” she questions, far too calmly for either of our tastes. “Because this is such an obvious trap that even calling it a trap is stupid. Raum holds all the cards, and we know that. Previously, we were on equal ground, we held some cards, and so did he. This time, we’re at the bottom of a trench, and he’s on the top of Mount Kilimanjaro.” <<else>>\ “Not this time. Previously, we were on equal ground, we held some cards, and so did he. This time, we’re at the bottom of a trench, and he’s on the top of a mountain.” <</if>>\ “Remind me how this is supposed to get me on board the Plan Train?” “Because any other time, we couldn’t guess all the possibilities Raum would try,” I add, “but this time, we know how careful we have to be. He holds the cards, but we have what he wants, you. Regardless of what he says, he knows as well as us that if he kills Bradley, then it’s done with.” <<if $langstonFree>>\ “You forget that he has a shapeshifter,” Sydero growls, her eyes narrowing on me as she reminds me about what had happened. “I did what I did,” I mumble, and she paces back and forth furious. <<if $uncledead>>\ “And your actions were the stupidest thing you could do. You forget? He killed your uncle?” My blood rises as I rise to meet her, both of us staring at one another. <<else>>\ “Yea, we know. We all saw. The dude wears your skin and commits murder and other crimes. And Roe’s logic? Let him go.” My blood rises as I rise to meet her, both of us staring at one another. <</if>>\ <<if $cp>>\ Chris sighs dramatically, “this is getting us nowhere, certainly not closer to saving Bradley.” “Yea, Sydero, unless you want to continue playing the blame game. Or, must I remind you all the times that you fucked up?” A sinister smirk appears as she yields. I guess there’s a first for everything. <<else>>\ Neither of us back down, and it takes several minutes for both of us to realize that fighting won’t get us anywhere closer to Bradley. <</if>>\ <<elseif $langstonfate is "kill">>\ “You’re right,” Sydero sighs, visibly trying to calm down, “you’re right. We just need to play this smart.” She begins to pace slowly. <<else>>\ “You forget that he has a shapeshifter,” Sydero growls, “he could easily wear Bradley’s skin.” “Well, can’t you sense the energy of a shapeshifter?” My words remind her, and she nods, grumbling at the fact that she had brought up a pointless statement. That, and if we didn’t see Langston anywhere, then we wouldn’t go any closer as well. <</if>>\ “First off, what do we know?” I ask, and we all begin to answer. This was a trap, they knew Sydero was weak, Raum wanted Sydero, so that was his primary goal. We quietly sit and think about all of the things we pointed out, none of us successfully being able to come up with a plan that might work. In the end, we realize one thing. We hardly knew shit. “This isn’t working,” Sydero growls, the sound so deep that I think she’s going demonic, “it’s exactly what you said, we hold no cards. There’s no way we can plan for this. We need more information.” <<if $cp is false>>She gets to her feet and heads towards the door.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ I nod in agreement, “how about this then. Chris, you take my car and go find out if you can find exactly where they are. If Sydero or I go, they might be able to sense us. Sydero, you stay and figure out if you can do anything more with your bowl. I’ll go to the store and get us some things we’ll definitely need.” They both agree with me, and I’m just happy that the store is right up the street. At least this will give us each something to do, and we’ll get a break from each other. <<else>>\ “And where are you going?” “To get more information,” she growls, and with that, I’m left alone. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="HH2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> Bradley opens his eyes to find himself roped to a chair; his body aching, and his mind lolling from one side to the other. The room that he is currently in is dark, only one window allowing light to come in and telling him that daylight is just beginning to break. He whimpers in pain as he moves his wrist. The taste of blood on his tongue and seeing that he can hardly open one eye, he knows what his current state is. He’s lucky to even be breathing right now. Raum was more than serious with his threat. Each hour that passed was filled with him being visited by one of the many demons that fell under Raum’s command. They did just enough to avoid killing him but made him question his life and regret every waking moment. He thought himself strong, stronger than most boys his age who worried more about defying their parents and getting laid than running from werewolves and demons. He even thought himself stronger than some of the hunters he knew. But that was also him and wishful thinking. He was no stronger than the average kid. The door to the room opens, and his entire body grows stiff as he hears the distant sound of the alarm, warning him that another hour is up. He whimpers, tears flowing down his face as another new face approaches him. He wanted to beg, to plead for them to have mercy. That for at least this hour, to ask them not to do anything. But that would fall on deaf ears and make this all the much worse. And so his eyes widen in horror at the monstrosity standing before him. <a data-passage="HH2_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> I need to get out of that motel, it was giving me a headache and every second that ticked by reminded me that we were no closer to saving Bradley. Sydero had gotten back from wherever she had gone and was doing countless spells to find him, as well as calling people who I suppose owed her. <<if $cp>>Chris had asked for the keys to my car to go scout out the surrounding area. Seeing that he was the only one that could get by without being detected, I didn’t mind.<</if>> I walk down the street, heading towards the nearby store, at the same time trying to get ahold of the Entity. I nudge whatever relationship line the Entity and I shared, and I hear them shift in my mind, growling a warning. “You will stop calling me as if you’re in charge here,” they warn. They seem to always forget that they’re the parasite in //my// mind. <<if $entityBet>>\ “Unless you forgot, you lost that bet we made,” I remind them, silence follows. “I doubt now is a good time to inform you of everything that’s going on,” they point out. I focus back in, barely avoiding a lamppost that rests in front of me. “Point proven.” “Don’t worry about that, just tell me what you know.” “Later,” they yawn, and I mentally roar, catching their attention, “well, $name. If you can roar like that, I wonder how you purr.” I ignore them, something I’m getting good at, “we had a deal.” “Watch yourself, pet. I’ll honor that deal, just as soon as you’re not wandering streets you don’t know.” “Yea, and when I’m safe and sound, you’ll just find another excuse, right?” “Perhaps. Or maybe I’ll shock you and give you what you want, just for the fun of it,” they chuckle. <</if>>\ The fog begins to disappear from my mind before freezing, and I glance to see that the Entity has stopped, lips pursed as they glare at me through large white amused eyes. “Let’s get this out of the way then. You can continue calling me that stupid little name of yours, but out of all the centuries I have existed, my maker has called me Zillah. And you can stop talking to me as if I’m a they when I’m a he. But nice job with the whole, ‘not assuming one’s gender,’ real stellar work there.” “So you actually have a name?” “No,” he laughs and rolls his eyes as he begins to disappear, “I was just created to be called silly things by silly little creatures such as yourself.” He rolls his eyes, and before I can ask anything else, he and the fog disappear, leaving me with the words, “watch out.” I tune back into my surroundings, narrowly avoiding face planting into a sign for the grocery store. I search my mind again but find that The Entity … Zillah is gone. Zillah, it’s a start, I suppose. <a data-passage="HH2_1_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I enter the grocery store, realizing that this was the first public place I’ve been in since my so-called death. For some reason, I didn’t expect to be in the same town that I died in when I made my debut. I grab one of the recyclable bags they have and go around the store grabbing loads of salt and water bottles. As I head towards the self-checkout, my eyes land on the cereal brand that Bradley loves. I stop, memories flooding my senses of the young boy and that goofy laugh of his. His constant jokes and untouchable attitude. We need to get him back. I buy the groceries and head back when I feel something pounding in my head. I tighten my grip on the bags as I slump over on the store’s brick wall in agony, trying to stay on my feet but feeling like I was failing. I suddenly feel like I’m falling. “Unless you’re going back to get your car, that’s the wrong way out of town,” Zillah tells me, appearing in front of me, floating while I’m falling. “Stop this,” I growl, but he does nothing, only glaring at me with those two empty white spots for eyes. “You first. Leave town.” “For what?” “This foolishness will get you killed.” I reach out towards him, attempting to either claw him or grab him. I do neither, and then I stop. I can breathe, my mind clears, and Zillah is gone. After we grab Bradley, he’ll be next on my list. <a data-passage="HH2_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>I return to the motel to find my car in the parking lot and Chris and Sydero inside. Chris sits patiently on the small circular table, watching Sydero pace back and forth, mumbling something incoherent.<<else>>I return to the motel to find Sydero pacing back and forth inside, mumbling something incoherent.<</if>> “What’s going on?” I ask, putting the bag on the spare bed, Sydero turning on her heel and looking at me with a satisfied smile. <<if $cp>>“She got something. So do I,” Chris informs me. His eyes are dark, but there’s a trace of a smile on his features.<<else>>“I got something,” she informs me.<</if>> I take a seat on the bed, ready to hear it. <<if $cp>>\ “It was pure luck, but I spotted Petri<<if $langstonfate is "alive">> and Langston<</if>> walking out of a gas station with some food. I followed them to a neighborhood but lost them on the way. I have the name of the neighborhood, but I don’t know what street he went down.” “Still, that’s more than what we had before,” I tell him and nod, gazing over at Sydero who now sits in a chair. “I called Faye, and we did some searching, there’s a new moon tomorrow.” <<else>>\ “I called Faye, and she was able to locate Bradley’s general position. It’s in a neighborhood that she gave me the name for. We can look at the layout and all that later. But we also did some searching, there’s a new moon tomorrow.” <</if>>\ “Meaning what exactly?” “We know Raum wants me, but that was it. What made this trap even more dangerous is that during a new moon, a demon can open up a portal to hell.” “So, Raum wants to drag you off?” “If my idea of who he’s working for is true, then yes.” “Mind sharing that with the class?” I question. <<if $cp>>\ “My father or –” “I swear. If you say Lucifer I’m going to scream like a little child and hightail my ass back to Virginia and act like you guys don’t exist,” Chris states, glaring at Sydero who glares right back. “Lucifer.” The two continue to stare at one another, Chris’s eye twitching as Sydero just smirks. “But no. My father is Asmodeus, otherwise known as Lust.” <<else>>\ “My father, or maybe one of my uncles.” “I swear. If you say Lucifer is your father I’m going to quit,” I tell her, and she rolls her eyes in annoyance. “If you think Lucifer would ever bed a human then you’re nuts. No, my father is Asmodeus, otherwise known as Lust.” <</if>>\ <a data-passage="HH2_2_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Lust? Like, a demon who practices lust or … or do you mean the actual sin?” “Bingo. The seven deadly sins to you all, the Seven Princes of the Underworld to us. My father is Lust.” <<if $cp>>“So … your uncles would be the other sins?” Chris asks, mouth open.<<else>>“So … your uncles would be the other sins?”<</if>> Sydero nods. “Which is how I’m a Lust Cambion. But who he’s working for isn’t the point. Only demons can go through those portals, anything else that steps foot near it gets burned by Hell’s Fire.” “So, we know what he’s going to do and when. But we still don’t know what we can do to counter it,” I point out after thinking the information through. “Maybe we do,” Sydero picks up her Babylonian bowl, “the bowl can bind demons. If I can set it up in the house that Raum is in, I can trap him and kill him. It can be done.” “Why do I feel a ‘but’ coming on somewhere though?” <<if $cp>>Chris inquires<<else>>I inquire<</if>>. “But Raum isn’t stupid, he knew about the bowl. And one thing about the bowl is that I can’t use it when I’m in my demon form.” I’m quiet as Raum’s plan begins to unfold in front of me, why he stole Bradley and not <<if $cp>>Chris or I<<else>>me<</if>>. Why he did it when he did. “You take one look at Bradley though, and you’re liable to go demonic.” “Exactly.” “Could we just do all this in the morning? Before Raum can trigger the portal?” Sydero shakes her head, “for me to be able to kill him using the spell with the bowl, I need the new moon as well.” <a data-passage="HH2_2_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“So, let me get this straight. Raum is going to open up a portal during the new moon, to drag you back to hell. He expects us to show up and for you not to be able to use the bowl because of Bradley and whatever he did to him. Leaving us defenseless?” <<if $cp>>It was Chris’s turn to pace, and I watch as my college friend goes back and forth, his eyes stuck on the floor right in front of him.<<else>>It was my turn to pace, and I glare at the mismatched carpeted floor as I do so.<</if>> <<if $cp>>He adds<<else>>I add<</if>>, “what if, as soon as we get into the house, you go straight to setting up the bowl. While <<if $cp>>$name and <</if>>I go get Bradley?” “I’ll have to be focused; demons might come after me.” <<if $cp>>“Then I’ll go get Bradley, and $name will stay with you. The biggest thing here is that we need that bowl in place and Bradley with us. So less about luck and more about speed.” I look over at Sydero who's thinking Chris’s words over as well. Finally, she nods.<<else>>“Then this all revolves around how fast we can be. Otherwise, I don’t have anything helpful.” Sydero thinks over my words quietly, nodding soon after.<</if>> “Let’s start preparing for tomorrow then.” <a data-passage="HH2_2_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Preparing is a mix of us talking through the plan, trying to erase any holes that we might find and make sure that everything is efficient. We look over the layout of the neighborhood, finding that there are four streets that they can be on. But once Sydero is close enough, she should be able to pick up on their presence. We [[bless the water]] and [[pour salt]] into anything that can hold it.

I steady the water bottle in my lap as I pour in the blessed water. As I remove the rosary beads, my eye lands on the sight of the cross that dangles from it. I find myself staring at it for quite some time, my brain working through questions that I know it will never find answers to. I only come out of it when I feel someone sit beside me, looking to see Sydero with a bottle that she wishes to fill. “So, is God real?” I ask, not really thinking about my question. “What?” “God? I mean, if Lucifer is real because demons and all that are, does that mean God is too?” I look over to see Sydero shrug before saying, “I always just presumed they were real since everything else is. Why not?” I get quiet, the obvious questions of ‘why’ and ‘if so’ running through my mind. “Hey, don’t do that to yourself,” she says, standing and looking down at me with narrowed eyes. “Don’t do the whole, ‘so where is God’ thing. Wiser people than you have asked and come up blank.” “So what’re your thoughts?” “I’m half-demon, I don’t really think my thoughts on the matter count.” “But you’re also half-human.” She sighs and turns to face me, pursing her lips, “I really don’t know, Roe. I try not to think of questions like this for the sole reason of never finding an answer. I could say they’re just enjoying a mojito as they watch us squirm. Or, I could say they’re just busy. Honestly, I think they’re just bigger than this. You suddenly turning religious on me?” [[“I’ve always been religious.”][$believer to true]] [[“No, just trying to wrap my mind around things.”]]

“I’ve always been religious,” I scold, “but there’s something different now. I don’t know, I guess fighting demons in your everyday life and hearing that Lucifer is a thing just kinda, warps your thoughts. Like, how true are all these religious texts?” “There’s truth in all of them. I’ve met Pagan gods, ran from Hindu spirits, screamed in terror at Asian spirits – let me tell you, Asian spirits take the cake. Don’t get me started on the Kekkai and Oshiroibaba.” I roll my eyes as she goes about her business. <<if $cp>>\ “If it makes you feel any better,” Chris begins, coming over to my side and taking the almost empty water gallon, “I’ve been thinking the same thing.” “It’s … weird, right?” I ask, and he nods. “I was raised in a Christian household. My parents couldn’t stop talking about God and Jesus but … here I am calling a cambion an ally and fighting demons. I just can’t help but think, what if we find an angel? Like, this crap boggles my mind.” I nod, sighing as I go back to work. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="HH2_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“No … I’m just trying to wrap my mind around things. Demons are real, and so is Lucifer, right?” “I suppose he is,” Sydero answers me, “I’ve never seen him but the way my uncles and father talk about him, he’s … something.” Her face seems to grow dark, and I decide to continue my rambling. “Well, then that means angels are real.” “They’re definitely real. And definitely annoying. Grade A assholes, would rather be stuck with demons.” “That’s only because you are one,” I point out, and she snorts. “I hate everything, so that’s not it.” “You’re one of those, I prefer the dead over the living, aren’t you?” “I actually prefer the living over the dead, believe it or not, they speak less,” she throws a smirk my way before getting to her feet, continuing her task as I get back to mine. <a data-passage="HH2_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I pour salt into small vial-like cartridges, also adding some of them to the bullet rounds that Sydero had given me. My head is still pounding, and though he isn’t as strong as he is earlier, I can still hear Zillah whispering his warnings to me. “Hey, Sydero,” I shout, grabbing her attention. She’s cleaning her gun at the moment. “Are there any spells to dispelling spirits out of the body?” “Tons of them, you’re referring to that spirit inside you?” “Yea. Can you really not sense it?” She shakes her head, “which isn’t weird. A powerful spirit that has connections to its host can actually skirt under any kind of radar, even a pure werewolf’s. But,” she continues, “separating a spirit from a host like that can be more than just dangerous. Depending on tons of factors, it’s like ripping out an organ and then patting you on the head instead of trying to repair the damage. And afterward, the host goes through major withdrawal.” “So there’s no safe way?” “Eh, depends on the witch who does it.” “Could you?” She gives me a look and nods. “We’ll discuss this further once we have Bradley.” I thank her silently before going back to my work, she does the same. <a data-passage="HH2_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The day is silent, going by slowly as we iron everything out. By the time I’m done, I close the door to my car and pat its side. Hopefully, everything will be okay. By this time tomorrow, we’ll be leaving to go get Bradley back, and kill Raum. Rarely did anything ever work the way we needed it to. I beg that our luck will change. <<if $cp>>\ I make my way back towards the motel room, freezing at the door. Chris is sitting on a bench with a soda in his hands, staring out at the flat landscape. I peek into the motel room and see Sydero hunched over a bag, grumbling something to herself. <<if $CRomance >=6 or hasVisited("“Tis is true, but you can do that again.” Let him kiss you.")>>\ [[Go and speak to Chris.]] <</if>>\ <<if $SRomance >=6>>\ [[Go and speak to Sydero.]] <</if>>\ [[Head to sleep.|HH3]] <<else>>\ I make my way back towards the motel room, freezing at the door. I peek into the motel room and see Sydero hunched over a bag, grumbling something to herself. <<if $SRomance >=6>>\ [[Go and speak to Sydero.]] <</if>>\ [[Head to sleep.|HH3]] <</if>>\

<<if $jealouschris>>\ I approach Chris, “this seat taken?” “Naw, I’m just trying to find something normal to grasp onto.” “What do you mean?” “Well, in a day, we’re going to be fighting a shitload of demons and trying to save Bradley from who knows what. Like, what do you think they did to him? I mean, I keep thinking that the threat was empty, they know if they do something to Bradley and we find out, then their whole plan is done with. But this isn’t some movie. Raum doesn’t exactly strike me as someone who’ll go easy just because Bradley’s a kid.” “How is that grasping onto something normal?” I laugh, and he chuckles in response, looking at me. He searches my face, and I can’t tell what he’s searching for. Whatever it is, he doesn’t seem to find it. It takes me a few more minutes to realize what probably goes through his mind. “Is this about …” “Don’t say their name, please,” Chris sighs, taking a long sip of his soda. “Nothing is normal for me anymore. I either think about //that// stuff, or I’m pulled right back into thinking about you and …” He turns to me. “I know we already talked about this and, I really do want to move on. But … I still have trouble trusting you. And I guess it’s even weirder for me because I’m not used to talking about it. I don’t like bringing up this emotional bullshit, but what else can I do? Say I’m not bothered and let it fester and end up hating you?” I sit quietly, biting the inside of my cheek as I listen to him. “Anyway, I shouldn’t even be thinking about any of this. I need a clear head … for Bradley.” I want to argue, to say that this conversation isn’t exactly over, but he gets up before I can say anything more. He sends me a small smile before throwing his soda can away and going back inside. <<else>>\ I approach Chris, stopping when I hear him humming a song and even mumbling a few of the words to himself. He taps his foot and shimmies in his spot, letting the imaginary music take over. I watch as he mocks placing the guitar and can’t help but laugh, raising my hands apologetically when he jumps and sees me. I take a seat beside him, “is this like catching your friend dancing alone in their room?” “I caught you doing that so many times, but I just walked away and let you have it.” <<if $gender is "female">>\ “When was this?” I ask, terror in my eyes. He sees this and laughs, throwing a casual arm over my shoulder as he laughs. I feel him shift closer, nuzzling into my neck as I move some of his hair from tickling my cheek. He nips playfully at my neck, and I snort in laughter before moving him away. “Are you scared?” I ask. “Not for me … for you, really.” “I’m not the one who was kidnapped,” I point out, and he shakes his head. “That’s not the reason. $name … you have a thing for throwing yourself into the middle of things. And, I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, but it also doesn’t make me sit here and think you won’t get caught up in something.” “Well, I’ll have you to watch my back.” “Totally, cause you’re not stronger than me or anything,” he says sarcastically, wrapping his arms around me, “please promise you’ll be careful,” he murmurs. “I will, Chris.” He sits up, softly cupping my face, and looking me in the eyes. “I’m not playing, $name. If I lose you, I’ll …” he trails off, his eyes meeting the pavement as terror spreads across his face. “Hey, Chris,” I start, encouraging him to meet my gaze again. “You’re not gonna lose me. I promise.” He softly presses his lips against mine, as if sealing my words off with a kiss. The more the seconds tick by, the deeper the kiss becomes. It shifts from only representing a promise to one of need and fear. I pull back, breathless, knowing that I wanted more but also knowing that it isn’t the time. “When we get Bradley back, I’m going to want another one of those,” he whispers, stealing little pecks. I smile and nod. <<else>>\ “When was this?” I ask, terror in my eyes, he sees this and laughs, throwing a casual arm over my shoulder as he laughs. I move into his hold a bit more, both of us realizing what is happening at the same time. I move to give him more space when I realize that his grasp is still on me. My eyes widen, going from his arm to his face, realizing that he has been looking at me. Suddenly, he blushes deeply and releases me. “Sorry, I zoned out just then.” “It’s fine. Happens to all of us,” I say, a professional now at masking my disappointment. Why did I continue to do this to myself? To yearn for his presence and his touch when I know it won’t end well. We sit quietly, the awkward air between us, causing me to want to rise and go back into the motel. I feel sick. “Hey,” I look over at Chris who smiles softly, brow raised, “penny for those thoughts of yours.” He taps my forehead playfully, and I swat his hand away with a chuckle. “It’s nothing.” “Is it about us?” My eyes widen, and I look over at him, causing him to blush yet again. “I didn’t mean to be presumptuous or anything. It’s just … that’s what’s been on my mind, and I was hoping I wasn’t the only one.” “Wait, what? You … think about us?” My heart soars, and I mentally tell it to calm itself. Knowing Chris, he meant it in a friendly way. But what friends say that? Do friends say that? They say things like that, right? Should I ask Sydero, though I doubt she’s ever had a friend. “Yea … a lot now,” he takes a deep breath in and turns to me. “I really don’t know how to say it. But I think I have feelings for you. I think, I don’t know. This is so hard and messed up.” I raise a brow, “messed up?” “No, not like that. I just,” he covers his face, shaking his head and then gently laying it back so that he can stare up at the sky. “I can’t stop thinking about you, and me, together. Part of me is saying that it’s because we’re friends. Or something else, I don’t know. Every time I think I like you I hear my dad’s voice, telling me that I’m wrong or confused and that I don’t. That he didn’t raise a gay guy.” I can see him starting to shake and rest my hand over his. “There’s nothing wrong with being a gay guy, though you wouldn’t be gay, technically. Pansexual, really.” “My dad doesn’t care what you call it.” “You’re not your dad and no one cares what he thinks.” He nods, “I know that, and you know that. But … I don’t believe that. I don’t know, $name. I still need to think about this, but I didn’t think it was fair to leave you in the dark.” “I’m here for you. Coming out isn’t always an easy thing, but I can say without a doubt that you’re surrounded by people who wouldn’t care.” He looks at me, fighting a smile before nodding and moving away from my touch. “I’ll see you later … I’m going to take a walk.” I nod, not stopping him, though I wanted to. He needed this, and my presence might only suffocate him. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <a data-passage="HH3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $Cimmerian>>\ I approach Sydero, giving her a small smile that doesn’t last when she looks up at me. With my faded smile, Sydero looks away, sighing wistfully. “You’re going to ask me again? About Doran?” I nod, though realizing that she can’t see me. I’m about to say more when I see her turn to face me again, sitting with her back up against the wall. “Nothing happened. I persuaded him by promising him greater power,” she rolls her eyes, “he was all for that.” “Then why not just tell me that? Why walk around letting me believe something else? Knowing that it was eating me up?” She shrugs, refusing to meet my eye now, “honestly? You gave me the perfect ammunition to make you hate me. It was so perfect,” she chuckles, “you know how I feel about sex and Doran did interest me. Letting you believe that we actually had sex was a sure-fire way to piss you off.” “You want me to hate you then?” “Yes,” she says matter-of-factly, “in the beginning, this was a game. Either you were supposed to leave, or quit, or just realize how stupid you pursuing me was. But … here we are.” She relaxes her head on the wall before meeting my gaze. “I’ll say that I’m sorry about not telling you, but I’m not going to apologize for trying to make you hate me. This, us, will not end the way you think it will.” “Us? So, you thought about it?” “You’re impossible,” she growls, pushing herself to her feet and standing in front of me. Neither of us look away, both of us trying to find something that probably isn’t there. “Yea,” she finally says, and I raise a confused brow. “Us. I’ve thought about it. I’ve thought about how we’ll end up crashing and burning as well. And I rather you hate me now, than then.” My next action is done carefully, my brain not totally realizing what I’m doing until I’m doing it. I place a light hand on Sydero’s face, causing her to jump and stiffen under my touch. “Or how about I just not hate you at all?” “That’s not an option.” “Is it not? Is it really that weird for someone to like you because they just do?” She takes a step back, narrowing her eyes as if I was someone who couldn’t be trusted. “Yes. Whatever you like, Roe. It’s not real, you don’t know me. You just found out what I really am. There’s a whole past that you have no idea about.” I take another step towards her, “then tell me. And let me figure that out for myself.” She seems to think my words over before shrugging. “Later, when we get back from this hell show. I want to focus on Bradley, not … us.” I nod, smirking at her use of the word ‘us.’ She notices it and rolls her eyes, stating that she’s going to go for a walk before leaving the room. <<else>>\ I approach Sydero, giving her a small smile that doesn’t last when she looks up at me. Though my smile has faded, Sydero’s gaze stays rested on me, trying to figure out an incomprehensible puzzle. “You should have walked away when you had the chance,” she begins, shaking her head forlornly before rubbing her eyes and massaging her temple. “Where’s the fun in that?” I snicker. “I’m serious, Roe,” she growls, tossing me a look that matched her tone. “Does it matter? I’m here, I think you’re just going to have to get over that.” Sydero gets up, pacing back and forth, suddenly she stops and punches the motel wall, creating a fist-sized hole in the drywall. I stiffen at that, all traces of me joking suddenly disappearing. “You’re not supposed to be here,” she hisses, turning her head away from me. I see her shivering, and my only guess is that it’s due to the anger coursing through her. “If we had never met, it would have saved us both some grief.” She straightens up and manages an ingenuine smile, the smile conveying the exact opposite of the emotion in her eyes, sadness, and pain. <<if $sydero >=50>>\ “Sydero? Where is this coming from?” Suddenly she’s before me, gazing into my eyes. I’m frozen in confusion and lust, my own emotions causing me insurmountable turmoil, or was that also because of her and her abilities? I feel myself leaning forward, wishing to capture her lips with mine when I feel her push me back roughly. My back hits the wall with a thud, but before I can even register the slight bit of pain that shoots up my back, she’s standing over me. Her body inches from mine, igniting every part of me. I long to wrap my arms around her and bring her up against me, to keep her there as we devour one another. But she pulls away. “Shit,” she groans, shaking her head irritably, looking me up and down, “I’d give anything to know what it is about you that lures me in like this.” “It’s just my charming disposition,” I chuckle, and she joins in, her smile light. She places her hand on my chin, her breath ghosting across my lips, “if something happens to you when we’re out there ... I ... I don’t know what I’d do.” “Sydero?” I question, but she still refuses to meet my gaze fully. “I’m not going to act like I don’t have ... feelings for you, Roe. That’s a waste of both of our times. But, I don’t know what to do with that either. It doesn’t matter how either of us feels, this won’t work.” “How would you know?” “I know,” she growls, she’s about to say more when she sighs and shakes her head, “I think this is a discussion that we should continue at a later time, agreed?” I nod, that familiar, intoxicating feeling coming over me again. She steps back, and the sensation disappears with her as she leaves. <<else>>\ “Sydero? Where is this coming from?” Sydero now suddenly stands before me, gazing into my eyes. I’m frozen in confusion and lust, my own emotions causing me insurmountable turmoil. She rests a gentle hand on the side of my face, and I lean into her touch, not realizing how much I was craving it. “What we’re about to do is so much more than dangerous. And I won’t be able to live with myself if something happens to you,” she tells me. I can hear her heart breaking in her voice, her defenses crashing down as the reality of our situation makes itself well-known. “Then let’s make sure we both make it out of there, so we can discuss this later.” She straightens up, removing her hand and leaving my face cold and bare. “You’re right,” she says and then smirks, her eyes drifting up and down my body, “I would hate to see something happen to you before I truly had the time to admire you.” I roll my eyes at her statement but smile, a feeling that felt almost weird now. However small and insignificant in the grand scheme of things, I had hope now, something to look forward to. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <a data-passage="HH3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ That night, I head to sleep, twisting back and forth as I find such action near impossible. I cut on soothing music and count sheep, but besides a thirty-minute nap, I’m unable to get any more rest. I sit up in the bed, looking around and realizing that the other two aren’t in the room. “Chris? Sydero?” I get no answer and check my phone, finding a message from Chris saying that they were up on the roof if I needed anything. I put on some warmer clothes and join them, finding some stairs to the side that lead up to it. I find them off to the side, Chris sitting up and eating sunflower seeds while Sydero just stares up at the star-speckled sky. I look towards the moon, hardly being able to see it. “No, I refuse to sit here and listen to this. How dare you think The Beatles are better than Queen.” “They dominated the charts, Chris. They have way more well-known songs, and you tell me, who has the better musicians?” “Don’t you dare bring that up. Freddie Mercury is a god.” “Wow, one guy compared to John Lennon, George, and Paul? Come on now.” “Never suspected you to be a classic rock fan,” I point out, causing Chris to jump at the sound of my voice, though I suppose Sydero sensed me there. “I’m no Chris, but I know the greats.” “She knows the greats, but she says that Queen is second place to the Beatles.” “Queen’s music was so much better. The Beatles were impactful, yea, but music wise the Queen’s win. And that’s what we’re talking about, not their impact.” “Queen’s music is good, but the Beatles have far more hits.” “Do I have to bring up Bohemian Rhapsody? $name?” [[“The Beatles win it for me.”]] [[“Gotta say, Queen.”]] [[“I don’t care.”]] [[“They’re both overrated, how about that?”]] <<else>>\ That night, I head to sleep, twisting back and forth as I find such action near impossible. I put on some soothing music and count sheep, but besides a thirty-minute nap, I’m unable to get any more rest. I sit up in the bed, looking around and realizing that Sydero wasn’t in the room. “Sydero?” I get no answer and check my phone, finding a message from her saying that she went up to the roof if I needed anything. I put on some warmer clothes and join her, seeing some stairs to the side that lead up to it. I find her off to the side, Sydero lying on her back and staring up at the star-speckled sky. I look towards the moon, hardly being able to see it. “You okay?” I ask, walking over to her and sitting down softly. “Just … preparing.” “Yea, I guess I should’ve figured that out.” I gaze over at her and see her glaring at the moon, her eyes pleading. “You’re thinking of Bradley?” “Yea … I just. What happens if we go in there and find out Bradley’s dead? What if we do one wrong thing and Bradley ends up dead because of it. I …” “You don’t have to say it Sydero, I’ve been thinking it too.” She looks over at me and nods in understanding. It all comes down to tomorrow then, the new moon. <a data-passage="EP11-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

“The Beatles win it for me, but I also don’t see how you’re comparing these two bands to be totally honest.” “Eh,” he answers. <<include "HH3_1">>

“I’m going to go ahead and say Queen, but I also don’t see how you’re comparing these two bands to be totally honest.” “Eh,” he answers. <<include "HH3_1">>

“I don’t care about either, so I’m not going to be very helpful here.” Chris rolls his eyes and looks at Sydero, “it’s Queen.” “Opinions, opinions.” <<include "HH3_1">>

“Well, if you ask me, they’re both overrated. So how about that?” Chris looks hurt, as if I had just devastated him, “I’m sorry I even asked you.” “I agree and disagree with that statement,” Sydero says. <<include "HH3_1">>

“So you just both came up here to argue about the better band?” “I came up here, hoping to clear my head, and then Chris followed me. He was humming a Queen's song, and I mentioned it, and tada, the discussion is born.” I take a seat in the middle of the two, sighing. “So, no one can sleep, huh?” They’re both quiet, never answering me as we all stare up at the sky. Lost in our own thoughts, in our own world. Hoping that Bradley was okay. <a data-passage="EP11-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/acttwo.png"> I stare up at the darkening sky. The moon absent as only the stars begin to show their face. I know what tonight’s moon is, and yet here I am, hoping that astrology sources are false and that the moon will show itself. I search the skies foolishly before turning my attention back to the motel, the door open as <<if $cp>>my team<<else>>Sydero<</if>> hustles about inside. My stomach is in turmoil, nervous energy pumping alongside my blood as I grab my bag. I check my gun and its bullets, tap my side for my trusty blade, and then check to make sure that the anti-possession charm, that Bradley had given me, still adorns my neck. <<if $cp>>“Everyone ready?” Chris asks, turning to face us as he stands near the door, his pack slung over his shoulder.<<else>>“Ready?” I ask, turning to face her as I stand near the door, my pack slung over my shoulder.<</if>> “Hell yea,” Sydero mumbles, zipping up Bradley’s duffle bag and then sliding past <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>me<</if>> and towards the car, “let’s go get our geek back.” I smirk before following her out and then hop into the car. The car ride is entirely silent, the only sound coming from the wind, getting in through the partially cracked windows. The cold gust of wind strikes me gently. Tonight would make for a beautiful evening out. The sun hadn’t yet set but was preparing itself, wanting to stay and watch the sky react to its departure. <a data-passage="HH5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I’ve taken in so many deep breaths to calm my rapid beating heart, realizing that it’s not doing the trick. I’m beyond the scope of nervous, words not being able to describe what I’m feeling. <<if $optimistic >=50>>The negative and doubting thoughts began to creep forward, but I immediately shoved them away. This was not what I should be worrying about. If I didn’t keep some sort of positive behavior, then I would put myself in a hole that I won’t be able to crawl out. I attempt to think of some positive thoughts and fail, there was nothing positive about this. The only positive thing that I could think of was all of us making it out, whether worse for wear or not, we would make it out. I cling to that.<<else>>What if something went wrong, which for us, was bound to happen. We could lose someone. What if Bradley was already dead, what if Raum was actually serious about harming him every hour that we failed to show? What if … so many what ifs and so many ways that this could turn out wrong. Even with us checking every base, bringing up every way that this could go wrong, and telling ourselves that we would have to be on our toe, this was still a suicide mission.<</if>> The Entity’s … Zillah’s words repeat in my head as I drive closer to the neighborhood. Am I willing to put myself into this much danger for them? Am I ready to potentially die, just for a chance that they can live? Especially with our odds, we might all just end up dead. “Just drive,” Sydero whispers from beside me. I glance over at her, raising a brow at her choice of words and her timing. “Your thoughts are the loudest thing right now, they’re all over your face.” [[“Are we ready for this?”][$nerve +=3]] [[“We never talked about us not surviving.”][$nerve -=3]] [[“Easier said than done.”]]

“I know I’ve asked this once but … are we really ready for this?” “Can anyone be ready for this?” she questions, lazily looking over at me before placing her attention back out the window. “Point, I suppose.” I rest my head on the seat’s headrest, my heart thumping louder as I turn down the street belonging to the neighborhood. <<include "HH5_0_1">>

“We never talked about us not surviving this little ordeal,” I tell her, rolling my eyes at my own words and the use of the word ‘little.’ “And we still won’t,” she huffs. I don’t have the energy for a comeback as I rest my head on the seat’s headrest, my heart thumping louder as I turn down the street belonging to the neighborhood. <<include "HH5_0_1">>

“You know, that’s easier said than done. Especially with how quiet it is in here.” I rest my head on the seat’s headrest, my heart thumping louder as I turn down the street belonging to the neighborhood. <<include "HH5_0_1">>

She’s wrong, my heart is far louder. <img src="images/divider.png"> I head down the quiet streets, trying to figure out where I should park. As far as I know, people still live in these neighborhoods. And all of their bodies have probably been taken hostage by demons. I zoom down another street, slamming on the breaks as a man darts across the street at the wrong time, though I suppose if I’m going the speed limit, then all of this could be avoided. The strangest part is that as the man and I make eye contact, I recognize him. “Jeff?” I question, unbuckling my seatbelt and getting out of the car in confusion and wonder. My drunken prison neighbor stands before me, in much better clothing than when I last saw him in, and appearing sober, though who knows how long that will last. “Well, I be damned. $name! How are ya?” he questions as he shakes my hand roughly. <<if $freejeff>>\ “I’m fine,” I say, looking over at Sydero who blows the horn impatiently, “sorry, Jeff. I can’t really catch up right now. We’re on our way to handle something.” “I wouldn’t go past that neighborhood there, too many demons.” I freeze. Sydero freezes. <<if $cp>>Chris freezes. All eyes on Jeff.<</if>> “Demons? As in, actual demons?” I question, and Jeff looks at me as if I’m the crazy one. “Yes, demons, from the Underworld,” he squints and sighs, approaching me and placing his hand on my shoulder, “listen, kid. Demons are real, they exist and live amongst us. It’s a lot to take in, but you’re gonna have to live with it.” Suddenly, Sydero’s way of breaking the news that supernatural creatures exist to me seems a whole lot nicer. I roll my eyes and move his hand. “How the hell you know about demons?” Sydero asks, getting out of the car and leaning on the door, eyeing him up and down. He snorts, “I ain’t some ignorant man. I know about all of that dark crap. I don’t ever walk around without protection.” He flips his wrist over, and I see a small anti-possession tattoo there along with a few other symbols decorating his arm. My eyes widen as I look from him to Sydero who's looking him over critically. “Sydero, is he?” I’m unable to finish my sentence, Sydero shaking her head. “No. He’s human.” Sydero looks over at me with a raised brow, “how did you say you knew him?” “I’m right here,” he sings and points at himself, “we met in prison, and my buddy here helped me out.” <<if $cp>>“That’s all well and good, but what did you say earlier?” Chris questions, “about not going down that road?”<<else>>I roll my eyes, “let’s back up, you said there were demons further up?”<</if>> <<if $cp>>“Demons,” Jeff replies, enunciating the word as if Chris was deaf, “the bastards moved in a few days ago like they own the block. Hate those black-eyed fools.” Jeff continues to rant about how much he hates demons and how much he also hated the neighborhood. I turn to my group, wanting to know what we were going to do with this new information.<<else>>“Yep. The bastards moved in a few days ago like they own the block. Hate those black-eyed fools. Hate those black-eyed fools.” Jeff continues to rant about how much he hates demons and how much he also hated the neighborhood. I turn to Syd, wanting to know what we were going to do with this new information.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “We don’t have much time,” Chris tells us, both of us looking at the sky. “Yea, but we’ve just been handed some massive info,” I point out, looking to Sydero who now sits quietly on the hood of my car. <<else>>\ “We don’t have much time,” I tell Syd, looking at the sky. She remains quiet, humming in thought. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ “Nice to see you again,” Sydero sighs as she gets out next, nodding to Jeff and giving me an impatient look. “Wait, you know Jeff?” “Who do you think let him out of his cell?” she asks and Jeff bursts into obnoxious laughter. “That was fun. Thanks for burning that hell hole down by the way.” “So, he saw your whole demonic freakout?” I question. “Indeed, and he wasn’t the least bit shocked.” Sydero sends him a look that he only laughs at, slapping her arm playfully and causing her to growl. Though if he heard it, he pays it no mind. “I ain’t stupid. I know all about the supernatural world, you gotta protect yourself.” He flips his wrist over for me to see the small anti-possession tattoo there along with a few other symbols decorating his arm. I raise my brow. “A little excessive, don’t ya think?” “No such thing.” <<if $cp>>“Okay, great meeting you ... whatever your name was, but what did you say earlier?” Chris questions, “about not going down this road?”<<else>>I roll my eyes, “let’s back up, you said there were demons further up?”<</if>> <<if $cp>>“Demons,” Jeff replies, enunciating the word as if Chris is deaf, “the bastards moved in a few days ago like they own the block. Hate those black-eyed fools.” Jeff continues to rant about how much he hates demons and how much he also hated the neighborhood. I turn to my group, wanting to know what we were going to do with this new information.<<else>>“Yep. The bastards moved in a few days ago like they own the block. Hate those black-eyed fools.” Jeff continues to rant about how much he hates demons and how much he also hated the neighborhood. I turn to my group, wanting to know what we were going to do with this new information.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “We don’t have much time,” Chris tells us, both of us looking at the sky. “Yea, but we’ve just been handed some massive info,” I point out, looking to Sydero who now sits quietly on the hood of my car. <<else>>\ “We don’t have much time,” I tell Syd, looking at the sky. She remains quiet, humming in thought. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <a data-passage="HH5_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Jeff,” she finally speaks up, “how well do you know this neighborhood?” “Like the back of my hand.” She nods with a small smile, inviting Jeff over as she questions the layout, the houses, and if they have fences. By the time she’s done, we have a fantastic visual understanding of what we’re about to walk into. Off of Jett’s intel, the street is a court, three houses resting on the loop. The first two houses that one has to pass when on the road holds demons. Four houses down, demons in those houses as well. And then the three loop houses each holds demons. Jeff estimates the demon count to be at least fifteen. The house in the middle is the one where Raum and Bradley are. I am about to question how he knows that, but he answers me himself, describing the screams that originate from the house every hour. I steal a glance at Sydero whose eyes begin to mix, her hand balled up into a fist. “Let’s go, we’ll walk from here,” Sydero states, going around and grabbing her pack. “Good luck with that. I’m not staying around for whatever is going to go down,” Jeff says, shooting us the peace sign before walking off, whistling a merry little beat as he goes. <a data-passage="HH5_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

We walk down another street, staying close to the houses as we go along. After learning that the road we need i infected with demons, we chose to take another route, the back way. As I go, I suddenly feel a small pinch in my head. I scratch my head, but immediately I’m brought to my knees, gritting through the pain as I tell myself not to scream out. It felt as if someone was banging a gong right near my brain, not ceasing for anything. That or some kind of wild animal who demanded freedom. <<if $cp>>“Zillah!” I curse, falling back even more. I can hear Sydero and Chris, the worry in their tones. I can almost feel their hands on me, trying to figure out what was going on.<<else>>“Zillah!” I curse, falling back even more. I can hear Sydero, the worry in her tone. I can almost feel her touch, trying to figure out what was going on.<</if>> “It’s him,” I manage to say, “the spirit.” “If you think I’m letting you walk into that trap and get yourself killed, you’re crazy,” Zillah barks, increasing his attack on me. I whimper at the pain, thoughts of dying, a release from this pain, surfacing. “This is for your own good,” he growls, “I will not fail.” <<if $nerve >=50 or $entitytakeover is false>>\ “You … do not … control me,” I growl, screaming the thought though mumbling it in reality. I feel a shockwave at my declaration. It feels cleansing, like the dawning of light on a new day. I shiver as I slowly get feeling in my body, my surroundings making sense again. “What happened?” I ask, searching my mind for Zillah’s presence but only feeling a faint marker that tells me he’s still there. <<if $cp>>\ “You’re asking us?” Chris asks, astonished. I roll my eyes, looking around. “Are you okay?” Sydero questions and I nod. <<else>>\ “You’re asking me?” Sydero asks, “are you okay is the better question.” <</if>>\ “I think he’s going to be out for a while, we might want to hurry.” We turn and continue on. <<else>>\ “I can’t,” I tell them, attempting to block him out, to push him out of my mind, but I only make it worse. Every second, the pain comes in another wave, rushing over me with incredible strength, and I begin to doubt my own strength. What if he won? If I wasn’t able to get up from this? “Stop … moving,” I hear Sydero say, and though I can’t make out every word she says, I feel the touch of something on my forehead. The pressure increases, and instead of one wave, I feel multiple. As if a full-scale war is going on in my head, both sides equal in their strengths and weaknesses. I scream, not able to keep it in no matter how much I try. “Bitch!” I hear Zillah shout before his voice suddenly disappears, and so does his presence. I can feel the second presence leaving me, leaving behind a desolate land that will heal soon but will take time. A slight ringing can still be heard, but at least I feel like me again. “Are you okay?” I hear Sydero growl lowly as I blink, taking the world in again. I look over at her, cursing lowly when I see that the crimson has fully claimed her eyes. “What did you do?” “Put him to sleep,” she informs, “for now anyway.” <<if $cp>>Chris helps me to my feet as we glance at her, “we’re on a time limit now.” I nod, and we quickly go back to walking, heading in our previous direction.<<else>>“I think we’re on a time limit now,” Sydero manages to say in between her deep breaths, none of them helping her to convert back. I agree with her word, and we go back to walking, our pace quickened.<</if>> <</if>>\ <a data-passage="HH5_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

We stay to the shadows the best we can, but our main priority is avoiding windows. We stay close to walls and fences as we go, Sydero keeping her attention on the positions of the demons she could sense, <<if $cp>>while Chris and I<<else>>while I<</if>> keep my ears open and my eyes on anything that we need to avoid. When we finally make it to the three houses on the loop, we look through the gaps in the wooden fences, seeing four demons talking amongst one another. “Can they sense you?” I whisper to Sydero, who shakes her head. “Concealing my presence is like second nature to me. Though, if I go full demonic, then it won’t matter.” I nod and look back at the group. They stand in front of the sliding doors of the house where who knows how many more demons are. <<if $cp>>\ “What should we do?” Chris asks. <</if>>\ “We have two options. We either stay to the shadows and try to sneak into the middle house, or we go ahead and try to take these demons out.” <<if $cp>>\ “Quietly, right?” Chris questions and Sydero nods. <</if>>\ [[Go for stealth.]] [[Take out the demons now.]]

<<if $cp>>\ “Let’s try to do this as quietly as possible. Sneak in, grab Bradley and get out,” I tell the two of them. Sydero nods and looks around for a better point of entry. Unsure of whether she found it or not, I watch as she picks up a decently sized rock, about to throw it when Chris stops her. “May I?” “Go for it, Slugger.” Chris narrows his eyes on the closest house and send the rock flying. It hits one of the windows and though it doesn’t break, the sound is loud enough to attract the attention of the demons in front of us. <<else>>\ “Let’s try to do this as quietly as possible. Sneak in, grab Bradley and get out,” I tell her. Sydero nods and looks around for a better point of entry. Unsure of whether she found it or not, I watch as she picks up a decently sized rock, throwing it at the house to the left of the one that we were at. It hits something, making a sound loud enough to attract the attention of the demons in front of us. <</if>>\ “The hell was that?” a new demon questions, opening up the window and peering down at the four, then over at the other house where the sound originated from. “No idea, let’s go see.” They move towards it, and we hear more conversation the house over, right now is probably the best time to do this. As soon as they open the gate and head to the other house, we sprint inside. <<if $perception >=10>>I lead the way, my senses picking up every little thing. From the creaking floorboards to the weight of something shifting on the floor above us.<<else>>Sydero leads the way, stopping whenever she hears the slightest sound and causing me to bump into her numerous of times.<</if>> “Will your bowl work from here?” I question Sydero as we head into the kitchen, taking cover underneath a window that has a perfect view of the house that we need to be in. “No. As far as I know, the bowl has to be in the same house as the demons.” “Can you figure out where Raum is?” I inquire, and in response, Sydero closes her eyes. A few minutes later, she shivers and reopens her eyes. “I sense three demons <<if $langstonfate is "alive">>, a shifter, <</if>>and a werewolf, but I can’t get an exact location on any of them. Petri seems farther away though, a demonic presence beside him. I can’t be sure, but I think they’re upstairs, whether that demonic presence is Raum or not, is the big question.” It’s just going to have to be another risky situation. <<if $cp>>\ “Couldn’t this just be part of the trap? Raum knows we’re here and he leaves Bradley out in the open for us to rescue him?” Chris asks, neither of us answering, though he’s probably right. If I thought anymore on the idea, then I would believe that everything we’ve done so far has been exactly what they wanted. We could scream out, ‘we’re here,’ and it’ll probably be what they wanted. <</if>>\ “So, thoughts?” “Continue with the stealth,” Sydero sighs, “when we get outside, we throw another rock to make it seem that we’re still in that area. Maybe confused about which house Bradley’s in, and we go get Bradley.” I nod, and we do exactly that. After scoping out the surrounding area, <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Sydero<</if>> throws another rock and then we rush to the second house, slipping inside with none the wiser. <a data-passage="HH6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I weigh both options and find that the only one I really like is the one that involves us taking care of the demons right now. And if something terrible does happen soon, at least we won’t have to worry about some of them later. “We take them out now. Make sure we don’t have to deal with them later.” <<if $exorcise>>\ “Agreed. Do you remember the exorcism?” I panic a bit, wondering if I could finish it but not knowing for sure. “Roe,” Sydero growls, and I nod, taking a deep breath in and going through the words. “Then do it, now,” Sydero tells me. I shout the words, loud enough to affect the demons in front of me but not loud enough for those surrounding to hear. I go over the words, watching as their eyes widen as they freeze up, unable to move. <<if $cp>>\ “Why couldn’t you do that?” Chris asks Sydero as I finish up, happy that I hadn’t messed this up. “Demonic side,” Sydero sings, rolling her eyes as she beckons both of us forward and towards the house. <<else>>\ Once I’m done, Sydero beckons me forward and into the house. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ “I’m going to exorcise them,” Sydero states, only stopping when I place a hand on her arm. “Doesn’t that push your whole demonic side?” “Yea, but unless you have a better idea?” I close my mouth, and she nods, turning her attention back to the demons and doing as she said. They collapse to the ground before they even know what’s going on, smoke rising from the bodies and the land. With them taken care of, we dart into the house. <</if>>\ “How many demons are in here?” I ask her, and she shushes me before vanishing. I hear grunted shouts coming from upstairs, putting two and two together. I head towards the kitchen, waiting for her to finish up and join me. “Will your bowl work from here?” I question Sydero as we head into the kitchen, taking cover underneath a window that has a perfect view of the house that we need to be in. “No. As far as I know, the bowl has to be in the same house as the demons.” “Can you figure out where Raum is?” I inquire, and in response, Sydero closes her eyes. A few minutes later, she shivers and reopens her eyes. “I sense three demons<<if $langstonfate is "kill">>, a shifter, and a werewolf<<else>> and a werewolf<</if>>, but I can’t get an exact location on any of them. Petri seems farther away though, a demonic presence beside him. I can’t be sure, but I think they’re upstairs, whether that demonic presence is Raum or not, is the big question.” It’s just going to have to be another risky situation. <<if $cp>>\ “Couldn’t this just be part of the trap? Raum knows we’re here and he leaves Bradley out in the open for us to rescue him?” Chris asks, neither of us answering, though he’s probably right. If I thought anymore on the idea, then I would believe that everything we’ve done so far has been exactly what they wanted. We could scream out, ‘we’re here,’ and it’ll probably be what they wanted. <</if>>\ “So, thoughts?” “Continue with the stealth,” Sydero sighs, “when we get outside, we throw another rock to make it seem that we’re still in that area. Maybe confused about which house Bradley’s in, and we go get Bradley.” I nod, and we do exactly that. After scoping out the surrounding area, <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Sydero<</if>> throws another rock and then we rush to the second house, slipping inside with none the wiser. <a data-passage="HH6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ “Alright, we <<if $cp>>all<<else>>both<</if>> know what we have to do. Let’s get this done with as quickly as possible,” Sydero whispers to us, pulling out her bowl and immediately heading over to a barren corner to begin. <<if $cp>>I nod to Chris, giving him my luck as he hurries<<else>>I take a shaky deep breath in and then head<</if>> off to find Bradley. I check my gun and make sure my blade can be slipped out quickly as I stand by Sydero. She begins to say words from a different language, pouring ingredients into the bowl as she goes. I watch as each word that she says causes a word in the bowl to glow a bright cyan color. Every ingredient added morphs into a transparent form of liquid and begins to bubble. <<if $perception >=10>>\ I hear the subtle sound of a foot hitting wood and use my peripheral vision to see a figure trying to sneak up on us. I wait a moment longer, before turning, brandishing my knife and scratching the demon on the cheek. It screams in agony before lunging towards me, attempting to choke me. I see another and quickly headbutt the one closest to me before grabbing my gun and shooting a single bullet at the second. //Keep them away from Sydero//, I tell myself, repeating the words as I fight. <<else>>\ Suddenly, I feel hands clasp around my neck, dragging me backward and away from Sydero’s vulnerable side. I fight, all I can as I fall to the ground, clenching my teeth as a figure gets on top of me and begins to mercilessly punch me. //Get up//, I scream at myself, repeating the words as I fight. I headbutt the demon on top of me, spotting another almost at Sydero’s side. I grab my gun and shoot before having to put my attention back on the other. <</if>>\ “I’m so happy you two could join us today,” I hear Raum say as I dodge the punches of the demon closest to me. Where were Chris and Bradley? I look towards Sydero, seeing the sweat that rolls down her face as she tries to focus, clenching her eyes closed as she continues to say each word. “You can stop now, Sydero,” Raum taunts, “or should we go ahead and kill the boy?” “Ignore him, Sydero,” I shout, shooting some more demons. They seem to be coming from everywhere. “Hmm, his screams. He had such a spirit on him too. I’ll even admit that the boy had a strong spirit. Every hour we visited him,” Raum sends a smile my way as two demons grabbed me, “we broke him.” <a data-passage="HH6_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ I tread carefully through the dark house, finding that though this was perhaps someone’s real home, it was one of the creepiest houses I’ve ever been in. Perhaps it was knowing that demons and other supernatural creatures resided nearby. As I pass pictures of smiling family members, I feel them staring back at me, questioning my purpose and why I had dared entered their home. I wonder if the demons had just possessed the family’s body. It made far more sense than just kicking the family our, or even killing them. I head down the hallway and go to the first door, pressing my ear up against it and hearing nothing. Cautiously, I open it, my <<if $nerve >=50>>other hand going to the hilt of my blade as I push open the door.<<else>>heart freaking out as I picture a group of demons in the room.<</if>> My heart drops. <a data-passage="HH7_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

Three words. Three measly words are all it takes for a half-decent plan to vanish into thin air. I knew it before anyone else did, save for Raum who had anticipated this. I’m sure the only way he would’ve been shocked is if we hadn’t come at all and had forsaken Bradley to whatever fate had planned for him. I watch as the bowl’s glowing words begin to fade, and Sydero turns around, her eyes a deep shade of crimson. She grabs one demon by the throat, and throws them across the room. The one on top of me, she sends flying. “Hmm, still not the Sydero that I know, but you can’t use that bowl of yours now,” Raum smirks, “I know magic too.” <<if $langstonfate is "kill" or hasVisited("Go for stealth.")>>\ He shouts out a few words, sending demons to slow down Sydero while she was on her warpath. He grabs one demon and slits its neck, pushing it to the middle of the room, and then another. Whatever this meant, causes Sydero to freeze, eyeing Raum as he sneers and goes up to a symbol on the wall, slapping his hand against it. A light suddenly explodes, and the sounds of moans and groans follow it. I shield my eyes, feeling flames lick my skin, and instinctually I jump back. I gaze towards the monstrous hole in the middle of the floor. The edges are burning with a fire that feels like it exists right beside me. It lurches back and forth, snapping at any who dare to come close. I stand on my toes to peer deeper inside but see nothing but black, a black that clings to my soul and tries to swallow it. Staring into it, I see thousands of eyes glare back, whispering for me to come closer, to take the plunge. “Don’t go near it,” I hear Sydero growl in rage, “it’ll kill you immediately.” Before I can question her, she shoots towards Raum’s figure, deftly sprinting around the edge of the hole to get to him, the two collide. <a data-passage="HH6_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ He shouts out a few words, sending demons to slow down Sydero while she’s on her warpath. He grabs one demon and slits its neck, pushing it to the middle of the room. I smirk, once he realizes that he has a lack of demons at his side, and Sydero is getting closer. “Langston, Petri, to me.” I watch as Petri shoots out from the hallway that Chris went down, barreling into Sydero and occupying her time while Langston goes to Raum. [[Go to Langston.][$langstonfate to "sacrifice"]] [[Go to Petri.][$langstonfate to "sacrifice"]] <</if>>\

I run towards Langston, blade at the ready when Raum quickly brings his knife to Langston’s throat and slits it. I freeze, my body shaking as I watch Langston scream out in pain and then fall to the ground, gripping his throat. <<include "HH6_3">>

I run to Sydero’s side, grabbing Petri and pushing him off of her. Just as we both hear Langston scream. We all turn to see that Raum had slit his neck as well, carefully resting him alongside the other demon. <<include "HH6_3">>

“What have you done?” Petri asks, frozen in place, shaking as he stares at his fallen friend. “I needed blood, and now I have it.” He sneers, going to a symbol on the wall and placing his hand on it. A light suddenly explodes, and the sounds of moans and groans follow it. I shield my eyes, feeling flames lick my skin, and instinctually I jump back. I gaze towards the monstrous hole in the middle of the floor. The edges are burning with a fire that feels like it exists right beside me. It lurches back and forth, snapping at any who dare to come close. I stand on my toes to peer deeper inside but see nothing but black, a black that clings to my soul and tries to swallow it. Staring into it, I see thousands of eyes glare back, whispering for me to come closer, to take the plunge. “Don’t go near it,” I hear Sydero growl in rage, “it’ll kill you immediately.” Before I can question her, she shoots towards Raum’s figure, deftly sprinting around the edge of the hole to get to him, the two collide. I look for Petri, no longer seeing him in the room. I suppose he ran off as soon as Raum killed Langston. The future was uncertain, but I doubt I would see him again during this fight. I get to my feet, only to be brought right back down by two demons that were somehow still kicking. I punch one, but the second grabs my wrist and holds me down as the other hits me repeatedly. “$name!” I hear someone shout, and see Chris’s figure come into view, but then leaves a second later with the demon punching me with him. I turn on my heel, slashing the demon closest to me, plunging my blade into his heart before helping Chris. <a data-passage="HH8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $langstonfate is "kill">>\ Suddenly, I’m blindsided by a quick figure and end up on the ground as the figure presses what feels like their knee into my side. “I’m going to kill you, fuck what anyone else says,” Petri growls. He hated me, his only hang up is if he wants to kill me slowly or do it fast. And even with him on top of me, digging his nails into my chest and applying additional pressure to my arm, I can’t find myself to be very sympathetic. I killed Langston before he could kill me, in the game of survival, survival deemed him the loser, that was something I would think Petri would understand, even if he wasn’t happy about it. I open my mouth to say something, and he applies more pressure. I don’t know for sure if he was or not, but it felt like he was touching my heart, his nails teasingly scraping at it. I feel for my blade and quickly grab it and swipe it across his face, giving him a nasty scar. Before I can do more, he grabs my arm and brings his elbow down onto mine. I howl in pain as I hear the snap, my heart skipping a beat as my arm falls at my side. “$name!” I hear someone shout, and a figure suddenly hits Petri. I look over and see Chris and Petri wrestling, Petri more concerned with getting back to me than fighting off Chris. I whimper, finding that the more I move my broken arm, the more the pain escalates. I suddenly felt dizzy, the world blurring before fixing itself. <<else>>\ <<set $langstonfate to "alive">> I’m blindsided by a quick figure and end up on the ground as the figure presses what feels like their knee, into my side. “Nice to see you again, $name,” Langston laughs, showing me that he had my knife. Before I can lunge forward, I feel someone grab my shirt and send me flying into a wall. Afterward, I hear Petri’s low chuckle. “I’m coming, $name,” I hear Chris’s distant voice shout. This was madness, all of it. I didn’t know who was alive, who was fighting who, where Bradley was. “Get Bradley,” I moan, “we need to go.” I rise to my feet just as Langston is upon me again. I narrowly avoid being cut with my own blade. The stairs were to my left side, a wall to my right, and an endless hallway behind me. I dodge another swipe and then kick him in the groin, managing to run past him before he grabs my leg and chokes me. “Let’s hear you beg for death,” he growls. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="HH8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Bradley sits in the middle of the room, tied to a chair, his head dangling. I rush to him, fighting the need to scream and vomit, all at once. Blood coats his entire upper half, bruises and cuts existing everywhere from his neck to his arms to his face. Both eyes were swollen, one completely purple and red and closed, while the other was only halfway there, but still just as bad. His nose looked broken, and blood streamed freely from cuts on his lips and brow. I glance down to find that I was standing in a puddle of his own blood. “Damn it,” I growl as I touch him lightly. He immediately begins shaking, as if having a nightmare. “Hey, calm down, Bradley, it’s me, $name. I’m so sorry,” I whisper, cupping his face in my hands and gently raising it, hoping he could see me. I cut his restraints, and he weakly throws himself onto me. He cries into my shirt, his screams muffled as he pushes himself deeper into me. “Every hour,” he cries, his grip tightening on me. My blood runs cold, so Raum wasn’t just bluffing, he literally beat him every hour. Bradley had been enduring this for that long? I stare into the distance as Bradley cries, only stopping to draw breath. I was frozen in my spot, forgetting where we were and the direness of our situation. Until I heard a floorboard creak. I turn around just as the door closes. I move Bradley off of me and run to it, pounding on it repeatedly but to no avail. We were stuck in here … and Sydero was out there. “Sydero!” I scream as loud as possible, hoping that she has already set up the bowl. I hear nothing but shouting and things hitting the wall on the other side. [[Go to the window.]] [[Try to break the door down.]]

“Bradley, let’s go out the window,” I tell him, helping him to his feet and walking us over. “Bad,” he tells me weakly, “stuck.” “Huh? The window is stuck?” “I tried to escape,” he manages to say, “bad.” “Come on, stay with me, Bradley. We’re gonna get you outta here.” I carefully lower him to the ground and try the window, opening it and then kicking it numerous of times, nothing works. We were indeed stuck. I rack my mind about how we could get out of here when I hear something that sounds far too similar to an explosion go off. The house rocks and I stiffen as I listen to what sounds like something being torn down. I go to Bradley’s side, cautiously pulling him over to the door, just as the wall closest to us comes down and two figures fly in. Dark grey and red smoke surrounds Sydero as she brings her fist down onto Raum’s face repeatedly. I watch, at the last minute, he grabs her fist and headbutts her hard, his free hand clenched around her throat before throwing her off. He gets to his feet and looks over at me. <<if $langstonfate is "kill">>\ “Petri, I found your chew toy,” he smirks before leaving. “Shit,” I growl, moving Bradley away from me as I get to my feet, grabbing my gun. I cautiously walk forward, peeking around the hole in the wall when a figure lunges forward, their hands grabbing around my throat. Before I can react, they throw me into the wall, my body sliding down to the floor as I whimper in pain. “I don’t care who wants you alive,” Petri tells me, approaching, “I’m killing you for what you did.” [[My blade!]] [[My gun!]] <<else>>\ “Langston, Petri. Come handle Roe.” I whimper, turning to Bradley whose still not functioning anywhere near ten percent. “Bradley, get out of the room, now,” I tell him, jumping at the sound of Langston’s voice behind me. “$name, you just can’t stay away, can you?” I turn around and take out my blade, looking between him and Petri. Both of them seem a bit worse for wear, and I can only think that they tangled with Sydero before being sent in here. I wasn’t going to win this fight, that was a fact. And dying here wasn’t in the cards either. I glance to the side of my vision to see Bradley weakly making his way towards the door. Before I can thoroughly think through my thoughts, I’m already turning around, grabbing Bradley, and throwing the door open. I surmise that a demon had closed us in. Otherwise, I don’t know what had kept me leaving earlier. With Bradley hanging onto me, I rush down the hallway, only to be tripped and sending us both to the ground. Petri pounces on me, pinning both hands to the ground as he pushed his free hand into my heart. I shout, fighting to get free as I practically felt the tips of his wolfish nails on my heart, teasing it with light scrapes. “$name!” I hear Bradley scream though I can’t see him. “Leave the kid alone,” I whimper, knowing how foolish it was to care for his safety when I was about to meet death. <a data-passage="HH8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

“Sit tight, I’m getting us outta here,” I tell Bradley, repositioning him as I brace myself. <<if $combat <10>>\ I ram the door, once then twice, then thrice. It doesn’t budge, and all that ends up happening is me falling to the ground in pain. Pain shoots through my shoulder and side. But I get back up to my feet. We have to get out of here. I rack my mind about how we could get out of here when I hear something that sounds far too similar to an explosion go off. The house rocks and I stiffen as I listen to what sounds like something being torn down. I go to Bradley’s side, cautiously pulling him over to the door, just as the wall closest to us comes down and two figures fly in. Dark grey and red smoke surrounds Sydero as she brings her fist down onto Raum’s face repeatedly. I watch, at the last minute, he grabs her fist and headbutts her hard, his free hand clenched around her throat before throwing her off. He gets to his feet and looks over at me. <<if $langstonfate is "kill">>\ “Petri, I found your chew toy,” he smirks before leaving. “Shit,” I growl, moving Bradley away from me as I get to my feet, grabbing my gun. I cautiously walk forward, peeking around the hole in the wall when a figure lunges forward, their hands grabbing around my throat. Before I can react, they throw me into the wall, my body sliding down to the floor as I whimper in pain. “I don’t care who wants you alive,” Petri tells me, approaching, “I’m killing you for what you did.” [[My blade!]] [[My gun!]] <<else>>\ “Langston, Petri. Come handle Roe.” I whimper, turning to Bradley whose still not functioning anywhere near ten percent. “Bradley, get out of the room, now,” I tell him, jumping at the sound of Langston’s voice behind me. “$name, you just can’t stay away, can you?” I turn around and take out my blade, looking between him and Petri. Both of them seem a bit worse for wear, and I can only think that they tangled with Sydero before being sent in here. I wasn’t going to win this fight, that was a fact. And dying here wasn’t in the cards either. I glance to the side of my vision to see Bradley weakly making his way towards the door. Before I can thoroughly think through my thoughts, I’m already turning around, grabbing Bradley, and throwing the door open. I surmise that a demon had closed us in. Otherwise, I don’t know what had kept me leaving earlier. With Bradley hanging onto me, I rush down the hallway, only to be tripped and sending us both to the ground. Petri pounces on me, pinning both hands to the ground as he pushed his free hand into my heart. I shout, fighting to get free as I practically felt the tips of his wolfish nails on my heart, teasing it with light scrapes. “$name!” I hear Bradley scream though I can’t see him. “Leave the kid alone,” I whimper, knowing how foolish it was to care for his safety when I was about to meet death. <a data-passage="HH8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I ram the door, once then twice. Each time I hit it; it budges a little more. I let out a war cry and hit it with all my might, falling to the floor on top of the now falling door. I look up to see a bright orange light originating from the central part of the house, the area I left Sydero. Before I can move, a figure flies into the wall, falling to the ground. A demon. I look back at Bradley, part of me thinking that I should just leave him here, but what would happen if something came in and retook him. No, it was dangerous, but I wanted him by my side. So, I grab him and make my way to the living room. I set Bradley down in the hallway, hearing the sounds of fighting as I inch closer into the main room. Checking to see if I could get Bradley out of here. <<if $langstonfate is "kill">>\ Suddenly, I’m blindsided by a quick figure and end up on the ground as the figure presses what feels like their knee, into my side. “I’m going to kill you, fuck what anyone else says,” Petri growls. He hated me, his only hang up was if he wanted to kill me slowly or do it fast. And even with him on top of me, digging his nails into my chest and applying additional pressure to my arm, I can’t find myself to be very sympathetic. I killed Langston before he could kill me, in the game of survival, survival deemed him the loser, that was something I would think Petri would understand, even if he wasn’t happy about it. I open my mouth to say something, and he applies more pressure. I don’t know for sure if he was or not, but it felt like he was touching my heart, his nails teasingly scraping at it. I feel for my blade and quickly grab it and swipe it across his face, giving him a nasty scar. Before I can do more, he grabs my arm and brings his elbow down onto mine. I howl in pain as I hear the snap, my heart skipping a beat as my arm falls at my side. “$name!” I hear someone shout, and a figure suddenly hits Petri. I look over and see Bradley, Petri flinging the boy away before looking back towards me. I whimper, finding that the more I move my broken arm, the more the pain escalates. I suddenly felt dizzy, the world blurring before fixing itself. <a data-passage="HH8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ I’m blindsided by a quick figure and end up on the ground as the figure presses what feels like their knee, into my side. “Nice to see you again, $name,” Langston laughs, showing me that he had my knife. Before I can lunge forward, I feel someone grab my shirt and send me flying into a wall. Afterward, I hear Petri’s low chuckle. “$name,” I hear Bradley whimper. Seeing a damaged part of the floorboard in his hands. “No, Bradley,” I moan, “go.” I rise to my feet just as Langston is upon me again. I narrowly avoid being cut with my own blade. The stairs were to my left side, a wall to my right, and an endless hallway behind me. I dodge another swipe and then kick him in the groin, managing to run past him before he grabs my leg and chokes me. “Let’s hear you beg for death,” he growls. <a data-passage="HH8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

I grab my blade, swiping it towards him, and landing each and every one. He does nothing but grunt and bears it, grabbing my arm effortlessly before bringing his elbow down onto mine. I howl in pain as I hear the snap, my heart skipping a beat as my arm hangs loosely at my side. <<include "HH7_2">>

I grab my gun, shooting him three times. He does nothing but grunt and bears it, shaking them off as if they were no big deal. He grabs my arm before I can fire another round, bringing his elbow down onto mine. I howl in pain as I hear the snap, my heart skipping a beat as my arm hangs loosely at my side. <<include "HH7_2">>

“You’re dead, Roe!” he shouts, only stopping his assault when something splinters off of him. He turns, and we both see Bradley standing behind him, the broken chair head now in his hands. He falls to his feet, and I think, for a second, that Petri was going to kill him. But he rolls his eyes and puts his attention back on me. “I’m going to break every bone in your body, and then tear out your heart,” he says, throwing me again. I whimper, finding that the more I move my broken arm, the more the pain escalates. I suddenly felt dizzy and extremely hot. I look to see that a monstrous hole was now open in the middle of the main room of the house. “$name?” I hear Bradley whimper, limping towards me. He collapses a few feet away from me, right as Petri approaches. <a data-passage="HH8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<><<audio "prologue" loop volume 0 fadeto 0.60>><> “Enough!” Raum shouts, his voice dropping a few octaves and even managing to cause the building to tremble. His body sends out a shockwave that causes everyone affected to their knees. His eyes are an endless sea of black, no ounce of color within them. But my eyes are mostly drawn to who he has in his grip. Raum stands on the edge of the roaring portal, holding Bradley over it. My eyes move to Bradley, who’s frozen in place, his only movement comes from gripping tight to Raum’s arm. “You are messing with forces who would squish you without a second thought,” he yells at us in outrage, “forces who don’t even deem you important.” Each word he says is filled with more anger, his body trembling. “Who do you think you all are?” his gaze shoots to <<if $cp>>Chris, “and you, a human, believing you can best me?” I wait for him to also look at me, but his gaze stays on Chris.<<else>>the boy in his grip, “all of you, and a simple human child, believing you can best me?” I wait for him to also look at me, but his gaze stays on Bradley.<</if>> My heart shifts ever so slightly, and Raum’s gaze lands on me next, a smile so crooked that I find myself quivering, yet unable to look away. It was as if he smelled my confusion, he probably did. “Hmm,” he hums, his body shaking due to his laughter, “I always thought as much, but never knew for sure.” He slowly moves his gaze to Sydero, who still struggles to stand. “You never told ?him?” “Sydero, what is he talking about?” I find myself saying, though I don’t feel as if I said it. An out of body experience takes place as my soul looks around at all those in the room. At <<if $cp>>Chris’s wide and terrified expression, at <</if>>Sydero struggling yet avoiding my gaze, Raum’s relaxed stance, and Bradley whimpering as he literally is held over a pit of death. “I would say I’m surprised, but I’m not,” Raum chuckles, lazily throwing me a smirk, “you’re not human, $name. Something I realized upon our first meeting, and something I know our dear Sydero has as well.” I feel ready to throw up, my head aching. It was horribly cold in here, despite my proximity to the raging fire. “I didn’t tell you because I didn’t know what you were!” Sydero spat, narrowing her eyes on Raum as she refused to look me in the eye. “It would’ve been stupid to tell you but have no answers for you.” [[“Stop making excuses!”]] [[“That wasn’t your decision to make.”]] <<if $SRomance >=5>>[[“Sydero …”]]<</if>>

“Stop!” I scream so loud that I shock myself, “stop making excuses. Just own up to your shitty decisions.” “I didn’t tell you because what was it going to solve?” she shouts back, “you know now, Roe, now what? You any closer to getting answers? No, you’re just going to be walking around even more confused now. Think I needed that –” She never finishes her sentence as she suddenly shoots forward, leaping across the portal and colliding into Raum’s form. The three of them go flying backward, demolishing the wall behind them as Bradley skids across the floor. <<include "HH8_1">>

“That wasn’t your decision to make,” I say through gritted teeth, and she finally looks at me. For the first time, those demonic eyes of hers don’t unnerve me. “And yet, I made it. Now what, Roe?” she hisses, “you any closer to getting answers? No, you’re just going to be walking around even more confused now. Think I needed that –” She never finishes her sentence as she suddenly shoots forward, leaping across the portal and colliding into Raum’s form. The three of them go flying backward, demolishing even more of the wall behind them as Bradley skids across the floor. <<include "HH8_1">>

“Sydero …” I start, but I gulp back the feelings of betrayal, the various emotions and voices calling me an idiot for trusting this woman. “Don’t say my name like that,” she growls harshly, refusing to look at me. When she does, her eyes are filled with rage, but it doesn’t take a blind person to see that fury isn’t directed at me. “I told you! I told you not to trust anyone, especially me! I warned you every step of the damn way. You did this to yourself … I hurt people, it’s all I’m good at,” she whispers. “Oh, such a moving –,” Raum begins to say, but he never gets a chance to finish his sentence as Sydero suddenly shoots forward, leaping across the portal and colliding into Raum’s form. The three of them go flying backward, demolishing the wall behind them as Bradley skids across the floor. <<include "HH8_1">>

<<if $nerve <50>>\ I tell myself to go make sure Bradley’s okay, seeing that the boy hadn’t moved, and it doesn’t even look like he’s breathing. But I can’t move an inch, my feet stay planted to the ground, and my heart thumps wildly. <<else>>\ “Bradley!” I shout, surging forward. Sliding across the ground as I touch the young boy. He shakes, looking at me with wide eyes. For a minute, I wonder if he’s looking at me differently because of what they had said, but as his tears well up and he pulls me into a tight hug, I suddenly doubt that. “I didn’t know,” he sobs, and I awkwardly pat his back, this wasn’t the time. <</if>>\ Before I can do anything else, a figure shoots into view and grabs Bradley, heading straight for the portal. “I said I’m done playing games,” Raum shouts and just like that, he lets Bradley go. He screams as he falls towards the portal, his body thrashing to grab hold of something. “No!” I hear Sydero shout and as if in slow motion, watch as she shoots over the portal, pushing Bradley roughly as her foot clips the portal. And that was all it took. Just one little touch and it pulled her in like a lassoed horse. She doesn’t scream, she doesn’t shout out curses if anything she almost appears to accept her fate. Her fingernails dig into the wooden floors as Raum chuckles, giving himself to the portal willingly. The sounds of the entrance swallowing the two rock the entire house, sounding like a tornado was encircling the house. The groans and moans that it had first made grow louder. And then it’s all over. Just like that. The portal closes, leaving behind broken and charred wooden boards. Raum is gone. Petri and any surviving demons are gone. The noise is gone. Sydero is gone. [[To be continued ...]]

<><<audio "prologue" unloop fadeout>><> <img src="images/title.png"> Hello readers! I want to thank all of you so much for giving this series a chance, showing your support on Tumblr, itch.io, Patreon, and through email. If you have any kind of feedback/critique, then you can send them to my email: 13leaguestories@gmail.com For sneak peeks, extra content, and all that jazz that I hope you consider supporting me through Patreon, or by donating to the project through itch.io. And even if you can't, you can follow me on Tumblr for updates. To load in your Roe for Season 2. You will need to export the save by using the button below. Be sure to keep this save for when Season 2 comes out so that you can import it back in. <<set $RoeData to { name : $name, gender : $gender, trans : $trans, sex : $sex, chest : $chest, int : $int, s_att : $s_att, r_att : $r_att, injuries : $injuries, car : $car, fightingstyle : $style, nerve : $nerve, honesty : $honesty, daring : $daring, serious : $serious, optimistic : $optimistic, stubborn : $stubborn, sympathy : $sympathy, pacifist : $pacifist, engineering : $engineering, charisma : $charisma, combat : $combat, perception : $perception, medical : $medical, creativity : $creativity, bartending : $bartending, supernatural : $supernatural, blades : $blades, guns : $guns, exorcise : $exorcise, chris : $chris, sydero : $sydero, bradley : $bradley, zillah : $zillah, CRomance : $CRomance, SRomance : $SRomance, a_fear : $a_fear, blood_fear : $blood_fear, m_fear: $m_fear, eyes : $eyes, hairlength : $hairlength, hairtype : $hairtype, haircolor : $haircolor, jealouschris : $jealouschris, uncledead : $uncledead, cp : $cp, chrissafe : $chrissafe, virgin : $virgin, entitytakeover : $entitytakeover, langstonfate : $langstonfate, uncleknows : $uncleknows, unclepicture : $unclepicture, bartendingknow : $ss_bartending, darkburns : $darkburns, darktruth : $darktruth, darkcontrol : $darkcontrol, cmajor : $cmajor, flirt_Chris : $flirt_Chris, flirt_Syd : $flirt_Syd, suicidal : $suicidal, slapthequeen : $slapthequeen, believer : $believer }>>\ <<button 'Export the Data'>> <<export $RoeData 'RoeS1' 'base64'>> <</button>>

<> <<set $leftwork to false>> <<unset $answer1>> <<playlist "ambience" loop play>> <> <img src="images/epfive.png"> <img src="images/actone.png"> The stench of death lingers in the air, a smell that draws both pleasant and unpleasant memories from Raum. He’s been on battlefields where death clung to the astral veil, ripping at it and demanding to set the land asunder. This was nothing, an unfortunate sideshow part of an otherwise much larger act. They had arrived at the shed not too long ago, his men immediately going to work trying to find evidence. Raum simply hopes that his personal werewolf can pick something up, anything. But each passing minute tells him that what he searches for is long gone. It has left its handiwork behind before fleeing. “We lost the trail boss,” Petri states, the only words Raum didn’t wish to hear at the moment. “Nothing but dead bodies and some organs everywhere,” Langston adds in next. Perhaps that was why the smell had remained for so long. Raum straightened himself, not seeing the point in staying any longer. “But,” Petri starts, motioning for him to follow, “there is one thing you might find interesting.” Petri leads the group into the shed, much to Raum’s dismay. He’s seen worse, smelt worse, and done worse with his own hands. But that didn’t mean he was in the mood to dwell on such things. The sharp smell of pine abandons him, replaced by a sweet, fetid smell. The smell of death is always the worst part of the job to him, the worst part of anything really. It reminds him of a million different rotten and foul smells, all conjoining at once to exist in the same place. He can deal with the sight, the feeling, the act ... but never the smell. It was why he left a scene quickly, leave the mess for another. Petri stops at a dead werewolf body, moving the sheet that they had rested over him down. The sheet was Langston’s idea, Petri’s was to throw the bodies on the nearest pyre. He felt no sympathy or connection to those that laid dead around him. He was a lone wolf, had seen to that personally when pack life didn’t match his own ambitions. Raum offered him something no pack could, invulnerability. Throw that in with an uncaring attitude for when he hunted a human, and Petri’s loyalty was laid at his feet. <a data-passage="W1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Raum bends down, observing the body. His eyes naturally come to rest on the corpse’s eyes, or lack thereof. The blood has dried up, leaving bloody trails down the side of his face. Faded black veins run from his face to his neck, stopping at his chest. His mouth is partly open, and after dipping a nearby rod inside, it comes out coated in blood. “Did you open him up?” Raum questions, though he knows the answer. The question is to get them thinking. And to also show his displeasure of having to do it himself, especially if what he believes occurred, did. “Um, no sir, I like to take corpses at face value,” Langston admits. He wasn’t exactly squeamish, he’s killed before though he would never say he enjoyed the act. He, unlike his partner, didn’t need some human to survive. Everything about him was human, save for the tiny detail of being able to take on the appearance of whatever he wanted. It made him the weakest, and softest, of the small group but it didn’t bother him. He's a decorated officer, who knew his way around a crime scene and a fight. His supernatural abilities allowed him to heal faster, especially if he moats and takes on a new look. The moating process itself is a nasty and ugly business, one he rarely used for he believes his natural appearance far too sexy. Raum wastes no time, grabbing his dagger and plunging it into the dead man’s chest. The others step back in disgust once Raum has fully opened the man up, everything inside of him now mush. If Petri was hungry, he wasn’t now. Out of pure curiosity, he grabs the rod from earlier and pokes at the internal organs. His insides turned into soup, thick disgusting soup. “So, they liquefied his insides?” he asks, placing the rod down and turning his back to the mess. “It’s not they,” Raum corrects, “she.” “So, how do we find her now?” “Remember that plan we came up with a while ago? We’re putting that into effect now. Langston, take a group with you to plant the evidence. Petri, I want you to take a group to report the crime. Take a man as a witness, make sure he’s roughed up.” They both nod in unison before barking orders to the men nearby, ushering them out and leaving Raum to stand there. His eyes linger on the cadaver before he disappears abruptly. <a data-passage="W1_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> “Oh crap,” I exclaim, lunging for my work pants and then grabbing my t-shirt. Of course, I would be late, again. The past five days have been a whirlwind, <<if $cp>>neither of us exactly prepared for what comes with it. Speaking of Chris, I wasn’t the only one not ready to go into work.<<else>>nowhere near prepared for what comes with it.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “Chris!” I shout, walking over to his side of the bed so that I could throw his clothes at him. He moans, grabbing the motel’s flat pillow and throwing it over his face. “When can we quit?” he mumbles into the pillow, but I don’t answer him. We needed the money at the moment. Not only did we have to pay for this motel, but we lost money for gas and the clothing trip we had taken. I refused to strut around with only two outfits, <<if $chugit>>one of them with someone else’s innards.<<else>>one of them still had the lingering smell of skunk urine, and the other with someone else’s innards.<</if>> We had been fortunate to wander into a large enough town and find someone looking to hire. We gave our real resumes but had switched our names. Chris wasn’t Chris, he was Danny. And I, I was ... <<else>>\ The drive to work is peculiar. It’s silent, the windows rolled up and the radio off. But my inner thoughts are screaming, demanding to be heard and thought through. Since leaving, I’ve done everything I could to keep my head clear, to act as if the problem wasn’t there. I had to find work, needing the money to not only pay for this motel, but to also pay for gas and the clothing trip I had taken. I refused to strut around with only two outfits, <<if $chugit>>one of them with someone else’s innards.<<else>>one of them still had the lingering smell of skunk urine, and the other with someone else’s innards.<</if>> I had been fortunate to wander into a large enough town and find someone who was looking to hire. I gave my real resume but had switched my name. <</if>>\ <<textbox "$fname" "" autofocus>><<button "Enter">><<replace "#fname">>Hmm ... $fname.<</replace>><</button>> <a data-passage="W1_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $fname === $name>>\ <<set $wrongname = true>> Yea, nice try. But try again. This time not putting your name. [[Go back|W1_1]] <<else>>\ <<set $wrongname = false>> <</if>>\ <<if $wrongname is false>>\ <<if $cp>>\ Chris still isn’t budging, and we were running out of time. Our new boss already expressed concern since they needed us to start work immediately, I wasn’t trying to get fired on the second day. [[Leave Chris there.]] [[Throw a shoe at Chris.][$chris -=3]] <<if $flirt_Chris>>\ [[Tickle Chris.]] <</if>>\ <<else>>\ But work wasn't the only thing that I used to keep my mind busy, I needed more. [[Which is one of the reasons I got this job.][$charisma +=5]] [[I busied myself with reading and writing.][$creativity +=5]] [[Since leaving, I’ve been working out consistently.][$combat +=5]] [[I worked on my car.][$engineering +=5]] [[I read more about the supernatural.][$supernatural +=5]] <</if>>\ <</if>>\

I grab my keys and dangle them obnoxiously as I head to open the door. The sound of both is finally what wakes Chris up and he reacts more like a zombie. I watch as he goes through the motions of putting on his clothes, brushing his teeth, freshening up, and then joining me. I think he’s going to wake up anytime now, but he still looks dead on his feet. The drive to work is peculiar. It’s silent, but our inner thoughts are loud, possibly screaming. Since leaving, I haven’t had a real conversation with Chris about what had happened. And thankfully he hasn’t asked for an explanation. This iss either due to him wanting to leave and seeing his chance or because he just knows that I'm not in the mood to talk about it. I also don't give him a real chance to question me, keeping myself unnecessarily busy. [[Which is one of the reasons I got this job.][$charisma +=5]] [[I busied myself with reading and writing.][$creativity +=5]] [[Since leaving, I’ve been working out consistently.][$combat +=5]] [[I worked on my car.][$engineering +=5]] [[I read more about the supernatural.][$supernatural +=5]]

I search for his shoe, finding it under a chair. I’ll think about how it got there later, especially since I don’t recall him ever going near the chair. With precision, I throw the shoe right at his head, the pillow taking most of the impact. “I’m coming,” he shouts, throwing the shoe to the ground and the pillow to the side. He’s almost like a zombie, going through the motions of putting on his clothes, brushing his teeth, freshening up, and then joining me. I think he’s going to wake up anytime now, but he still looks dead on his feet. The drive to work is peculiar. It’s silent, but our inner thoughts are loud, possibly screaming. Since leaving, I haven’t had a real conversation with Chris about what had happened. And thankfully he hasn’t asked for me to explain myself. This was either due to him wanting to leave and seeing his chance or because he just knew that I wasn’t in the mood to talk about it. I also didn't give him a chance to question me. I tried to keep myself unnecessarily busy. [[Which is one of the reasons I got this job.][$charisma +=5]] [[I busied myself with reading and writing.][$creativity +=5]] [[Since leaving, I’ve been working out consistently.][$combat +=5]] [[I worked on my car.][$engineering +=5]] [[I read more about the supernatural.][$supernatural +=5]]

I go to the other side of the bed and notice him move the pillow out of the way, curious as to why the bed had dipped. Before he can figure out what I’m doing, I attack him. I know he’s ticklish and through multiple tests, found most of his spots. “Chill, $name!” he shouts in between fits of laughter, desperately trying to get away from me. <<if $CRomance >=1>>\ <>\<<set $CRomance +=1>><>\ He gets dangerously close to the edge, and by the time I realize it, he’s already falling and pulling me with him. My fall is cushioned by his body, his arms now wrapped around me protectively. Our eyes meet, and both of us blush furiously, scrambling to get away from one another. “We should go,” I state, clearing my throat, and pointing to the door. “I should get dressed,” he says at the exact same time, grabbing his clothes and hurrying into the bathroom. As soon as the door closes I let out a deep sigh, still fighting the persistent blush. <<else>>\ Chris gets dangerously close to the edge, and by the time I realize it, he’s already falling. I watch as he disappears from view around the same time that a loud thump is heard. He groans, and I choose now to restate my previous words, that he needs to get ready. <</if>>\ The drive to work is peculiar. It’s silent, but our inner thoughts are loud, possibly screaming. Since leaving, I haven’t had a real conversation with Chris about what had happened. And thankfully he hasn’t asked for me to explain myself. This was either due to him wanting to leave and seeing his chance or because he just knew that I wasn’t in the mood to talk about it. I also didn't give him a chance to question me. I tried to keep myself unnecessarily busy. [[Which is one of the reasons I got this job.][$charisma +=5]] [[I busied myself with reading and writing.][$creativity +=5]] [[Since leaving, I’ve been working out consistently.][$combat +=5]] [[I worked on my car.][$engineering +=5]] [[I read more about the supernatural.][$supernatural +=5]]

Food, new clothes, and gas. Part of me even wants to go out and purchase a gun but I choose against that for now. <<include "W1_3">>

Before, I hardly had time to actually sit back and do activities that I enjoy. For obvious reasons, these moments were lost to me. Since leaving though, I’ve had a moment to actually take a deep breath and sit down. To grab a pencil and some paper and actually write. I avoided the obvious topic, telling myself constantly to write of other things, anything else. I worked on my descriptions, and when the temptation grew too much, I read instead. <<include "W1_3">>

The good thing about working out is that you can do so anywhere, whether running or just doing basic exercises and numerous reps. All in all, working out took my mind off of other things, subjects that would otherwise have me visiting a bar to try and forget them. <<include "W1_3">>

Since joining up with Sydero, my car has gone through hell. <<if $car is "Honda Civic">>\ It was prepared for the miles and thankfully it had enough fuel efficiency. It gave me the much mileage for my dollar, and I wish to only make sure it was still being taken care of. <<else>>\ It wasn’t exactly prepared for the miles that I was tacking on. It had the power, but at the moment that’s not what I needed. What I needed was ultimate fuel efficiency. <</if>>\ <<include "W1_3">>

Yes, I left. My reasons for doing so being my own<<if $break>>, but that didn’t mean I was going to stay away forever. One of these days I would join them again, or perhaps change my mind and go my own way. Either way,<<else>>. It would be too soon if I saw them again, especially Sydero. I could go a lifetime without seeing her again. Regardless,<</if>> I wouldn’t be ignorant. The supernatural world existed, and I was still on one of their hit lists, I still needed to learn and be prepared. <<include "W1_3">>

<<if $keycar>>\ I park the car in my new usual space, smiling at the memory of my old one, though frowning at the fact that it was now nothing but a memory. Hopefully, I wouldn't have to key anyone's car here, and if push comes to shove, at least it's not the General Manager's. <<else>>\ I park the car in my new usual space, smiling at the memory of my old one, though frowning at the fact that it was now nothing but a memory. Something that, whether or not I wished for, had to be moved to the side, abandoned. <</if>>\ <>\ <<if $int is "both">>\ <<switch random(1, 2)>> <<case 1>> <<set $mgender = "male">> <<set $mhe = "he">> <<set $mhim = "him">> <<set $mhis = "his">> <<set $mHe = "He">> <<set $mHim = "Him">> <<set $mHis = "His">> <<case 2>> <<set $mgender = "female">> <<set $mhe = "she">> <<set $mhim = "her">> <<set $mhis = "her">> <<set $mHe = "She">> <<set $mHim = "Her">> <<set $mHis = "Her">> <<default>> Blah. Something went wrong if this is shown. <</switch>> <<elseif $int is "men">>\ <<set $mgender = "male">> <<set $mhe = "he">> <<set $mhim = "him">> <<set $mhis = "his">> <<set $mHe = "He">> <<set $mHim = "Him">> <<set $mHis = "His">> <<else>>\ <<set $mgender = "female">> <<set $mhe = "she">> <<set $mhim = "her">> <<set $mhis = "her">> <<set $mHe = "She">> <<set $mHim = "Her">> <<set $mHis = "Her">> <</if>>\ <>\ “About time, $fname,” I hear someone shout out, turning to see my new boss approaching me hastily. <<if $mgender is "male">>He walks towards me with his usual swagger, his head high and a confident, carefree smile tugging at his lips. Upon first look, his scraggly beard would dare to hide the smile, but that always present smile refuses to stay hidden. Once he gets to me, he runs a hand through his dark brown curtained hair, messing it up but not taking away from the overall attractive appearance.<<else>>She struts towards me with her usual confident gait, her head high and her purpose clear. Each step causes the tail part of her tight ponytail to sway to the side. Usually, I would think her dark brown eyes would’ve been overlooked, but the self-assurance within them gave them a particular gleam that was hard to miss.<<if $int isnot "none">>A gleam that caused an already attractive woman to become twice that.<</if>><</if>> “I didn’t think I was late,” I say apologetically, scratching the back of my neck as I take a look at my watch. Like I thought, I still had ten minutes to spare. “You’re not late,” $mhe tells me, “I just need you on bar duty today. Short notice because two called in sick. Think you can handle it?” “Of course,” I state, biting my tongue before I can say any more. I was close to saying that I prefer the station to the one <<if $cp>>Chris and <</if>>I asked for, kitchen duty. <<if $cp>>We<<else>>I<</if>> asked for it due to it being out of the way, that lack of interaction, and was smart to keep the lowest profile possible. <<if $bartending>>And a plus for me was that it was away from the bar, something I knew hardly anything about. But telling my boss that would cause slight suspicion.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “Great,” Morgan smiles, $mhis eyes moving to Chris. $mHe gives him a respectable nod before $mhe leaves. Chris grumbles under his breath, perhaps upset that he wasn’t placed on bartending duty, that and because the boss cared little for him. It was a fact that I had noticed as well, one that I can only explain by saying that it was perhaps due to Chris’s outgoing behavior. I was the mystery between the two of us. When questioned, Chris would just skip over all the supernatural parts and add to our story from there. When I was questioned, I simply stare on and get back to work. “Have fun on bar duty,” Chris grumbles, heading towards the back room to get his supplies. <<else>>\ “Great,” Morgan smiles, a genuine smile on $mhis face before $mhe leaves. I watch as Morgan goes, knowing full well why the boss had taken such interest in me. I was a mystery. When questioned about my past and how I got here, I would simply stare before getting back to work. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="W1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Come on Delano, we got customers waiting,” the other bartender working tells me, pushing out two drinks towards the patrons on his side. I, in turn, grab three beers, placing them in front of the customers sitting close to me. He turns to me entirely, “you see that?” He gestures to our side of the restaurant. [[“Customers?”|W1_5][$serious +=3]] [[“Alcoholics?”|W1_5][$serious -=3]] [[“I see a lot of things, want to be more specific?”|W1_5]]

“Regulars. People who come and have a set idea of how this place is supposed to run. I haven’t had one person upset, and I’m not planning on having that start now.” I fail to see how any of this was my fault. This was only my third day on the job, more so, it was my first time helping out the bar. [[“Remind me again how this is my fault?”]] [[“I did ask to be put on kitchen duty.”]]

“If you don’t mind, remind me again how this is my fault? How am I supposed to know each customer’s regular drink?” “I’m not asking for excuses, just do better.” Arguing with the slender man is a one-way path that leads straight into a ditch. I learned that the first day on duty, and I wasn't even bartending then. <<include "W1_6">>

“In my defense,” I chuckle, “I did ask to be put on kitchen duty.” “Well, we don’t always get what we want now, do we?” he asks, though I can clearly hear the venom in his words. He didn’t want me here, and though I suppose it should bother me, it doesn’t. I don’t need, nor want, to learn more about this man. I simply wish to get paid, go to the motel, and repeat for another day. Routine, it is something I found I missed, even just a bit. <<include "W1_6">>

“Now, watch this. Bill and Ralph?” he directs my attention to two men who are looking at a deck of cards. “What’re you havin’?” “The regular,” both of them say in unison. Mr. Hotshot Bartender gives me a pointed look before preparing both of their drinks. I watch him<<if $bartending>>, but it’s not because I’m impressed; instead it's the opposite. I notice a few things that he leaves out that would otherwise enhance the flavor. I also realize that one of the guys is a fan of masking the alcohol taste, yet Mr. Hotshot does a pathetic job of concealing it.<<else>> but fail to see how this will aid me in the long run. All he shows me is that he knows their drink orders by heart.<</if>> <<if $bartending>>\ [[Show him up.][$daring +=3]] [[Keep it to myself.][$daring -=3]] <<else>>\ [[Mock him.][$sympathy -=3]] [[Compliment him.][$sympathy +=3]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> I clear my throat, offering Mr. Hotshot my best sympathetic smile. “Your mixology skills are adequate, I suppose. But you’re missing out on the most obvious things here.” I grab a pitcher and get to work on making a small amount of punch, adding it to the drink. I then grab some cranberry juice and mix it into the other drink to tone down the flavor. I pass them to the patrons, both looking skeptical and downright offended that I had dared touch their drinks. “Just taste it,” I urge. They both do as I ask, their eyes widening as they take another sip, this one longer. “Definitely an improvement,” they say, showering me with compliments. I pat Mr. Hotshot’s shoulder, “guess you’re going to have to tweak their drinks now, huh? Since they won’t be ordering their regular drinks anymore.” He ignores me and I walk back to my end of the bar. <<include "W1_7">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> I was trying to keep a low profile, that being the main reason for keeping my mouth closed. Additionally, these men were regulars and didn’t seem to complain when they received their drinks, why ruin something that isn’t broken? <<include "W1_7">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> “Impressive,” I begin, mockingly clapping my hands, “you just confirmed my thoughts. You eat, breathe, and live this bar. No kind of life outside of it.” The first part makes him beam, but as soon as I state that his life outside the bar is nonexistent, he stiffens and glowers at me. “My tips will look better than yours regardless. So make fun all you want.” <<include "W1_7">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> “Impressive,” I state after he gives the drinks out and wanders back to my side of the bar, “you must be very observant to know their orders so well.” He beams with pride at the compliment, clearing his throat as he stands taller. “Of course. The customers come first.” Thankfully, Mr. Hotshot concerns himself with his side of the bar, leaving me to mine. As more customers pour in, his tips build up while mine stay stagnant. It was more due to me being a new face, and not my ability to make a drink. <<include "W1_7">>

“How’s it going?” Morgan asks, appearing on the other side of the bar, eyeing the patrons that all exist further down. “Could be better,” I snort, cleaning one of the pitchers. That’s what I’ve been doing mostly, washing glasses and pitchers, wiping down my side of the bar. “I got a proposition for you. After we close up, I can teach you some tricks I know to help improve your bartending game.” “Sounds like you’re going to have me doing this tomorrow as well,” I point out, and Morgan shrugs. “Depends on if you can retain the information I give you tonight.” It doesn’t exactly seem like I can say no, and so I nod. <<if $cp>>Though that would mean either Chris would have to wait for me to finish up with Morgan or would have to find another way home.<<else>>Why not take $mhis proposition? Especially if it would just lead to greater tips.<</if>> I think that’s the end of Morgan’s questioning and conversation, however short it was. But when $mhe doesn’t move, I doubt myself. $mHe continues to give me a curious look, as if not understanding something but not wishing to ask either. “Yes?” I question. “You agreed,” $mhe says plainly. “Yea, why is that such a shock?” “No big reason, just shocked that you don’t have some clingy partner to go home to.” [[“Who says I don’t?”]] [[Shrug.]] <<if ($int isnot "none") and ($s_att is "high")>>\ [[“Interested in more than just teaching?”][$morgan +=1]] <</if>>\ <<if $int is "none">>\ [[“I’m not generally interested in others.”]] <</if>>\

“Who says I don’t?” I question, raising a brow. <<if $CRomance >=2>>My thoughts, going to Chris, and so does my gaze. I search for him as if he was going to pop up at any moment. But that was hopeful thinking. Chris and I were just friends, nothing more.<<elseif $SRomance >=2>>My thoughts, against my pleading, conjures up the image of Sydero. That sarcastic smirk that I hate to love, the way her amber eyes would cause me to shiver, the closeness and the heat that my – nope! I place the safeguards back up, clearing my throat before looking at a still curious Morgan.<<else>>Of course, there was no one, but I failed to see how Morgan would know, or why he would insinuate such a thing.<</if>> “I suppose you have a point. Though if said partner was clingy, I would think you’d want to get home right away. You know, avoid all of the questions. Anyway, I’ll see you tonight.” <<include "W1_8">>

I shrug, continuing my job. I give $mhim no indication to whether there was one or not. $mHe could waste $mhis time trying to figure it out or not. <<include "W1_8">>

I raise an interested brow, cocking my head slightly, “interested in more than just teaching?” A bright blush appears, and $mhe clears $mhis throat. “I’ll see you tonight, $fname.” “That you will,” I smirk, watching as $mhe goes. <<include "W1_8">>

I shrug, “I’m not generally interested in others like that.” “Oh,” she begins, biting the inside of her cheek, “I see. Well, I guess I’ll see you tonight.” As she walks away, I roll my eyes, she could hide her interest in me better. <<include "W1_8">>

<<if $cp>>\ As the end of the day looms closer, I go and seek out Chris. I need to tell him about staying after and trying to figure out what he’ll do. I find him in the back, placing the last of the plates. Upon seeing me, he visibly relaxes. “About time, can’t wait till we get back to the motel. That’s weird to say,” he starts, and I quickly stop him before he can go further. “Morgan asked me to stay after to learn a few tricks for the bar. Wasn’t really a yes or no thing. Are you going to wait for me?” He deflates, his eyes going to where the pile of dishes once were. “No, uh, I’ll be okay. I’ll meet you there.” He quickly walks off, all too happy to leave my side it seems. I would talk to him later, especially since we had a few unspoken things between us. Right now, I’ll focus on Morgan and the things $mhe had to teach me. I stand behind the bar, reading the drink menu. While I do this, Morgan preps some of the things that we’ll probably need. <<else>>\ At the end of the day I stand behind the bar, reading the drink menu. While I do this, Morgan preps some of the things that we’ll probably need. <</if>>\ “Answer me this, $fname,” Morgan begins. I glance upwards, showing $mhim that I was listening, before gazing back down at the menu. “Why did you ask for kitchen duty when <<if $bartending>>you’re talented and experienced enough to actually work the bar?<<else>>you know how to actually work the bar?<</if>> This pays so much more.” I’m about to answer the question, but Morgan raises a finger, obviously not done with $mhis snooping. “Also, you came to me begging for this job when you can easily get a better one with that resume of yours. What gives?” <<if $stubborn >=50>>“I’ve told you. It’s a long story, alright. Can we just get to you showing me those tips you talked about?” Morgan doesn’t necessarily look unhappy about my stubbornness. Probably because this wasn’t the first time that $mhe’s tried to learn more about me.<<else>>“It’s a long story. And not exactly one that I like to think about. Maybe some other time?” Morgan pouts in disappointment but nods in understand. It wasn’t the first time I’ve told $mhim no, and I doubt it will be the last.<</if>> $mHe sighs, joining me behind the bar, “I just want to know what your story is. This mystery act of yours has to have an off button somewhere, right?" I still refuse to answer, wondering if this is how Sydero felt when I would always question her. “So, bartending. What do you think is the most important part of it?” [[“Getting the drink right.”][$sympathy +=2]] [[“Keeping the peace.”][$pacifist +=2]] [[“General customer service.”][$charisma +=2]] [[“Having a quick response to situations?”][$daring +=2]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> “I guess getting the drink right, not poisoning the person.” Morgan laughs, rolling $mhis eyes playfully. “Well yes, please don’t poison my customers.” <<include "W1_9">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> “Would it be keeping the peace?” “That’s part of it yes. No one wants for it to get out of hand and a bar fight to start up.” <<include "W1_9">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Charisma ++<</if>> “General customer service, knowing what to say and how to say it.” Morgan shrugs with a smile, “that’s a big part.” <<include "W1_9">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> “Having a quick response to any situation. Glass breaks, two patrons arguing, a specific ingredient ran out, someone having a seizure.” “I don’t usually ask about reactions during interviews, but I think I just might now.” <<include "W1_9">>

“What you said is true. Being a bartender is that and more. The ability to memorize a drink comes with seeing the same face every day and putting the drink to that face. But that’s not what earns you the tips. It’s giving a damn about the customer, whether you act it or genuinely want to know how their day went.” Morgan looks around for the proper word, evading $mhim until $mhe finally gives up. “We’re almost like counselors, really bad ones that keep you calm while loading and giving you the gun. If Joe comes in here and orders and then starts talking about his no-good cheating wife, you listen. You will be surprised at how many just need an ear to vent.” “Sounds like you want me to be their friend,” I point out. “We help them. Make them feel better. But we also know how to tell them no more alcohol. It’s a complicated but needed relationship.” It’s less complicated than what Morgan is making it out to be, and I still fail to see how all this will result in a higher tip. “So, you mean to tell me, that just listening and acting like their friend would give me a better tip?” It’s a lesson that’s starkly different to the lesson I learned while working at //The Alley//. There, you had to appeal to the customers. Drop a compliment here and there, give them the drink, and accept whatever tip they decide to offer. “Yea, is it that hard to believe?” [[“Yes, you have no idea.”][$optimistic -=3]] [[“Not really, just making sure.”][$optimistic +=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Pessimistic ++<</if>> “Yes, you have no idea. Honestly, I feel like each bar has its own secrets. In a bar like this, that close-knit feel probably works. My past job, not so much.” Morgan doesn’t particularly seem bothered or surprised at my words. It isn’t as if I’m lying. <<include "W1_10">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Optimistic ++<</if>> “No, it’s not that, I was just making sure I guess.” I offer a small smile. <<include "W1_10">>

“Well that’s all I got for you,” $mhe tells me, clapping as if we had actually gotten some stuff done. $mHe raises a brow and leans forward on the bar counter, “unless you want to grab a beer and talk some more.” The grabbing a drink part is more appealing than the talking one. Morgan will ask questions about my past, I’ll refuse to answer, and the dance will start all over again until one of us decides to retire. <<if $int is "none" and $s_att isnot "high">>“I’m fine. I’ll see you tomorrow though.” Thankfully, Morgan doesn’t stop me.<<else>>“I’m fine. I’ll see you tomorrow though.” Thankfully, Morgan doesn’t stop me. $mHis eyes are trained on me, but that’s it.<</if>>I grab my keys, thanking Morgan once again before walking into the chilly night. There’s a light drizzle, mostly I’m hit with nothing but the mist. It feels like tiny little whispers on the surface of the skin, there for only a moment before moving on. It brings a unique peacefulness with it, a peacefulness that I’m not exactly familiar with, but treasure all the same. <<if $cp>>\ <a data-passage="W1_11"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ <a data-passage="W2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

I unlock the door, not knowing if Chris still being up is necessarily a good or bad thing. He sits on the edge of the bed, fiddling with his phone with a towel draped across his bare shoulders. Bare shoulders, of course, leading to a bare chest, the man has a secret hatred for shirts, I’m sure. Upon seeing me, he immediately goes to grab a shirt, apologizing quietly. [[“Working out?”]] <<if $flirt_Chris>>\ <<if settings.dialog>>[[“Wait, keep it off.”][$CRomance +=1]]<<else>>[[“Wait, keep it off.”][$CRomance +=1]]<</if>> <</if>>\ [[“Do you hate shirts or something?”]]

“Were you working out?” I question, though I ask the question more to do away with the awkward air. “Yea, it helps to take the edge off of everything. You know what I mean, right?” I nod, setting my things down on the end table and sitting on the edge of the bed. Chris obviously has more to say. <<include "W1_12">>

“Whoa, what are you doing?” I smirk, and he freezes, his shirt hovering in front of him, “keep the shirt off.” The blush that suddenly appears on his cheeks pairs well with his soft smile. But his face was the last thing on my mind. Instead, my eyes glance at the glistening sweat that clings to his skin, allowing his skin to shimmer. <<include "W1_12">>

“What is it with you and shirts? Do you have some problem with them that I don’t know about?” “Actually, I do. But walking around shirtless isn’t really an option either,” he tells me, a hint of a smile arising but it never truly settles. <<include "W1_12">>

He sighs loudly, his eyes wandering to every corner of the room before he meets mine. “We need to talk, $name.” <<if $break>>\ “About what? What comes next?” Truth is I didn’t even know. I was planning on going back, but I hadn’t thought about how Sydero would feel about that. Knowing her, she would move on, and I’d be incapable of finding her. And even if I did find her, who said she wanted me back? “Though I’m not happy about going back, I know why you want to. But we need to talk about why you left in the first place.” <<else>>\ “About what? What comes next?” Truth is I didn’t even know. I’m not planning on going back, but I don’t know what else to do either. I’ve only been living this strange life for about a week or two, yet it feels like it’s been forever. “No. We need to talk about why you left in the first place.” <</if>>\ [[“No thanks.”][$chris -=5; $sympathy -=2]] [[“Yea, you’re right.”][$chris +=5; $sympathy +=2]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> I snort, grabbing some night clothes and heading towards the bathroom, “no thanks. Ignorance is bliss, right?” I half expect Chris to stop me, he can be very persistent when he wants to be, which is almost always. But he doesn’t move, he only gives me a look that rivals even that of a puppy. “It’s not for me,” Chris whispers, I close the door but not before hearing him say, “you’re running away.” I attempt to wash away Chris’s questions with water, closing my eyes as the water pelts down onto me irregularly. The water pressure in this motel is horrendous, one minute I barely feel it, with the next seeing me trying to avoid it. Regardless, my mind keeps going to Chris’s question and then moves to the broad issue. Am I running away? And is running away such a bad thing? After everything I’ve seen and been through, it seems like the smartest thing. <<if $incustody>>Thinking back on it, this wasn’t even my choice. I was dragged into all of this. I didn’t want to go back to Sydero, I didn’t want to be dragged into whatever she had going on. Petri and Langston grabbed me and started all of this. I just was now fixing it.<</if>> <a data-passage="W2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> I want to deny his words, to say that I didn’t need to, but he was right. The longer I avoided it, the more it would bug and eat away at me. Additionally, he deserved to know. “You’re right,” I tell him, “is there something specific you want to know or just curious about why?” “Just curious about why. That fight you and Sydero had, it seems like it’s been building, but it also seems like it came out of nowhere. Almost as if you were looking for a reason.” It’s then that I fill Chris in on everything he possibly didn’t know. Faye warning me about Sydero, the dead werewolf at the warehouse, and what I read about witches in the book. He sits quietly, surprisingly not bothered by everything I’m telling him. When I’m through, he says only one word, “damn.” I chuckle and agree. “But seriously, I think I see now. To Bradley and me, that fight looked like it just happened, but I should’ve known. You have way too much pressure on your shoulders right now. I guess it was only a matter of when, especially since Sydero is an instigator, not a negotiator.” I nod in agreement, feeling like some weight, though very little, has been lifted from my shoulders. Not one part of this life made sense. Even if I was a fan of chaos and change, this was too much change for anyone. Leaving everything you know, meeting up with a stranger who, for all I know, has the ability to kill me, facing my own mortality numerous of times, and then being hunted by a demon. I left, but now I even doubted that. That’s what my life seems to have become, a series of me doubting everything. <a data-passage="W2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The next day at work, true to $mhis word, Morgan has me playing bartender again. <<if $cp>>Chris doesn’t appreciate me leaving him alone in the back for another day, he appreciates even less that he isn’t given the same chance, but there is little to be done to change that.<</if>> I attempt to change up my usual bartending habits in favor of what Morgan said the other day, appealing to the actual person ordering the drink. <<if $sympathy >=50>>Above all, I act as if I care, which in an odd way, I do. I care about how their life is going. I care about their struggles, and how //human// it all is.<<else>>Above all, I act as if I care. This is perhaps the hardest part. I can't find myself caring about their life struggles and how much their boss gets on their nerves.<</if>> Despite my attempts, Mr. Hotshot still gets all of the customers, and he makes sure to remind me of this fact each spare minute he gets. I get more customers than the previous day, but the tip jar is as depressed as my souring mood. “Dang, $fname, what is this? Pity tips?” he questions, poking the tip jar. Only a handful of customers are still here, enjoying their last moments of being away from whatever shitty life waits for them outside these doors. “This is downright depressing.” He pats my shoulder harshly and then excuses himself to use the bathroom. My eyes roam to his tip jar. It’s full, but that’s only because of how the money is placed inside. I’ve watched Mr. Hotshot all day, and I know for a fact that he never counts his tips, a fatal mistake. [[Steal some of his tips.][$daring +=2; $honesty -=2]] [[Clean up my side of the bar.][$daring -=2; $honesty +=2]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++ | Deceit ++<</if>> There are three customers on his side of the bar, all deep in conversation with one another. The other patrons are far enough away to where they won’t notice anything. I can easily go over, skim a twenty or two off the top, and make it look like I’m not doing anything. I spot a broom nearby and sneer, sometimes fate did work out in my favor. I grab it and begin sweeping, naturally walking over to his side to clean it as well. One customer nods to me, but soon after goes back to the conversation. With deft hands, I grab one of the twenties near the top, stuffing it into my pocket before anyone sees. I repeat and with the money secured and no sign of anyone noticing, I go back to my side of the bar and finish sweeping. <<include "W2_1">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++ | Honesty ++<</if>> I’m not a thief, no matter how annoying the person is, or how easy the task seems. I grab a broom that rests in the corner and begin cleaning. I’m done by the time Mr. Hotshot gets back, thankfully he isn’t boasting anymore. <<include "W2_1">>

I don’t end up seeing Morgan until the end of the day, when $mhe comes out of $mhis office to say goodbye to everyone, except me. After closing the restaurant down, $mhe strides over to me with a purpose, claiming the seat at the bar. “Let’s see what you got.” “Wait, now?” I ask. “Yes now. I’m a customer, one that you’ve never seen before. A complete stranger with problems. Let’s go. I want a Golden Rush Cocktail.” “Coming right up.” I turn to grab the alcohol shaker and then the ingredients needed to make the tasty cocktail. “So, how are you doing this fine night?” “What’s so fine about it?” Morgan asks, snorting in disgust. [[“Well, you’re still alive, aren’t you?”][$sympathy -=3; $optimistic +=3]] [[“Guessing someone’s had a long day.”][$sympathy +=3; $optimistic -=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++ | Optimistic ++<</if>> “Well, you’re still alive, aren’t you?” I question. “Sure, let’s do the whole ‘you’re not dead, so it must not be that bad’ drill,” $mhe says sarcastically, causing me to raise a curious eyebrow, “my two-timing partner, I’m sorry, ex-partner. They’re a pig, liar, phony, and any other rotten synonym you can think of.” <<include "W2_2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++ | Pessimistic ++<</if>> “I’m guessing you’ve had a long day.” “Give the bartender a prize,” $mhe says sarcastically, causing me to raise a curious eyebrow, “my two-timing partner, I’m sorry, ex-partner. They’re a pig, liar, phony, and any other rotten synonym you can think of.” <<include "W2_2">>

“I know what you mean,” I continue on, half of my attention on the conversation, the other half on the drink that I make. I grab the honey and then the sprig mint, searching for the lemon juice as Morgan continues on. “You know where I’m coming from?” $mhe asks me, raising a brow. I glance over my shoulder, $mhis eyes blazed with curiosity, causing me to doubt that this is still part of $mhis fake character. [[“Well, not like that anyway.”]] <<if $int isnot "none">>\ [[“Yea, I’ve dated before.”]] <</if>>\ <<if $int isnot "none">>\ [[“Yes, I’ve been cheated on before.”]] <</if>>\ <<if $int is "none">>\ [[“No, no idea. Remember, I don't like people in that way.”]] <</if>>\

“Well,” I begin, awkwardly rubbing the back of my neck, “not like that. I know what you mean, but I’ve never experienced it personally.” “So are you saying you’ve never dated or never been cheated on?” “None of the above actually,” I chuckle, “I’ve never been interested in dating ... or maybe I’ve just never had time. I don’t know.” “I guess I understand. Seems like the smartest route anyway.” <<include "W2_3">>

“Yes, I’ve dated before, and seen the ugly parts of it,” I state. I can’t remember each one. But I remember the emotions that I felt and the lasting effects it had on me. “You’ve seen your share of hurt.” I pass the completed drink over to $mhim. “Definitely. Sometimes I can’t help but feel like bad luck just follows me around. I mean, even when I was little I’ve –” I stop, realizing what I’m saying and where it’s going. I look towards Morgan, “oh, you’re good.” “I’ve been doing it for a while,” Morgan says, shrugging $mhis shoulders, and thankfully leaving the previous conversation alone. <<include "W2_3">>

“Yes, I’ve been cheated on before, it sucks,” I state. I can easily remember the person, but it doesn’t hurt anymore, not like it did back then. “You’ve seen your share of hurt.” I pass the completed drink over to $mhim. “Definitely. Sometimes I can’t help but feel like bad luck just follows me around. I mean, even when I was little I’ve –” I stop, realizing what I’m saying and where it’s going. I look towards Morgan, “oh, you’re good.” “I’ve been doing it for a while,” Morgan says, shrugging $mhis shoulders, and thankfully leaving the previous conversation alone. <<include "W2_3">>

“No,” I begin, laughing as I remind $mhim about my interests, or lack thereof, “I generally don’t date people, not in a romantic sense or anything.” “Oh yea, but you understand the themes at least, right?” “Totally. I’ve watched plenty of movies and read books and talked to people to understand.” <<include "W2_3">>

“You did a good job,” Morgan compliments, much to my bemusement. “How? I went on a tangent about my own life.” “Yea, but you also calmed me down. You made me forget for even a moment that my problems exist. Plus, that drink was delicious.” “Any truth to the story?” I inquire, setting the towel in my hands down. “Ha, no!” <<if $cmajor is "Communications" or $cmajor is "Psychology">>\ “Sure about that? You could’ve picked anything, any problem, and any choice of words and those were the ones you chose.” Morgan’s smile faltered, $mhis eyes going down to the drink in $mhis hands. “There’s a little truth. About two months ago I dated someone and, well ... I thought they were all I could ever want, ended up being everything I //didn’t// want. It amazes me how we can put our all into someone and then learn that it didn’t matter. That they could just throw it away.” I listen to $mhim, seeing the emotion in $mhis eyes and how much that one person had affected $mhim. <<else>>\ “You just came up with all of that on the spot?” I pout, impressed. “Nice.” Morgan’s smile falters, $mhis eyes going down to the drink in $mhis hands, “nah. There’s a little truth. About two months ago I dated someone and, well ... I thought they were all I could ever want, ended up being everything I //didn’t// want. It amazes me how we can put our all into someone and then learn that it didn’t matter. That they could just throw it away.” I listen to $mhim, seeing the emotion in $mhis eyes and how much that one person had affected $mhim. <</if>>\ [[“What did you do after that?”]] [[“The people we fall in love with, huh?”]] [[“Did it change you?”]] [[“Why do folks cheat!?”]]

“What did you do after that?” “I drunk, and I drunk, and I got drunk. Didn’t help that I owned a damn bar and enjoyed bartending. It messed with everything and knowing that they still had this power over me made it worse. They were probably fucking some other person and here I was, letting my life fall apart.” We both drink silently for a while, neither of us looking at the other. We reside in our own worlds, lightyears away from this forlorn universe. <<include "W2_4">>

“The people we allow ourselves to fall in love with, huh?” I ask, pouring some of the drink for myself. Morgan lets out a long, sad chuckle, the most emotionally fueled chuckle I’ve ever heard. It starts off carefree and humorous, and then drifts into uncharted territory, sadness slowly drifting in, and then permanently staying. <<include "W2_4">>

“Did that change you? Do you look at relationships differently now?” “I haven’t tried to, not that I’ve been in one since then. I keep telling myself that some people are just that way. I shouldn’t lump everyone up together because of what one person did. Whether I do or not, I don’t know.” $mHe takes another long sip of $mhis drink, shrugging. We both drink silently for a while, neither of us looking at the other. We reside in our own worlds, lightyears away from this forlorn universe. <<include "W2_4">>

“I’ll never understand why folks decide to cheat. Just stay single, just break up with the person, there’s a lot of ways to avoid breaking someone’s heart in that kind of way.” Morgan clinks $mhis glass with mine, nodding at my previous words. “I never thought about it until it happened to me, but I agree. I’ve wondered what my reaction would be if they broke up with me another way. If they just told me that they never felt the same. It would hurt, but I would’ve been okay.” We both drink silently for a while, neither of us looking at the other. We reside in our own worlds, lightyears away from this forlorn universe. <<include "W2_4">>

“Alright, let's practice your slide," Morgan says, and I nod. I make another drink and then slide it $mhis way, watching it with my lips pressed together as it swerves too much to the right and hits the ground, breaking and spilling. We both stare at it, neither of us saying anything at first. "Um ... I'll make you another one," I say with a small chuckle. "Yea, and this time how about you just place it in front of me. We can practice the slide more when I get," $mhe looks down at the broken glass, "plastic cups." I pour both of us a shot while $mhe cleans up the mess and after carefully clinking the small glasses, gulp it down. [[Keep drinking.]] [[Start a lighthearted conversation.]] <<if $int isnot "none">>\ [[Compliment Morgan.][$morgan +=1]] <</if>>\

I pick up the next, gulping it down, and then the next. I would have to stop, especially since I would need to drive later but the buzz that the shots create is nevertheless one I need. It numbs my previous thoughts and any thoughts that’ll dare to come later. I close my eyes, wishing I hadn’t driven at all. If only to numb the past and future headaches. <<include "In an unknown parking lot ...">>

I didn’t need to be drinking in the first place, and I wasn’t in the mood to be doing so either. And so, knowing that Morgan isn’t ready to leave, I start a lighthearted conversation. A conversation about trivial things that didn’t matter. <<include "In an unknown parking lot ...">>

“Well, I think you’re pretty amazing, Morgan, and anybody would be lucky to have you and stupid to let you go.” Morgan’s peachy cheeks shift in its tone, a light pink overtaking them. The blush compliments $mhim in ways that I haven’t noticed with others. It causes me to smile, which only deepens $mhis blush more. “Compliments will not win you a promotion.” “I guess if that was my main purpose, then I’d be kinda upset. But seeing that it’s not, and I meant what I said, not really.” Morgan’s eyes soften before $mhe turns $mhis gaze away from me. $mHe clinks $mhis shot glass to my empty one and thanks me. <<include "In an unknown parking lot ...">>

<img src="images/divider.png"> //In an unknown parking lot ...// Sydero fiddles with the key in her palm, turning it over again and again in her hand. This is perhaps the fifth time that she has studied it. She had no real reason to do it, just something to focus on while her mind had a field day. Bradley is now a traveling buddy and though the boy didn’t bother her, she starts to feel bizarrely unlucky when it came to people joining her. Then $name<<if $cp>> and Chris<</if>> <<if $break>>left for a ‘break.’ Truthfully, Sydero finds herself glad $name has chosen such a thing. With everything ?he saw and been through, it would be too much for anyone.<<else>>decided to leave. Perhaps the stupidest decision $name has made, which is saying quite a lot. Out of all the times she’s given ?him this particular option, ?he chose now to actually take her word and go.<</if>> //But $name is <<if $stubborn >=50>>stubborn<<else>>quite reasonable<</if>>//, she thinks to herself, smirking at just how exact her words were. It was the first thing she learned about $name. <<if $stubborn >=50>>No means yes and yes means hell yes. It’s an admirable trait, when not being used against her, which majority of the time it is.<<else>>?He understood that Sydero knew this world and respected that. It’s an admirable trait, one she favors more than the alternative.<</if>> <a data-passage="W2_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The sudden vibrating sensation in her pocket causes her to jump, a feeling she still hasn’t grown accustomed to. She hates that Bradley made her actually use this thing. Someone could easily track her down, despite Bradley’s reassurance. “Hello?” she answers, sighing when she hears the familiar aristocratic and whiny voice of her current client. “I do hope you’re actually performing the duties that //I// paid you for instead of thinking about skipping out.” Sydero closes her eyes and counts, a habit she has been forced to take on since talking with the man yesterday morning. “I’m about to do it now. Shut up and keep your pants on.” Before she can receive a reply, she hangs up, leaving the shelter of the stolen car and approaching the tall building. As she walks toward the building, she checks her phone, nodding at the text from Bradley that states the cameras are now off. “What are you doing here?” the first security guard she comes across asks. “None of your business, just sleep,” she tells him. The man’s eyes glaze over, and he sways from one side to the next, finally falling out of his chair and to the ground. Her pace never slows. She makes it to the elevator and takes it up, waiting impatiently as a short annoying jingle plays overhead. The elevator doors part, and two bewildered guards meet her. They hurl questions at her, their hands shakily moving to their tasers. “Hey, what about you both shut up,” she shouts. They quiet down, but only due to shock at her audacity. “Any of you know where room 632 is?” They pipe up simultaneously, one questioning her intentions and the other questioning her presence and identity. “Ugh, both of you just sleep.” Similar to the other, both men drop to the floor immediately, their bodies creating a loud thud against the ceramic tile flooring. Sydero finds her own way, going from hall to hall to find the appropriate room. Upon finding it, she shows herself in, spotting a middle-aged man busy at his desk. The office is large and attractive but empty. <a data-passage="W2_6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Mr. Douglas? Congratulations on the promotion,” she begins, walking in and casually taking a seat as if invited. The man peers from her to the now-closed door. Then a glance around the office as if it holds a clue as to why this stranger has abruptly entered. “Um, who are you?” “Unimportant. Back to this promotion, how’d you get it?” “I’m calling security.” This part, Sydero is used to. No one is okay with a random stranger, dressed in black, casually walking into their office when the building is closed. She would be bothered if the man didn’t threaten her with such words. That didn’t mean she wouldn’t appreciate someone who just cooperated. The man picks up his phone, shrieking in horror when Sydero flings it across the room with one flick of her wrist. Her targets always choose to do this tedious dance, leaving a sour taste in her mouth each time. “You see, there are some people in this building, namely a man two doors down with a rod up his ass, who don’t think you deserve it. They want to walk into work tomorrow and see your dead body.” The man swallows the lump in his throat, shaking profusely. She should probably work on her delivery. <<if $sympathy >=50>>\ She could practically hear Roe in her ear now, scolding her for not knowing how to speak to others, even if those moments were their final hours. She isn’t entirely against Roe asserting ?himself into the conversation. It meant she could get to business while Roe gathered information. //A lovely team dynamic//, she finds herself thinking, scolding herself for such thoughts immediately after. She needs no one. <<else>>\ Though Roe would probably disagree with that thought. ?He would say she’s doing a fantastic job. She could practically see Roe leaning up against the wall, trying to stay calm and collected while at the same time seeming like the poster child for badasses everywhere. She’d tease ?him about that later. The thought brings a reluctant smile to her face. But she quickly scolds herself. She needs to focus. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="W2_7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Please. I //deserve// this job. I worked my ass off for years to get here. Donovan just got here a month ago and thinks he deserves it all.” Douglas pounds his fist on the table, upsetting some of the more sensitive items there. An interesting revelation, though, especially since her current employer made it out as if //he’s// the one that deserves it. Despite her general distaste for the man, and his willingness to kill an innocent man simply because he’s greedy, Sydero saw little choice. She’s getting paid to introduce the man in front of her to death. “Nothing personal.” “Stay away from me!” he shouts, grabbing the nearest item, which happens to be a lamp. She raises her hands in mock surrender, flashing her hands open and causing the window to begin to crack. “Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall.” Douglas shakes his head, putting the lamp down as he drops to his knees to beg. “Humpty Dumpty had a great fall.” The glass cracked further. “I’ll do anything! I’ll pay you!” “All the king’s men and all the king’s //money//.” “Anything!” Suddenly, Douglas’ body flies through the air, crashing into the weakened glass. The pressure finally sends the glass shards tumbling down, and his body joins them. Sydero walks to the window. Due to the darkness and how high up she is, she can only see a small figure sprawled out on the ground. “Couldn’t put Humpty together again.” <a data-passage="EP5-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/acttwo.png"> I slide two beer bottles down the bar, winking at the two patrons that nod at me in thanks. I have little time to celebrate the perfect slide as another asks for a shot of whiskey. I complete the order and graciously accept the ten-dollar tip. I send a small but satisfied smirk to Mr. Hotshot, who is actually seeing fewer customers than usual, all due to them being on my side of the bar. Sometimes karma takes a while, but it always shows its handsomely, ugly face. “Nice,” Morgan compliments, jingling $mhis car keys as $mhe approaches, “I’m going to run down to the store, think you can handle everything here?” I know Morgan is taking a liking to me, but I didn’t think $mhe would trust me this much. Especially since Mr. Hotshot stands right there. He hears the same thing I do and though he doesn’t comment, deflates. “Yea, I can.” Morgan thanks me and walks off, ultimately leaving me in charge. [[Tell Mr. Hotshot to go take stock.]] [[Tell him to go check the bathrooms.]] [[Leave him be.]]

“Hey, how about you make yourself useful and go take stock?” It isn’t his duty, but suddenly, all because of a few words, it is today. I dare him to argue and he doesn’t, seeming to be a tad bit happy to not have to deal with me. But that also means no tips for him. <<include "W3">>

“Hey, how about you go check the bathrooms. Make sure they’re clean.” It isn’t his duty, but suddenly, all because of a few words, it is today. I dare him to argue. He seems like he’s ready to beg me not to send him but the suffering looks only encourages me more. <<include "W3">>

I gaze over at him but say nothing else, I’ll be the bigger person here, especially since his ego is already wounded enough. <<include "W3">>

<<if $cp>>\ Chris appears, his eyes going towards the front door of the restaurant before he looks back at me. “Morgan seems to like you even more than I thought.” “Yea, won’t say I mind since bartending duty pays more than kitchen.” “True, but I thought we agreed to this for a reason. You know, less attention? The opposite of what you’re doing.” “If I didn’t know better, Chris, I’d say you were jealous.” “Because I am.” <<if $flirt_Chris>>\ [[“Aw, Chris, I still like you more than Morgan.”][$chris +=3]] <</if>>\ [[“Is it the bartending part?”]] <<else>>\ <<include "W3_1">> <</if>>\

<<if $CRomance >=1>>\<<set $CRomance +=1>><</if>>\ “Aw Chris,” I start, resting my hand on his shoulder, “I still like you more than Morgan.” “Well, isn’t that a relief. I would’ve never known by the way you keep ditching me for $mhim.” Definitely jealous, at least he admits it. “You could stay after too,” I suggest, but he refuses immediately. “No. I know I’m not welcomed, hence why I’m still on kitchen duty, and you’ve practically been promoted.” <<include "W3_1">>

“Is it because I was made into a bartender, while you’re still on kitchen duty?” “I wouldn’t know why else I’d be jealous.” <<include "W3_1">>

<<if $cp>>\ “I’m failing to see how this is my fault.” He sighs, running his hands through his hair, messing it up more. Typically, his hair is at least well kept, now it just sticks out however it wants to. “Am I finding another way to the motel, or are you coming?” I nod, to the latter. There is nothing left for me to learn. This seems to please him, enough to where he at least smiles and walks off. <</if>>\ The day carries on with no issues. The patrons are happy, the bar is stocked, and tips are pouring in. I watch the news along with a few of the other regulars, seeing a story about a businessman that had recently killed himself. “Douglas Stewart was found dead this morning by a janitor arriving at work, it appears that the man jumped out of his sixth-floor window. This comes days after Stewart was given a promotion after working five years with said company. Co-workers are mystified and hurt by the sudden events, stating that the man was the happiest they’ve ever seen him.” The news-woman switches to other news, news that none of us seem to particularly care for. From behind me, I hear my phone start vibrating and check to see that it’s Bradley himself. [[Ignore the call.][$bradley -=5]] [[Answer Bradley's call.][$bradley +=5]]

I ignore his call. I'm on the clock, and I don't wish to hear what he has to say. Not now, at least. Not when I'm finally figuring everything out. He can wait. My phone starts vibrating, and I receive a text telling me to watch the video that he's sent. I see nothing wrong with that, especially if this video has something to do with me. I grab my headphones and sit on a nearby barstool. <<include "W3_2">>

I check to make sure everyone is good before picking up the phone. <<if $break>>\ “Bradley? Hey, how are you?” I question. “Great! Alright, we have a problem. And when I say we, I actually mean you, just you,” Bradley says, stumbling over his words. I’m hardly able to understand what he even says. “What are you saying right now, Bradley? I can’t understand you when you talk fast.” Though, I can’t understand the young man half of the other times he talks either. I’m not dumb, far from it, but when Bradley is passionate, his language skills make me think he’s some sort of super-genius who already invented space travel and is just waiting for the rest of us to catch up. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $bradley -=3>><>\ “No, I’m not coming back, Bradley,” I say, already losing my patience, and I haven’t even heard his voice. In his defense, he isn’t the reason I left. “Nice to hear your voice too, $name. If I held grudges like you did, then you’d still be in the dark right now about the bullshit that’s about to hit you square in the face.” He grumbles something about ungrateful people. “What are you talking about, Bradley?” <</if>>\ “I’m sending you the video. But spoiler alert, you’re now on the police wanted list.” The water I’m sipping comes out, decorating the top of the bar’s back counter. “What!?” “Exactly what I said when I saw it.” “Bradley, I’m not joking. What are you talking about?” “Watch the video.” He hangs up without further explanation. A second later, a video is sent to my phone. I grab my headphones and sit on a nearby barstool, preparing myself. <<include "W3_2">>

<<if $chrissafe>>\ The camera focuses on what I recognize is the Arlington bank. And even with that black cliché mask hiding ?his face, I instantly recognize the person behind it. Me. “Virginia police are on the lookout for a dangerous criminal who has robbed the Arlington Bank yesterday morning. During a deadly shootout, two officers from the Arlington County Police Department have lost their lives. Cameras place this person,” my heart drops as an image of me appears on the screen, “$name Roe, at the scene, along with an accomplice that has yet to be identified.” This is impossible; obviously I didn’t do this. The news-woman appears once again. <<else>> The camera focuses on what looks to be Chris’s house, or at least his parent’s house. “A home invasion gone wrong has led to a deadly shootout with cops. Four deaths have taken place today in the home of Martha and Ryan Richardson. The bodies have been identified as two officers from the Arlington County Police Department, and homeowner Ryan Richardson along with his son, Chris Richardson. The discovery was made by the lady of the house, Martha, who came home to the bloody and disastrous scene.” The camera shifts to Ms. Richardson sniffling, attempting to speak. “I came home to see, I ... I’m sorry, I can’t.” The video returns to the news reporter whose acting skills were far better than her reporting. “An eyewitness places this person,” my heart drops as an image of me appears on the screen, “$name Roe, at the scene during the crime.” This is impossible; obviously I didn’t do this. Another man soon appears on camera. “I just saw ?him walking towards the house with a gun, screaming about something. ?He looked pissed off, that’s when I called the police.” The man continues to speak about what he thinks he saw, but my brain is hardly keeping up. According to them, I killed my best friend. I don’t even factor in how much trouble I’m about to be in with the law, regardless of the truth. <</if>>\ “<<if $uncledead>>This comes days after police have begun to suspect $name Roe of killing ?his own uncle and attempting to hide the evidence by burning the house. <</if>>Police ask that if you have any information about $name Roe that you immediately contact your nearest police department. Police warn that those who see Roe should exercise caution. It is believed that this fugitive is armed and dangerous.” The video stops there, but I’m still staring down at it, as if re-watching. I’m now a wanted criminal, guilty of crimes I didn’t do. It isn’t hard to figure out how my name became smeared in the first place. Somehow Langston was able to copy my appearance. I don’t know how that works with shapeshifters, but it’s the only thing that makes any sense. <a data-passage="W3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Hey, buddy? You okay?” one of the patrons ask, and though I feel my head go up and down, I hardly understand why. My eye shoots up to the television that is still on the news channel. I change the channel immediately. Regardless of the fact that I’m in another state, this happens all the time. Police will tell all surrounding states to be on high alert and they’ll do their part to help. Raum did this to root me out. But what if the police actually gets to me before he does? [[Can anything ever go right in my life?][$optimistic -=3]] [[Raum was the least of my worries right now.]] <<if $break>>\ [[Break over, time to find Sydero.][$daring -=3]] <</if>>\ <<if $cp>>\ [[Did Chris know? Would he be blamed as well?][$sympathy +=3]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Pessimistic ++<</if>> Everyday something else is tacked on. One day it’s me running from werewolves, the next I’m about to become a faerie sacrifice, and now, I’m running away from the law. Just once, I’d like it if my life doesn’t feel the need to slap me. I need it to pat my head and tell me that everything will be okay. <<include "W3_4">>

Raum still doesn’t know where I am; therefore, he isn’t my main concern. My concern is not knowing who knows my face. Any person in this restaurant could’ve already seen the video and have called the cops. I’m in danger, but there’s no safe place for me to retreat to. <<include "W3_4">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> Alright, well that’s the end of my break, it’s time to find Sydero again. I don’t know if she can help me when it comes to actual law enforcement, but I know she can keep me safe from Raum. <<include "W3_4">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> I don’t know if Bradley contacted Chris as well, but what if he did? Chris knows I didn’t do it, but that isn’t where my worry lies. It lies with the words I remember the news-reporter saying. I had an accomplice; would Chris end up fitting their narrative? Would we both be on the run? <<include "W3_4">>

I check the time, aware of the growing number of people who are starting to worry about me. It’s mid-day, the restaurant won’t close down anytime soon. [[Go to the motel.][$leftwork to true]] [[Stay and wait till Morgan gets back.]]

I need to go, luckily Mr. Hotshot is still moping around. I find him and tell him to watch the bar, leaving without answering his questions. I get in my car and fly down the street, only slowing when I see a police car. If I get pulled over for speeding, then that’ll be it. They’ll run my license and find that I have a warrant to my name. I drive slowly, obeying every single law of the road until I get to my motel room. The stale cold air hits me, more refreshing than I’ll ever give it credit for. I need to focus, to take a deep breath in and sort my problems out. To put it all on the table and take a step back to see where I stand. <<if $uncledead>>My uncle is dead.<<else>>My uncle is alive and hiding out, I’ll need to call him soon to make sure he's okay.<</if>> <<if $chrissafe>>Chris is alive and somewhere in the wind. The police are accusing me of robbing a bank.<<elseif $cp>>Chris is alive and well, though I did leave him back at the restaurant which probably wasn’t the smartest thing. The police are accusing me of robbing a bank.<<else>>Chris is dead.<</if>> Raum, my less than friendly bounty hunter demon, is after me. Sydero is somewhere in the wind, and I still have my doubts about her, or what she is. Supernatural creatures exist, and a substantial amount of them are not friendly. Week two, only week two. <a data-passage="In a business office ..."><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

It’s unprofessional and definitely suspicious to just disappear. I’ll wait until Morgan returns and just tell $mhim that I have a stomach issue. A classic yet always useful lie. Like I predicted, Morgan shows up thirty or so minutes later. $mHe will want a better explanation than ‘my stomach hurt,’ and each minute I spend on my feet causes me to feel more and more lightheaded. As soon as I see Morgan, I deliver my news and then leave, ignoring $mhim screaming my name. If $mhe decides to fire me, it wouldn’t really mean anything, I’m going to have to leave soon anyway. <a data-passage="In a business office ..."><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> //Somewhere in a business office ...// Donovan glares out the window at the many cars that sit patiently in the lot, waiting for their owners to return to them. If he angled his gaze down, he’d see the reporters and the cameras, all begging to be let in to get a view of the office that’ll soon be his. He received the call about the promotion that morning. “They’ve been here all day,” he states. “Well, a man did die,” the feminine voice behind him states blatantly. He turns his back to the window, his eyes landing on the attractive yet highly exasperating woman sitting in front of him. “I said kill him, not push him out of the damn window,” he scolds, talking in hushed tones though the door is closed. “Either way, his blood was going to be all over the place,” Sydero points out, playing with the small toy on his desk, “I just made it look like he did it to himself.” “You disgust me.” Sydero’s hand freezes over the toy, and she clenches her jaw, “you’re not much better. Wanting someone dead because they deserved something you didn’t?” “Take your money and get out,” he grabs the suitcase and throws it at her in disgust. Only Sydero’s quick reflexes save her face from the impact. Anger radiates off of her as her insides boil due to the man. “Know what your problem is?” Sydero asks, her tone flat, no emotion in it, “your tie is a bit too tight.” She slowly clenches her hand into a fist, watching as his tie tightens around his neck. His eyes widen in sudden realization, reaching to grab and undo it. “Stop this.” “Still giving commands?” Her fist clenches more, so tight that even her fist begins to change colors. He gasps for air, clawing at the tie and then clawing at his desk frantically. Finally, his movements cease. His head rolls back, and he slumps forward in his seat. Sydero stares at him for some time. When she finally moves, she wipes the surface of his desk down and captures the man’s wallet. She takes what she wants before putting it back, leaving the room. “Nice doing business with you.” <a data-passage="W3_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Bradley waits for her near the car, his eyes immediately landing on her bright eyes. He swallows an invisible lump, only having seen this one other time. "What happened?" Sydero doesn't answer him, but not because she chooses not to. As soon as she stops, her breathing quickens as if the air has suddenly been squeezed from her lungs. She wavers in her spot, Bradley supporting her instinctively, though he wishes to be as far away from her as possible. Her eyes meet his, and he immediately glances away. Crimson veins race towards her pupil, creating thin bridges across the amber ocean. "Uh, did you hear about $name?" "About Roe being a criminal? Yea, who would've guessed," she smirks, her eyes causing her to appear more malicious than usual. "Maybe we should –" Bradley begins nervously, but Sydero quickly stops him. "?He wanted to go, and ?he got it. It's no longer my problem." Bradley opens his mouth to reply, but Sydero is already getting into the car. He's unsure if he wants to get in with her, not when he's hesitant about what her crimson eyes could mean. There's only one memory he dreads more than seeing his parent's lifeless bodies, and it's of those werewolves who had killed them. He had wanted them to pay, but how they did, by Sydero's hands no less, he's still unsure if even they deserved that. "Let's go, Bradley!" Sydero barks, and he comes out of his stupor. He can only hope. In any case, he isn't worried about himself as much as he is about $name. <a data-passage="W3_6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> I lay on the edge of my bed, glaring at the ceiling though part of my gaze is blocked. The corner of a thick white rag rests there, its coldness chilling my head. The sensation of the cold cloth feels like heaven, a rare feeling nowadays. <<if $cp>>\ Abruptly, the sound of a loud knock is heard. It drags my consciousness back to the now, ignoring it as it kicks and refuses to go. I stand slowly, looking out of the peephole to see ... [[Chris.]] <<if ($int isnot "none") or ($s_att isnot "low")>>\ [[Morgan.]] <</if>>\ <<else>>\ Abruptly, the sound of a loud knock is heard. It drags my consciousness back to the now, ignoring it as it kicks and refuses to go. I stand slowly, looking out of the peephole to see Morgan. How did $mhe even know where to find me? Did $mhe follow me? See my car while driving past and know? Regardless, I open the door, and Morgan shoots into the motel, turning to me in anger. <<include "W3Morgan">> <</if>>\

Why Chris decided to just knock instead of opening it with his own key, I don’t know. I open it, and he rushes in, turning on me in anger. “The hell, $name?” “What did I do besides leave you stranded at work? Sorry for that by the way,” I say glumly. “That’s exactly what you did. Morgan comes up to me screaming as if $mhe has the right, and questioning me about you. What happened and why didn’t you tell me you were just suddenly taking off?” “Bradley texted me.” I grab my phone, bringing up the video before handing it over to Chris. I sit back patiently, watching his face as he watches the entirety of it. His reaction is similar to my own, even after finishing the video his eyes still grace the screen as if waiting for someone to tell him it’s a prank. “The shapeshifter?” he finally asks, and I nod. The only positive to any of this is that Chris knows I didn’t do this, unlike when I disappeared in the beginning. Probably one of the only people whose opinion I care for know the truth. “For once, can we get good news?” Chris asks, handing me back the phone, “what are you going to do? What are we going to do?” [[“We need to find Sydero.”]] [[“Clear my name ... somehow.”]] [[“I don’t know yet.”]]

“We need to find Sydero, this is going to be too big for us.” “And you think <<if $break>>she can help? Believe me, I think this is a smart move but only because I feel like we need protection.” That part is true as well.<<else>>she’ll actually help us? After we just took off like we did?” It is a good question, one I don’t have an answer to. Sydero isn’t above dangling this over my head, and I can practically hear her chirping in my ear about how we got what we wanted. But there’s no other way, we need her.<</if>>Raum is after us, and we now have to watch our back when it comes to law enforcement, additional eyes would be helpful. <<include "W3ChrisEnd">>

“Clear my name ... somehow. We need to make sure you don’t become that accomplice of mine as well.” Chris nods, tapping his chin. His question not exactly answered, but it’s all I have to offer. <<include "W3ChrisEnd">>

“I don’t know yet, it’s not like I ever experienced something like this before,” I say and release a long sigh. “No, no, I understand.” <<include "W3ChrisEnd">>

<<if $jealouschris>>\ “We’ll decide tomorrow, let’s just get some sleep,” I tell him, and he nods. Neither of us really wanted to talk to the other. That and I at least wanted to end the night on a somewhat high note. My body continues to tingle and relish the feeling of another having been so close to me. <<include "W3WChris">> <<else>>\ Silence sets in. Chris stares at me in worry while I stare at my bed sheets. Each day brings a bigger headache. I sometimes wonder if I should’ve just stayed with Sydero. Some part of me feels like she would know what to do, even if it’s only because she’s been in the predicament before. I’m starting to see what she means when she says I’ll never be free. And perhaps that’s what I need. I need to see the gravity of her words, the reality of my dilemma needs to slap me across the face. “You gonna be alright?” Chris asks. [[“I will be.”][$optimistic +=3]] [[“No, not really.”][$optimistic -=3]] [[“I could use a hug.”]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Optimistic ++<</if>> I nod my head, “yea, I will be. Don’t know when but I will be.” <<include "W3ChrisEnd2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pessimistic ++<</if>> I shrug my shoulders, “no, not really. But I’ll get over it. Or I won’t.” <<include "W3ChrisEnd2">>

“I could use a hug,” I chuckle, holding back a light sniffle. “Aw, come here, $name.” I don’t move a muscle since Chris is already making his way to my side. He sits on the other side of the bed and envelops me in a tight and secure hug. “Thanks, Chris. I don’t know what’d I do if you weren’t here.” “You going to be alright?” he questions, and I nod in reply. <<include "W3ChrisEnd2">>

“I’m here if you need me,” he reassures, holding out a fist towards me. I raise a curious brow and can’t help the tugging that occurs at the corners of my mouth. I meet his fist with mine, and we continue, performing a handshake that I’m surprised I still know. At the end, we both laugh heartily. “Any regrets,” he questions, bringing back an old saying between the two of us. “Never.” He retreats to the bathroom to get ready for bed, and I close my eyes. The world finally letting me sleep. <<include "W3WChris">>

I pause when I see Morgan standing there, how did $mhe even know where to find me? It had to be Chris, but why would Chris tell $mhim? Regardless, I open the door, and Morgan shoots into the motel, turning to me in anger. <<include "W3Morgan">>

“When I hire someone to tend the bar, I trust that person will tend the bar. Not disappear on me.” <<if $leftwork>>\ “I had something come up.” “Did you pee on yourself?” I wrinkle my nose and furrow my brow, not knowing why that has to be one of the questions asked. “No.” “Bust a vein, or did an organ stop working?” “No.” “Did anything that was going to end your life come up?” I know where this is going, and I’m done playing the game, “no.” “Then I don’t know why you left.” <<else>>\ “I didn’t just disappear. I waited until you got back.” “You know what I mean, $fname!” $mhe shouts angrily, “what the hell was that? And why are you staying in a motel? Do you not live in town?” <</if>>\ “I don’t have to explain myself to you,” I tell $mhim wishing $mhe’d just leave so I can think over all of this in silence. I need a plan and hearing $mhim scream at me about something that is no longer relevant doesn’t help. “Actually, you do. Because see, I’m your boss.” [[“Well, I quit! So again, I don’t.”]] [[“Just go.”]]

“Well, I quit! So again, I don’t,” I laugh, throwing my arms up in the air, hoping that this conversation is nearing its end. “I refuse to accept it.” I feel my eye twitch but I say nothing else to Morgan. <<include "W3Morgan1">>

“Just go, Morgan, whatever you came here to accomplish, you won’t.” <<include "W3Morgan1">>

“Why are you acting like this? Why not just tell me what’s going on? I can help.” Upon hearing help, I shake my head furiously. Morgan gives me a pleading look. It’s nice to know that $mhe wants to help someone who is close to being a stranger, but the problem isn’t something $mhe could fix. That and $mhe wouldn’t believe me even if I did take that foolish chance. “Look, I’m sorry I walked into your restaurant that day, that was my fault. But trust me when I say that I didn’t mean for you to get tangled up in this mess called my life.” $mHe takes a calm though slow step towards me. It’s been a while, but I know the look that rests in $mhis eyes and the intention behind it. It isn’t the first time I’ve seen such intention. [[Tell Morgan to go.]] <<if $morgan >=1>>\ [[Let Morgan approach.]] <</if>>\

I take a step back and turn away from Morgan, “you should go.” The motel is quiet before I finally hear Morgan take a deep breath in. “I expect you to be at work tomorrow morning,” is all $mhe says before seeing $mhis way out. I definitely need to take a nap now<<if $cp>>, especially since Chris will be home soon, and he won’t be happy either.<<else>>.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ <<include "W3WChris">> <<else>>\ <<include "W3NoChris">> <</if>>\

<<if $virgin>>I don’t tell $mhim to stop or turn away from $mhis touch. This kind of touch is foreign to me, an activity that I've always chosen to put off for my own personal reason. It feels almost weird, not telling $mhim to stop, and allowing $mhim to continue.<<else>>I don’t tell $mhim to stop or turn away from $mhis touch. It feels like it’s been so long since I felt the touch of another in this way. Morgan gently trails $mhis hand to my chin, our faces so close together now.<</if>> I can feel $mhis heart beating, speeding up at the close proximity. [[End whatever this is.|Tell Morgan to go.]] <<if $virgin>>\ [[Hesitate.]] <</if>>\ [[Let whatever happens, happen.]]

I hesitate, placing my hands between us to stop any forward moving. Morgan stiffens, backing away immediately and looking at me as if I’m injured. “Are you okay?” $mhe asks, $mhis eyes wandering down my body but not in a sexual way anymore, $mhis worry obvious. “Yea, I just, I’ve never done //this// before, and I ... I don’t know,” I mumble. “It’s fine, $fname,” Morgan chuckles awkwardly, putting space back between us, “I’m not going to dock your pay or anything. It’s your call. We can do something else, or I can just go.” I think $mhis words over, half paying attention to $mhim, while the other half of my attention tries to calm my racing heart. [[End whatever this is.|Tell Morgan to go.]] [[Just cuddle.][$morgannight to true]] [[Let whatever happens, happen.][$morganfling to true]]

I didn’t want to sleep with $mhim, but I didn’t wish for $mhim to go either. I gaze over at the bed and present the idea to $mhim, ecstatic when $mhe seems fine with it. We both head to the bed, and Morgan wraps $mhis arms around me, breathing into my neck, tickling me. “This is nice,” I hear $mhim say and smile to myself, allowing my eyes to close. <<if $cp>>\ <<include "W3WChris">> <<else>>\ <<include "W3_7NoChris">> <</if>>\

<<if $virgin>>\ <<set $virgin to false>> <</if>>\ I gently grab $mhis fingers, bringing them to my lips and placing feather-light kisses on them. Our eyes connect, and suddenly our lips are atop one another. Clashing and fighting for dominance. [[Push Morgan down.]] [[Let Morgan take control.]]

<<if settings.showec>>\ I turn in my spot and push Morgan onto the bed, straddling $mhis lap as soon as $mhe hits the bed. My mouth bears down on $mhis in an instant, both hands leaving to explore every curve that $mhis body has to offer. My inquisitive hands wander down to $mhis legs, putting just enough pressure to get a rise out of $mhim. I smile at the moan that leaves $mhis lips, prompting me to further my venture. There was something about exploring a body that was still reasonably strange to me. Of course, Morgan wasn’t a complete stranger, but $mhe wasn’t familiar to me either. We hadn’t talked for days on end, totally enraptured. But we also hadn’t randomly met up, our eyes meeting in a barely lit club with alcohol and adrenaline propelling us closer to one another. And yet, at that moment, I didn’t care. I pull back, my hands working on $mhis shirt and then $mhis pants. In no time, $mhe rests before me, $mhis body on display for me to admire and caress the way I saw fit. “Get back down here,” $mhe smirks, looping $mhis hands around my neck while $mhis other hand held onto mine tenderly. I oblige, but at the last minute, I avoid $mhis mouth. Instead, my lips go to $mhis jaw where I rest delicate kisses, trailing them down $mhis neck and to $mhis chest. My hand trails up and down $mhis body, circling my finger along $mhis inner thigh. $mHis warmth envelops me like a warm blanket on a chilly day, escape inevitable and the farthest thing from my mind. I attempt to calm my mind, but it’s no use. It jumps from sensation to sensation. It would focus on Morgan’s warmth before delving into the feeling of $mhis wet lips against mine. And then shift to $mhis wandering hands and their placement. I bury my nose into $mhis neck, taking a deep breath in before delivering a few playful nips. “Want to stop … being a tease?” $mhe questions, $mhis hips jerking upwards and meeting mine, begging for what I have yet to give. “I’ll think about it, boss,” I grin, wanting to know if calling $mhim that would get the rise I expect to get. It does. Morgan groans as the words leave my mouth, bringing my mouth back to $mhis and kissing me urgently. “Want to start being patient?” I question, nibbling on $mhis ear once I pull back. Morgan tugs at my clothes, and I indulge $mhis actions, letting $mhim tear the clothes off of me. As soon as the last article has been pulled away, our bodies meet. <<if $mgender is "female">>\ I work my way down her body, nipping and sucking at her soft skin, reacting off of her small cues. I kiss the inner part of her thigh as I insert two fingers into her, smirking as her hips rise partly off the bed, and she whimpers my name as I speed up. Our bodies meet time and time again on that bed, working up a sweat as we keep the pace going. The motel room is filled with the sounds of us together and our bodies joining countless times. The heat surrounding the room rising as we pick up the pace, and our hearts race. <<else>>\ I work my way down his body, nipping and sucking at his skin, taking my time to admire how specific muscles ripple in pleasure. I kiss the inner part of his thigh as I take his member into my hand, my pace slow, before speeding up, teasing him whenever I saw fit. Each time he complains, I change up my tactic, enjoying the way his hips buck. Our bodies meet time and time again on that bed, working up a sweat as we keep the pace going. The motel room is filled with the sounds of us together and our bodies joining time and time again. The heat surrounding the room rising as our actions pick up the pace, and our hearts race. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I turn in my spot and push Morgan onto the bed, straddling $mhis lap as soon as $mhe hits the bed. My mouth bears down on $mhis, both hands leaving to explore every curve that $mhis body has to offer. My hands wander down $mhis legs, putting just enough pressure to get a rise out of $mhim. I smile at the moan that leaves $mhis lips, prompting me to further my venture. Our bodies clash together, and we find our rhythm at the same time. The heat surrounding the room rising as our actions pick up the pace, and our hearts race. <</if>>\ <<if $cp>>\ <<include "W3WSChris">> <<else>>\ <<include "W3NoChris">> <</if>>\

<<if settings.showec>>\ I allow Morgan to push me down onto the bed, feeling part of $mhis weight settle onto me as $mhe straddles my lap. $mHis mouth bears down on mine, both hands leaving my chest to explore every curve that my body had to offer. I shiver at $mhis touch, cold hands running across warm skin, soon joined by a warm and wet mouth. $mHis hands wander towards my legs, adding just enough pressure to cause an impatient moan to slip past my lips. I push my body closer to $mhis, whimpering when $mhe chuckles and pulls back further. $mHis warmth envelops me like a warm blanket on a chilly day, escape inevitable and the farthest thing from my mind. I attempt to calm my mind, but it’s no use. It jumps from sensation to sensation. It would focus on Morgan’s warmth before delving into the feeling of $mhis wet lips against mine, leaving trails from my neck to my abdomen. And then, it shifts to $mhis wandering hands and their placement. “Teasing? Seriously?” I question and sigh inwardly, the warmth of $mhis body being so close, leaving as $mhe sits up. “Or maybe I just want a rise out of you,” $mhe mumbles in my ear, gently nipping at my earlobe. $mhe pulls back and begins to work on getting rid of both of our clothes, throwing them to the side. Our bodies meet as soon as the last article has been torn away. Clashing together. We find our rhythm at the same time. The heat surrounding the room rises as our actions pick up the pace and our hearts race. <<if $mgender is "female">>\ She wraps her arms around my neck, kissing me frantically as if she can no longer control herself suddenly. She rocked her hips against mine, making circular motions, slowing down and speeding up. I hold her close and let her set the pace, my only job to keep up. Each time she speeds up, her nails rake across my back and chest, not putting too much pressure to leave marks, but enough to make me growl and whimper. I twist my fingers in her hair, yanking her head down to meet my lips as she continues her movement. The room’s heat rises with each rock, with each moan, and finally descends with both of our climaxes. <<else>>\ He wraps his arms around my neck, kissing me frantically as if suddenly, he could no longer control himself. While his lips are busy claiming mine, his fingers toy with me. Rubbing up against my sensitive parts, promising more with every second. Each time his hand movement quickens, my nails rake across his back, not enough pressure to leave marks, but enough to make him growl. He finally stops, giving me a look that says he is done with all forms of foreplay. I nod breathlessly. The room’s heat rises with each stroke, with each moan, and finally descends with both of our climaxes. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I allow Morgan to push me down onto the bed, feeling part of $mhis weight settle onto me as $mhe straddles my lap. $mHis mouth bears down on mine, both hands leaving to explore every curve my body offers. I push my body closer to $mhis, whimpering when $mhe chuckles and pulls back. “Teasing? Seriously?” “Or maybe I just want a rise out of you,” $mhe mumbles in my ear, gently nipping at my earlobe. $mhe pulls back and begins to work on getting rid of both of our clothes, throwing them to the side. Our bodies meet as soon as the last article has been torn away. Clashing together. The heat surrounding the room rises as our actions pick up the pace and our hearts race. <</if>>\ <<if $cp>>\ <<include "W3WSChris">> <<else>>\ <<include "W3NoChris">> <</if>>\

<<if $morganfling or $morgancuddle>>\ <<if $morganfling>>\ Chris appears just as Morgan is leaving, as soon as $mhe opens the door, Chris stands there. It isn’t difficult to figure out what has just taken place. It’s so simple that I fear even a child would catch on. Morgan’s hair is a mess and $mhis clothes in disarray. And then there’s me, my shirt still somewhere on the floor, and my appearance probably resembles bed-head. <<else>>\ Chris appears just as Morgan is leaving, as soon as $mhe opens the door, Chris stands there. What Chris probably thinks happened is the opposite of what really did. But both Morgan’s and my hair is a mess, and our clothes in disarray, only because of the shifting ... and the kissing ... and the touching ... <</if>>\ Chris steps to the side, allowing Morgan to make a hasty getaway as his eyes fall on me. <<if $CRomance >=2>>\ <>\<<set $jealouschris = true; $CRomance -=1; $chris -=5>><>\ <<if $gender is "female">>\ “Nice, $name. Classic.” I blush in embarrassment, I hadn’t thought about what would happen if Chris had just suddenly popped up. My feelings for Chris are strong, and Morgan will soon be but a distant thought. Obviously, that doesn’t make this any better. Even more, Chris looks absolutely pissed off, even before connecting two and two together. “First, you ditch me at work. Then I come in and see //that//.” <<if $morganfling>>\ “It’s not like it meant anything,” I tell Chris who raises a brow, my words not setting him at ease. “So you’re in the business now of just having sex with people for the heck of it?” <<else>>\ “It’s not what it looked like,” I say, rolling my eyes at my own cliché line, “we were just cuddling, I swear.” Chris raises a brow, my words not setting him at ease. “And that's better? So you're in the business of cuddling and making out with your bosses now?” <</if>>\ [[“Yea, I am.”]] [[“No, I got caught in the moment.”]] [[“What’s the big deal?”]] <<else>>\ “Nice, $name. Classic.” I blush in embarrassment, I hadn’t thought about what would happen if Chris had just suddenly popped up. My feelings for Chris are a one-way street. A street that I need to pull off of because it will only lead to a dead-end. So, why am I embarrassed? “You ditched me at work so you could screw the boss?” <<if $morganfling>>\ “No, that kinda just happened,” I tell Chris who raises a brow, my words not setting him at ease. <<else>>\ “No, we were just cuddling and making out,” I tell Chris who raises a brow, my words not setting him at ease. <</if>>\ “Is that how you got the bartending gig?” [[“Fuck you, Chris.”]] [[“Yea, totally.”]] <</if>>\ <<else>>\ “Nice, $name. Classic.” I chuckle in embarrassment, almost forgetting that someone else had access to the room. “You ditched me at work so you could screw the boss?” <<if $morganfling>>\ “No, that kinda just happened,” I tell Chris who raises a brow, my words not setting him at ease. <<else>>\ “No, we were just cuddling and making out,” I tell Chris who raises a brow, my words not setting him at ease. <</if>>\ “Is that how you got the bartending gig?” [[“Fuck you, Chris.”]] [[“Yea, totally.”]] <</if>>\ <<else>>\ After Morgan leaves, I collapse onto my bed, wishing the world would disappear. I suppose sleeping will soon solve that issue though. All the problems I’m facing, I’ll save for tomorrow $name, right now, I need sleep. And though the thought itself is nice, in reality the world isn’t ready to give it to me. Another knock is heard and I go to answer, this time it’s Chris. <<include "Chris.">> <</if>>\

“Yea, I am. Problem?” My rising anger stems off of the accusatory glances that he sends my way, along with how upset he’s becoming. I’m free to do what I want, he has no right to judge me. I’m not some dimwitted kid. <<include "W3ChrisJog">>

“No, I just got caught in the moment is all.” This doesn’t seem to please him; instead, he seems to grow even angrier. The accusatory glances he sends my way, along with how upset he becomes causes my own anger to rise. I’m free to do what I want, he has no right to judge me. I’m not some dimwitted kid. <<include "W3ChrisJog">>

<<if $morganfling>>\ “Why does it matter who I choose to sleep with? Last time I checked, I’m old enough to make my own decisions.” Chris opens his mouth to argue but then closes it, a wise decision. The accusatory glances he sends my way, along with how upset he becomes causes my own anger to rise. I’m free to do what I want, he has no right to judge me. I’m not some dimwitted kid. <<else>>\ “Why does it matter who I choose to make out with and cuddle? Last time I checked, I’m old enough to make my own decisions.” Chris opens his mouth to argue but then closes it, a wise decision. The accusatory glances he sends my way, along with how upset he becomes causes my own anger to rise. I’m free to do what I want, he has no right to judge me. I’m not some dimwitted kid. <</if>>\ <<include "W3ChrisJog">>

<<if $CRomance >=2>>\ “You know what? Fuck you, Chris! You know me better than that. I would never agree to that just for some dumb job. Have you forgotten that bartending was on both of our resumes?” My anger continues to rise, not only because of what he insinuates but because I start to realize that this will never be. A fact I’ve already known but have decided to ignore more often than not. Chris isn’t worried about who I’m messing around with. Neither is he jealous. He cares only for the reason and how it affects him. <<include "W3ChrisJog">> <<else>>\ “You know what? Fuck you, Chris! You know me better than that. I would never agree to that just for some dumb job. Have you forgotten that bartending was on both of our resumes?” My anger continues to rise, but settles down soon after he gives me an apologetic look. He’s still upset about not being able to do what he loves, and I’m sure leaving him at work didn’t make it any better. “So, why’d you leave early? Something happen?” “Bradley texted me.” I grab my phone, bringing up the video before handing it over to Chris. I sit back patiently, watching his face as he watches the entirety of it. His reaction is similar to my own, even after finishing the video his eyes still grace the screen as if waiting for someone to tell him it’s a prank. “The shapeshifter?” he finally asks, and I nod. The only positive to any of this is that Chris knows I didn’t do this, unlike when I disappeared in the beginning. Probably one of the only people whose opinion I care for know the truth. “For once, can we get good news?” Chris asks, handing me back the phone, “what are you going to do? What are we going to do?” [[“We need to find Sydero.”]] [[“Clear my name ... somehow.”]] [[“I don’t know yet.”]] <</if>>\

<<if $CRomance >=2>>\ “Totally. Hey, you know maybe you should try it sometime,” I say sarcastically. My anger continues to rise, not only because of what he insinuates but because I start to realize that this will never be. A fact I’ve already known but have decided to ignore more often than not. Chris isn’t worried about who I’m messing around with. Neither is he jealous. He cares only for the reason and how it affects him. <<include "W3ChrisJog">> <<else>>\ “Totally. Hey, you know, maybe you should try it sometime,” I say sarcastically. “Maybe next time,” he chuckles, and my anger settles down at hearing his joking tone. He’s still upset about not being able to do what he loves, and I’m sure leaving him at work didn’t make it any better. “So, why’d you leave early? Something happen?” “Bradley texted me.” I grab my phone, bringing up the video before handing it over to Chris. I sit back patiently, watching his face as he watches the entirety of it. His reaction is similar to my own, even after finishing the video his eyes still grace the screen as if waiting for someone to tell him it’s a prank. “The shapeshifter?” he finally asks, and I nod. The only positive to any of this is that Chris knows I didn’t do this, unlike when I disappeared in the beginning. Probably one of the only people whose opinion I care for know the truth. “For once, can we get good news?” Chris asks, handing me back the phone, “what are you going to do? What are we going to do?” [[“We need to find Sydero.”]] [[“Clear my name ... somehow.”]] [[“I don’t know yet.”]] <</if>>\

Chris raises his hands as if surrendering, walking into the bathroom and coming out a minute later in workout clothes. “I’m going for a jog,” he tells me, speedily leaving the motel before I can say anything more. <img src="images/divider.png"> Chris slams the door far more harshly than he intended. But a large piece of him doesn’t care. He sticks one of his earbuds in and begins his jog. The sun has started to set so this jog will have to be a short one. He has half a mind to just go sit in the car, but that would only make matters worse. He’d go sit in $name’s car and smell ?him, inevitably he’d start thinking about ?him, and that’s the last thing he wanted. <<if $gender is "female">>\ ?He had to know, didn’t ?he? Chris understands that his advances were subtle, but they weren’t //that// hard to catch, were they? Maybe it’s due less to his advances and more having to do with ?him just not liking him the same way he liked ?him. The thought doesn’t sit well with him. After all they been through ... “Maybe you just suck at this?” he questions himself. He’s had one or two serious relationships, but that was it. And even those weren’t even noteworthy. He enjoys his freedom and the ability to move on at a moment’s notice. Honestly, besides his parents, $name has been the most stable thing in his life. Everything else came and went, but not ?him. <<else>>\ But ... why was that a problem? His mind scoffs at the idea, but the rest of is quiet as if knowing something and refusing to share it with him. Why did smelling $name bother him so much? The more he repeats the question, the more he finds himself frustrated. Nothing. That’s the answer. Nothing is wrong about it, and he seems to be making a big deal out of something so horrendously irrelevant that it can’t be seen as anything but funny. <</if>>\ He shakes his head, freeing himself from his current thoughts and turns to head back. What’s done is done, he couldn’t change that. But he’s curious as to why $name left work in the first place. And though the last thing he wants to do is talk to ?him, his curiosity always wins out in the end. <img src="images/divider.png"> <a data-passage="W3ChrisJog2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I glance up from the television to see Chris come in, a fresh coat of sweat covering him. We both stare at one another but neither of us makes the first move. Finally, he opens his mouth, “so, why’d you leave early? Something happen?” Ah, I had forgotten to tell him about Bradley and the video, and how I am now wanted. “Bradley texted me.” I grab my phone, bringing up the video before handing it over to Chris. I sit back patiently, watching his face as he watches the entirety of it. His reaction is similar to my own, even after finishing the video his eyes still grace the screen as if waiting for someone to tell him it’s a prank. “The shapeshifter?” he finally asks, and I nod. The only positive to any of this is that Chris knows I didn’t do this, unlike when I disappeared in the beginning. Probably one of the only people whose opinion I care for know the truth. “For once, can we get good news?” Chris asks, handing me back the phone, “what are you going to do? What are we going to do?” [[“We need to find Sydero.”]] [[“Clear my name ... somehow.”]] [[“I don’t know yet.”]]

<<if $morganfling>>\ Morgan and I rest beside one another, our bodies as close as can get and our arms wrapped around one another. To an outsider, we probably look like any other couple. My mind vaguely reminds me of the rules set up around one-night stands, rule number one being to avoid cuddling. Yet, at the moment, I couldn’t care less. Thoughts that typically haunt me are kept at bay. For those handful of minutes, nothing else exists but Morgan, me, and a sense of overwhelming pleasure. I smirk at the thought, absentmindedly reaching over and kissing $mhis forehead. Of course, $mhe is asleep at the moment, cuddling further into my embrace. I allow my eyes to close, and for the first time in a long time, my sleep is peaceful and pleasant. <<else>>\ After Morgan leaves, I collapse onto my bed, wishing the world would disappear. I suppose sleeping will soon solve that issue though. All the problems I’m facing, I’ll save for tomorrow $name, right now, I need sleep. <</if>>\ <<if $morgannight>>\ The next morning is filled with Morgan rushing around and me enjoying every second of it. Morgan is still trying to get prepared for the day, though I’m not sure $mhe knew that $mhe still misses a shirt. “Shit, where are my keys?” $mhe panics and I dangle them in front of $mhis face. “Are you always this way after a good night or am I just lucky?” $mHe snatches the keys from me and gives me a toothy grin, rushing me out of the motel. “I refuse to be late because of you,” $mhe says playfully, planting a soft, wet kiss on the back of my neck. “Keep doing things like that, and we might not make it to work at all,” I tease, heading to my car as Morgan goes to $mhis. <<else>>\ The next day I hurry to get ready for what is to be my last day. The pay period ends today, and so I’ll at least get paid for the hours I worked leading up to this. That’s enough, especially since I have money from tips. I rush out of the motel, putting my things in the car and check out before heading towards the restaurant. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="EP5-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

The next day Chris and I hurry to get ready for what is to be our last day. The pay period ends today, and so we would at least get paid for the hours we worked leading up to this. That was enough, especially since both of us were getting paid, and since I had money from tips. We rush out of the motel, putting our things in the car since we didn’t exactly know if we’d be back. We check out and then head towards the restaurant. <a data-passage="EP5-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/actthree.png"> <<if $cp>>\ The end of the day comes particularly quick, the fastest so far actually. I bring another tray full of dishes to Chris, who stares at them in hatred. “Once we leave here, I don’t want to see another dish in my entire life. Got that, //$fname//?” I chuckle but pay him no mind, leaving to finish my bar cleaning duties. <<else>>\ The end of the day comes particularly quick, the fastest so far actually. I bring another tray full of dishes to the kitchen staff, who stares at them in hatred. I chuckle before leaving to finish my bar cleaning duties. <</if>>\ “Today was a great day,” Morgan states, feeding the machine the last bit of bills to count. $mHe organizes the cash in $mhis hands and flashes me a broad smile. <<if $morganfling>>\ “I’d like to think that I had something to do with that,” I chuckle, winking. “Well, I’d be lying if I said that you didn’t.” <<if $cp>>Chris comes out as we talk, wiping his hands off and lazily throwing the cleaning apron. He gives me a nod, telling me that he is officially ready.<</if>> <<else>>\ “You got that much money?” I question. “Fridays are always the best days, so yes.” <<if $cp>>Chris comes out as we talk, wiping his hands off and lazily throwing the cleaning apron. He gives me a nod, telling me that he is officially ready.<</if>> <</if>>\ I gaze around the restaurant, thinking of a way to tell Morgan that this will be my last day. Most of the time you hand in a two-week notice, not a two minute one. I open my mouth to tell $mhim of my plans when there’s a harsh knock on the main doors. “Hold that thought,” Morgan tells me, leaving my side to go see who it is. I go with $mhim, only to see one of the kitchen staff waving awkwardly from the other side. Morgan rolls $mhis eyes but opens the door, playfully slapping the man’s head. “Why didn’t you just come in through the back?” “Well, that would’ve been even more work,” the man starts. His skin suddenly becomes overwhelmingly wrinkly, sagging off of him as if it didn’t fit properly. “And no fun.” I take a step back. The stench of rotting flesh and putrid fumes attack my nose as the skin falls off of him, folding on itself. It plops to the ground in a puddle of slime and what appears to be mucus. A viscous secretion still clings to the man as his skin begins to stretch back in place. “What the hell?” Morgan questions. [[“It’s an alien!”]] [[“Edgar the Bug?”][$serious -=3]] [[“It’s a shapeshifter.”][$serious +=3]]

“It’s an alien!” I shout though no one responds, no one besides the supernatural figure. “It’s an alien. Such a great guesser,” he says sarcastically. <<include "W4">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Comical ++<</if>> “Edgar the Bug?” I question, <<if $cp>>earning a tap across the head from a more annoyed than disgusted Chris.<<else>>Morgan not hearing me and the figure chuckles.<</if>> “Aw Roe, with that kind of humor you make me feel bad about wanting to kill you,” the man says, now showing his true colors. <<include "W4">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Serious ++<</if>> “It’s a shapeshifter,” I shout, backing up, as I keep my eyes on the falling skin. <<include "W4">>

The man that stands before us is Langston. At his feet rests the most recent skin that he shed, and I can’t help but wonder if my skin went throught the same thing. Casually molted and then left on the ground to be disposed of in unsanitary ways. The thought is more than just disturbing. I can feel the bile rise and threaten to expel itself. “What did you do to Burt!” Morgan screams, pulling me back into the moment. Tears run down $mhis eyes as $mhe faces off against Langston. “Morgan, get out of here,” I tell $mhim, grabbing $mhis shoulders and yanking $mhim backward. I don’t know what $mhe thinks $mhe is looking at, but it’s ten times worse than anything $mhis mind can think up. Langston smiles at me and then follows my gaze to the skin. “Oh, I know what you’re thinking. Yea, your skin was disposed of properly. Burnt it while we watched the news slander your name for those crimes. One of the best gigs in my career,” he snorts, “let me tell ya.” “$fname, what is he talking about?” Morgan stutters, $mhis eyes finally leaving the discarded skin. “$fname? Wait, you took on a fake name?” Langston laughs, having to lean on the door to keep him standing upright, “oh shit. Really, $name?<<if $cp>> How about you, Chris? What name did you choose?<</if>>” “Your name is $name?” Morgan shakes $mhis head, pushing me away and walking towards the door. “What the hell is going on?” $mhe cries. <a data-passage="W4_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Your employee has been lying to you,” a new voice says. I freeze in my spot as Raum enters the room, Petri and four other goons stand by his side. I can already see the scales tipping, like a seesaw with one side being vastly heavier than the other. <<if $cp>>I glance behind me at Chris who mirrors my appearance. There is no way we were<<else>>There is no way I’m<</if>> getting out of this one, not without a fight. I instinctively search for my silver knife, realizing it’s back in the car along with the other bags. “I just want to get out of here,” Morgan begs, “please, let me go.” “Of course, child,” Raum begins, he raises his hands and twists his wrist, with it goes Morgan’s neck. A sickening crack goes out and $mhe falls to the ground. “You may now leave to join your brothers and sisters in Heaven.” Raum finishes, raising his hands to the sky mockingly. “Or Hell,” Langston chuckles. They all place their attention on the real issue at hand. Petri and Langston walk closer, the other goons keeping their distance. Raum stays where he is, looking me over. [[“You killed ... you killed Morgan ...”][$sympathy +=2]] [[“Took you long enough to show up.”][$daring +=2]] [[“You’re a monster.”]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> “You ... you killed $mhim,” I manage to say, bringing his attention back to the now dead figure at his feet. “Very observant of you,” Petri laughs. His voice is to my left, but when I turn to see where he is, he’s behind me. He snatches my arms and secures them behind my back, daring me to make a move. <<if $cp>>I hear Chris grunt and see Langston has done the same to him.<</if>> <<include "W4_2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> “Took you long enough to show up, thought you got lost on the way for a minute there,” I joke, though I’m frantically trying to figure out how he found me in the first place. “Traffic was hell,” Petri laughs. His voice is to my left, but when I turn to see where he is, he’s behind me. He snatches my arms and secures them behind my back, daring me to make a move. <<if $cp>>I hear Chris grunt and see Langston has done the same to him.<</if>> <<include "W4_2">>

“You’re a monster!” I shout, taking a threatening step towards him on instinct. “No, I’m a demon,” he grins wickedly. I hear Petri growl to my left, but when I turn to see where he is, he’s behind me. He snatches my arms and secures them behind my back, daring me to make a move. <<if $cp>>I hear Chris grunt and see Langston has done the same to him.<</if>> <<include "W4_2">>

“$name, you are quite an unlucky person. You know that?” Raum questions, nudging the dead body out of the way with his foot, “the people you meet end up dead.” <<if $pacifist < 50>>\ “I’m going to be the one who kills you! Each and every one of you!” I shout, fighting against Petri’s grip on my arms. <<else>>\ “You’re the one who kills them!” I correct in anger, struggling against Petri’s grip on my arms. <</if>>\ “Normally, I’d walk away and leave an inch of your life still intact, just because. I mean, this is about Sydero, nothing at all to do with you. But you got in the middle of it.” He stops in front of me, cocking his head to the side. “And I can’t just let that slide.” [[Head-butt Petri.]] [[Kick Petri.]] <<if $cp>>\ [[Use Chris.]] <</if>>\

My next moves are purely instinctual. I throw my head back and shoot up, feeling the top of my head connect with what I presume is Petri’s nose. “Shit, my nose!” I hear him scream in pain. Yep, definitely his nose. <<include "W4_3">>

My next moves are purely instinctual. I kick my feet back, ramming it as hard as I can into any body part belonging to Petri. His grip falters, but hardly, before he can even think of setting up some kind of defense, I do it again. “Shit!” he screams in pain. <<include "W4_3">>

My next moves are purely instinctual. I look over at Chris, and the words leave my mouth on their own volition. “No, Chris! Don’t!” I shout, though he hasn’t done anything. Everyone looks his way, giving me the perfect window for escape. I ram my elbow into Petri’s gut as hard as possible. “Shit!” he screams in pain. <<include "W4_3">>

I get free and run towards the bar, vaulting over it. I grab the nearest beer bottle and throw it towards <<if $cp>>Langston. The only way for him to dodge the throw is to release Chris. As soon as Chris is free, he runs to my side, mirroring my actions and breaking a bottle on the bar to produce a sharp shard.<<else>>an approaching Langston.<</if>> “Normally I’d have no problem with bottles of beer being thrown at me,” Langston starts, looking from the bottle to me. “Isn’t that what your ex-wife used to do?” Petri questions, just now shaking off the minor injury I had given him. “The dead one? Yea.” “Get ?him,” Raum orders, and suddenly the bar becomes chaotic, everyone rushing towards me. I need a weapon. [[Grab the broom.]] [[Grab a knife.]]

I frantically search and grab the nearest thing, the broom. Everyone pauses to look over my selection, and then surge towards me. The first man that comes close enough earns himself a thwack upside the head. Another comes up behind me, and I quickly slap him with the bristle side of the broom. The man still tries to throw a punch, and I duck, practically hitting the ground as he trips over me and into his whimpering friend. <<if $cp>>Chris throws two beer bottles at them, both of us vaulting back to the other side. Chris gives the men an idea, and they grab the heavier liquor bottles, launching them at us. I only make it so far when one hits me in the arm,<<else>>I jump back to the other side of the bar, just as one throws one of the heavier liquor bottles my way. I only make it so far when one hits me in the arm,<</if>>and I fall over a tipped over table. <<include "W4_4">>\

I grab a knife from the countertop and meet the gaze of the closest thug, daring him. He pauses for only a second before joining me. His attacks are fast, but there’s a hint of doubt behind each throw. He didn’t know how good I was with a blade, and he wasn’t trying to find out. I capitalize on one of his braver punches, taking the hit but slashing him across the face with the edge of the knife. <<if $cp>>“Watch out, $name!” I hear Chris say and turn to see another working his way towards me. I duck, practically hitting the ground as he trips over me and into his whimpering friend. Chris throws two beer bottles at them, both of us vaulting back to the other side. Chris gives the men an idea, and they grab the heavier liquor bottles, launching them at us. I only make it so far when one hits me in the arm,<<else>>I feel the presence of another and turn to see one working his way towards me. I duck, practically hitting the ground as he trips over me and into his whimpering friend. I jump back to the other side of the bar, just as one throws one of the heavier liquor bottles my way. I only make it so far when one hits me in the arm,<</if>>and I fall over a tipped over table. <<include "W4_4">>

//I was getting too old for this shit//, I think to myself. <<if hasVisited("Grab the broom.")>>I get my bearings back and go to stand, just in time to see a figure approaching. With the broom still in my grip, I sling it and begin hitting the person countless times across the head. They grab the broom, ripping it out of my hands before grabbing onto my shirt and landing punch after punch on my face.<<else>>I attempt to get my bearings to stand right as a knee connects with my face, sending me right back to the ground. Someone grabs onto my shirt and punch after punch lands on my face.<</if>> <<if $cp>>I can hardly make out Chris screaming, though I can’t pinpoint the direction.<</if>> “Alright stop. Go sit down somewhere,” Raum tells my assailant, pushing him off of me. I feel someone pick me up from behind and shove me into a chair. My ears ring, and I struggle to come out of the drunken like state that I feel I’ve gone into. My face is going to be all types of hurting come tomorrow. “So, where’s Sydero?” “I don’t know,” I answer, spitting out a wad of blood that has been gathering in my mouth. I earn a punch for that one, one person holding me to the seat while the other hits. “This is how this is going to work,” Raum informs, grabbing my chin and forcing me to look at him. My eyes feel heavy, and though I try to concentrate on that evil face, I’m incapable, “you tell us, we kill you. End your misery here.” [[Tell them the truth.][$honesty +=5; $sydero +=3]] [[Make up a lie.][$honesty -=5; $sydero -=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Honesty ++<</if>> “Here’s the truth,” I say slowly, trying to center myself, “I. Don’t. Kn-.” A fist connects with my stomach, and I gasp in pain. <<include "W4_5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Deceit ++<</if>> “Fine,” I begin, getting my lie ready. Before I can even get the lie out, a fist connects with my stomach. How many times have I got punched in this short time-frame? <<include "W4_5">>

“Where’s Sydero, $name?” Raum asks, impatience clinging to his words. Before I can decide on how to answer a question that I’ve already answered, the overhead sprinklers suddenly cut on. Raum and his nameless goons scream in horror as the water strikes them, and I can just barely make out thin trails of dark grey smoke rising from their bodies. Skin lesions appear on the other three, mainly on their faces and arms. If the body part is exposed to the water, it grows a lesion. “Holy water bitches!” I hear a childish voice shout. I turn just in time to see Sydero dodging one weak throw after another before plunging a unique blade through one of the demon’s hearts. She slides on the ground, kicking the legs out from another before stabbing him. “We gotta go,” Petri announces, both him and Langston grabbing Raum as they go. The third demon attempts to follow them, but Sydero trips the man. She drops the knife onto him before stepping on the pommel and driving it deeper into him. “Oops,” she smiles, turning to face me. <<if $cp>>\ I hear Bradley’s and Chris’ voice, letting me know that both of them are okay as Sydero checks me over. She examines my face gently, lightly pressing the bruise that formed below my right eye. <<else>>\ I hear Bradley’s voice somewhere in the near distance, but I can tell he’s not in the same room as us. As I try to focus in on his location, Sydero checks me over. She examines my face gently, lightly pressing the bruise that formed below my right eye. <</if>>\ “You can’t just stay out of trouble, can you?” she sighs, but there’s a wide smirk on her face. [[“What took you so long?”]] [[“Apparently I can’t.”]] [[“I had them.”]] [[Jerk my face out of her hands.]]

“What took you so long?” I question, rising to my feet with her help.<<if $cp>>She looks over at Bradley, who mirrors us but with Chris. I was too busy receiving my own whooping that I didn’t notice Chris has been going through something similar.<</if>> “Little men in tiny business suits,” she answers blatantly, though I have no clue what that means in the slightest. <<include "W4_6">>

I motion to the wet restaurant around me where four people lie dead, three unknown and one being my former boss. “Apparently I can’t.” Sydero laughs, shaking her head as she helps me to my feet. <<if $cp>>She looks over at Bradley who mirrors us but with Chris. I was too busy receiving my own whooping that I didn’t notice Chris has been going through something similar.<</if>> <<include "W4_6">>

“I had them,” I growl. Sydero nods as she helps me to my feet, nodding as she looks over the bodies, “of course you did, $name.” <<include "W4_6">>

I jerk my face away from her grasp, my eyes traveling to the floor. The rescue is needed, but it didn’t change anything, I’m still pissed off at her. She continues to help me up, but then leaves my side. <<include "W4_6">>

“Did you wipe the cameras, Bradley?” Sydero questions, and he nods. My attention goes to the first casualty of today, Morgan. $mHis body rests in an unnatural state, face touching the floor, though the rest of $mhis body is pointed towards the ceiling. “And who would that be?” Sydero questions, using her powers to bring one of the higher-up liquors to her. She catches it and takes a long gulp. “$mHis name was Morgan, $mhe ... $mhe was my boss.” I reach down, hoping to fix $mhis neck, but as soon as I feel the looseness, I abandon the mission. An innocent person had died simply because they knew me. [[I didn’t have time to mourn.][$sympathy -=3]] [[This was all my fault.][$sympathy +=3]] [[Scream.]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> Morgan was a good person, and in no way did $mhe deserve this. But that didn’t mean I could stay here and mourn $mhim. This place will be littered with police tomorrow, and the longer I stay, the more evidence can be stacked up. Some of these people know my face, my fingerprints can be pulled. We need to put as much distance between us and this place as possible. Hopefully, everyone will believe it just a robbery gone wrong. <<include "W4_7">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> Morgan didn’t deserve this. $mhe didn’t deserve any of it. $mHe was a good person. $mHe didn’t have to get me that job, especially on such short notice. $mHe didn’t have to try and help me out, even if some of it was just a way to try and get to know me better. At the end of the day, Morgan was innocent and deserved to live. Not rest dead in $mhis restaurant among supernatural creatures who had no care for life. <<include "W4_7">>

Morgan didn’t deserve this. $mhe didn’t deserve any of it. $mhe was a good person. $mHe didn’t have to get me that job, especially on such short notice. $mHe didn’t have to try and help me out, even if some of it was just a way to try and get to know me better. At the end of the day, Morgan was innocent and deserved to live. I let out a loud scream, uncaring of what the others thought of me, or who else would hear it and come seeking the origins of it. The cry turns into a choked sob, and I quiet down, covering my face with my hands. <<include "W4_7">>

<<if $morganfling or $morgancuddle>>\ The feeling that Morgan brought me the previous night comes back to me. The feeling of $mhis body, $mhis lips claiming mine, and $mhis fingers delicately tracing my figure. I close my eyes and take numerous deep breaths, “I’m so sorry, Morgan.” <</if>>\ I jump at the feeling of a hand resting on my shoulder, looking to see Bradley standing there. His hair sticks to his face, almost obscuring his eyes from view. “If you want, we can give $mhim a funeral. It’s not the best, but it’ll allow for $mhis spirit to pass on to the next world.” “What does it consist of?” I question, and Bradley looks over at Sydero, who is in the middle of yet another long gulp of alcohol.<<if $cp>>The only difference between now and a few minutes ago is that Chris has joined her, his own bottle in his hands.<</if>> She wipes her mouth before replying, “some witchy shit. The steps are simple, and it’ll burn the body completely. Bones and everything. That way $mhe can’t come back as a poltergeist or any other kind of spirit.” “But it doesn’t exactly follow some religious rites, so the body will move on, but what happens to the soul, who knows,” Bradley tells me. He was giving me a choice, someone who barely knew Morgan and the details that made $mhim who $mhe is. My eyes fall to Morgan’s limp form. [[Do the funeral ritual.]] [[Don’t do the ritual.]]

The idea of Morgan’s spirit lingering doesn’t exactly set me at ease. There are several reasons why doing the ritual is the smart thing, so I agree. I get out of the way as Sydero does most of the work. If she is hindered by the alcohol she has consumed, she doesn’t show it. Her tolerance is unbelievable. She draws a circle and then draws a pentagram inside of it. Once complete, she motions for Bradley to grab four white or black candles from their bags and tells me to drag Morgan’s body to the center. <<if $cp>>Her last order is to Chris, telling him to go <<else>>Her last order is for herself, getting up to go<</if>> retrieve a gallon of water, a knife, and to collect some of the lilies that are part of the flower arrangements on some of the tables. Once everything is gathered, she uses a clean alcohol shaker to mix the ingredients together. She cuts Morgan’s palm, squeezing some blood into the shaker before shaking again. The candles are lit, and we retreat to the edge as Sydero begins the ritual. I surmise that it goes well since Sydero moves back and the candles go out on their own, the fire surging towards Morgan’s corpse. The flames are white, consuming every part of $mhim before extinguishing themselves. Nothing remains. “Well, we need to get out of here,” Sydero says, and I look up at her. <<if $break is false>>\ [[“No, I’m going nowhere.”]] <</if>>\ [[“We need to talk, and you know it.”]] [[“Yea, let’s get out of here.”]]

I had no right to take away Morgan’s chance of going to whatever afterlife $mhe believed in. $mHe had to have family out there, someone who would hear of it and then be put in charge of a proper funeral. I already got $mhim killed. I didn’t wish to take away $mhis afterlife as well. I shake my head, thanking Bradley for the idea. He nods and gives me space. “Well, we need to get out of here,” Sydero says, and I look up at her. <<if $break is false>>\ [[“No, I’m going nowhere.”]] <</if>>\ [[“We need to talk, and you know it.”][$sydero -=3]] [[“Yea, let’s get out of here.”][$sydero +=3]]

“No,” I simply say, getting to my feet, “your help was appreciated, but there’s a reason we went our separate ways.” “The only reason I even showed up was that Bradley was worried about you,” she growls, taking a step towards me, poking me in the chest. I swat her hand away, turning my attention to him. “So I should thank you then.” I give her a pointed look, and her eye twitches in annoyance. “Alright, we all hate each other. Now, can we all agree that we at least need each other?” Bradley questions, but no one says anything. <<if $cp>>\ “Let’s handle this like adults,” Chris begins, “$name what do you want to change?” “I want to stop being left in the dark, especially when it can kill me. I’m in this now too. No more secrets,” I answer. “You have no right into my private life,” Sydero snorts. “Yet, you so grandly shoved your way into mine.” Before she can utter a comeback, Chris calms us back down. “How about this? We agree no more secrets that don’t have to do with that level of privacy. If it affects the group, then we share it, no questions asked.” He looks between Sydero and me. I nod, and she shrugs. “Now, was that so hard?” he questions. “I hate all of you,” she growls, leaving our side and heading towards the door. “We should get out of here,” Chris says, and I agree. We follow behind her, heading towards my car and moving all their items back inside. Once ready, I give the keys to Chris and go to the passenger side. <<else>>\ “Stop it, Sydero,” Bradley growls. “Look, I just want to stop being left in the dark, especially when it can kill me. I’m in this now too. No more secrets,” I answer. “You have no right into my private life,” Sydero snorts, she’s about to say more, but Bradley hits her upside the head. “Yet, you so grandly shoved your way into mine.” “Compromise!” he shouts at her. “Fine! Anything that affects the group will be told, but not if it just concerns private life and the person doesn’t want to say anything.” I can agree with that. I nod, and Bradley looks relieved. “Now, was that so hard?” he questions. “I hate all of you,” she growls, leaving our side and heading towards the door. “We should get out of here,” Bradley says, and I agree. We follow behind her, heading towards my car and moving all their items back inside. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="Some random gas station ..."><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"We need to talk, Sydero, and you know it," I tell her, refusing to move even an inch. "I seriously hate when I hear those words put together." Surprisingly she stops and turns to me. "There's a reason I left, and I refuse to join back up with you unless some things change." Sydero raises a brow, a smirk forming slowly. Whatever she was about to say was only going to make this worse, and I prepare a list of comebacks. <<if $cp>>\ “Let’s handle this like adults,” Chris begins, “$name what do you want to change?” “I want to stop being left in the dark, especially when it can kill me. I’m in this now too. No more secrets,” I answer. “You have no right into my private life,” Sydero snorts. “Yet, you so grandly shoved your way into mine.” Before she can utter a comeback, Chris calms us back down. “How about this? We agree no more secrets that don’t have to do with that level of privacy. If it affects the group, then we share it, no questions asked.” He looks between Sydero and me. I nod, and she shrugs. “Now, was that so hard?” he questions. “I hate all of you,” she growls, leaving our side and heading towards the door. “We should get out of here,” Chris says, and I agree. We follow behind her, heading towards my car and moving all their items back inside. Once ready, I give the keys to Chris and go to the passenger side. <<else>>\ “Stop it, Sydero,” Bradley growls. “Look, I just want to stop being left in the dark, especially when it can kill me. I’m in this now too. No more secrets,” I answer. “You have no right into my private life,” Sydero snorts, she’s about to say more, but Bradley hits her upside the head. “Yet, you so grandly shoved your way into mine.” “Compromise!” he shouts at her. “Fine! Anything that affects the group will be told, but not if it just concerns private life and the person doesn’t want to say anything.” I can agree with that. I nod, and Bradley looks relieved. “Now, was that so hard?” he questions. “I hate all of you,” she growls, leaving our side and heading towards the door. “We should get out of here,” Bradley says, and I agree. We follow behind her, heading towards my car and moving all their items back inside. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="Some random gas station ..."><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I nod, taking one last look at the bar, “yea, let’s get out of here.” We follow behind Sydero, heading towards my car and moving all their items back inside. <<if $cp>>Once ready, I give the keys to Chris and go to the passenger side.<</if>> <<include "Some random gas station ...">>

<<if $cp>>\ I brace for the cloth that’s about to touch my aching face. Chris lightly places it under my bruised eye. Even with the gentleness that he does this with, a whimper escapes my lips. I hear someone open the door to the gas station, and Sydero comes out. “Let me see,” she states, and Chris moves the ice away to reveal my face. Whatever she sees isn’t pretty as she grimaces. She snatches the ice cloth from Chris and pulls something out of her bag. In her hands is a green candle, which she soon lights. <<else>>\ I place a cloth filled with ice to my face. Even with the gentleness that I do this with, a whimper escapes my lips. I hear someone open the door to the motel, and Sydero comes out. “Let me see,” she states, and I move the ice away to reveal my face. Whatever she sees isn’t pretty as she grimaces. She snatches the ice cloth from me and pulls something out of her bag. In her hands is a green candle, which she soon lights. <</if>>\ “Sanitatum,” she whispers and holds the ice pack over it. The cloth flares up green before reverting back to its previous state, she hands it back to me, “leave it on for a few more minutes.” <<if $jealouschris>>\ Chris, seeing that he’s no longer needed, gets up and puts distance between the two of us, reminding me of his anger towards me. I’m not the only one who notices, one glance towards Sydero and I know she’s picked up on it too. She looks from him to me, raising a brow but not questioning. <</if>>\ Sydero remains standing, leaning up against a nearby pole, and a short time later Bradley also joins us. “So, what was that stuff coming down from the sprinklers?” I question. “Holy water,” she answers, “not really hard to pull off. Find the water source for the bar and bless it, simple. No demon can stand the stuff. Some of the stronger ones can’t be stopped by it, but it’s still a nuisance to them.” Silence engulfs us, the only true sound coming from Bradley’s fingers as they race across his laptop keyboard. The gas station is unnaturally quiet as well, only two people are pumping gas, and three cars, not including ours, rest in the lot. <a data-passage="W5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

She nudges me <<if $cp>>and grabs Chris’s attention<<else>>before straightening up<</if>>, “we should go. I want to put as much space between Raum and us as possible. I’m sure he’s not happy about that holy water bath we gave him.” We both nod in agreement and head towards the car. <<if $SRomance >=3>>\ “Roe,” Sydero begins, stopping me before I get into the car. “Next time you just want to go off and do your own thing, don’t.” “Aw, was life boring without me, Syd?” “I wouldn’t say boring, but I would say that something vital felt like it was missing.” I raise a brow. It was indirect but perhaps the nicest thing I’ve heard her say about me, “I’m referring to your car.” She sneers and disappears inside said car. I find myself having an issue figuring out if her words are honest or not. <</if>>\ The outside world soars by, tree after tree, building after building, and field after field. The windows are rolled down just enough to where the country air stings my face. I can feel every bump that the car goes over and every dip that it makes. It’s a rhythmic sound that threatens to put me to sleep. But I can see darkness on the horizon, creeping closer, getting braver. <a data-passage="EP5NT"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/nexttime.png"> <img src="images/divider.png"> <<if $cp>>\ “This doesn’t look half bad,” Chris points out, trailing his hand down the wall, showing me his clean palm. <<else>>\ “This doesn’t look half bad,” I point out, trailing my hand down the wall and seeing a clean palm. <</if>>\ “This is my main safehouse, that’s the only reason it doesn’t look like shit,” Sydero grumbles. <img src="images/divider.png"> <<if $cp>>\ “If you’re going to run with me then you need to know how to fight, I can’t keep saving you,” Sydero tells me, finishing the task of wrapping her knuckles. “That includes you, Chris.” She steps forward and hands him a blade, similar to my own. “Sure, because I’ve always wanted to be slapped across some backyard ring by a supernatural creature,” he murmurs, taking it. <<else>>\ “If you’re going to run with me then you need to know how to fight, I can’t keep saving you,” Sydero tells me, finishing the task of wrapping her knuckles. “Sure, because I’ve always wanted to be slapped across some backyard ring by a supernatural creature,” I murmur. <</if>>\ <img src="images/divider.png"> “But this won't end the same way it did last time. That, I guarantee.” They throw me across the room, and I slide down off the wall to the floor. “Because this time, you’re mine.” [[Episode Six: Eye of the Roe]]

<> <<set $answer1 to "door">> <<unset $bedsharing_Sydero, $bedsharing_Chris, $bedmoment, $sofa, $justcoffee>> <<playlist "ambience" loop play>> <> <img src="images/epfour.png"> <img src="images/actone.png"> This decision was a matter of life or death. A decision that could tear apart countries, break up families, start a never-ending war. What to eat? I was exaggerating the depth of my choice, but that didn’t mean it wasn’t important. “Will you just order something?” Sydero growls, her gaze moving from me to the patiently waiting waitress. If we didn’t have a crowd, I would give Sydero a piece of my mind. Mainly due to me being hungry, but the other half was because I had forewarned her of my indecisiveness. I was still looking over all of the possibilities, as well as the prices. <<if $cp>>\ “What did you get, Chris?” I question, noticing that he was also giving me an undecipherable look, if I had to name it I would say it was annoyed empathy. “A salad.” “Why order something that won’t fill you up?” Sydero questions. “It does fill you up, and it’s healthy. Healthier than your double-decker bacon burger.” “Just hearing it said aloud makes me hungry,” she smirks, “what? Are you trying to watch your figure?” “I am, actually.” "Whoa," I start, raising my hand to pause their conversation, "when did this whole 'watching my figure' thing happen? You live for junk food." "It started when I started getting kidnapped by crap that shouldn't exist and having to rethink my entire life," he said pointedly, and I let him have it as Sydero raises another question that morphs into another argument. “Alright, thank you both.” I close the menu, finally knowing what I want. That, and the waitress was still standing there while these two fought. The last time they argued, I had to explain to the gas station clerk what they meant by faeries and human sacrifices. <<else>>\ “You make it seem like this decision isn’t important,” I tell Sydero who seems ready to pound her head on the table. “I’m as hungry as you, Roe, just pick something before I die.” “What did you order?” “If I tell you, will it make you order faster?” I shrug, and she groans heavily. I look back at my menu, considering it before finally knowing what I want. I close it and glance at Sydero who visibly perks up, along with the waitress. <</if>>\ “So, you know what you want?” the waitress asks, shaking out what I can only assume is a cramped hand. [[Get the salad.|WLD1]] [[Get a burger.|WLD1]] [[Get a vegan burger.|WLD1]] [[Get chicken tenders.|WLD1]] [[Get some vegan pizza.|WLD1]] [[Get a chicken wrap.|WLD1]]

<<if $cp>>\ “So, how far do we have left to go?” Chris questions, asking the question that was on all of our minds. We’ve been stuck in the car for four hours straight, each of us driving for an hour before switching with the other. Though, Chris and I both agreed collectively that Sydero’s driving was a health hazard. A distance that should’ve taken an hour ended up taking only thirty minutes. Persuading Sydero to actually stop at a diner was a feat in itself, one that took teamwork and just the right amount of annoyance. The longer we talked, the more Sydero wanted to pull over. That, and she wasn’t exactly impressed with my road trip playlist. As we wait for our food, the conversation drifts from one insignificant topic to the next. For a group dying to know more about one another, we were doing the opposite. “So, Sydero,” Chris begins, his eyes leaving a waitress who walks by our table, “got anyone special?” “I don’t do relationships,” she answers plainly. “Why’s that?” I roll my eyes involuntarily at his question, already knowing what she was going to say. The topic brought up the conversation that we had engaged in at Faye’s house. The issue of love being a weakness, not a strength. And sure enough, she says it. <<if $CRomance >=1>>\ “So, you’ve never loved anyone?” Chris continues to ask. Sydero shakes her head, leaning in as her glance moves from Chris to me. “And what about you two? You guys ever hook up?” Chris chokes on what I thought was his drink, but it turns out that the question had just shocked him. His reaction compared to my subtle blush was all Sydero needed for an answer. <<if $gender is "male" or $gender is "nonbinary">>\ “Oh, I’m straight,” Chris chuckles, amused at the idea that he could be anything but. “Uh huh,” Sydero says, and I feel the weight of her gaze focus on me. Once I finally look towards her, she raises a curious brow. Whether Chris could see it, and understand its meaning, I knew exactly what she was thinking and concluding in her mind. <<else>>\ “We’re just really close friends,” Chris states nervously, rubbing the back of his neck. “So, you never thought, not even for a minute?” she questions, asking both of us but more so to Chris. I didn’t know if she was doing this just to mess with Chris, or if she was truly curious about the lack of a sexual relationship between us. “No,” we both say at the same time. But unlike Chris’s affirmative no, mine was laced with regret. Sydero might not be much of a people person, but her ability to pick up on even the smallest cues was extraordinary. As soon as the no leaves my mouth, her eyes move to me, and the glimmer that rests there tells me she heard the regret loud and clear. <</if>>\ Thankfully our food comes, causing Sydero and Chris to forget about the entire thing. My mind still drifts on the words that had been said, though. <<else>>\ Thankfully our food comes, ending the conversation there. <</if>>\ We eat quietly, only speaking about our food and the atmosphere of the diner. Sydero wears a subtle grin as she devours her burger, and Chris finally seems relaxed. [[Bring up the motel question.]] [[Ask more about hunters and specialists.]] [[Ask about Sydero’s plans for the faeries.]] <<else>>\ “So, how far do we have left to go?” I question, asking the question that was on both of our minds. We’ve been stuck in the car for four hours straight, both of us driving for an hour before switching with the other. Though, I have come to find that Sydero’s driving was a health hazard. A distance that should’ve taken an hour ended up only being thirty minutes. Persuading Sydero to actually stop at a diner was a feat in itself, one that took great persuasion and just the right amount of being annoying. The longer I talked, the more Sydero wanted to pull over. That, and she wasn’t exactly impressed with my road trip playlist. As we wait for our food, the conversation drifts from one insignificant topic to the next. For two people dying to know more about one another, we were doing the opposite. Thankfully the food arrives and earns us a few minutes of silence as we both indulge the plates in front of us. [[Ask her about her love life.]] [[Bring up the motel question.]] [[Ask more about hunters and specialists.]] [[Ask about Sydero’s plans for the faeries.]] <</if>>\

“Hey Syd,” I begin, clearing my throat<<if $cp>>and throwing Chris a look, he nods for me to continue,<<else>>,<</if>> “how would you feel about staying in motels instead of your safehouses from now on?” I couldn’t think of any other way to word that question. It was simple and straight-forward, and atleast I knew Syd would appreciate that more than me just implying it. “Sure, whatever,” she answers plainly, taking another bite of her burger. I blink a couple of times, replaying her words in my head for good measure. She had agreed. And here I had a whole five-minute proposal planned on why it would be better. I almost wanted to still give it. <<if $cp>>\ “Just like that?” I question. “Are you being sarcastic right now?” Chris asks next. <<else>>\ “Just like that? Wait, are you being sarcastic?” I question. <</if>>\ “No. A motel is a better setup, my safehouses only really accommodate one person. But if we’re going to do motels, then we have to start being smart with our money and doing more jobs. Though I’m not looking for any classy motels so don’t go thinking we’re about to be living lavishly.” I nod, the worst motel I’ve ever seen still would easily beat her safehouses in an accommodating competition. <a data-passage="WLD1_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“What else can you tell <<if $cp>>us<<else>>me<</if>> about hunters and specialists?” “Can you be more specific?” she inquires, taking another bite of her burger. “Well, you said that supernatural creatures are usually specialists. Why is that?” “To be honest, it’s because they didn’t want to call themselves hunters and put themselves in a category with humans. Humans agreed. When a supernatural hunt and kill another because it's what they deserve, well it makes us seem like hypocrites to humans. Most humans use that as an excuse to kill supernatural specialists.” “Have they ever come after you?” I question. “A few of them have tried. Even some specialists have with kill contracts. But I’m not the easiest to get rid of,” she shrugs, not caring to hide the cockiness in her tone, “most are smart enough to just not fuck with me.” <a data-passage="WLD1_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“So Syd,” I begin, thinking about the faeries that almost made me into a forest sacrifice. I wonder what would have been done with my soul, would I have become part of the forest? Or was I just fuel for all those living within? “You needed <<if $cp>>us<<else>>me<</if>> to attract a faerie for you, and it didn’t exactly work out. What were your plans?” “For me to know, and you not to try and find out,” she yawns, before taking another bite of her burger. She sends me a warning glare, one that I didn’t heed for obvious reasons. “Why is it so hard for you to answer a simple question?” “Why are you always trying to get in //my// business?” “Same reason why you always get into //my// business.” “Reality check, Roe, I couldn’t give two fucks about your life and what you do. I don’t question you unless it’s putting my life on the line.” “For all I know your answer to this question could put my life on the line.” What she does next, causes me more worry. A flicker of doubt and pondering crosses her features, as if I had just made a shockingly valid point. It’s there for only a second before disappearing, and she continues to eat in silence. I hadn’t been serious, I had just thought to add the words to better deliver my point. Could my life seriously be in danger because of something she did? But she had failed, she had let the faerie go to save us. The thought gives me little comfort. <a data-passage="WLD1_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“So, Sydero,” I start, “got anyone special?” “I don’t do relationships,” she answers plainly. “Why’s that?” I roll my eyes involuntarily, asking the question before realizing what she was going to say. The topic brought up the conversation that we had engaged in at Faye’s house. The issue of love being a weakness, not a strength. And sure enough, she says it. “What do you do?” I question, a sarcastic tone to my question. She shrugs nonchalantly, “I’ve had one-night stands here and there. Mainly, I just stay to myself.” She raises a brow and shoots me a smirk, leaning forward as if preparing to tell me a secret. “And how about you, Roe? Who ... or what, did you leave behind?” <<if $int is "both" or $int is "men">>\ [[“Chris.”]] <</if>>\ [[“A lot of folks.”]] [[“Nothing.”]] <<if $flirt_Syd>>\ <<if settings.dialog>>[[“I’m more focused on those in my present.”][$SRomance +=1]]<<else>>[[“I’m more focused on those in my present.”][$SRomance +=1]]<</if>> <</if>>\

“Chris,” I tell her. Before, I thought I was over it. Not enough to forget about my best friend, but enough to where saying his name aloud wouldn’t cause my entire body to shake. “You two were,” she asks, but I shake my head before she can finish. “He never knew how I felt about him. I never thought it was the right time.” She snorts and then laughs when I glare at her. “There’s no such thing as a right time. Tomorrow you can die, and you end up dying with regrets, all because you were scared.” “I never said I was scared,” I growl, and this causes her to laugh even louder. “Oh please, anyone who uses that shitty excuse is scared. If you weren’t then you’d understand that there’s no right time. There’s when you do it, and when you don’t do it.” Over the past week, if I learned nothing else about Sydero, I learned that she is stubborn. So, this argument or discussion wasn’t going anywhere. <a data-passage="WLD1_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“A lot of folks,” I sigh, thinking about all those who flocked to my side for attention. They were fun, though I hardly remembered their names. “Am I in the presence of a player?” Sydero jokes. <<if $s_att is "high" or $s_att is "low">>\ “Nah, well, I never intentionally tried.” I blush at what she insinuates, waving the conversation away. <<else>>\ “Nah, well, I never intentionally tried.” I raise a brow at the look she gives me and then snickers once I realize why she gave me said look. “I’m not into //that//, so get your head out of the gutter.” “Not into that? We’re talking about the same thing, right?” “Sex?” She nods, and I shrug my shoulders, “yea, I don’t do it. I’m not sexually attracted to people, and it doesn’t do anything for me. Sex is well, just sex, and it’s something I found that I’m not into.” She stares at me as if I had just told her that I’m an alien from the neighboring planet. She hums in thought but otherwise lets the conversation die. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="WLD1_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Nothing. I left nothing because there was nothing ... besides my best friend that is.” “Well, your best friend has been dealt with.” <<if $chrissafe is false>>\ “Hey, watch it," I warn, "he died because of all this crap.” “Funny, how one can substitute the word crap in when they only need to say something along the lines of, 'me.'” “We’re not starting this again. Not now at least.” Arguing with her was truly pointless, and doing so in front of so many people was foolish. And yet, the mood of the table plummets regardless, both of us eating in silence. <<else>>\ “Hopefully, he’s safe somewhere.” Sydero hums in response, silence settling in as we both gaze into different directions. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="WLD1_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“I’m more focused on those in my present,” I tell her, watching her face to see if she understands what I was alluding to. She gives me no sign that she even hears me. I study her face, something that I rarely get to do nowadays since she was always on guard. Relax is a foreign word to Syd, a word that is equivalent to an insult. But here she was, a tiny smile and soft eyes. It was amazing that those eyes of her could actually have such a look about them. <a data-passage="WLD1_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

We finish our food, our bellies full and our moods high enough to get through the rest of the trip. The waitress comes back with our receipts and tells us to enjoy our day. I prepare to give her a tip when Sydero gets up and walks off. “Hey, no tip?” I question her, and she snorts. “Perhaps when I’m not struggling every day. We’ll need our money for food, gas, and probably a lot of other stuff. A specialist’s life isn’t really the wealthiest. So, do what you want.” With that, she walks out. <<if $cp>>I look over at Chris who snorts, laying a crinkled five-dollar bill on the table. He looks at me expectantly.<</if>> [[Leave a tip.|Somewhere Unknown ...][$chris +=3]] [[Follow Sydero out.|Somewhere Unknown ...]]

<img src="images/divider.png"> //''Somewhere Unknown ...''// The sound of multiple steps echoing off pavement pushes the woman to run faster. Her breathing was shallow, and she was sure she’d suffer a heart attack soon. She rounds a corner, whimpering when she finds it to be an alleyway, one that led further into the darkness. She didn’t have time to curse herself, she needed to hide. Spotting a large garbage can, she dives behind it. Her hand coming to rest on something both slimy and limp, something that was emanating a nauseating odor. She holds her breath, refusing to let such a thing give her away her, even if it felt like it had just moved. Suddenly, her eyes widen in acknowledgment, feeling the hard device push up against her right thigh. Her phone, she still had her phone. She dialed the three-digit number. “911, what is your emergency?” “Please help me,” she hisses into the phone, trying to speak as clearly yet quietly as she could. “There’s a group of people following me.” “Do you know where you are, ma’am? Near any restaurants or stores?” “No,” she cries, hot tears running down her eyes, “I’m in an alleyway, and I’m scared to leave.” “I need you to find the street address or a lighted building that you can go into, get off the streets.” “I’m going to find the address.” She didn’t do so immediately, panic causing her entire body to lockup and resist the order her brain sends out. Finally, she stands to full height. Staring at the end of the alleyway. She couldn’t hear anyone but the dispatcher, perhaps she had lost them. Inching out, she catches sight of a blur. The blurry mass pushes her harshly into the wall, her phone dropping from her hands. She preps a scream when a large hand grabs her neck, squeezing it in warning. <a data-passage="WLD1_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Don’t kill me please,” she whimpers, snot and tears mixing together as the woman was held in place, praying to her god. “Shh,” the figure says softly, pushing her hair out of her face. Every act made her jump, made her wish she was luckier, someone else, someplace else. The finger moves down the surface of her face, inching towards her neck, and then lower. Her mind went to a dark place, a place that had the nerve to compare the better of two crimes. One which stole her dignity and another that stole her life. She could only wail, refusing to let her mind continue down that path. The finger proceeds to travel, and though her eyes were closed shut, she could hear others approaching. The finger stops at her heart, before removing itself. The hand around her neck slackens next. She was free, she thought. She opens an eye when pain radiates through her body. A pain that was foreign to her. The pain of death being only feet away, ready to claim her soul. Her scream echoes down the alleyway, and no amount of thrashing or fighting against her attacker helped her. Instincts take over, her body realizing the situation, and doing everything it could to live, to survive. It was a fight that she had no chance of winning. <a data-passage="WLD1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> I bring the car to a stop, earnestly hoping that Sydero would insult me for my inability to take directions. That would at least mean that this is the wrong place. I know I’m wrong when Sydero remains quiet. She gets out, walking towards the lone house in confidence. “What is up with all of you living in abandoned houses?” I question. At least Sydero picked houses in neighborhoods. This house is in the middle of nowhere, appearing as barren as the fields that it rests in. At least it doesn’t hold the creepy element that Sydero’s houses do. “Bradley was actually the one who gave me the idea to use abandoned places,” Sydero pauses after her words, turning back towards us, “be careful. Bradley likes to booby trap his stuff. He’s paranoid like that.” "Booby trap? You mean like deadly shit is placed on the ground in there?" <<if $cp>>Chris asks<<else>>I ask<</if>>. She shrugs and kicks down the door with ease. Either the door was due to come down, or she was much stronger than she looked. <<if $cp>>\ “Was that needed?” Chris sighs, not waiting for an answer, and Syd doesn’t look like she’ll give one. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="WLD1_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The inside looks worse than the out and made me take back my previous comment of the house not appearing creepy. The air was dank and stale, smelling twice as worse as the cleansing juice did which was saying something. I doubt breathing in this air was healthy, but Sydero walks through as if she didn’t mind. There was hardly any furniture, and the house was so decrepit that I could no longer tell what room was which. The walls were rotten enough to house an assortment of bugs. Parts of the ceiling had caved in, letting small bursts of light penetrate inside. This only further put the dust and dirt on display. <<if $cp>>\ “Is this what you were staying in?” Chris asks, appearing horrified by the idea. “No,” I reassure him, “Syd’s safehouses were habitable at least.” <</if>>\ There was no way someone was living here, alive anyhow. I wonder if zombies were real ... “Ugh, I haven’t been here in forever,” I hear Sydero say, “spread out and look for something out of place. It’s here somewhere.” I’m unable to ask her what we were looking for as she goes upstairs, a death sentence frankly. Each step seems to cause the house to howl in protest. One of the steps she takes completely gives out. I do what she asks though, especially if it means getting fresh air any time soon. She said to search for anything that seems out of place, a manageable task I assume. [[Search the floor.]] [[Search the walls.]] [[Search the ... kitchen?][$nerve +=5]]

I begin to search the floors, swiping my foot on the ground to move the debris out of the way. The most exciting thing down here was the numerous groups of worms congregating. There was nothing shiny, nothing that stood out. It was all crap. <<if $cp>>\ I turn to continue looking when I see Chris trip on nothing. Only, it turns out to be something, and a piece of the wall comes crashing down near him. I react instantly, yanking him back just in time to avoid the collapsing part of the wall. “I hate my life,” Chris whimpers. I help him up when Sydero sprints down, somehow avoiding all of the wrong steps. “What happened?” she asks but answers her own question when she sees the fallen wall. She rolls her eyes but doesn’t appear upset and goes back to looking around. <<else>>\ Sydero comes down a minute later, somehow avoiding all of the wrong steps. “Find anything?” I ask, and she shakes her head, tapping her chin as she gazes around in thought. <</if>>\ I watch as she stomps one foot, and then begins to jump. She pounds the ground, walking everywhere until I hear her stomp echo. She moves some debris out the way, and we find the outline of a trapdoor. “Found you, Bradley,” she states with a wide smirk, grabbing the edge of the door and pulling it up. <a data-passage="WLD1_6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I search the walls, keeping my eye out for anything that seems out of place, but refusing to actually touch the wall. Everything was different shades of brown, except one thing. I see something glistening there, pushed into the wall. [[Grab it.][$nerve -=5]] [[Don't touch it.]]

I reach out and grab the shiny object, hearing something click and then seeing a thick cloud of gas crawl towards me. Thanks to the speed, I was able to back away in time, but it continues to approach. <<if $cp>>\ “What did you do?” Chris asks, coming to my side and viewing the gas. The good thing about Chris is that he wasn’t overly curious about this life. Example of this was him turning on his heel and walking away as soon as he saw it. <</if>>\ Sydero comes down a minute later, somehow avoiding all of the wrong steps. She spots the cloud of gas and gives <<if $cp>>both of us<<else>>me<</if>> an unimpressed look. “Find anything?” I ask, and she shakes her head, tapping her chin as she gazes around in thought. I watch as she stomps one foot, and then begins to jump. She pounds the ground, walking everywhere until I hear her stomp echo. She moves some debris out the way, and we find the outline of a trapdoor. “Found you, Bradley,” she states with a wide smirk, grabbing the edge of the door and pulling it up. <a data-passage="WLD1_6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

This was the problem with Sydero’s words, she said to look for anything out of place. Yet she also said beware of booby traps. It would be just my luck that this would lead to some sort of trap, and I didn’t need that. I leave it alone, maybe someone else would be braver than I and grab it. Sydero comes down a minute later, somehow avoiding all of the wrong steps. “Find anything?” I ask, and she shakes her head, tapping her chin as she gazes around in thought. I watch as she stomps one foot, and then begins to jump. She pounds the ground, walking everywhere until I hear her stomp echo. She moves some debris out the way, and we find the outline of a trapdoor. “Found you, Bradley,” she states with a wide smirk, grabbing the edge of the door and pulling it up. <a data-passage="WLD1_6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I go into what I assume is the kitchen. There’s no refrigerator or counters, but there is a lone cabinet, barely clinging to the wall. The door of the cupboard has already given up the struggle, it rests in a broken heap on the floor. Resting alongside the fractured pile rests an oddly placed book. My eyes would’ve swept right over it, but one thing about it strikes me as strange. The book’s pages should be frayed, brown, and crinkled. But I can see that some are still freshly white. I grab the book, finding a piece of string connected to it. I also hear a bell go off in the distant. The sound is muffled but definitely there. Sydero comes down a minute later, somehow avoiding all of the wrong steps. I place my attention back on the string, following it back into the larger room. We don’t have to do anything as a hidden door suddenly is thrust open, a boy looks back at us. <a data-passage="WLD1_6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<>\<<set $BradleyWhittaker = true>><>\ <<if hasVisited("Search the ... kitchen?")>>\ We stare at him and he at us. “Bradley,” Sydero exclaims. The boy’s eyes light up with recognition, and he comes out further. I didn’t expect much, Sydero hadn’t given me much information to form some sort of image. Yet, even with low expectations, the person in front of me still didn’t meet them. Bradley was a teenager, perhaps fifteen or sixteen. He was a wide, blue-eyed boy who held absolutely no kind of facial hair, and a head full of short curly brown hair. <<if $cp>>\ “This is Bradley?” Chris questions, done evaluating the boy, “this is a kid.” “Watch out, everyone, we got a genius amongst us,” Bradley says in mock fascination and surprise. <<else>>\ “So, you’re Bradley?” I ask, scratching the side of my head. I really was expecting a man. I was expecting anything but a kid. “Last time I checked, I was. My dream of waking up as Ryan Reynolds hasn’t happened yet.” <</if>>\ “Now, who was the one who rang for me?” he questions, and Sydero motions her head towards me. He turns to me and squints. “Do you watch anime sub or dub?” [[“Sub.”][$bradley +=5]] [[“Dub.”][$bradley -=5]] [[“Depends.”]] [[“I don’t um, watch anime.”][$bradley -=5]] <<else>>\ Sydero hoists up the door, and we’re all met with the barrel of a shotgun. “Ugh, put that down, kid,” Sydero growls, throwing the trapdoor further back so that it slams onto the floor. “Sydero?” a voice asks, lowering the gun. The wielder comes out further. I didn’t expect much, Sydero hadn’t given me much information to form some sort of image. Yet, even with low expectations, the person in front of me still didn’t meet them. Bradley was a teenager, perhaps fifteen or sixteen. He was a wide, blue-eyed boy who held absolutely no kind of facial hair, and a head full of short curly brown hair. <<if $cp>>\ “This is Bradley?” Chris questions, done evaluating the boy, “this is a kid.” “Watch out, everyone, we got a genius amongst us,” Bradley says in mock fascination and surprise. <<else>>\ “So, you’re Bradley?” I ask, scratching the side of my head. I really was expecting a man. I was expecting anything but a kid. “Last time I checked, I was. My dream of waking up as Ryan Reynolds hasn’t happened yet.” <</if>>\ He turns his attention to Sydero, “did you have to scare the shit out of me?” “Well, I couldn’t find whatever I needed to find, so I did it the hard way.” <<if hasVisited("Grab it.")>>\ He perks up, gazing past me and towards the wall where the gas was still coming from. “And you tripped one of the traps.” He stalks up to it, fiddling with the device and not showing any kind of heed for the gas that now surrounded him. “I’m guessing that gas is harmless?” I question. Bradley nods, stopping it and turning to me. “It’s just colored smoke. It’s meant to come out faster than that and scare off whoever’s here.” <<else>>\ “You do everything the hard way, come on,” he motions with his hand for us to follow him, marching back down the stairs into his hidden room. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="WLD1_7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

He looks me up and down one last time, “you’re worthy, for now.” He motions with his hand for us to follow him, marching back down the stairs into his hidden room. <<include "WLD1_7">>

“Ugh, you’re weak,” he growls, marching back down the stairs into his hidden room. Sydero follows him in, and I follow her, still trying to wrap my head around all of this. <<include "WLD1_7">>

“Way to weasel yourself out of an answer. The answer is always sub, don't be a weakling,” he huffs, puffing his cheeks out just like a child. He then marches back down the stairs into his hidden room. Sydero glances at me before following him in, and I follow her, still trying to wrap my head around all of this. <<include "WLD1_7">>

“What kind of sick, twisted, -” “Bradley,” Sydero coughs, and he finishes, though he still gives me a disgusted look. He motions for us to follow behind him, marching back down the stairs into his hidden room. <<include "WLD1_7">>

This area was completely different from the area we were in before. Whereas that place was decaying with every minute, this area was actually habitable. Not only was it livable, but it was easy on the eyes, reminding me of a comfy studio apartment. The floor was a soft plush carpet, and the walls were made out of a brick that wasn’t decaying. There was a mini kitchen on the far side, even with a mini bar. On the wall closest to the staircase rests a twin-sized bed. Lastly, and perhaps the most impressive thing, was the large two monitor set-up on the wall. A classy desk was there, but the computers were nothing if not amazing. <<if $cmajor is "Computer Science" or $engineering >=10>>\ <>\<<set $bradley +=5>><>\ I wipe the bottom of my lip, fearing that I was drooling at the sight of his setup. It was beautiful, utterly beautiful. “This is amazing,” I finally say, and Bradley smiles in pride. “I actually did this all myself.” “You built your desktop?” He nods, wiping away a fake tear. Just who was this kid? I wanted to ask him what kind of processor he was using, memory disk, RAM, cooling systems, how he avoided overclocking. Even more, I had to fight the itch to just want to take it all apart and find out for myself. <</if>>\ “So,” Bradley starts, gesturing to the room with his arms wide, he pivots on his heel and looks at Sydero, “what are you doing here? I mean, not that I’m not glad to see you.” She sighs deeply, “when’s the last time you actually spoke to someone?” “Just yesterday, I was screaming at some twelve-year-old who told me to eat shit cos I kept killing him.” “That doesn’t count,” Sydero corrects, sitting on his bed, “also, you need a new door for the front.” “Seriously, Syd. Again?” Bradley screams, falling into his seat dramatically, “do you think doors grow from trees? Don’t answer that. I know where doors come from.” He spins around so that he was facing his monitors, typing faster than anyone I’ve ever seen. [[“Exactly what do you do, Bradley?”]] [[“How old are you?”]] [[“How do you keep the power going?”]] [[“What are you exactly?”]] [[“Why here?”]]

“So, Bradley, exactly what is it that you do?” “I’m an undiscovered professional hacker.” <<if $cp>>\ “What? You behind Wall Street or WikiLeaks?” Chris asks jokingly. Bradley stares at him, neither claiming or disclaiming the job. The two end up staring at each other for a couple more seconds before Sydero clears her throat. <</if>>\ “Undiscovered meaning what?” I ask. “Meaning I don’t work for some notorious hacking group,” he answers, twiddling his mouse as he sighs, “part of me would love to. But the other part is just too lazy and selfish to care about the greater good. Maybe when I'm older.” <a data-passage="WLD1_8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Don’t you know how rude it is to ask a man his age?” <<if $cp>>\ “Man?” Chris questions, raising a brow at the young man ... boy? “Oh, excuse me, since we can’t all grow some half-ass stubble. It doesn’t make the rest of us any less of a man,” Bradley says and points to Chris’ stubble to further prove his point. I clear my throat, trying not to laugh as the two go back and forth. Finally, Bradley raises his hand to bring Chris’s talking to an end. <<else>>\ “No, I didn’t know,” I answer. <</if>>\ “I’m sixteen, though I’m going to be seventeen in ten months.” “Bradley is a troll, in case you haven’t picked up on it,” Sydero informs me, scratching her brow, “I would say you’ll get used to it, but I’d be lying.” <<include "WLD1_8">>

“How do you keep the power going? You’re underground in an abandoned house,” I point out. I didn’t see any generators, but I also haven’t seen the back of the house. “Backup generators that I set up, as well as the windmills farther back. It wasn’t easy, but I was able to convert the energy and feed it to the generators to create power. Of course, that’s the condensed version, and I doubt any of you will be able to follow me.” <<if $engineering >=10>>I open my mouth to challenge him, but Sydero throws a nasty look my way.<</if>> “Nor do we care, since we didn’t come here to listen to you brag,” she tells him. <<include "WLD1_8">>

“What are you exactly, Bradley? Witch, I’m guessing. I’m meeting a lot of those. Plus, it would make sense how you were able to do all of this,” I motion to the room. Bradley continues to stare at me as if I had recently grown a second head and was trying to figure out how to tell me. “He’s a human, Roe,” Sydero quietly says from beside me, her eyes meeting mine as she smirks, “he’s just annoyingly smart and resourceful.” I glance back at Bradley whose attention is no longer on us, but the dual screens in front of him. <<include "WLD1_8">>

“Why here? You could have set up anywhere, and you choose an abandoned home?” “No one comes poking around abandoned places, and I wanted to get off the grid. I used to be closer to a town but stealing power from them raises eyebrows, and I was close to being caught. So, I came here.” Syd’s words from earlier make their way back into my head, how long this kid has probably gone without any kind of socialization. Plus, where were his parents? <<include "WLD1_8">>

“So, why are you here then? I’m a very busy man.” <<if $cp>>\ “Boy,” Chris chooses to correct, gaining an irritated glare from Bradley. <</if>>\ Sydero chuckles, “Bradley, I’m sure two of those hidden tabs of yours are showing porn, get real.” A cherry red blush spreads across his face, reminding me that despite all of his accomplishments, he was still nothing but a teenage boy. <<if $cp>>“Hold up, porn?” Chris asks, acting as if a boy his age shouldn't even know what sex is.<<else>>“Seriously?” I chuckle, “porn?”<</if>> He shrugs “I’m sixteen, living on my own, and I like big butts, please try to keep up.” <a data-passage="WLD1_9"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Demon named Raum,” Sydero cuts in, rolling her eyes impatiently, “heard of him?” “Of course, one of the earls of hell.” <<if $cp>>\ “How many earls of hell are there?” Chris cuts in. “Enough for me not to go into it, but not enough to make it seem like every demon ever is an earl in some way.” <</if>>\ Sydero nods, “we need as much information on him as you can give us. Why he’s here, how he got here, and how to get rid of him.” “Easy, can figure out what you need before the day is up. But wait, there's more," Bradley exclaims, grabbing a thick folder and handing it to Syd, "I'll look into this demon of yours if you look into this." Sydero opens the folder and gazes at some of the pages, raising her brow and meeting Bradley's gaze. "Werewolves?" "They're eating all the attractive women. Stop them." “How would you know? You don’t leave this room.” Bradley groans, “I was kidding. I have to eat someway. And each time I walk into that town, I hear about how some girl has been snatched up by unknown folks.” <<if $perception >=10 or $cmajor is "Communication">>\ “What happened to you not caring about the greater good?” I ask, leaning on the nearby wall as Sydero continues to flip through the folder. “I don’t care,” Bradley states, glaring at me for pointing out such thing and then blushing, “I just don’t think innocent folks should be killed because of stupid //werewolves//.” The way he said werewolves made me think that he had some kind of personal vendetta against them. <</if>>\ Sydero continues looking through the file, her eyes sweeping past the words before she closes it abruptly. She nods at Bradley and turns to go, stopping right before she passes me. <<if $cp>>\ “If you don’t mind, I’m going to stay here with shortstop here. That’s cool with you?” Chris asks, nudging Bradley. He places a fake smile on his face, “sure is, dad! Can’t wait to hear how many more horrible nicknames you have in store for me.” The smile disappears, and a glare replaces it, one that he also tosses our way. “Roe will be joining you,” Sydero informs. <<else>>\ “You’re staying here.” <</if>>\ “What? No, I’m coming with you,” I argue, further making a point of this as I follow her towards the stairs. “We both know you’re not ready to go up against some werewolves, plural. So yes. You’re staying here. Plus, I work faster on my own. Not trying to worry about your blood on my hands.” [[Persuade her to bring you along.]] [[Refuse to stay here.]]

“Come on, Syd, two eyes are better than one. How else am I supposed to learn?” “How are you supposed to learn if you’re dead?” she snaps back, “yes, you need experience, but this is the wrong time to try and get it. You’re staying.” She moves towards the door, and I follow, causing her to stop in her tracks once again. She turns to me and crosses her arms calmly, far too calm for my liking. <<include "WLD1_10">>

“No, I’m going, like it or not.” “It’s cute that you don’t think I can stop you.” She moves towards the door, and I follow, causing her to stop in her tracks once again. She turns to me and crosses her arms calmly, far too calm for my liking. <<include "WLD1_10">>

“Fine, name the ways to kill a werewolf.” <<if $supernatural >=5>>\ “A silver bullet or knife, or you can just remove the heart. Beheading works as well if you can get close enough. A regular gun will eventually do it, but after a few hundred shots.” “When do werewolves come out?” “Whenever they want to. They’re not restricted to a full moon. During a full moon they transform regardless, but during a new moon they can't transform at all.” “How do werewolves track?” “Like a regular dog, through their sense of smell.” “And?” Sydero questions, raising a victorious brow. “There’s an and?” “They can also smell someone’s emotions,” Bradley answers, sipping from an energy drink, “if they’re loud enough, I guess you can say.” I don’t recall seeing that information in the book but who knows when it was written, new things were bound to arise. I look back at Sydero who appears to have made up her mind, all because I failed to get one question fully right. Much to my amazement, she nods and motions for me to come. <<else>>\ My mouth closes shut, Sydero knowing that I haven’t opened up one of those books since she first placed them in front of me. Clearing my throat, I try to think of what Sydero has told me in the past, mostly when discussing Officer Petri. “Um, silver. Silver kills them,” I recall. Bradley stifles a laugh, but Sydero doesn’t see the humor in the situation. “Well, you’re not wrong,” Bradley tells me, “silver, slicing up their heart, beheading, all ways to kill a werewolf. They can also track you by scent or smell your emotions.” “So, what do you think, Bradley? Think I should bring ?him with me?” Bradley looks me over, tapping his chin in thought. “Yea, sure. Take ?him on a test run.” Sydero nods, making her way back up the stairs that we had come down from. <</if>>\ “You still have that stockpile in the back, right Bradley?” she yells over her shoulder, and he confirms her question. <<if $cp and $CRomance >=1>>\ <a data-passage="WLD1_11"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ <a data-passage="WLD1_13"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

“Hold up, $name,” Chris states, grabbing my forearm to bring me to a stop. He bites the inside of his cheek, “be careful, okay? I don’t think I can survive without you. I mean cos of Sydero. I think she’ll kill me without you here.” I chuckle and nod my head, leaving to catch up with her. <img src="images/divider.png"> Chris watches as the trapdoor closes, his insides churning uneasily as images appear in his head. Images of werewolves tearing his best friend apart. He shudders, turning to face Bradley who no longer was concerned with him. He was typing furiously at his computer, five websites coming up on the large screens. Two sites held religious texts, while the other three held demonic looking figures. Chris tore his eyes from it, clutching his head as he made a beeline for the mini bar. Why a kid his age had one, Chris would never know, and he’d rather not ask. He runs his hands through his hair, his thoughts still on $name. Maybe he should’ve gone, if only to provide an extra pair of eyes to help out. But he wasn’t brave like $name, he couldn’t hold his weight, let alone help out if it came to it. He was useless, this wasn't his life. He takes a long sip of the alcohol, trying not to think of all the ways that this could go wrong. $name would be okay and in a few hours would come walking through those doors, declaring ?his success. Chris smirks at that, hardly having to imagine Sydero’s stumped look after realizing that $name could hold ?his own. It was something Chris always knew. <a data-passage="WLD1_12"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Freshmen year was just the start of their adventure, an adventure that has obviously not seen its ending yet. He remembered a lot of their adventures, how many times $name had his back, and how many times he had ?his. Like when he practically forced ?him to save him from his parents, and ?he agreed to come to dinner with them. <<if $gender is "male" or $gender is "nonbinary">>His mother was completely in love with $name by the end of the night.<</if>> <<if $gender is "female">>\ A light blush spreads onto his face at the thought. His mother was completely in love with $name by the end of the night, and she ended up asking him numerous times why they were just friends. At that moment, Chris simply answered with the obvious answer, they were friends, there was nothing there. But each year he found himself doubting that more and more. The fear he felt when he thought he would never see ?him again. That itself was scarier than getting kidnapped by that Raum guy. Despite this, he still didn’t know what it meant. If it meant that they were just really close and cared for one another, or if there was something ... else. He would be lying if he said he didn’t find $name attractive, a lie that anyone would be able to see. ?He was beautiful, but – <<else>>\ Since then, it has been nothing less than a rollercoaster. The fear he felt when he thought he would never see ?him again, that itself was scarier than getting kidnapped by that Raum guy. That fear actually scared Chris. Of course, Chris believed it meant that they were just really close and cared for one another. But, there were times where Chris doubted that, that he believed something else, something more significant than just being friends, caused him to feel such fear. <</if>>\ “Hey, cliché jock, can you stop drinking all of my alcohol?” Bradley questions, gesturing to the drink resting in Chris’ hands. “You don’t need it anyway, kid,” he snorts, taking a sip but never dropping Bradley’s gaze. “Oh, two can play this game, //Christopher//.” “It’s just Chris,” he chuckles, sitting back, doing his hardest not to think of the danger his friend was about to put ?himself in. <a data-passage="WLD1_13"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> I drive towards the town as Sydero continues to gaze through the folder that Bradley had given her. The previous times I surmise that she had just skimmed over it, this time she was actually reading. “What does it say?” I ask, leaning over before she nudges me back into my seat. “It’s information on all the women that have been taken or killed so far. As well as a map of where Bradley thinks the werewolf den might be. The latest report says that the most recent kidnapping was just yesterday. It says that the police found some blood on the ground and the woman’s phone was gone. No body.” <<if $cmajor is "Criminal Justice">>\ “I highly doubt that the police will let us onto an active crime scene. So, unless you're hiding something under your witch hat, how will we investigate this?” “And here I thought you could get us on.” I open my mouth to correct her on her assumptions but the look she throws me tells me that she was being sarcastic. <<else>>\ “You really think the police will just let us trample on their scene?” “No, but there are ways past that. And sometimes you have to do illegal stuff to figure it out. All part of hunting. So, get ready to learn, and only do as I say. This isn’t some silly game or practice, this is real.” I nod, rolling my eyes since this was the fifth time that she had chosen to remind me of this. <</if>>\ “You know, Sydero, it takes more muscles to frown than to smile.” Her face scrunches up in confusion, “that makes no sense. If you don’t ever smile then those muscles never get used; therefore that’s selective.” I end the conversation there, chuckling as she grumbles about all the ways the saying is crazy. <a data-passage="WLD1_14"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

We arrive at the alley that Bradley had marked, finding nothing special about it. It was just an alley that probably looked the exact same as the others. We only know we’re in the right place because of the police tape. The two of us walk past it like it’s not there, gazing around the alleyway in curiosity. <<if $cmajor is "Criminal Justice">>\ “Tell me, Syd,” I hiss, lingering near the police tape, “how many more laws will I find myself breaking because of you?” She smirks, “if you’re lucky, a lot more.” We had already crossed the tape. The longer I stand here idly, the more likely both of us will be caught. Grumbling, I move forward and begin to look around. <<else>>\ “Look around,” she tells me, taking her own advice as well. <</if>>\ The alleyway is in the middle of two tall brick buildings, one that looks like an apartment style building, while the other seems abandoned at best. <<if $perception >=10>>''Windows''<<else>>Windows<</if>> begin on the second floor and continue on, along with retractable stairs for the outdoor walkways. Along the alleyway sit multiple small trashcans and one large one, over-filled with an assortment of trash. I spot a homeless man down there as well, rummaging in one of them but otherwise staying far away from us. I look at the crevices in the walls and along the ground. The blood that the report detailed still sits there, staining the dirty grey cement, though I realize it adds a dash of color to it all as well. Like Sydero had said before, there’s nothing else there. I straighten up, looking around and coming up with nothing. Sydero comes over. “Find anything that might help us?” [[The trashcan.]] [[The homeless man.]] [[The windows.]]

I turn and point to the large trashcan. “You can go dumpster diving on your own time, Roe,” she chuckles. “Funny. But this is where she was hiding. For all we know she threw her phone in there before whatever happened, happened.” “Then be my guest, lift that sucker up and see.” Of course. I turn and lift the lid, the smell of week-old trash assaults my nose, causing me to turn and take several deep breaths. “We can just agree that it’s not in there. Plus, what would her phone do for us,” I say nervously. Sydero snorts, again looking around. Her eyes land on the windows across the alleyway. “That window, it’s low enough to see everything that would’ve happened.” “How do you know someone was watching at the time though?” “That window is the only one whose curtains are open. So, the way I see it, doesn't hurt to check.” <a data-passage="WLD1_14_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I motion with my head to the homeless man that lingers on the far end of the alley. “Oh, be my guest,” Sydero chuckles, “go down there and rough up the old man.” “You don’t think he saw anything?” I question. She shrugs coolly and leans on the brick wall. “Guess we won’t know til you go talk to him.” I huff and march down there. The man sees me but doesn’t run; instead, he stiffens, his eyes considering my every move. “Did you happen to see what happened yesterday? To the girl who was attacked?” “I already told the cops that I didn’t see anything. Everyone always blames the homeless guy. You think I want those problems on me? Frankly, I’m offended she decided to choose //my// alleyway for those shenanigans.” I stare at him, dumbfounded, “so you’re more worried about your alleyway getting cut off than the woman who was possibly kidnapped?” “That has nothing to do with me. Think anyone cares when I get robbed or bullied? Think anyone cares that I’m homeless?” Obviously, the man hasn’t seen anything and besides him wanting to get a rant off his shoulders, was no help to me. With shoulders slumped, and my eyes refusing to meet Sydero’s, I trudge back over to her. “Correct me, but it looks like you just got a verbal lashing from that guy,” she snickers. I don’t correct her, but I also don’t humor her. She nudges me and nods her head to a window. “I think we got our first clue. That window, it’s low enough to see everything that would’ve happened.” “How do you know someone was watching at the time though?” “That window is the only one whose curtains are open. So, the way I see it, doesn't hurt to check.” <a data-passage="WLD1_14_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $perception <10>>\<<set $perception +=3>><</if>>\ I nod and direct her attention to a second-floor window. At first, it was unimportant, but the window continually grabbed my eye. And under scrutinization, I realized why. “That window is low enough for someone to be able to see everything that went on. Also, it’s the only window around whose curtains aren’t closed. Could be a coincidence, or it might not.” Sydero nods, and we enter the building. <<include "WLD1_14_1">>

The inside of the building isn’t shabby, but it isn’t anything to be proud of. I suppose in a town like this, this was the best one could do. Stained carpets, wallpaper peeling, and a fan that might as well be turned off since it spun slowly and was making a continuous creaking sound. Sydero grabs my attention, walking down a hallway and going into a room that clearly stated employees only. The room held a large host of supplies, from spare uniforms to cleaning materials, to bed sheets and other equipment. Sydero was only concerned with the extra uniforms. She walks over and pulls two of them that have maintenance labels on them. <<if $creativity >10 or $cmajor is "Creative Arts">>\ “Wow, I’m suddenly reliving my weekends, thanks to theatre.” “You did theatre?” Sydero questions, cocking her head to the side, curiosity showing. [[“I was the assistant director and sometimes writer.”][$perception +=5]] [[“I was an actor.”][$charisma +=5]] [[“I was technical theatre, yea.”][$engineering +=5]] [[“I helped with the sets.”][$creativity +=5]] <<else>>\ “You have got to be kidding me,” I sigh. “What? This is the best part of the job.” “Roleplaying?” “Who doesn’t like a bit of roleplaying?” Sydero asks, winking at me before putting the uniform on over her clothes. I follow her lead, seeing that we were actually going to commit to this. “You do this a lot, I take it?” I ask as I zip up the front of the shirt, growling in disgust. This was perhaps the roughest material I’ve ever felt. “Yep. Sometimes I even have to don a police uniform. For hunters, this is an everyday thing,” she continues to tell me, grabbing a clipboard while I grab a toolbox, “but specialists don’t really have to do this often.” <<if $flirt_Syd>>\ <<if settings.dialog>>[[“I’m interested in seeing you in a police uniform.”][$SRomance +=1]]<<else>>[[“I’m interested in seeing you in a police uniform.”][$SRomance +=1]]<</if>> <</if>>\ [[“Why’s that?”]] [[“This all sounds like a ton of work.”][$optimistic -=5]] <</if>>\

“Yea, sometimes I was the assistant director, and sometimes I actually wrote the plays. Either way, it ate up my weekends, so I didn’t really have a social life outside of it.” She smirks, “then how about you take the lead on this?” “I never said I was an actor,” I remind her, but she shrugs as she hands me a uniform. “Doesn’t matter, you probably picked up some things. And I'd like to see.” She technically wasn’t wrong, watching actors and hearing the director yell stop every two seconds to correct them did leave an impression. <<include "WLD1_15">>

“I was an actor, pretty good one, too, I like to think. Cast as everything I went for.” “Let me guess, you went for all the big roles?” she questions, handing me a uniform. “No, sometimes the smaller roles were the more fun roles. Though my director sometimes hated that since he always had an idea of the role he wanted me for.” She smirks, “then how about you take the lead in this?” I shrug, seeing no problem with doing so. <<include "WLD1_15">>

“I was a techie. Worked everywhere from sounds to lights.” “Ever get pissed off at the lack of respect you get?” Sydero questions, making me wonder how she would know anything about that. “I mean, sometimes. The audience doesn’t know you exist unless you mess up, but the actors and the directors never took us for granted.” “Well, how about you take the lead in this?” “I never said I was an actor,” I remind her, but she shrugs as she hands me a uniform. “Doesn’t matter, you probably picked up some things. And I'd like to see.” She technically wasn’t wrong, watching actors and hearing the director yell stop every two seconds to correct them did leave an impression. <<include "WLD1_15">>

“I helped with the sets most of the time, building them and painting them. It’s not as easy as people think, and boy did they use my skills.” “Meaning what?” Sydero further questions. “When they realized that I had a knack for building and painting, they went from small props to gigantic sets that could take up to a month to do.” “At least it challenged you,” she shrugs, “how about you take the lead in this then?” “I never said I was an actor,” I remind her, but she shrugs as she hands me a uniform. “Doesn’t matter, you probably picked up some things. And I'd like to see.” She technically wasn’t wrong, watching actors and hearing the director yell stop every two seconds to correct them did leave an impression. <<include "WLD1_15">>

I smirk, rubbing my chin as I try to imagine Sydero in a police uniform, "I have to admit, I'm interested in seeing you in a police uniform." She smirks and throws me a mischievous look. "Will you be wearing a criminal one then?" "If the lady requests it," I chuckle, and she rolls her eyes, walking past me. "Careful what you wish for, Roe," she whispers before continuing on. <<include "WLD1_15">>

“Specialists are paid for, meaning their clients point them to the problem, and they fix it. There’s no need to learn more and figure out what’s going on. Hunters, they blow in after learning something’s up and have to figure each part out. We got a leg up since Bradley had a folder already made, so we don’t have to learn what we’re after, just what happened and where they might be. Finding out what you’re after is actually the hardest part. So many supernatural creatures share the same abilities.” <<include "WLD1_15">>

I sigh, "this all sounds like a ton of work. Work that might not even be worth it if you're caught." "Eh. I'm not going to say you don't have a point because you do. But every job has its cons." <<include "WLD1_15">>

Once we're done getting dressed, I ask, “so, how are we planning to find which apartment suite has the window? We know it’s the second story, but we don’t exactly know the room.” “That’s why we have these,” she tells me and points to the uniforms that we had just stolen, “we knock on each door and see what we can find.” <a data-passage="WLD1_16"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $creativity >10 or $cmajor is "Creative Arts">>\ Once we get to the second floor, I take the lead like Sydero had suggested, knocking on each door and taking on the role as maintenance. While I talked to the people, explaining to them why we were there and asking them questions, Sydero checked the apartment for windows. Each one turns out to not have the window we’re searching for and after thanking them, bid them goodbye. We continue this routine until we come across an older woman, both Sydero and I spotting the window with the drawn back curtains. “Sorry to interrupt you, we’re here for routine inspection. Spraying for pests,” I tell her. <<include "WLD1_17">> <<else>>\ Once on the second floor, Sydero bangs rapidly on the first door we come to, shouting maintenance. As soon as the occupant opens it, she sticks her head in and looks around. Finding no window, she turns and goes, stating that she knocked on the wrong door. The occupant and I exchange looks, both of us not knowing what had just happened. [[Let her continue this.][$sympathy -=3]] [[I’ll take the lead now.][$sympathy +=3]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> Though her method was rude, it was also fast and would help us find the right apartment quickly. I allow her to continue this, going from one apartment to the next, knocking wildly on the door and shouting maintenance, before moving on. The fourth door we get to ends up being the jackpot. Sydero calms down upon seeing the window, nodding her head at the older woman. “We’re here for routine inspection. Spraying for pests,” she tells the woman bluntly. <<include "WLD1_17">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> Before we can get to the next door I stop her, “I got this. With the rate you’re going, we’ll have security called on us or something.” “What am I doing wrong?” she questions, genuinely curious. It was the innocence in her voice as she asks the question that has me shocked mostly. The fact that she seriously didn’t know why I was stopping her was humorous, if not a problem we would need to address later. <<if $cmajor is "Communications">>\ “I’m a communications major. I got this,” I reassure her, about to knock on the next door when she stops me. “Just because you were a comm student doesn’t mean you know how to talk to folks.” “No, that’s what it means. I mean, I guess it can be argued if you study comm theories or go strictly into film. Still, communication is still a major factor, and we have to take other classes that aren’t always –” “Alright,” she blurts out, “I didn’t ask for your entire college history. Just knock on the damn door.” I do as she asks. It doesn’t go as fast as her plan, but we don’t end up scaring any of the people who open their doors either. When we finally get to the apartment in question, the old woman seems weary. <<else>>\ “Well, for one, after you’re done banging and screaming maintenance at people, you just rudely poke your head in before walking off. They don’t know what’s going on and they’re probably on edge because of what happened yesterday.” “All of this doesn’t sound like my problem.” “Which is why I should take over.” I move her out of the way and follow through with what I say. It doesn’t go as fast as her plan, but we don’t end up scaring any of the people who open their doors either. When we finally get to the apartment in question, the old woman seems weary. <</if>>\ “Sorry to interrupt you, we’re here for routine inspection. Spraying for pests,” I tell her. <<include "WLD1_17">>

“I thought that was on the second of the month?” she asks, though she moves out of the way to let us in. Sydero fails to answer, going straight to the window and peering out of it in curiosity. I continue to keep up appearances, walking around with a spray and acting as if I was checking things over. Sydero clears her throat and throws me a look, clearing her throat once again before saying, “$name, remember what we were talking about this morning? About that girl?” “Oh yea, the one who got kidnapped in the alleyway?” “Yea, there was an update. They said there was one attacker and –,” Sydero starts. Her words said to me, but her eyes trained on the woman. “That’s a lie,” the woman suddenly blurts out, immediately frowning and looking sheepishly into her mug. “How would you know?” The woman opens her mouth but then bites her tongue, shaking her head, “nothing. Continue your work.” She gets to her feet and walks towards her room, our window of opportunity closing. [[Stop her.][$sympathy +=3]] [[Let Sydero handle this.][$sympathy -=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> I send Sydero a look that tells her I got it, better me than her anyway. I calmly approach the woman, resting a light hand on her shoulder. "Trust me when I say, whatever you probably saw, I’ve seen worse. I knew the girl, we went to high school together. I would just like to know what’s going on around here, there have been too many women dying. So if you know something, at least tell me so I can tell the cops. You don’t have to say anything," I tell the older woman, almost every word being a lie. I suppose this is what my life will end up being, me constantly lying to save others. <<if $honesty <50>>Well, I guess it's a good thing that I'm good at lying, not to mention comfortable with it.<</if>> <<include "WLD1_18">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> “Try us, we’ve seen quite a few things in life,” Sydero encourages. The woman refuses to hear her, almost to her room. Taking a few long strides, Syd gets to the woman before she's able to make it to the closed door. I can see all the ways in which this could go, all of them wrong and none of them actually getting us closer to finding where the den might be. I stop Sydero before she can do anything else. I turn to the woman and offer her a <<if $honesty >=50>>genuine<<else>>fake<</if>> smile, "trust me when I say, whatever you probably saw, I’ve seen worse. I knew the girl, we went to high school together. I would just like to know what’s going on around here, there have been too many women dying. So if you know something, at least tell me so I can tell the cops. You don’t have to say anything," I tell the older woman, almost every word being a lie. I suppose this is what my life will end up being, me constantly lying to save others. <<if $honesty <50>>Well, I guess it's a good thing that I'm good at lying, not to mention comfortable with it.<</if>> <<include "WLD1_18">>

She shakes her head, looking as if she would cry at any minute. “We don’t have time for this old woman,” Sydero growls under her breath. “You catch more flies with honey,” I remind Sydero. She growls loudly, “stop using phrases that make no sense!” I wonder if all of her hunts go this way or if this was the main reason she was a specialist. A lack of having to deal with others. I focus on the elderly woman, watching as her fear transforms into sympathy. She sighs deeply and nods. “It was a group of men, five or six of them. I first heard loud mumbling and didn’t pay it any mind, but then I heard muffled screams. I saw the girl through the window. Two men were in front of her when the others came. I ... I was about to call the cops, really, but I saw their eyes glowing yellow, and I was terrified. They talked about taking her to a den and how long they should keep her alive.” The woman wipes her eyes even though I spot no tears. Sydero walks to the corner, unfolding the map that Bradley had given us. She mouths to me to ask the woman which direction they ran off. I ask the woman, and she points to the right, now in hysterics over the memory she had recounted. [[Comfort her.][$sympathy +=5; $sydero -=5]] [[Leave now.][$sympathy -=5; $sydero +=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> Sydero motions for us to leave but it didn’t sit right with me. “I’ll tell the cops and I know they’ll find the girl. It’s not your fault, you didn’t know what to do. You froze, we all do.” The woman doesn’t stop her bawling, but she does calm down slightly. Enough for me to feel better about abandoning her in such a state. <<include "WLD1_19">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> I wasn’t a fan of waterworks, and even more, I freeze when it comes to comfort. Luckily, Sydero was in a rush, and our getaway was made without the woman asking any questions. <<include "WLD1_19">>

Once done, we head down the stairs, putting the uniforms back where we found them before going back out to the car. “Where are we headed?” I inquire, starting the car up and pulling off the curb. “The eastern side of town. If their den was the other way, then it makes no sense for them to run to the right.” Despite the small town feel that the town held, it also carried a charming rustic one. A simple yet enjoyable lifestyle that some found intriguing. Small businesses line the streets, causing me to believe that this was the downtown area, though I doubt they held an uptown. This wasn’t much different than the previous town we were in, just slightly bigger and fewer eyes watching our every move. My mind travels a short distance into the future, trying to figure out what would await us. Was I truly ready for this? Or was I going too fast? Showing too much curiousity and preparing to jump into something I didn’t fully understand. <a data-passage="WLD1_20"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

We arrive in the eastern woods a few minutes later. Sydero grabs the large bag from Bradley’s place and inside I find numerous guns, what look to be charms, knives, machetes, and a stick. While she rummages through the duffle bag, I admire the forest. Hopefully, it was faerie free. Otherwise, this plan just got five times more unattractive. In a lot of ways, these woods remind me of the Honeycutt Forest. There was a lack of utter beauty that the Honeycutt Forest had, as well as the perfect color shades to cause one to feel relaxed, but the atmosphere was the same. Serene, full of wildlife, and attractive colors. In conclusion, I couldn’t picture a pack of werewolves hiding out here. “It’s going to take us forever to find their den.” “Not really,” Sydero immediately answers, “werewolves mark their territory.” “You mean they pee on trees and bushes?” “No, Einstein. They mark trees by clawing them.” She loads a gun and then grabs a long silver and black dagger. “Stay here,” she tells me. “No, I’m coming.” “I’ve been stuck in a car with you for three days. I think both of us need some alone time. Plus, you’re not ready for this.” <<if $supernatural >=5>>\ “I thought we already talked about this, and I’m sure I passed.” “No. You passed the oral exam, not the physical. Saying how to kill something is different than actually doing it.” <</if>>\ “How am I ever supposed to show you I can if you won’t let me?” It was a good question, one that she couldn’t argue with. What was the purpose of me coming if she would only make me stay in the car? <<if $sydero >= 40>>\ She gets ready to argue when suddenly her mouth closes. She narrows her eyes and shakes her head in annoyance, “fine, you want to prove yourself? Be my guest. Just be vigilant. I’d hate to drop what I’m doing just to save your incapable ass.” <<else>>\ She gets ready to argue when suddenly her mouth closes, she narrows her eyes, and that twisted smirk of hers appears, “fine, you want to prove yourself and die in the process? Be my guest. I’m sick of babysitting you anyway.” <</if>>\ She grabs another gun and loads it up, sliding it to me. I expect her to say something else, but she doesn’t. She gives me one last lingering look before walking into the forest. <a data-passage="EP4-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/acttwo.png"> I walk behind Sydero, patting my pants leg for the fifth time to make sure that my blade and gun still sit there. Despite the calmness of the forest, I was on edge, probably thanks to what happened with the faeries. It was hard to relax, but I do my best, especially since Sydero wasn’t on edge. The air is fresh and rich with the fragrance of sharp pine. Due to the time of day, daylight streams into the forest, encouraging the critters that run about to be active. Summer was quickly approaching, but one could not tell due to the soft breeze that dances through the woods. I realize what made this forest starkly different than that of the Honeycutt Forest. Whereas that forest’s colors were saturated and warm, this one had colder tones. The colors weren't desaturated enough to invoke a feeling of fear or stillness, but enough to please the eye and create a calmness with those who trek through. I’m so busy taking in the forest that I run into Sydero’s back. She sends me a glare before placing her attention back on the map, marking another X. So far, there were three large red X’s decorating the paper map, each reminding us that we were wasting time and no closer to finding the den. “I think Bradley got the locations wrong,” I mention, finally breaking the silence. Sydero doesn’t immediately answer, her eyes going from the map to our surroundings. Minutes on top of minutes pass by, and my feet grow tired. It is then that Sydero outstretches her hands, stopping me. Her eyes scan the surrounding area, and before I can ask her what has gotten her on edge, I spot claw marks on a tree. A few other trunks mirror it, one deep slash. “From this point on,” Sydero whispers, “lose any strong emotions, sadness, anger, fear. Especially fear.” I wasn’t some stone-cold killer; therefore, the art of ‘losing one’s emotions was lost on me. I do what I believe is best, meditating and letting go of my thoughts. I clear everything from my mind, imagining myself as a blank slate. [[Ask about a plan.]] [[Ask for any last-minute tips.]] [[Stay silent.|WLD2]]

“Do we have a plan or are we just going to wing it?” I inquire. “I wing everything, plans never work out in the long run.” <<if $optimistic >=50>>\ “That’s not true, you just have to have faith in your plans, it’s like goals.” “Faith won’t help us survive, so no thanks.” <<else>>\ “I hear you. You spend forever making them up only for them to never work out.” “Exactly, better to think on your feet. Be in the moment.” <</if>>\ <<include "WLD2">>

“Got any last-minute tips for me?” “Do you have any combat experience whatsoever?” <<if $combat >=10>>\ “Yea, I took martial arts and gotten into a few fights.” “Those random fights might serve you better. Martial arts give you a discipline and a style, doesn’t really help to go against someone who wants you dead. Trust your instincts –,” she suddenly stops, gazing back at me, “scratch that, don’t listen to your instincts. Your instincts tell you to join random people you know nothing about. That knife of yours, trust that.” <<else>>\ “No, never needed to when I can just talk myself out of situations. Either that or I just don’t get into them at all.” “Stay out of the main fighting then, focus on defense and make sure to stay near me. Werewolves typically attack their own target, but we’ll be outnumbered.” <</if>>\ <<include "WLD2">>

We continue on until we come across a large house. There was no way this wasn’t it, especially since the claw markings only increased. Every tree now bears a mark. We creep up the side, placing our backs along the wall of the house as we approach a window. The cabin reminds me of any typical forest lodge. There’s a wall full of animal heads, mounted to boards and a row of shotguns right beside it. Rustic patterns decorate the wooden furniture and it becomes a game of 'spot something that isn't wooden.' The only thing out of place was the large steel cage resting along the wall. A woman hangs on the bars, weeping in front of two men. “Can we just kill her?” one of the men growl, his words causing the woman to sob louder. “You know we can’t,” the second answers, running his hand down his face, “she’s for the weanlings.” “Those were the days. The days we were brought food and didn’t have to worry about hunting for it.” “That and we were allowed to feed on humans instead of rabbits and squirrels.” The door opens, and a third man walks in, wiping his hands off with a dirty rag. All three men look around the same age, early thirties, stout, and covered in hair that they refuse to cut. “She the last one?” the newest man asks. “Yea. We weren’t told to get more.” “We got three more hungry weanlings, there’s no way this one’s going to fill all three of them.” “She’s a virgin,” the largest one answers, this particular werewolf reminds me of a bodybuilder who goes on protein only diets. He would also be the type to go to the gym and stare at himself in the mirror, hogging each machine. “That might work. Cut the heart in three and let them drink the blood to supply the rest of what they need,” the man with the dirty hands bobs his head from side to side, as if trying to calculate the odds. He finally nods and motions for them to grab the woman. They do so happily, both men catching her thrashing body and pulling her down. Once she's down, the bodybuilder grabs her by her hair and drags her across the floor in irritation. “Follow me,” Sydero whispers, turning so that she can round the side of the house. In a crouched position we follow the woman’s screams, catching sight of a nearby shed. [[“What’s so special about virgins?”]] <<if $supernatural <5>>\ [[“Weanlings?”]] <</if>>\

“What’s so special about virgins?” I question Sydero in a low tone, so hushed that I hardly hear myself ask the question. “Virgins are ... untainted, I guess. The lore on the importance of virgins goes back to the old days, biblical. It’s believed that they have the purest of souls, a step up from a child’s soul. Whether that is true or not, I don’t know.” Sydero answers, her head turning just enough so that she can see me out of her peripheral view. “Are you one?” [[“I am.”][$virgin = true]] [[“Nope.”]] [[Refuse to answer.]]

“I am, is this the part where you try to make a joke out of it?” “I don’t care about your sex life in that manner. I’m asking because if //they// find out, you’ll be on their list.” “How can they find out?” “You know I always wondered the same. Guess it's a dog thing, like when dogs know when another is in heat. Their senses can pick it up. Kinda kinky if you ask me.” I grumble. <<include "WLD2_1">>

“Nope, why do you ask?” “If you were and //they// found out, you’d be on their list.” “How would they find out?” “They’ll have to get close. Think of how dogs know when another is in heat, their senses can pick it up. Kinda kinky if you ask me.” I grumble. <<include "WLD2_1">>

“I’m not answering that question. It’s none of your business.” “Seeing that if you are, you’ll be on their grocery list, it does concern me.” You roll your eyes and follow behind Sydero. It wasn't any of her business but you ... [[... were a virgin.|WLD2_1][$virgin = true]] [[... were not a virgin.|WLD2_1]]

“Weanlings? What are those?” I question, my voice so hushed that I hardly hear myself ask the question. Though Syd doesn't seem to have any problem with hearing me. “A recently turned werewolf that hasn’t completed their transformation yet. To transform, they have to eat a mortal heart. It’s the way most werewolves are turned.” <<include "WLD2_1">>

We grow closer to the shed that the werewolves had gone into, the woman’s whimpers growing even louder than before. “You go in that way, stay to the shadows,” Sydero tells me, pointing to the side before darting off. The werewolves have their back to me, all of them staring at the woman as she tries to get away. Watching her reminds me of how helpless we are at the end of the day, up against others like them. If I didn’t know anything about them, then that could easily be me. The shed was mostly empty, a few tables and chairs scattered around. I stick to the shadows like Sydero suggested, hiding behind tall storage lockers and tables. One of the werewolves perks up, and I freeze, watching as his eyes scan the far wall, his attention not drawn to me. I back up, heading towards a bin when I hear something metallic in my ear, joined by something rubbing against my shoulder and tipping. The metal bucket tips over, all of its contents falling onto my shoulder and back. Long entrails and other organs plop onto the ground, the blood that resides in the bucket slowly seeps off of me, filling my nose with its metallic odor. [[Throw up.][$sympathy +=3]] [[Keep it inside.]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> I can’t help the feeling that builds in my stomach, rushing upwards and finally out of my mouth. The smell, the sight, the realization that it was on my back, it was all too much. <<include "WLD2_2">>

<<if $sympathy >=50>>\ I can’t help the feeling that builds in my stomach, rushing upwards and finally out of my mouth. The smell, the sight, the realization that it was on my back, it was all too much. <<else>>\ Somehow, I’m able to hold it all back, though the lingering taste of bile in my throat exists. I rip my eyes from the scene below me and push out the thoughts of what was still on my back. <</if>>\ <<include "WLD2_2">>

The werewolves jerk around at the sound of metal hitting the shed floor, their eyes each turning gold and they bare their canines at me. They prepare to attack me when Sydero suddenly appears behind one, her knife jutting through his heart. The one closest turns his attention to her, pouncing immediately to avenge his fallen brother. The other werewolf charges toward me. [[Slash him with my knife.][$pacifist -=3]] [[Run to Sydero's side.][$pacifist +=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> I let the werewolf come to me, reminding myself of all the upper hands he possesses. He was faster and stronger on his feet, but I possess the only thing that can kill him. I just need to play this smart. Pulling out my knife right now would cause him to stop and reevaluate his attack, the opposite of his blind rage right now. Remembering that the werewolf was faster than me, I grab my knife earlier than I would with an average human. I slash him, successfully swiping it across his chest. He whimpers the same way a wounded wolf would, backing away. Thin trails of smoke rise from his chest, dissipating soon after. He circles me, eyes never leaving the weapon that I was tightly grasping. Unexpectedly he charges forward, stopping short so that my blade barely misses him. He ducks under to avoid my still swinging blade and grabs my shirt, launching me through the air. With a hard thud, my body crashes on top of a table that holds strong. [[Kick him.]] [[Poke him in the eye.]] [[Call for Sydero.]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> I wasn’t ready for this, that was something I could admit to myself. I spot Sydero on the other side of the shed, fighting off the werewolf but just barely. I reach down for my knife, causing the werewolf stalking towards me to pause. In that moment of hesitation, I dart towards Sydero, hoping to get at least halfway across the shed before my werewolf gets me. I don’t even make it that far. He grabs my shirt and launches me through the air. With a hard thud, my body crashes on top of a table. “Came to the wrong place,” the man growls, suddenly appearing over me. He picks me up, and slams me back down on the table, my body groaning, and my head aches tremendously. “You’re about to die.” [[Kick him.]] [[Poke him in the eye.]] [[Call for Sydero.]]

The man’s hands were preoccupied with my shirt at the moment, not thinking twice about my other limbs doing anything to deter him. He looms closer, enough for me to feel his breath on my face, and for me to take in all of the foulness of it. With him this close, I immediately bring up my hand and jab my thumb into his eye, forcing it as deep in as I could. He backs away, making both a whimper and growl-like noise, but his hands never leave my shirt. Instead, he drags me off the table and onto the ground, punching me harshly across the face. <<include "WLD2_3">>

The man’s hands were preoccupied with my shirt at the moment, not thinking twice about my other limbs doing anything to deter him. He looms closer, enough to feel his breath on my face, and for me to take in all of the foulness of it. The way he was angled, if I bring my foot up and then angle it correctly, it would catch him right in the groin. I do this, and he immediately backs away, making both a whimper and growl-like noise, but his hands never leave my shirt. Instead, he tosses me over his shoulder onto the ground, punching me harshly across the face. <<include "WLD2_3">>

“Syd,” I say, trying to fight the man off and failing, “Sydero!” I scream louder this time, fearing for my life. The man chuckles, but his grin disappears at the sound of a gunshot. His grip on me falters as the bullet shoots through his <<if $perception >=10>>''right shoulder''<<else>>right shoulder<</if>>. I turn just in time to see the man fighting Sydero knock the gun from her hands, grabbing her and throwing her up against the side of the shed. “Think this is going to stop me, you must not know how healing works,” he grins but it’s the look in his eyes that causes me to disregard everything he says. They might heal faster than humans, but I can see the fear there, he wouldn’t recover fast enough. Each step that I take towards the injured werewolf is calculated. Was I getting too close? Was I not getting close enough? What was his reach and what did he have planned now? Unlike before, the man’s face gives nothing away, a blank emotion. Whatever he was planning, he wasn’t letting on. Abruptly he lunges at me, letting out a deep growl. [[Cut his right side.]] [[Cut his left side.]]

I prepare my knife, slashing it towards his right shoulder once he’s close enough. He whimpers, immediately cradling his right arm and backing away from me. Sweat drips down both of our faces as we stare at one another. “I’m done with this!” he releases his arm and pounces again. Whether or not my knife makes contact with him, I’m not sure. I only hear him hiss and see the knife go flying across the floor. The force of the pounce knocks me off my feet as he pins me down. <<include "WLD2_3">>

I prepare my knife, slashing it towards his left shoulder once he’s close enough. He hisses but otherwise continues towards me. He knocks my knife out of my hands and it goes flying across the floor. The force of his tackle knocks me off my feet as he pins me down. <<include "WLD2_3">>

"Should we kill her too?" the werewolf with his grip around Sydero's throat, asks. "I’ll get back to you on that?" the man comments, turning his gaze back to me, "just as soon as I eat this dimwit’s heart." I scream in pain as his claws dig deeper into the skin on my chest. My heart feels like it would pop out of my chest with the way it was beating. <<if $darkcontrol>>\ I’m suddenly reminded of the bruise resting over my heart, left by a figure whose face still haunts my dreams. Or no, it was left because of the accident that had taken place, the figure wasn’t real. Each beat causes the pain to increase tenfold, causing me to wonder if the bruise ever truly healed as normal, regardless of how I had acquired it. <</if>>\ The pressure upon my chest increases and I let out another scream. But my cry is drowned out by the sound of a gunshot, and another soon follows it. The force on my chest disappears, and besides joyful weeping, the shed is quiet. I lean up, my assailant lies dead, a gunshot wound over his heart. I turn, seeing Sydero on her belly, her gun still pointing towards where my werewolf was. She takes a deep breath in and places her head face down on the ground. <a data-passage="WLD2_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Are you okay?” I question the girl we had saved. She hugs herself tightly and nods profusely. It had been a slow walk back, but at least we knew where we were going this time. <<if $medical >=10>>\ I take one last look at her now bandaged wounds. Thankfully, along with all of his weapons, Bradley had some medical items as well. Besides a few scratches and bruises from the men grabbing her too tight, she was fine. Though, that was only counting for physically. <</if>>\ <<if $cmajor is "Psychology">>\ I stand up, sighing as I gaze down at her. She's still shaking, albeit less than she was before. Physically, she was going to be fine, a few scratches and bruises here and there. But mentally and emotionally? Well, she would need a therapist, and even that might not be enough. The woman hadn't been surrounded by some regular kidnappers. Whether or not she knew what they were, she at least knew that they were trying to feed her to someone, and that was enough to mess someone up for life. <</if>>\ <<if $nerve >=40>>\ The pain that I had previously been ignoring, and thanking my adrenaline for, comes back. Subtle burning that increases with every breath. Once we get back to Bradley's, I would really have to check out how bad it was. <<else>>\ I whimper in pain as the pain from earlier intensifies once again. No amount of ignorance helped numb it. Once we get back to Bradley's, I would really have to check out how bad it was. I could hardly focus on the now due to the pain. <</if>>\ “Thank you so much,” she says, trying to keep it together and failing. Tears fall from her eyes, though at least this time it was tears of joy. <<if $sympathy >=50>>I squeeze her shoulder<<else>>I nod<</if>> and go over to Sydero. She busies herself with cleaning her knife. Out of the two of us, it was hard to say who looked worse, especially since I hadn’t checked my chest yet. I didn’t want to see what kind of scars or scratches that monster left. Sydero, on the other hand, had bruising on her face and had a bruise on her neck from being choked. I can just barely make out the fingertip contusions resting on both sides. “You ready to go?” I question. She glances up at me, stuffing the gun into the bag. “There’s no way I’m getting in the car with you smelling like that,” she scrunches her nose in disgust, “you smell like guts and bodily fluids.” “Well, that is what fell on me, how very observant of you. You just killed three werewolves, and you’re telling me you can’t handle a little smell?” “Your stench is not some little smell. The first thing you need to do when we get to Bradley’s is take a shower.” I don’t recall seeing a shower, but then again, I hadn’t checked the entire level. For all I know he had an entire spa and gym down there. “Oh,” Sydero says, pausing before she gets in the car, “you got a little something right there.” I glance into the side mirror and see a small ... something, there. I go to wipe it off quickly, the tiny pale pink object hitting the ground silently. I just want to get away from this place, as soon as possible. <a data-passage="WLD2_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

We drive the woman to the hospital, before heading towards Bradley’s place. The sun is just beginning to make its descent when we arrive. The air seems still, and though we were indeed in the middle of nowhere, something seems off. The house looks the same. The windows were still barricaded, the door was up and blocking any inside view, the roof was still threatening to collapse. “Something is wrong, does something seem wrong to you?” Sydero asks, turning to me. <<textbox "$answer1" "">> <a data-passage="WLD2_6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $answer1.toLowerCase().includes("door")>>\ <>\<<set $perception +=2>><>\ “The door,” I finally say. Before we had left, it was still down due to Sydero kicking it in. Now it was up as if someone had fixed it. “How fast does Bradley usually fix the door?” I question and she shakes her head. “Not this quick.” <<else>>\ “You mean besides the blood on my face?” I question, using my car's window to rid myself of a patch of it. It wasn’t mine and that’s all that mattered. “The door,” I hear her say and glance towards it. “What about it?” “Last I remember, I knocked it down.” I still don’t understand her worry, there was a list of reasons that could explain why the door was back up so quick. <</if>>\ She takes long and quick strides to the door and touches it, the minimum pressure that she puts on it is enough to send it falling to the ground. We both look over to the trapdoor that leads to Bradley’s real room, it was wide open. “Bradley?<<if $cp>> Chris?<</if>>” I call out, getting no response. Sydero beats me to the door, bending down and placing one of her fingers in a dark puddle. When she raises it up to the light, we both clearly see that its blood. “How many werewolves did we kill?” Syd questions, going further into Bradley’s room. “Three,” I answer, finding the room a mess. His dual monitors were smashed and his bed ripped to pieces. The mini bar was more like a glass mine-field. Sydero wanders towards his drawers, checking each before pulling out a small data chip. She pockets it before turning to me. “And the old woman said she remembers seeing five or six.” “Do you think <<if $cp>>they’re<<else>>Bradley’s<</if>> still alive? Why wouldn’t they kill them?” <<if hasVisited("“What’s so special about virgins?”")>>\ “The man said that they had three more weanlings to feed. <<if $cp>>I don’t know about your friend, but I know Bradley’s still a virgin,<<else>>Bradley’s still a virgin,<</if>> no matter how many times he claims he’s not,” Sydero snorts, “we have to go, now.” <a data-passage="WLD2_7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ “The man said that they had three more weanlings to feed. <<if $cp>>I don’t know about your friend, but I know Bradley’s still a virgin,<<else>>Bradley’s still a virgin,<</if>> no matter how many times he claims he’s not,” Sydero snorts, “we have to go, now.” She halts abruptly, turning her head to look at me. "You don't happen to be a virgin, Roe?" [[“I am.”|WLD2_7][$virgin = true]] [[“Nope.”|WLD2_7]] [[Refuse to answer.|WLD2_6_1]] <</if>>\

“I’m not answering that question. It’s none of your business.” “Seeing that if you are, you’ll be on their grocery list, it does concern me.” You roll your eyes and follow behind Sydero. It wasn't any of her business but you ... [[... were a virgin.|WLD2_7][$virgin = true]] [[... were not a virgin.|WLD2_7]]

I follow her as she speed walks out of the house and towards car, and ask, “where are we going?” “Back to the shed, they probably saw the surprise we left them and are going to be working quickly to get out of there.” I get in the car and drive back towards those cursed woods. [[Ask Sydero about the chip.]] [[Ask Sydero about her relationship with Bradley.]] [[Stay silent.|EP4-Act Three]]

“That chip you found, what is it?” I question, knowing that the probability of her not answering was greater than ninety. “I don’t know,” she answers, taking it out and looking at it, “all I know is that Bradley stole it off of some werewolves and they’ve been hounding him ever since. That’s why I was surprised when I found it. Whatever this is, it’s important to them. Bradley just hasn’t been able to hack it yet.” <a data-passage="EP4-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

“What’s your relationship with Bradley?” I question, knowing that the probability of her not answering was greater than ninety. But curiosity has been burning inside me since I first saw the two interact. Sydero kept everyone at arm’s length, but not him. She actually seems to care for him in a way I didn’t know Sydero possessed. “Got hired by him when he was, what, ten or eleven. Said that he grabbed something from some werewolves and needed protection.” “Ten or eleven?” “You’ll be surprised at how young some people are when they first get into this. Anyway, I did the job, and Bradley begged me to help him disappear, for the sake of his parents he said. So, I did. I set him up and kept an eye on him, but that’s when werewolves killed his parents, simply because there was a link. He learned that just because you try to be heroic and save others, doesn’t mean it happens. Since then he’s been on his own, and I’ve been helping him. The money I get from jobs, I send half to him. Faye helps out when she can as well.” She growls, more to herself than to me, “that kid is my responsibility. If he dies ... well, let’s just say there’s going to be hell to pay.” [["What happened to love is a weakness?"]] [[Stay silent.|EP4-Act Three]]

I raise a brow at her words, "whatever happened to love being a weakness?" "Whoa," she chuckles, snorting at the word love, "I take responsibility for Bradley, doesn't mean I love him." "But you could easily have just sent him on his way," I point out. "And his blood would've been on my hands. He's resourceful but the state he was in, he wouldn't have made it. Plus, werewolves were after him." She had a point, but I can't help but feel that she wasn't completely honest with me, that there was something else that had inspired her as well. I think back to her interactions with Bradley, reminding me of a worried older sister. Yea, there was definitely something else. <a data-passage="EP4-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/actthree.png"> We arrive back in the woods, with the sun was still setting. Personally, I’d rather not be in the woods with a bunch of raging mad werewolves with super senses, whom all had a bone to pick with us ... but that's just me. “You remember the way?” I ask Sydero as she grabs a gun and knife. She nods and takes off in a sprint in the way I guess the shed is. Once there, I see someone packing a truck up with items in front of the shed. We stay on the outskirts, using the trees as cover as we try to peer inside. <<if $cp>>I can see two figures tied up with sacks over their heads, guessing that to be Bradley and Chris.<<else>>I can see a figure tied up with a sack over their head, guessing that to be Bradley.<</if>> “I want you to stay here,” Sydero tells me, getting ready to go in. [[“Don’t have to tell me twice.”][$stubborn -=2; $daring -=2; $sydero +=3]] [[“You’re going to need backup.”][$stubborn +=2; $sydero -=3]] [[“Not gonna happen.”][$stubborn +=3; $daring +=2; $sydero -=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Reasonable ++ | Cautious ++<</if>> I raise my hands in surrender, “you don’t have to tell me twice.” The memory of what happened a couple hours ago was fresh in my mind. Sydero had killed all three werewolves on her own, she could do it again I’m sure. <<include "WLD3">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++<</if>> I grab her before she can go, “you’re going to need backup.” “I saw the backup that you gave me last time. I think I’m better off alone. Grab your knife, just in case one comes this way.” I can’t argue her words, and if her going in alone meant she would do a better job than last, then who was I to argue. I nod and grab my knife. <<include "WLD3">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++ | Daring ++<</if>> “That’s not gonna happen,” I tell her stubbornly. “There’s no time for this. You’ve already shown me what you //can// do,” she puts significant emphasis on the can, seeing that I didn’t really show her anything last time. “If I fail, at least they won’t know you’re here. If I look to be losing, be my guest and run inside and try to free <<if $cp>>them.<<else>>Bradley.<</if>>” <<include "WLD3">>

Sydero leaves my side, sprinting on deft feet to the side of the shed, and then disappearing within. I edge closer to it, jumping when I hear someone shouting, followed by the sound of a gun going off. I hear another gunshot, followed by someone screaming, “eat her heart!” I don’t know if they were referring to Sydero or someone else, but it wasn’t putting me at ease to hear such words being screamed. [[Get closer.]] [[Stay where I am.]]

I edge closer to the shed, no longer being shielded by the trees. I press my ear to it, hoping I can hear better. <<include "WLD3_1">>

I stay where I am, despite the urge to run forward. Sydero could handle herself, there’s no way she’s been doing this job for this long and couldn’t. <<include "WLD3_1">>

Suddenly, a guttural howl goes out, followed by the sounds of someone choking, or something close, it didn’t sound good. If that sound wasn’t enough to send me forward, hearing Sydero scream in pain was. I charge forward, grabbing my knife as I peek into the shed. One werewolf has Sydero pinned down while another moves in for the kill. One lays dead and the fourth clenches their head in agony. “Syd!” I shout, capturing everyone’s attention. It wasn’t the smartest thing, but it gave her a small opening. She swipes her hand to the right, and with the motion, a werewolf is flung across the room. With the other one’s attention just now going back to her, she grabs her knife and pierces its heart, her attention going to the werewolf she recently flung. The last weanling approaches me, glaring up at me with bright golden eyes. I was definitely having flashbacks to earlier today, though the experience of this werewolf rivals mine. This was a weanling still, new to most of what was happening to them. [[Rush them.][$daring +=5]] [[Trick them into coming closer.][$daring -=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> Instinct had a lousy way of either placing you at the top of the food chain by default, or at the bottom. The fact that the weanling was approaching me was proof enough of where they thought they belonged. So, when a predator suddenly sees the prey charging them, it causes doubt, and that’s what I want. I charge forward, running and gripping the blade as tightly as I can. The weanling stops, confused about what they should do, if only for a second. But that was all I need, I slash at them, and they barely dodge the attack, but their arm now sports a long cut. <<include "WLD3_2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> If they thought I was defenseless, then they would come closer. I mirror that of a frightened being, not hard since I was already shaking. Doubts regarding my plan run through my head, causing me to rethink things that I can't change. I keep my blade hand hidden, angling myself so that it looks more natural. The weanling is upon me. My feet carry me away from its first punch, and my hand naturally swipes the blade towards them. Their reaction is faster than I expect, and they get away, though they now sport a long cut on their arm. <<include "WLD3_2">>

I hear the werewolf near Sydero cry out in pain and steal a glance. I spot her standing over him as he lays at her feet. I don’t know what she’s doing, but she’s not even touching the man. The sounds the man was making, he was dying, but how was that possible if Sydero wasn’t even – My thoughts are interrupted as I had forgotten about the now pissed off weanling. They rush me, knocking me onto my back and sending my knife sliding across the floor. I punch wildly, most of my hits landing but it doesn’t make the weanling move off of me. They growl, their mouth coming closer and closer. Were they actually going to eat me? “Roe, incoming!” I hear Syd shout, followed by the sound of metal scraping against metal. I grab the knife and plunge it into the weanling’s chest, the heart. Their eyes widen, and they cough up blood. Squinting, I push the weanling off of me before I was decorated with any more of their fluids. They whimper in inconsolable pain, trying to stand and run off but tripping and falling to the ground. Their movements cease, and their whimpers grow faint before stopping altogether. [[Stare at my hands.]] [[Stare at the body.]] [[Stare at the knife.]]

I stare down at my bloody hands. This blood didn’t just belong to someone, it was the blood symbolizing their death. I ... I had killed someone. Yes, they wished to kill me first, probably would have no regrets or care later, but that didn’t matter to me. I had never taken another’s life. No matter how many times I repeat that it was either them or me, the trembling continues. <<include "WLD3_3">>

I stare at the body that rests just a few feet away from me. The weanling died curled up, fresh tears stuck to their cheeks as they took their last breath. I ... I had killed someone. Yes, they wished to kill me first, probably would have no regrets or care later, but that didn’t matter to me. I had never taken another’s life. No matter how many times I repeat that it was either them or me, the trembling continues. <<include "WLD3_3">>

I stare at the knife that I still grip firmly, gripping it as if something else was going to attack. It is coated in the blood of the now dead weanling, the weapon that brought the final breath. I ... I had killed someone. Yes, they wished to kill me first, probably would have no regrets or care later, but that didn’t matter to me. I had never taken another’s life. No matter how many times I repeat that it was either them or me, the trembling continues. Shock finds me releasing the knife, hearing it clang against the ground but that was it. The sound echoes but I feel as if it was coming from somewhere farther away. <<include "WLD3_3">>

But it wasn't just that, something else resides in me. The feeling feels like it was awakening, hardly strong enough to actually allow my brain to register it as anything needing attention. It was unfamiliar though. The only thing I can even think of relating it to is when someone finds out something new about themselves. Whether that new thing was a personality trait or a cool birthmark, it was the only feeling that even came close to what I was feeling. Self-discovery. The feeling itself makes me feel uneasy, only because it wasn't a repulsive one. In a small way, it felt good. And that was the scariest part. <<if $cp>>\ Something touches my shoulder and I jump as I turn, calming down when I see Chris. His hair was disheveled, and his shirt jacked up, but otherwise, he's okay. He looks at the knife in my hands and then at the body, not saying anything but not having to. He helps me to my feet, giving me space but standing close in case I needed him. <</if>>\ Sydero pulls the sack off of Bradley’s head, going to untie him next. “Huh, where all the doggies go?” he asks, his eyes jumping from one body to the next. “We let them out for a little play time, they were getting grumpy. You alright?” Syd asks, taking the chip out of her pocket and handing it to a thankful Bradley. “I will be, let’s get the hell away from here.” Bradley marches out, Sydero following behind him. <<if $cp>>Chris gives me a sympathetic smile before following them.<</if>> I prepare to follow but stop, my eyes turning to see the man that Sydero had killed on her own. Curiosity floods through me and I approach the dead figure, stopping before I can get too close. His eyes are nonexistent, only puddles of blood resting there. Dark veins are etched over his entire face and neck. I don’t know if the death was quick, but I knew it wasn’t painless. This seems like the worst way to go. “Roe,” I hear Sydero scream out. My feet carry me backward, but my eyes never leave the werewolf corpse. <a data-passage="WLD3_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<>\<<set $ss_supernatural = true; $nerve -=5>><>\ The rest of us hang back as Bradley looks over what used to be his home. He delicately picks up a monitor and drops it back down, wiping away the tears. “I hate werewolves,” he screams out to no one in particular, “they ruin everything. Those fucking bastards!” He kicks the side of his desk and whimpers in pain, sitting on the edge of the bed and burrowing his face in his hands. Things he spent his life making, that he was passionate in, now in ruins. “You’re going to have to come with us, Bradley,” Sydero states, “you know that, right?” He nods but refuses to show his face. She turns and looks at <<if $cp>>us<<else>>me<</if>>, “give us a minute.” I do so gladly, not really feeling up for the company either. I go out and grab the supernatural book, heading to the table of contents and searching for the right word before flipping to the corresponding page. A picture of an older crone stares back at me, beside her aged picture rests the word //Witch/Warlock//. Before, I hadn’t really thought about looking up more information on what my traveling partner could do. But now, after seeing that man and knowing other things, I think being prepared is wise. I hear movement from below and wonder what I would do if Sydero came walking in and saw what I was reading. [[I’ll just make up some lie.][$honesty -=3]] [[Shrug it off.]] [[I'll tell her.][$honesty +=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Deceit ++<</if>> I was getting reasonably good at lying, thanks to the new job and all. Sure, Sydero would probably see through it, but she wouldn’t know for sure. <<include "WLD3_5">>

It wasn’t like Sydero told me everything and answered all my questions. I didn’t have to give her one either, she could speculate instead. <<include "WLD3_5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Honesty ++<</if>> I wasn’t afraid of her, or perhaps that wasn’t the right way to phrase that line of thought. Sydero always warned me not to trust anyone, and she always put herself in that group. I’d tell her that this was the result of me not trusting anyone. I needed to know everyone’s weakness. <<include "WLD3_5">>

Most of the information isn’t new. Either Sydero told me, Faye has said something, or I already know it. There are two different kinds of witches, practitioners and actual witches, warlocks also fall into line with witches, the only difference being their gender. Practitioners are born human but practice Wicca, whether good or bad, and they don’t have powers. Witches, on the other hand, are born with a specific ability that they could utilize. Both types of witches are free to go about their craft however they like, some turn to worshipping demons and Satan, while others fight for innocents. Others just did it to help out their lives, whether as a business or simply personal means. I flip through the pages, getting to the part where they speak about power. They didn’t have each and every power a witch could possess, but it did say that they are only born with one. Sydero is able to flick people with just a hand movement and somehow could make people’s eyes burst and bleed out without touching them. Maybe that is the same power, but a large piece of me doubts the assumption. I search for weaknesses. Other witches, spells that strip powers, fire. Of course fire, I think to myself. Then certain runes that would make a witch unable to perform. The runes weren’t in the book, neither were the spells, but there were other ways to find them. Otherwise, killing witches wasn't as difficult as I was led to believe. You can kill them the same way you can kill a human. I close the book, feeling conflicted about all of this. I don’t have time to think on it when the trapdoor opens, Sydero motioning for me to come in. <a data-passage="WLD3_6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Once we’re all there, Bradley stands and clasps his hands together. I notice a large duffel bag in the corner, perhaps all the things that hadn’t gotten torn up and messed up during the werewolf raid. “I did learn some stuff about Raum. You know the basics, Earl of Hell, in charge of thirty legions of demons. He’s depicted as a crow in most religious text. Back when the world was simpler, he was known to steal treasure and had a thing for stealing the dignity of men. In your case, he’s known as a bounty hunter. Has never missed a hunt and is not known to suffer,” Bradley looks over at me, “strays, lightly.” "Strays? What does that mean?" I ask since I was obviously the so called stray. “Meaning, since you’re still alive, you’re more valuable than just some human. You’d be dead already if you weren’t.” “He’s not a demon like Lilith or Azazel though?” Sydero asks, performing her notorious pace. “No.” “Good, he’s easily killable. The biggest question now is, who called him in for the bounty?” I turn and head out, ignoring the silence that sets in due to my sudden action. I don’t care though. I need air. <a data-passage="WLD3_7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<>\ <<playlist "ambience" fadeout>> <<audio "calm" loop volume 0 fadeto 0.60>> <>\ I lean my back on the side of my car, ignoring the prickly feeling of sharp blades of grass poking my thighs and butt. It was the last thing on my mind. Instinctively, I gaze down at my hands, remembering that another’s blood had coated them an hour or so ago. That person had died at my hands. I ended their life. I knew and understood that it was all self-defense, that it was either them or me. That wasn’t what got me, just the feeling of knowing that the last thing someone saw was me, me sticking a sharp blade through their heart. Werewolf, weanling, no matter what it was. I had just ended someone's life ... <<if $sympathy >= 50>>\ Try as I might, to remind myself that it was needed, I still feel sick. I respect life, that was going to be a negative trait in this life but I couldn't help it. <<else>>\ The only thing making me feel even a bit better is the knowledge that I would grow numb to this. I was only feeling this way because it was my first kill. If I felt good about that then there was something wrong with me, or at least that's what I believe. <</if>>\ I shiver for no reason, looking up at the setting sun. The sky was filled with a mix of combatting colors, pinks and dark oranges fighting for their last minutes. The sight is hypnotic, and the wind only helps to aid this feeling, moving the resilient grass with its strong breeze. I suddenly feel a gaze on my back, turning to see ... <<if $cp>>\ [[... Chris.]] <</if>>\ [[... Sydero.]] [[... Bradley.]]

Chris comes and sits beside me, sighing as he observes the sunset. “How are you doing?” he questions softly, his worried eyes coming to rest on me. “I ... I know what needed to be done, and I did it. They would’ve killed all of us, and I’m sure they wouldn’t have spent a second doubting. But, I’ve never killed anyone.” “Yea, and Sydero’s 'get over it or else' ultimatum doesn’t really help. I swear, that girl needs sympathy lessons.” I chuckle lightly. My thoughts go to Sydero and that werewolf that she had killed. But I didn’t want that thought on my mind. <<if $CRomance >=3>>\ <<if $gender is "female">>\ “I know I owe you my life though. The second time I think that is,” he says, chuckling. “One of these days I’m going to stop relying on you to save me.” “It’s no problem, Chris,” I smile, though the look he gives me tells me that it is. His eyes go towards my cheek, where he runs a light hand across it. At first, I think it’s a move of affection, but when he pulls it back, I see a hint of red on it. “Ugh, I swear blood is the hardest thing to clean up.” I say the words in aggravation, but also as a joke, something to liven the mood up. Chris doesn’t take it as such, his eyes still resting on my face. “Be more careful next time,” he says with a hint of a pout. <<else>>\ “I know I owe you my life though, the second time I think that is,” he says, chuckling. “One of these days I’m going to stop relying on you to save me.” “It’s no problem, Chris,” I smile, though the look he gives me tells me that it is. His eyes go towards my cheek, he lifts his hand but with a light blush lowers it. “Um, you got something on your cheek.” I wipe at it and see a trace of red on my hand. “Ugh, I swear blood is the hardest thing to clean up.” I say the words in aggravation, but also as a joke, something to liven the mood up. Chris doesn’t take it as such, his eyes still resting on my face. “Be more careful next time,” he grumbles. <</if>>\ “You think I wanted this?” I snicker, bringing my legs closer to me, “there’s so much that is still unanswered. And being in that room and listening to them talk about Raum, even more that I don’t know. What makes me valuable? Why am I still alive? Is it because they think I have a connection to Sydero? Each day is a trial, harder than the last. And this is what, only the first week? Barely the second if anything.” “Are you doubting this?” [[“Yes.”]] [[“No.”]] <<else>>\ “You know you’re going to have to do it again, right.” Chris says. I think it’s a question until I repeat the statement in my hand. It was a warning, one that holds value and truth. I would have to do it again, plenty more times. That’s what this life detailed. What Sydero chose to remind me every step of the way. But it isn’t the same, doing it and saying it. There is always a long thick line separating the two. “What you’re feeling isn’t weird. The mind, it naturally sympathizes, even if there wasn’t much of a choice,” Chris continues. “If you ask me, you not being bothered would be much scarier. That’s what serial killers and psychopaths go through, they don’t feel sympathy, they feel glee.” “No need for a lecture, Chris,” I say, and he instantly nods. “I just don’t want you beating yourself up about this.” I thank him, and we sit there in silence for a couple more minutes. Somewhere between then and now, he gets up and goes. <a data-passage="WLD3_8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

“Yes. I know it’s stupid and at the time I didn’t have a lot of options. But ... sometimes I wonder. I know I’d probably end up dead if I had done anything differently, but from what I see, I’ll end up dead this way too.” <<include "WLD3Chris">>

“No. I stand beside my decision, but it’s not like I knew this is what it would entail. Look at Bradley, the kid’s only sixteen, and he’s been through all of this crap. I don’t know, I just wish I had all the answers. I’m sick of the mystery and being the one in the dark.” <<include "WLD3Chris">>

“You have no idea how much I want to say everything will be okay. But I can’t. You and I both know how easy it is to get kidnapped and threatened.” He pauses, seeming to try and think of his next words. “Um, just stay safe,” he finally says. I snicker and nod at him, watching as he gets up and walks off. <img src="images/divider.png"> Chris stops, his eyes on the house but his mind still sitting beside $name, watching the sunset. And yet again, he was worried about ?him. More so than he should be. He wanted to turn around and grab ?him, to pull ?him into a tight hug and tell ?him that it was okay. That he was there for ?him. <<if $gender is "female">>But he couldn’t even be there for himself. Why was it so hard to figure out where his feelings rest? Whether he liked ?him or if he didn’t? Any other girl, he would be able to instantly make a decision, he’s been doing just that. He was never scared to make the first move, rejection was a feeling that would come and go. He knew that. Perhaps that was it, rejection. With other girls, rejection was guaranteed, but they were strangers. He didn’t have to look at them every day. $name was his best friend and being rejected by ?him was bound to make life awkward, especially now. It was better to just keep whatever he was feeling to himself. To bury it and let it pass. Too much was happening right now, the last thing ?he needed was his supposed feelings getting in the way. He nods to himself, leaving feeling a tad bit lighter.<<else>>But the feeling was weird, alien. His thoughts were jumbled in their rationalizing for wanting to do such a thing. He felt like he was betraying himself either way. These thoughts were more aggravating than even getting kidnapped. He was straight, Chris repeated that thought to himself countless times as he walks farther into the house. The thoughts were just graying the lines because him and $name were such good friends. It wasn’t weird for him to hug $name. //But that’s not it, is it//, a dark voice question. Chris wipes his face, part of him just wanted to bang his head up against a wall to silence his mind. “$name's your friend. That’s it, that’s all.” Saying it aloud made him feel better, but not much.<</if>> <a data-passage="WLD3_8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I turn and see Sydero leaning on the hood of my car, her gaze on the sunset. She was the last person I wanted to see<<if $SRomance >=2>> but at the same time the only.<<else>>.<</if>> “I can’t tell you the last time I’ve actually watched a sunset.” “And why’s that?” I grumble. “I usually go after my prey at night.” Hearing her say prey makes me shiver. Makes me think back to the werewolf that I killed, the werewolf she killed. For me, I was the prey, a lucky prey that was able to undermine the predator and get away. But now I wondered, was Sydero ever the game? Or did she simply like playing with her food? For all I know, I was looking too deep into this. Making her out to be the bad guy when she’s saved me more times than not. “Hey, about what happened today.” “I don’t want to talk about it.” “Well, tough luck, we’re going to.” I get to my feet and turn to her, surprised to see her standing right there, looking ready for a fight. “Now you want to talk? Funny how you only want to talk when it benefits you.” “Well of course, the keyword is benefit.” I take a step closer to her, “well, this time I’m walking away. Have a conversation with yourself.” <a data-passage="WLD3Sydero"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $SRomance >=2>>\ I move to walk around her, but Sydero’s faster than me. One minute I’m walking around her and the next my back is hitting the side of my car. Sydero glares at me, neither of us saying anything. Despite my wish to be away from her, I also crave for her to come closer. The closeness between the two of us causes me to ache in ways I shouldn’t. My anger begins to turn into something else, something I was becoming accustomed to when it came to her. She somehow manages to press herself even closer to me, her thigh just barely resting between my legs. She knows what she’s doing, there’s no way she doesn’t. If she didn’t, then she was blind. If she did, then she now knew the effect she had on me. I could see her doing this simply to get a rise out of me, or to tease me when she feels like it. But even knowing this, I still wish for that to be the case. Her mouth is inches from mine, and through this entire thing, I haven’t dropped her gaze. That gaze that can pierce through anything. “Correct me if I’m wrong,” she says in a husky tone, it takes everything in me not to shiver, not to grab the front of her shirt and bring those lips to meet mine for the first time. “But weren’t you supposed to be walking away?” So, she did this to tease me. I push her away from me, straightening myself up and ignoring the ache that exists further down. “You must think you’re really cute,” I growl, and she shrugs nonchalantly. “Not as cute as you when you’re flustered.” “You’re an asshole,” I say plainly, walking back towards the abandoned house. It was the last place I wanted to be, but it was the only place Sydero didn’t exist. <a data-passage="WLD3Sydero2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ I walk away, hearing her chuckle, “you kill a weanling, and this is how you act. What are you going to do when Raum appears? Matter of fact, did you think you wouldn’t get your hands dirty?” It was funny how I said I would walk away, yet here I am in mid-turn, ready to snap at her. “It’s like you said, killing something and talking about it is two different things. But, I wonder, how heartless can one be to not feel the impact of death anymore? To just be able to randomly kill without consequence.” “Trust me, I know the consequences.” “I’m sick of these riddles of yours. For someone who’s pretty straightforward, you have a knack for avoiding questions and replacing them with cryptic messages.” “Sounds like a personal problem, Roe,” Sydero calls out, walking away. It wasn’t that she again avoided any kind of answer that made me boil over with anger. No, my rage is sparked due to something much simpler. It’s because I swore to walk away this time, to leave her with questions and no answer. Yet here I am, the one still standing outside. <a data-passage="WLD3_8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

<img src="images/divider.png"> Sydero’s heartbeat finally comes down from its high, though it isn’t until Roe disappears into the darkness of the house that it mellows out like normal. It always takes an extra amount of work to get her to back off from ?him, especially when their bodies are so close together. Roe’s intense $eyes eyes always caused her heart to skip a beat. She isn’t a fan of always receiving the hate-filled and annoyed glares, but it only made it that much better when she got the desire-filled ones. The raw desire that swims through them, unchecked and ready to be discovered. It also didn’t help that Sydero is always able to place Roe in the most ... appealing positions. “You need to keep yourself in check,” she tells herself, berating herself for even doing it in the first place. There are only two things that can drive Sydero off the edge, and uncontrolled desire is the first. The only reason why she isn’t too worried is because it hasn’t gone that far. Roe is fun to mess with, and Sydero is curious, but she isn’t //that// curious. Roe is just fun to play with. Nothing more. <img src="images/divider.png"> <a data-passage="WLD3_8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I look back to see Bradley standing there, swaying back and forth with his hands in his pockets. “I wanted to say sorry that you had to see my breakdown back there. I normally can control my emotions better than that,” he begins nervously, scratching the back of his neck. “It’s fine. You and werewolves seem to have a colorful history.” “Yea, I don’t know if Sydero told you, but they’ve been after me for some time. All because of some chip.” “How do you feel about the rest of the supernatural creatures?” “They are what they are. I don’t hate them but if they ever cross paths with me then who knows what might happen. Well, besides vampires. Fuck them too.” “Are you a hunter?” “No. I help hunters. Tons of them will ask me for information and for a price, I give it. Besides Sydero, she’s the only one who could get stuff for free.” “Nice to know that she likes at least one person,” I murmur. Bradley chuckles, twiddling with his fingers. “How much has she told you?” “Hardly anything, does she even have a last name?” “She does. But she has her reasons.” “Not you too Bradley.” He nods in understanding and doesn’t go any further, the last thing I want to hear is a speech about good intentions and trust issues. “I have to get the rest of my stuff ready, but we’ll be leaving soon.” He walks away, back into the abandoned house that he once called his. <a data-passage="WLD3_8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The sun sets further until no longer existing in the sky. The sky reflects its absence and takes on the shades of the moon. Somewhere in the distance, I hear a deep mournful howl. I grab my keys and begin readying the engine, ignoring it. Sydero gives me the newest address, a motel that isn't too far away. When I question why we're headed there, and what our next plan of action is, she ignores me. There is only so much I can take before feeling the need to explode. I can feel it, my meter is in a dangerous place. But I drive, biting my tongue and hoping that my playlist can cool me down. Thankfully, she sits in the back with Bradley, the two of them speaking loud enough for me to hear, but otherwise is just Bradley catching her up on what he had been up to. <a data-passage="Outside the motel ..."><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<>\ <<audio "calm" unloop fadeout>> <<playlist "ambience" loop play>> <>\ <<if $cp>>I sit on the hood of my car with Chris nearby, playing with the new phone that Bradley has given him.<<else>>I sit on the hood of my car, playing with the new phone that Bradley has given me.<</if>> Turns out that Bradley had tons of unused phones, waiting for a moment like this to be put to use. He gives <<if $cp>>both of us one<<else>>me one<</if>>, everyone’s numbers already inserted into it. <<if $uncledead is false>>\ I would have to remember to call my uncle sometime and give him this number, as well as asking him to clear my apartment out and make sure I didn’t have any open accounts. Wasn’t like I needed them now. <</if>>\ We wait outside of the motel room that Sydero has paid for, waiting to hear about her findings. Suddenly the image of the weanling appears in front of me. In shock and fear, I jump backward, losing my balance and hitting the ground harshly. “It’s happening. $name is losing ?his mind,” I hear Bradley yell out.<<if $cp>> I glance up to see Chris offering me a sympathetic, if not confused, look.<</if>> I pick myself up, dusting myself off as I ignore both of their looks. <<if $serious >= 50 or $nerve >= 40>>\ “I’m fine,” I say. <<else>>\ “You're a bit late for that one, Bradley. I lost my mind a while ago,” I joke. <</if>>\ “Still thinking about that weanling you killed?” Sydero questions, coming out from the room with a half-burned map in her hands. “Did you find him?” Bradley asks, quickly taking her attention off of me. “No. He’s shrouded, but I guess I shouldn’t be surprised by that. He’s a bounty hunter, he’ll know how to cover his tracks. Let’s get the bags and call it a night.” I didn’t need to be told twice. I grab my bag when I spot a bright blue fluorescent object sticking out of Sydero’s pack. I move the flap out of the way and grab the bottle. A thick wisp of white floats aimlessly inside, it expands before shrinking back and continuing its actions from earlier. I rotate the bottle to the side and watch as the liquid slowly moves with it, whatever this is, it was thick and more gel-like than liquid. <a data-passage="WLD3_9"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“What’s this?” I ask Sydero. Suddenly the container is snatched out of my hand, and Sydero stuffs it back in her pack. “Mind your own business, Roe.” “It’s in my car, it’s my business.” <<if $cp>>\ “Guys, it’s been a long day, can we save this argument for tomorrow?” Chris asks, yawning after his thoughts are spoken. <<else>>\ “Really? You two are going to do this tonight?” Bradley questions. <</if>>\ “I’m tired of all the secrets. I don’t trust you, Sydero.” She bows as if my words were a compliment, “great, you’re learning something after all.” “I’ve been patient,” I say, taking cautious steps toward her, “but you hardly tell me anything. I saw what you did to that werewolf. What were you planning on doing with the faerie? What is that crap?” “Where is all of this coming from?” she asks, that cocky smirk of hers still on her lips. It's a good question, one that I could trace back to the day we left Faye’s place, her warning. At first, I thought Faye was saying that I needed to watch Syd’s back, to make sure she didn’t do anything crazy. But when she denied that as being her reason, I knew something was off. Faye looked frightened, uncomfortable. The questions began to roll in after that, questions that never received any answers. <a data-passage="WLD3_10"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“On second thought,” Sydero suddenly says, “I don’t care. Get over yourself, Roe. You’ve had a long day, and you’re tired, especially after killing your first supernatural creature.” If anyone else had said that, then I might think their concern genuine. But the teasing look in Sydero’s eye and her relaxed uncaring body language tells me differently. <<if $cp>>I look over at the other two, both of their eyes on me as if I was the one causing the problem.<<else>>I look over at Bradley, his eyes on me as and judging everything I did.<</if>> She is making it seem as if I was the one going crazy like she has done nothing wrong. I thought myself a calm person most of the time, able to think through my feelings and come up with logical outcomes. So why was I getting so angry? The anger heats up my body, refusing to be subdued and wanting its release. [[“We’re done, I’m leaving.”][$sydero -=10; $bradley -=5; $chris +=5]] [[“I need a break from you, from all of this.”][$sydero +=10; $break = true; $chris -=5]]

I ball my fist up and clench my jaw, “we’re done, I’m leaving.” <<include "WLD3_11">>

I take numerous breaths in, “I need a break from you, from all of this.” <<include "WLD3_11">>

Bradley raises a troubled brow and Sydero cocks her head to the side, her lips quirking upwards. The sight only made my blood boil more, I turn and grab their bags, placing them to the ground before getting in. <<if $cp>>“Hold up, $name,” Chris calls out, quickly rounding the side of the car and getting into the passenger seat. As soon as he’s in I press down on the gas and zoom away, refusing to look back at them as I drive off.<<else>>I press down on the gas and zoom away, refusing to look back at them as I drive off.<</if>> <a data-passage="EP4NT"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/nexttime.png"> <img src="images/divider.png"> Raum straightens up, “remember that plan we came up with a while ago? We’re putting that into effect now. Langston, take a group with you to plant the evidence, Petri, I want you to take a group to report the crime. Take a man as the witness, make sure he’s roughed up.” <img src="images/divider.png"> "I'm sending you the video. But spoiler alert, you're now on the police watch list." The water I was sipping comes out, decorating the top of the bar’s back counter. “What!?” <img src="images/divider.png"> “Still giving commands?” Her fist clenches more, so tight that even her fist was beginning to change colors. He gasps for air, clawing at the tie and then clawing at his desk frantically. Finally, his movements cease, his head rolls back and he slumps in his seat. Sydero stares at him for some time. When she finally moves she does it to grab a wipe, wiping the surface of his desk and grabbing the man’s wallet. She takes what she wants before putting it back, leaving the room. “Nice doing business with you.” <img src="images/divider.png"> "$name, you are quite an unlucky person you know that?" Raum questions, nudging the dead body out of his way, "the people you meet end up dead, and now you're about to end up dead." "I’m going to be the one who kills you! Each and every one of you!" I shout, fighting against Petri's grip on my arms. “Normally, I’d walk away and leave an inch of your life still intact, just because. I mean, this is about Sydero, nothing at all to do with you. But you got in the middle of it.” He stops in front of me, cocking his head to the side. “And now you must pay.” [[Episode Five: Wanted]]

<> <<unset $notfromhere, $truth, $feast, $inn, $sumitup, $moon1, $sun1>> <<set $entityBet = false; $freejeff = false>> <<audio "prologue" unloop fadeout>> <<playlist "ambience" loop play>> <>\ <img src="images/epnine.png"> <img src="images/actone.png"> The plan is simple. Or at least that’s what Bradley keeps trying to make me believe. The longer I run, the less I believe him. My footsteps echo off the damp gravel road as I sprint, struggling to find my way through the darkness. Numerous times I lose my footing due to a large puddle causing the path to become incredibly slick. The bag on my shoulder seems to increase in weight, reminding me of why I was being chased in the first place. I’d give anything to just check my phone to see how far I had left to go. Sydero had better had gotten her hands on that bowl. I fly past another corner, my smile widening when I see the outline of an idle car in the distance. The only signs of someone being inside is the hardly visible outline of a figure. I dart to the familiar car, smiling hard as I’m almost there. Suddenly the door is thrown open, catching me right in the stomach. I hit the ground with mumbled groans, whimpering as I gather my wits about me again. “You should watch where you’re going next time, Roe,” I hear a familiar voice say, the last voice I’ve ever wanted to hear. I groan though it comes out more like a whimper as I roll over just enough, staring into the golden eyes of Petri. [[A couple days ago ...]]

I wait outside a small bar that resides in the middle of nowhere. I suppose it’s meant to be a rest stop as well, but the exterior appearance of the place isn’t exactly friendly. [[I take another puff of the cigarette in my hands.]] [[I finish the small pastry that I had bought.]] [[I take another sip of my soda.]]

I inhale then exhale the smoke, watching as it disperses and disappears in the night sky. I lean back, letting the chill of the cold metal of my car spread through my body. The hot Carolina air to my front and the cold to my back. I raise my brow as the door of the bar opens and closes, Syd approaching with something in her hands. I toss the cigarette into the nearby cigarette receptacle and turn to her. <<include "LP0">>

I take another bite of the small sweet snack, gazing down at it to see how much I had left. I don’t know if I’ve been eating healthier or no. Thinking back on the sweet snack I don’t think I care much. I lean back, letting the chill of the cold metal of my car spread through my body. The hot Carolina air to my front and the cold to my back. I raise my brow as the door of the bar opens and closes, Syd approaching with something in her hands. <<include "LP0">>

I take another sip of the soda in my hand, swishing it around to see how much I had left. I try to recall the last time I had a bottle of water, placing it on my ‘you should definitely do, but probably won’t’ mental list. I lean back, letting the chill of the cold metal of my car spread through my body. The hot Carolina air to my front and the cold to my back. I raise my brow as the door of the bar opens and closes, Syd approaching with something in her hands. I toss the empty can into the nearby recycling bin and turn to her. <<include "LP0">>

“Did you find it?” I ask, trying to get a peek at whatever she has in her hands. It isn’t so much a large object, as it is a collection of papers. “No, but I got a tip about where it might be. Hopefully, this will help,” she tells me, getting into the passenger’s seat. I back out of the parking spot and drive down the street, listening to Sydero as she mumbles about something under her voice. <<if $entitytakeover>>\ The road ahead begins to grow dark and I swap my high beams on which does very little for my eyesight. “The heck?” I mumble, cutting them off entirely and then back on. “$name!” I hear Sydero shouts. My hands are shoved away as she jerks the wheel to the side. Suddenly my vision is back, and I see a car’s headlights drive by us, the driver mashing the horn as it safely drives past us and continues its journey down the road. “Hmm, curiosity sated,” I hear the Entity purr in my head, his chuckling slowly fading out as I’m once again aware of the world. Sydero guides the car to the side, and I slowly press on the breaks, feeling her glare from a mile away. <<else>>\ The road ahead begins to grow dark and suddenly there is a horrible pain in my head. It feels as if someone is striking the side of my head, or as if a feral animal is trying to be free of a cage, which happens to be my head. “$name!” I hear Sydero scream, and my senses come back to me. At the last minute I swerve back into our lane, avoiding the car that mashes their horn at us. “Pull over,” she growls and I do as she asks, feeling her glare from a mile away. <</if>>\ “Look I already hate your driving to begin with. Are you sleepy?” “No,” I growl feeling the obnoxious headache that always comes on when the Entity’s presence is fading. I clutch my head, this being far worse than all the other times. “Yea, no. Get out, I’m driving.” I don’t argue, clumsily getting out of the car and walking to the other side as Sydero passes me. <<if $SRomance >=3>>\ She stops me, grabbing my arm and looking at me closely, “I can’t believe I’m worried about you,” she growls, low enough to where there’s a chance I may not be able to hear her. Before I can question her further, she continues walking toward the driver’s side. <</if>>\ I collapse in my seat, clutching my head as it fades far too slowly for my tastes. The ride is peaceful enough though and if the headache wasn’t so horrible then I might’ve fallen asleep. <a data-passage="LP1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ We enter the motel room, finding Chris and Bradley hunched over his laptop. “Anything on the bowl?” Sydero asks them, and they both shake their heads. Chris takes the papers from Sydero and begins looking through them, pointing some things out to Bradley. <<if $chris <50>>\ “Also, no offense to you, Bradley, but next time can I come with? I hate being on research duty,” Chris points out. I hear him loud and clear, but Sydero doesn’t show any sign of hearing him, or caring. Her attention remains on Bradley, waiting for his answer. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ We enter the motel room, finding Bradley hunched over his laptop, squeezing what looks to be a small ball in his hands. “Anything on the bowl?” Sydero asks Bradley, and he shakes his head, instinctively reaching for the papers in her hands without looking. <</if>>\ “No, and it’s not exactly an easy task. Sure, tracking it through online buyers is easy enough, but I think it was sold offline. If that’s true, it will take a lot longer.” We all stare at him as he grows quiet. “But I’ll find it, no problem.” I go straight to bed after the conversation ends, feeling random pings of pain in different areas of my head. I zone in and out as they talk about this bowl that Sydero oh so badly needs. She told me why she needed it, but I still didn’t understand. From what I can remember, the bowl is hers and was stolen from her some time ago. She seems less upset about that part, probably because she deserved it. In less than no time, I’m drifting off, my dreams nonexistent and my mind dark. <a data-passage="LP1_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The next day, Bradley’s constant urging is what gets me out of bed. The headache from yesterday has lessened but I am still just as grouchy feeling. <<if $cp>>\ “Just one day, one day I would like to wake up because I woke myself up,” Chris yawns. “You’re running with the wrong group if what you’re searching for is beauty sleep, Frat Boy,” Sydero growls, literally rolling herself out of the bed she occupied. She falls to the floor and disappears from view. A few minutes later, sitting up and glaring over at the table where the rest of us conjugated around. <</if>>\ “Are you going to tell us what you found or are you going to make us guess?” I question, wiping the sleep out of my eye and holding back another long yawn. “I found the bowl!” “Where?” Sydero questions, immediately appearing by his side as she eyes the site he’s currently on. “A local pawn shop posted an online ad about it. Not that far either, maybe two or three towns over.” Bradley types up something and brings up a map of where the pawn shop rests, my eyes immediately finding the distance and estimated time. It’s only an hour away, not that bad. And if this bowl is as crucial as Sydero says it is, it’ll be worth it. I grab my keys and nod my approval, Sydero clapping her hands in delight, “let’s go get this bowl then.” <<if $cp>>\ “Hold up,” Chris starts, “shouldn’t we first form some kind of plan?” “Ugh, there’s no need for a plan. I act on whims,” Sydero replies. “And how has that been working for you?” “Quite well, actually. Seeing that a whim is what kept you from dying that day, and we didn’t have a plan when we went after BB.” Chris cringes at the reminder and says through gritted teeth, “a plan is safer.” “Says no one. What do we do when your plan fails? Huh?” “That’s why you make multiple plans. B, C, D, E, and F.” At the same time, they look over at me. [[Turn to Bradley.]] [[Side with Sydero.][$sydero +=3]] [[Side with Chris.][$chris +=3]] <<else>>\ <a data-passage="LP1_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

“Bradley, buddy, what are you up to right now?” I question, immediately turning on my heel so that I no longer face the two of them. I rest my hand on Bradley’s shoulder and give him an urgent look, one that he immediately understands. The two of us begin our own conversation as they go back to arguing. <<include "LP1_1_1">>

“I mean, Sydero has a point. Plans are bound to fail, and every time we get out of something, there’s no plan. We just wing it.” “We wouldn’t be in that situation with a plan,” Chris points out, but neither Syd or I look convinced. <<include "LP1_1_1">>

“Well, a plan could be helpful. And making multiple plans would come in handy too. Maybe Chris has a point.” “Let’s see, take advice from the two people who always find themselves in danger? Or keep doing what I do best?” Sydero taps her chin in thought, “call me stubborn, but I think I’ll continue with not making plans.” <<include "LP1_1_1">>

“How about a bet then?” Chris counters. His words gain Sydero’s ear, and before she gathers her pack, she stops to look at him. “I make a plan, if it works then we start making plans from now on. If you win, then we’ll continue your way.” “Fine, but if I win, then you also have to say ‘Sydero’s the best and I will no longer doubt her.” I roll my eyes while Chris nods in agreement, “fine, and if I win you have to say that Chris is a brilliant genius and I’m lucky to know him. And you also have to start calling me Chris the Fantastic.” I glance over at Sydero who has an inscrutable look on her face. “I guess there’s something to say about humbleness, but I know I’m never calling you that because you won’t win, so deal.” They shake on it, finally allowing for us to leave and retrieve the bowl. <a data-passage="LP1_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ On the way to the pawn shop, Chris goes over his plan that has Bradley and Sydero on search duty. While he and I talk to the pawn shop owner to not only see if we can learn where the bowl is but to also distract him in case the other two find it. No one is willing to buy the bowl, which involves hassling an otherwise outrageous price, and so stealing it is the only option. It is a simple plan, and from what I gather, as long as we walk out with the bowl, Chris will win. “Everybody understands the plan and is ready?” Chris asks. The question is meant for all of us but the way he glares specifically at Sydero, I surmise that he’s only worried about what her comprehension of it is. “Your plan isn’t hard to grasp,” Syd snorts, getting out of the car and the rest of us follow. “Yea, just want to make sure you understand. Or you’ll blame the plan failing because you don’t know how to follow one.” Syd doesn’t respond, instead choosing to enter the pawn shop. Bradley walks in next, five minutes later Chris and I enter. Unlike them, we make a beeline towards the man at the register, getting his attention immediately. “We were wondering if you can help us with finding a specific bowl. We heard that it was sold here,” Chris starts. <<else>>\ On the way to the pawn shop, we go over what we need. Seeing that Sydero and Bradley are the only ones who know what this bowl really looks like, we agree to have Bradley search for it. While he does that, Sydero and I will speak to the pawn shop owner to not only see if we can learn where the bowl is but to also distract him in case Bradley finds it. No one is willing to buy the bowl, which involves hassling an otherwise outrageous price, and so stealing it is the only option. Bradley enters first. After five minutes, Sydero and I walk inside the shop. Unlike him, we make a beeline towards the worker at the register, getting the worker’s attention immediately. “We were wondering if you can help us with finding a specific bowl, we heard that it was sold here,” Sydero begins. <</if>>\ “You wanna be more specific about this specific bowl?” he questions, hardly paying us any mind as he continues to play on his phone. I bring up a picture and show the guy, watching as he straightens up. “I’ve got a lot of offers on it, why should I sell it to you? And what the hell is so interesting about this bowl?” [[“I don’t know, I just like the design.”]] [[“It’s an important artifact from India.”]] [[“The creator died a while back. This is the last original piece.”]]

I shrug and glance over at <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Sydero<</if>>, “I don’t know what the big deal is, I just like the designs and wanted it for myself.” “And what makes you think you can afford it?” “I don’t know, how about you tell me how much it is and then we’ll both figure that part out.” The man looks between <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Sydero<</if>> and me, trying to figure out if he wants to sell the bowl to us or not. <<include "LP1_2_1">>

“It’s an important artifact from India,” I begin, and the man gazes over at me, “the museum we work at believes it to be one of the only ones left.” That seems to only increase the intensity of his suspicious gaze. “You guys don’t look like you work for a museum.” <<if $cp>>\ Chris rolls his eyes and leans in so that they were eye to eye, “tell me, what do museum workers look like.” The man shrugs, “they wear suits?” “Are you asking or telling me. I don’t exactly see why we’re even having this conversation, does it matter who we are? All that matters is that we’re offering you a large sum of money for that bowl if you still have it. Are you interested or not?” <<else>>\ Sydero rolls his eyes and leans in so that they were eye to eye, “and you don’t like you’re a dumbass but I’m not putting it past you.” I quickly put an end to //that// conversation and give the man an apologetic look. “Look, all that matters is that we’re offering you a large sum of money for that bowl if you still have it. Are you interested or not?” <</if>>\ <<include "LP1_2_1">>

“The creator of the bowl died a while back, that bowl is the last original piece that hasn’t been stolen for some museum,” I tell him. “Why sell it to you then when I can just give it to a museum for a much larger price?” <<if $cp>>“You don’t even know how much we’re willing to pay,” Chris points out, “and my partner said stolen. If you think they’ll pay that much for it, then you’re crazy.” The man turns up his lip and looks between us.<<else>>“You don’t even know how much we’re willing to pay,” Sydero points out, “and ?he said stolen. If you think they’ll pay you for it, then you’re a bigger idiot than you look.” The man turns up his lip and looks between us.<</if>> “What are you guys? Bowl connoisseurs?” <<if $cp>>Chris rolls his eyes and leans in so that they were eye to eye<<else>>I roll my eyes and lean in so that we were eye to eye<</if>>, “all you need to know is that we’re willing to pay a hefty sum for that bowl. A price that no one else can match. And, last time I checked, that’s what you were in the business of doing.” The man shrugs. <<include "LP1_2_1">>

“The bowl is in the back, how much you offering?” “What’s the lowest you’ll go?” I inquire. “Eight hundred.” [[Haggle.]] [[Agree.]]

“Make it five hundred, and you got yourself a deal.” “You don’t even know how much the bowl costs,” he exclaims in shock. “Neither do you. I can see it in your eyes, we’ve already topped the other buyer’s price by just saying five hundred.” The man continues to try and argue with me, and I continue to give him a hard time, slowly raising the price. This is mostly to keep his attention off <<if $cp>>the other two<<else>>Bradley<</if>>, as well to make it seem like we knew what we were doing. I’ve been to a pawnshop only once before, and I know nothing happens without a bit of haggling. <<include "LP1_2_2">>

“Deal,” I remark, stretching my hand out for him to shake but <<if $cp>>Chris grabs my hand and lightly<<else>>Sydero grabs my hand and<</if>> shoves me out of the way. “No, no deal,” <<if $cp>>he<<else>>she<</if>> tells him, questioning my intentions with a glance before turning back to the man. He gives both <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Sydero<</if>> and I a suspicious look. “My friend doesn’t usually do negotiations. So, make it five hundred, and we’ll be in business.” “Five hundred? You don’t even know how much the bowl costs,” the man exclaims. <<if $cp>>“Bold of you to assume that I didn’t do my research on the bowl and its origins before coming here. The bowl is made out of teak wood from an old forest in India. Specially crafted for an individual, perhaps as a wedding gift or for something more specific. Regardless, it was sold to a collector in America under false pretenses and has been bouncing from one hand to another.” I fight to keep a serious face, not knowing if Chris seriously did his homework or if he’s bullshitting to the highest degree. Either way, he has the man, and me, believing his words.<<else>>“Oh, that’s real cute. The bowl is made out of teak wood from an ancient forest in India, a forest that no longer stands thanks to humanities little plight against nature. It was crafted by a religious shaman in the region with runes and markings that mean specific things, for a specific reason. The bowl was lost and sold to America’s grabby little hands under false pretenses.” Sydero leans in, catching the man’s shirt in her grip as she yanks him closer, “the owner wants it back.” She lets go of him, shoving him backwards as she straightens herself up, waiting for what he is going to say next.<</if>> <<include "LP1_2_2">>

Out of the corner of my eye, I see Bradley holding the bowl, motioning for me to wrap this up and then meet <<if $cp>>them<<else>>him<</if>> outside. “So, five hundred?” I question, “how about we let you think about it and then come back tomorrow for your answer?” I nudge <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Sydero<</if>>, and the two of us turn to leave, hearing the man laugh just as <<if $cp>>Bradley and Sydero get to the door.<<else>>Bradley gets to the door.<</if>> “So that’s it? You just walk into a man’s store, steal from him, and think that’s it?” Bradley is the first to make a move, sprinting out of the pawn shop before the man can do anything. We’re about to follow when he laughs again, completely unable to stand because of how hard he’s laughing. “Oh, this has been an amazing experience. You know, I almost shit my pants when I saw you come in, Sydero.” She slowly turns to face him, <<if $cp>>as do Chris and I<<else>>as do I<</if>>. “There was no way I thought I was going to make it out of this without you figuring out what was going on.” The bell rings, and I turn to see that Bradley had come back in, probably curious about why the rest of us didn’t book it out after him. “Here she was, the notorious Sydero, and she couldn’t even sense my presence,” he leans forward with a devious glint in his eye, “you’re losing your touch.” I see her gulp, her entire body stiff as she probably reprimands herself. “As for the rest of you.” He disappears for a moment, shuffling with something in his cabinets before reappearing. He’s holding an ancient bowl that looks like an exact duplicate to the one Bradley has. Sydero’s eyes widen, and she marches over to Bradley, snatching the bowl from him. She runs her hands along the basin and eyes it carefully, throwing it to the side in anger. As soon as it hits the ground, it explodes into dust. “We knew you were coming. You’re not as sneaky as you like to think you are.” The man vanishes and then reappears in front of me. He stares down at me, but his words sound like they’re meant specifically for Sydero. “The day of invocation is approaching, and you can’t stop it. Especially without this.” He stares at the bowl before waving goodbye, disappearing from the store. We’re left in complete silence. <a data-passage="LP1_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I let out a loud yawn, wiping the corners of my eyes as I blink a couple of times. I’ve been staring at a dim computer screen, waiting for any new information to arise on the whereabouts of the bowl. Bradley bugged the pawn shop and hacked the cameras before we left, just in case the supernatural creature came back. Since then we’ve just been waiting for news. “Admit it,” I hear Bradley say as the door to the motel opens. He and Sydero enter with bags of food, setting it down for consumption. I immediately begin searching for my order as they argue about whatever it is they found time to argue about. “I’m not about to admit to something when I don’t know for sure,” she scolds, passing me a drink. <<if $cp>>“What is this about?” Chris questions from beside me, feet propped up on the air conditioning unit as he starts on his burger.<<else>>I accept it and look to Bradley, “exactly what is going on now?”<</if>> “I have an idea on why Sydero couldn’t sense the man,” Bradley begins, turning back towards an annoyed Sydero, “that whole book traveling business and the spell took too much out of you. The magic there and the magic here are two different things. Not to mention that spell was something you’ve never done, and it was entirely by yourself.” Now that I heard the words aloud, I find myself agreeing. Sydero looks more tired with each passing day. She still has energy, but whenever she tries to do a spell or use any of her abilities, she either fails or does a poor job. “How about we do less worrying about me and my personal issues and pay attention to the location of that bowl. Anything yet, Roe?” Sydero questions. “No. I’ve been watching the cameras and listening in. I think it would’ve been easier putting a tracking signal on the bowl itself.” “How would I have done that? Huh, $name?” Bradley asks, and I shrug. I was just saying stuff now, not being serious about any of it. We finish eating and I take a break from watching the monitors, especially since we’ll hear an alert if something significant happens. I throw my stuff away and put on my shoes, taking a look at Bradley who sits bored at his laptop, books open in front of him. [[Put on some soft music.]] [[Give him another energy drink.]] [[Suggest the two of you take a walk.]]

I grab and unlock Bradley’s phone finding a playlist of soft instrumental songs for him to listen to. He doesn’t notice the new noise that fills the air, and after placing the phone down, I leave. Hopefully, he’ll fall asleep. <<include "LP1_3_1">>

I go to the fridge and grab one of the energy drinks inside. I hand it to him, and he accepts it with a thankful nod. With that done, I tell him where I’m going and go outside. <<include "LP1_3_1">>

“Hey,” I start, tapping his shoulder, “want to take a walk with me? Get some blood flowing and some light exercise in?” Bradley seems to consider before shrugging his shoulders and joining me. <<include "LP1_3_1">>

<<if $cp>>\ Outside, I find Chris taking a look at my car and I’m barely fast enough to see Sydero’s fleeting figure as she walks in the direction of a nearby park. “What is she up to?” I ask Chris who looks up and then in the direction that Sydero went. “She didn’t tell me much. Just that she needed some time alone.” He gazes at my car and then at me, smiling disconcertingly. “Sorry, guess I should’ve asked you before just messing with your car, huh?” “What are you doing?” “Some tune-up work, changing the oil, checking the tires and the pressure ... basically maintenance.” <<if hasVisited("Suggest the two of you take a walk.")>>\ [[“Bradley and I are about to go on a walk.”]] <<else>>\ [[“Stop fiddling with my car.”]] [[“I’m going to go catch up with Sydero.”]] [[Go on a walk.|LP1Walk]] <<if $CRomance >=5>>\ [[“Mind if I join you?”]] <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<else>>\ Outside, I’m barely fast enough to see Sydero’s fleeting figure as she walks in the direction of a nearby park. [[Go see what Sydero's doing.|LPSydero]] [[Go on a walk.|LP1Walk]] <</if>>\

“Okay, well Bradley and I are about to go on a short walk, keep an eye on the laptop for us?” Chris nods, fumbling through the toolbox near his feet. “Of course.” I nod my thanks and wait for Bradley to join me before we begin our walk. With Bradley at my side, the two of us start our walk around the less than scenic view that belongs to the motel. But at least it’s warm with a constant cool breeze. The beginning of the walk is quiet, and I’m tempted to believe that this might be the longest Bradley has gone without being on his computer. <<if $entitytakeover>>\ My brain decides to leisurely walk from one topic to another, constant themes that my mind conjures up to keep me up at night. The first thing that I remember is how it felt to have something completely hijack my body. Of course, I gave the Entity approval, but it was otherworldly. Since then, they’ve been //mostly// quiet. Any other day, that silence would be refreshing. But after giving them that power, it only makes me feel that something worse is happening or awaiting me. <<else>>\ My brain decides to leisurely walk from one topic to another, constant themes that my mind conjures up to keep me up at night. The first thing that replays is the words of the <<if $Cimmerian>>witches<<else>>god<</if>>. The Entity is real. They are there, as real as me. And not only that, but this isn’t the same spirit that I recall from my childhood, yet they seem to know all the same things. What did that mean for me? Why did I have some dark spirit attached to me? <</if>>\ “Hey, $name?” “Hmm?” I ask, looking over at Bradley. “What are you doing here?” “What do you mean?” “I know why you’re with Sydero, I guess, but I don’t know. Like, I never heard you say it aloud. This can’t be what you want, can it?” [[“Not in a long shot.”]] [[“No, but there are worse things.”]] [[“Sometimes I think it is.”]]

With Bradley at my side, the two of us start our walk around the less than scenic view that belongs to the motel. But at least it was warm with a constant cool breeze. The beginning of the walk is quiet, and I’m tempted to believe that this might be the longest Bradley has gone without being on his computer. <<if $entitytakeover>>\ My brain decides to leisurely walk from one topic to another, constant themes that my mind conjures up to keep me up at night. The first thing that I remember is how it felt to have something completely hijack my body. Of course, I gave the Entity approval, but it was otherworldly. Since then, they’ve been mostly quiet. Any other day, that silence would be refreshing, but after that, it only made me feel that something worse was happening. What else did I give them permission to? <<else>>\ <<if $Cimmerian>>\ My brain decides to leisurely walk from one topic to another, constant themes that my mind conjures up to keep me up at night. The first thing that replays is the words that the witches had told me. The Entity was real, they were there, as real as me. And not only that, but this wasn’t the same spirit that I recall from my childhood, yet they seem to know all the same things. What did that mean for me? Why did I have some supernatural dark spirit attached to me? <<else>>\ My brain decides to leisurely walk from one topic to another, constant themes that my mind conjures up to keep me up at night. The first thing that replays is the words that the god had told me. The Entity was real, they were there, as real as me. And not only that, but this wasn’t the same spirit that I recall from my childhood, yet they seem to know all the same things. What did that mean for me? Why did I have some supernatural dark spirit attached to me? <</if>>\ <</if>>\ “Hey, $name?” “Hmm?” I ask, tuning back in, looking down at Bradley. “What are you doing here?” “What do you mean?” “I know why you’re with Sydero, I guess, but I don’t know. Like, I never heard you say it aloud. This couldn’t be what you wanted, could it?” [[“Not in a long shot.”]] [[“No, but there are worse things.”]] [[“Sometimes I think it is.”]]

I sigh, glancing up at the starless sky and the barely visible moon, “not in a long shot. Everything happened at once, and at the end of the day, this was the path that I took.” <<include "BradleyWalk2">>

“No,” I start, chewing the side of my cheek, “but there are worst things that could’ve happened. For one, I could be dead right now or being tortured.” <<include "BradleyWalk2">>

“Sometimes I think it is,” I tell him, looking over at him and receiving a confused stare, “I never talked about it much, but growing up was hard. Really hard actually. Not because of others but because of my own personal trauma. I always wanted to get answers, to know the truth, and somehow, I think this path is going to lead to it.” <<include "BradleyWalk2">>

<<if $motive is "revenge">>\ “But to answer your other question, I’m here for revenge. Raum ruined my life, and I’m going to make sure he pays for it.” “Through killing him?” Bradley asks, turning to me. “Yep.” “But then what? You’ll be without purpose or anything. Raum will be dead, your life will still be ruined, and your one motive will be accomplished.” I shake my head, again seeing Bradley for who he really was, a kid. I swear, living on the road, doing the things we do, one would forget that they were traveling with a sixteen-year-old. Not to mention one who loved playing video games and probably heard the whole ‘revenge is not the answer’ storyline one too many times. “You just make a new goal, get a new motive,” I tell him, continuing to walk. <<elseif $motive is "companionship">>\ “But to answer your question, I joined Syd because of companionship. Chris was just unfortunate enough to be pulled into it along with me. I wanted to keep the people from my past out of it.” “So, you just intend to travel with Syd for now on?” I hadn’t really thought about the end game. Mostly because it seemed so far away, and this life didn’t afford much looking into the future. But I suppose Bradley had a point. “What about you? You just going to travel with Syd until you find another abandoned house?” Turning the question on him seemed to get him to stop and think as well. “Touché. I don’t even know what I want to do with the rest of my life. I could cheat my way through life if I wanted to. But I don’t want to, well I don’t think I want to.” I nod, understanding what he was saying to a degree. If not for the supernatural, Bradley’s life could have gone totally different. His skills nurtured by loving parents and a supportive community. <<elseif $motive is "survival">>\ “But to answer your question, I chose to travel with her for survival. I don’t know this world, and if I tried to learn it by myself, I’d probably already be dead.” Bradley nods his head in agreement. “I can understand that. After my parents died, Sydero had to teach me most of the common sense part of this life. I remember her chiding me about not relying on technology all the time. If you had a choice now, would you go?” “Out on my own? Probably not, we both saw how well that turned out for me in the past ... maybe, once all of this is dealt with.” “It’ll never be finished,” he murmurs, and though I don’t want to admit it, I do think he’s right. We continue our walk. <<else>>\ “But to answer your question, I’m not going anywhere until Raum meets a little friend of mine called justice.” Bradley stops, cocking his head to the side. “You want to bring a demon to justice?” “I’m not saying that he’ll go to jail, for all I know death is the only form of justice he can receive. What I’m saying is that I just want to make sure he faces the consequences.” “Might as well call it revenge,” he murmurs, and I shrug. “I suppose they have their similarities, but I always believed revenge was on a deeper, personal level. Justice, well this is for everyone whosever had to deal with that thing.” Bradley, whether he understands where I’m coming from or not, nods and we continue our walk. <</if>>\ We get back to the room thirty minutes later. Sydero is back but still seems distant<<if $cp>>, while Chris sits in front of Bradley’s laptop, playing a video game on his phone.<<else>>.<</if>> That’s when a chime goes off on the computer, causing all of us to look towards it. <a data-passage="LP1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Well, stop fiddling with my car. I know what my baby wants.” Chris rolls his eyes but puts his hands up in surrender, putting the tools back into the box before closing it up. “Where are you going anyway?” “I’m about to go take a walk.” “Well, have fun with that, I’ll stay and keep an eye on the laptop. Maybe take a nap.” I nod as I go my own way and Chris heads inside. <<include "LP1Walk">>

I start my solo walk around the less than scenic view that belongs to the motel. At least it’s warm and there’s a constant cool breeze. It seems like it’s been forever since I’ve had a moment to myself. And that includes the Entity bothering me. But since the book ordeal, they have been quiet. <<if $entitytakeover>>\ My brain decides to leisurely walk from one topic to another, constant themes that my mind conjures up to keep me up at night. The first thing that I remember is how it felt to have something completely hijack my body. Of course, I gave the Entity approval, but it was otherworldly. Since then, they’ve been //mostly// quiet. Any other day, that silence would be refreshing. But after giving them that power, it only makes me feel that something worse is happening or awaiting me. <<else>>\ My brain decides to leisurely walk from one topic to another, constant themes that my mind conjures up to keep me up at night. The first thing that replays is the words of the <<if $Cimmerian>>witches<<else>>god<</if>>. The Entity is real. They are there, as real as me. And not only that, but this isn’t the same spirit that I recall from my childhood, yet they seem to know all the same things. What did that mean for me? Why did I have some dark spirit attached to me? <</if>>\ Almost a month, yet not quite. All of the things that have transpired in my life, all in less than a month. I suppose that’s how time really works. That is time. A good and bad thing. It teases us with the constant thought of, ‘I have more time’ or ‘I can deal with this tomorrow.’ When really, you never had the time you thought you had. Plans change, lives change, and everything folds. Morgan. Chris. My uncle. Just a few names that I thought of immediately, names of those who time strutted in and gave them a reality check. Then there were folks like Sydero, Bradley, and Faye. Those who already had their one on one with time and learned that it was never on their side. Learned that time played a game similar to survival, only time liked to manipulate and tease more. I get back to the room thirty minutes later. Sydero is back but still seems distant,<<if $cp>> while Chris sits beside Bradley, playing a video game on his phone. Bradley is also playing a game, his attention not on his laptop when a chime goes off.<<else>> while Bradley plays a game on his phone, his attention not on his laptop when a chime goes off.<</if>> He immediately shifts his attention over. “We got something!” he blurts happily. <a data-passage="LP1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Mind if I join you? Since you’re working on my car anyway,” I smirk. He nods, motioning me over to his side. I stand by him, handing him the tools he needs whenever he asks, but otherwise not doing much else. I say very little, listening to him work on the car. But that simply brings a thought to my mind. “Where did you learn car maintenance?” I ask, gazing over at him with curiosity in my eye. “My grandfather taught me. At first, I didn’t really care much to learn since my father wanted to teach me. But my grandfather was excited to teach me some stuff, so I learned.” “Just the basics or?” “Basics and then some, intermediate I guess you would say. Enough to do stuff like this but not enough to open my own shop or anything.” I lean further on my car, humming in thought. “Would you want to?” “Heck no. Always thought it was a nice skill to have, but never actually liked it enough to go any further into it. My dad even said that I should do engineering or something in college.” “You know, I don’t think I ever learned what your major was.” “That’s because I didn’t really have one until this semester, I kept going undeclared, told my folks that I was focusing on core before choosing. Went over well with mom, not so much dad. But … I was planning to go for Music Theory.” “Really?” I ask in shock. I know Chris loved old and classic rock but anything other than that, no. He blushes, refusing to answer. He takes a step away from the car, bringing down the hood and then leaning his back onto it. I’m surprised to see him pull out an e-cigarette, going through the motions to get it filled up to smoke. As I watch, I suddenly find myself laughing, unable to stop. <a data-passage="LP1Chris1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“What the heck is so funny?” he finally asks once I have calmed down, partially. “Man, I never thought I’d see you smoking one of those again,” I say, sighing happily. <<if hasVisited("I take another puff of the cigarette in my hands.")>>\ “Yea, never thought I’d get a chance. Saw a bunch of nice flavors and pens, so I thought, why not. Want a puff, I saw how mad you looked when you put your cigarette out.” I nod, pressing the button and then inhaling, enjoying the feeling that slowly overtakes me. I do it for a few more seconds before handing it back to Chris. <<else>>\ “Yea, never thought I’d get a chance. Saw a bunch of nice flavors and pens, so I thought, why not. The dumbest thing would be not to grab it and not have it around for the future.” I nod, happy that he at least had something to calm himself. <</if>>\ <<if $jealouschris or $jealouschris2>>\ The two of us sit quietly. One would think we were just enjoying one another’s company, but that would be untrue. Subtle awkwardness joins us as we both think about what has yet to be said. More from my end than his. <<if $jealouschris2>>\ [[Apologize about everything.][$CRomance to 1]] [[Ask him why he cares about it.][$CRomance to 1]] <<else>>\ [[Ask him why he cares about it.]] <<if $morganfling>>\ [[Apologize about Morgan.]] <<elseif $jealousAlyrian>>\ [[Apologize about Esther.]] <<else>>\ [[Apologize about Asher.]] <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I chuckle, quieter than last time but loud enough for him to hear, “how did we get here, Chris?” Before he can answer, I add, “I mean, I know how we got here. A lot of stupid decisions, some running was involved, a lot of cursing, and I think once or twice I might’ve stabbed something.” That gets both of us laughing, the sound is music to my ears as I just sit beside my best friend from college. “But, the fact that we’re still alive and getting stronger. Seems crazy, right?” <<if $chris >=50>>\ “Well, we do have an annoyingly good teacher and a kid that puts all of us to shame with how smart he is.” I nod at that. <<else>>\ “No idea how. Sydero’s a pain in the ass, and the kid doesn’t really help much either.” I don’t disagree or agree with him, especially since I know he still isn’t a fan of our traveling compatriots, Syd more than Bradley. <</if>>\ “Regardless, here we are. Remember sophomore year, when I told you that I’d take you on some wild stupid adventure?” Chris snorts at the reminder, “I sure hope you don’t mean this trainwreck.” “Um, can I get a bit more gratitude?” I joke, finding my heart stutters as Chris stares over at me. I seem to forget what the conversation is even about as I shiver, despite it not being cold. Chris leans in just a bit, his eyes going down to the hood of my car. “$name, I need to tell you something,” he starts, but before he can say anything more, we hear Bradley scream from the room. “I found something.” I ignore him, he’ll be okay for two more minutes. My eyes move back to Chris. “What did you need to tell me?” he clears his throat, and just like that, the moment is gone, and everything is back to normal. He gives me a weak smile and nods towards the room. “We should see what he wants.” I’m about to disagree when I hear twigs snapping and Sydero appears. She looks at the two of us as if sensing the previous air but says nothing. Quietly smirking as she leads the way into the motel room. <a data-passage="LP1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

“About the things I did ... with Morgan and -” “Nope, let me stop you right there,” Chris interjects aggressively, his eyes narrowed, “I don’t care.” “What do you mean you don’t care?” “Just that. You’re single, $name, you can do whatever you want. And so this apology means nothing, especially since you’re not apologizing for only one person, but two.” “Chris -” “Look, it’s none of my business who you choose to have sex with, and frankly, I no longer want to even know. So, go fuck the entire world for all I care. I won’t look at you differently. But, stop bringing it to my attention.” The tone in which he says it makes it clear what he means by that, if I ever had a chance with him, my decisions have just ruined that. He walks past me and back into the motel room, right as Sydero appears. She looks at Chris’s retreating form and then back at me, not saying anything. “I got something!” I hear Bradley shout, and the two of us walk in. <a data-passage="LP1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Hey Chris,” I sigh heavily, trying to formulate the right words to put into this apology, “you never told me exactly why you got so pissed off when I spent time with Morgan.” “And you’re just dying to know,” he questions, creating a smoke ring. I push the mild irritation away, attempting to stay calm. “Yea, since it pissed you off quite a bit and you gave me the cold shoulder for almost a week after.” “True, I was mad and irritated, but you make it seem like it just blew me. I already told you, I didn’t like that some stupid crush got you a better position. My own problem to deal with. Look, can we just talk about something else?” He asks, messing with his e-cig and turning to me. I begin to nod when we both hear Bradley shout from inside the room. “I got something!” <a data-passage="LP1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Hey Chris,” I sigh heavily, trying to formulate the right words to put into this apology, “I’m sorry about that day, night, I had with Morgan. I didn’t know it would affect you like it did.” “It didn’t,” he says, shrugging his shoulders as he creates a smoke ring. I push the irritation away, attempting to stay calm. “It obviously did since you gave me the cold shoulder for almost a week after.” “It was irritating, but you make it seem like it really affected me.” I grind my teeth, why did it sound like he was trying to stir up another fight. “Look, can we just talk about something else?” He asks, messing with his e-cig and turning to me. I begin to nod when we both hear Bradley shout from inside the room. “I got something!” <a data-passage="LP1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“I’m sorry about Esther,” I begin, twiddling my thumbs as I avoid eye contact. I’ve never thought I would have to apologize about something like this, but I suppose I never thought that I would do something like this either. “You’re... apologizing?” he asks, raising a brow as he looks me up and down. “Am I supposed to do something else?” “Yea, not do it.” This could quickly turn into a full on argument between us, and that wasn’t what I wanted. I sigh and nod my head, kneading my forehead with my fingers. “You’re right.” “I don’t want to be,” Chris mumbles, hardly loud enough for me to even hear him. I glance up at him, but he’s staring off into the distance sadly. “Look, can we just talk about something else?” He asks, messing with his e-cig and turning to me. I begin to nod when we both hear Bradley shout from inside the room. “I got something!” <a data-passage="LP1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“I’m sorry about Asher,” I begin, twiddling my thumbs as I avoid eye contact. I’ve never thought I would have to apologize about something like this, but I suppose I never thought that I would do something like this either. “You’re... apologizing?” he asks, raising a brow as he looks me up and down. “Am I supposed to do something else?” “Yea, not do it.” This could quickly turn into a full on argument between us, and that wasn’t what I wanted. I sigh and nod my head, kneading my forehead with my fingers. “You’re right.” “I don’t want to be,” Chris mumbles, hardly loud enough for me to even hear him. I glance up at him, but he’s staring off into the distance sadly. “Look, can we just talk about something else?” He asks, messing with his e-cig and turning to me. I begin to nod when we both hear Bradley shout from inside the room. “I got something!” <a data-passage="LP1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“I’m going to go catch up and see what Sydero is up to,” I tell him, already making my way in the direction I saw her go. “She doesn’t want to be bothered,” he calls out, but I continue forward. She never wants to be bothered, this wasn’t much different than any other time I’ve just popped up on her. <<include "LPSydero">>

I march in the same direction I saw Sydero disappear in, hoping she hadn’t gone too far when I finally find her. I stay back, silently watching as she tries to fling a rock. Sweat dribbles down her face, and even from my current distance, I can see her body trembling. The rock twitches and hovers in place for a few minutes before dropping back down. I jump in shock as Sydero lets out a loud shout, turning and planting her fist in a tree. Bark flies out in all directions, and leaves and pinecones fall to the ground. Sydero simply looks tired. [[“What did that tree ever do to you?”]] [[“Never saw you lose control like that.”]] <<if $SRomance >=3>>[[“Was that supposed to be me?”]]<</if>>

“What did that tree ever do to you?” I question, approaching her with a soft smile. “It existed in my path,” she growls, straightening up and glaring at the area she had just punched. “I’m pretty sure it was here before you.” “Well maybe in another life its punching the crap out of me,” she snorts and then sighs sadly. <<include "LPSydero2">>

“Was that supposed to be me?” I ask, peering at the tree. “I have a few things in mind of what I want to do to you, punching you isn’t one of them,” she huffs, straightening up and glaring at the ground. I fight the need to continue teasing her, especially seeing that something else is wrong with her. <<if $Cimmerian>>\ “Yea, I’m sure you said the same thing to Doran.” She stiffens and looks over at me with a raised brow. I glare right back, unyielding and ready to talk about what had happened inside that world. “I would love to sit down and argue with you but I literally don’t have the energy.” <</if>>\ “What’s going on, Syd? You used to throw people without a second thought. Now you can’t even flick a rock two inches off the ground.” Hearing the words said aloud, and by someone else, causes her to deflate, and I swear I even hear her whimper. But the signs of weakness quickly disappear, and that cocky look of hers is back. “The kid is right. That book crap left me more drained than I realized.” “Like how Bradley said?” “Probably. The fact that their magic is pure, it works differently than the magic here. There, I felt the magic in the air, it was like some invisible pressure that you wanted to breathe in constantly, but you had to learn how to breathe it first. Being there and casting the spell, I was probably supercharged, but as soon as we got back here, all that energy was gone, drained.” <<include "LPSydero2">>

“I’ve never seen you lose control like that,” I state, approaching her. She doesn’t turn around to face me, she even acts as if she’s not surprised by my presence. “And you never will again,” she states, straightening up, glaring at the ground as if it was next. “What’s going on, Syd? You used to throw people without a second thought. Now you can’t even flick a rock two inches off the ground.” Hearing the words said aloud, and by someone else, causes her to deflate, and I swear I even hear her whimper. But the signs of weakness quickly disappear, and that cocky look of hers is back. “The kid is right. That book crap left me more drained than I realized.” “Like how Bradley said?” “Probably. The fact that their magic is pure, it works differently than the magic here. There, I felt the magic in the air, it was like some invisible pressure that you wanted to breathe in constantly, but you had to learn how to breathe it first. Being there and casting the spell, I was probably supercharged, but as soon as we got back here, all that energy was gone, drained.” <<include "LPSydero2">>

<<if $Cimmerian>>\ “Sydero, we really need to discuss you and Doran.” “And I really need for my BAC to be at .20% right now. Neither of us is getting what we want.” She attempts to move past me, and I stop her, glaring at her. She takes a deep breath before taking a step back. “What do you want me to say, Roe? I already answered your question.” “No. That’s the one thing you didn’t do. You gave me a damn look and then went on about your life.” She takes a step closer to me. “Remind me, Roe. Are you single?” I open my mouth, stuttering for a moment since I already know where this is going. “Trick question, we both already know the answer. I’m pretty sure I’m single too.” “But you know –” “I know that I’ve told you time and time again to leave it,” she weakly shoves past me, “you’ll only get yourself hurt.” “Don’t tell me what I will and won’t go through. I’m a big kid, in case you haven’t noticed.” “Then how about you listen more. I’m not trying to –,” she begins when we both hear Bradley scream. Sydero gives me a look that says we aren’t done with this conversation, which is fine with me, and we both head back. <a data-passage="LP1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ <<if $syderoBar>>\ “You can fix this, right? You just need to meditate.” The look Sydero gives me tells me it’s not as simple. I come closer, leaning on the same tree that she had punched. An awkward silence forcibly pushes its way into the small clearing, one that causes both of us to look anywhere but at each other. I feel myself thinking about the night at the bar, the feeling of Sydero’s lips against mine. The temptation and desire that I let seep into my skin at her closeness. “Why’d you stop?” I suddenly say aloud. I’m aware that I asked the question, but my mind is still off swimming in that pool of desire. The need to bring her closer to me and kiss her once again, to feel her body against mine. “Stop what?” she asks, peering over at me with a raised brow. [[Drop it.]] [[Continue asking.]] <<else>>\ “You can fix this, right? You just need to meditate.” The look Sydero gives me tells me it’s not as simple. I come closer, leaning on the same tree that she had punched. An awkward silent forcibly pushes its way into the small clearing, one that causes both of us to look anywhere but at each other. “I don’t know, something about this is rubbing me the wrong way. Like this is the worst time to not have the energy.” “Because of the demon at the pawn shop?” She nods, about to say more when we both hear Bradley scream. We can’t make out what he says, but we don’t need to, both of us race back immediately. <a data-passage="LP1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

I blink, my mind coming back to me and catching itself up on the conversation that was currently being had. “Uh, nothing. Sorry, I was drifting off I guess.” Sydero rolls her eyes, about to say something when we hear Bradley’s scream. We can’t make out what he says, but we don’t need to, both of us race back immediately. <a data-passage="LP1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“That night at the bar,” I gaze over at her and see the conflict from that night once again appear on her face. And dare I say she looked uncomfortable. “I told you, Roe, you’re not a number, you’re a person.” “Your understanding of relationships is really off if you think you can only do certain things just with strangers.” She growls and turns to me with narrowed eyes, “and your hearing is off if you still don’t understand why I refuse to do anything with you.” I open my mouth to counter her once again when my back hits the tree roughly. I realize Sydero’s using her abilities, her eyes slowly mixing with the red as she approaches me. She stops inches away from me, though I’m close enough to hear her labored breathing as she stands over me. “Is that all you want, Roe?” she whispers, her breath causing me to shiver as it glides across my skin, “for me to take your mind off of all of this?” I move my face so that I was looking at her straight on, directly into those discolored eyes. Before I can say anything though, we both hear Bradley scream something, though we can’t make out his words. Sydero doesn’t move, her eyes slowly coming to rest on me once again. She stares at me, unspoken thoughts zooming around in that mind. I suddenly wish that thoughts could be projected, if only to see what she was thinking. She backs away slowly and then turns to walk off. “Roe, let. It. Go.” I hear her say. It wasn’t the first time she’s given me the warning but something about the way she says it catches my attention. Her words were laced with warning. <a data-passage="LP1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Everyone gathers around the laptop, where an alert flashes on the screen. ''Object found'' staring back at each of us. “And, you’re welcome,” Bradley says with a wide smile and a half bow. Sydero grabs him, bringing him to her and giving him a playful noogie. He escapes and though he sends her a glare, doesn’t seem displeased at her show of affection. “So, where is it?” <<if $cp>>Chris questions, moving the mouse and clicking okay on the alert. Before he<<else>>I question, moving the mouse and clicking okay on the alert. Before I<</if>> can do anything more, Bradley slaps <<if $cp>>his<<else>>my<</if>> hand. “Don’t ever touch another man’s laptop without permission. She’s not some common whore.” <<if $cp>>“Boy,” Chris reminds him, barely dodging Bradley’s fist.<<else>>“How do you know what she wants?” I laugh, dodging Bradley’s fist.<</if>> “Focus, both of you,” Sydero groans, motioning to the laptop and the unknown map, “where is it?” Bradley types something in, and an info panel pops up. “The town’s museum, I guess they’re holding it there for the time being or something. Maybe even selling it to them. I just know that the museum momentarily put it into their database.” “Does this mean we’re robbing a museum?” I question, sighing at the implications and the fact that I was still wanted. Anything that had to do with a crime was probably unwise for me to partake in. “Seems so,” Sydero mumbles. <<if $cp>>\ “Attempt number two,” Chris suddenly says, and though it takes me a while, I realize what he’s referring to. “No,” Syd says before any of us can, “your first plan was horrible.” “No, it was good, but we didn’t know that supernatural creatures were involved. Now that I do, we can plan around it.” No one disagrees, but that doesn’t mean we agree either. We silently wait as Chris thinks up a plan, much to Sydero’s dismay. “I got it. The museum will have minimum security at best, it’s a local museum after all. $name and I will go in and grab the security’s attention, run separate ways and draw them away from the area. All while Sydero sneaks in and grabs it. Bradley will wait in the car, ready to grab a fleeing $name, and then coming to the other side to pick me up.” <<else>>\ “Should we make a plan?” Bradley asks, none of us immediately answering. None of us really was game for making a plan, but this was too important not too, too many things could go wrong. We each throw out random ideas, none of them sticking though. “I got it,” Bradley shouts, “$name will go in and grab the security’s attention, leading them away from the building. While ?he does that, Sydero will sneak in and grab the bowl. I’ll be waiting in the car, down the road or something, so that’s where you run to. As soon as you’re in, we drive off and wait for Sydero.” <</if>>\ “Let me get this straight,” I begin, clearing my throat, “you want the only person wanted by the law, to distract them?” “You can’t be the person to go grab the bowl because only Sydero will know if it’s fake or not. <<if $cp>>You can’t be the getaway driver because if Bradley’s grabbed, that’s a bigger problem than what any of us need.”<<else>>And I’m not athletically able, so I’ll probably get caught. And I just figured that me getting caught would bring up a lot more problems than you.”<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “I hate the plan, but Chris has a point,” Sydero points out. [[“Bradley, you better be ready for me.”]] [[“Fine, whatever.”]] [[“New bet, one about how horrible this plan is going to end up.”]] <<else>>\ “I hate the plan, but Bradley has a point,” Sydero interrupts me, before I can question Bradley’s ideology, “if Bradley gets caught, then he’s in the system, and that’s two of you, not just one. Plus, he’s a minor, we have no idea what they’ll do with him. At least with you, we know where they’ll be taking you and how to get you.” I growl, pacing back and forth at the fact that I couldn’t disagree. [[“Bradley, you better be ready for me.”]] [[“Fine, whatever.”]] <</if>>\

“Bradley,” I start and look at him, “you better be ready for me. I swear if you –” “I can do this, $name, I’ve seen plenty of Fast and Furious movies. You know I’ve always wanted to outrace a train, or perform that move where you shoot under a semi-truck?” I place a hand on Bradley’s shoulder, “and you can do all of those things ... when you get your own car.” I remove my hand and look away in discomfort and unease. <<include "LP1_4_1">>

“Fine, whatever. I really hope <<if $cp>>you win this bet, Chris.<<else>>this plan works out.<</if>>” No one says anything else, all of our eyes on the laptop. <<include "LP1_4_1">>

“Great, great plan. So, who’s up for a new bet? This one is about how horrible this plan is going to end up,” I state and glare over towards Chris. “Ooh, me. I’m totally up for betting on the failure of this plan,” Sydero grins, sending a wicked toothy grin Chris’s way. The playful banter dies down, as we all think about what we would be doing tomorrow night. <<include "LP1_4_1">>

The next day is filled with us talking through the plan more. <<if $cp>>Chris leading the discussion since it was his plan. <</if>> Any questions and concerns are addressed, and two more back up plans are created in case something goes wrong. Surprisingly, I feel better about it all. Knowing that even if I somehow get caught, we had a backup plan for freeing me immediately. The museum is provincial. Humble and possessing an almost homey feel to it. The only reason I can see a town like this even having a museum is due to them having an important, if not rich history. “I’m going to drive back down that street and past the chain link fence that we saw,” Bradley tells me, Sydero <<if $cp>>and Chris <</if>>getting out and immediately running toward the side of the building. “Bradley, please don’t mess this up,” I beg, and he waves my words away with a wide grin. “Trust me, $name, I got this.” I nod and get out the car, watching as my car and Bradley drives away. <a data-passage="LP1_4_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>Chris and <</if>>I go in first, walking in and taking note of all the exits <<if $cp>>we find. We<<else>>I find. I<</if>> have yet to come across a security officer or anyone after pick locking the front door. I grab a few of the items on display and stuff them in my bag, helping the thief aesthetic. I’m sure that the last thing they’re expecting tonight is <<if $cp>>two intruders<<else>>an intruder<</if>>. It was a local museum for crying out loud. <<if $cp>>We turn a corner, finding our first officer eating a candy bar. When he sees us, he doesn’t immediately take chase. Instead, he gives us a bewildered look, taking another bite of his candy bar.<<else>>I turn a corner, finding my first officer eating a candy bar. When he sees me, he doesn’t immediately take chase. Instead, he gives me a bewildered look, taking another bite of his candy bar.<</if>> “Sorry, the museum’s closed. Come back tomorrow at nine o’clock.” “Or <<if $cp>>we<<else>>I<</if>> can just do what <<if $cp>>we<<else>>I<</if>> have planned right now,” I say, picking up one of the items on exhibit. “Um, you’re not supposed to touch that.” He tells me, but he still seems uneager to chase me. [[Slip the item into the bag on my shoulders.]] [[Drop the item.]] [[Walk off with it.]]

<<if $cp>>I nod my head as if I was actually listening to whatever he had to say. While I nod, I slip the item into my bag, which gets the reaction I was hoping for. The man shouts as Chris and I both run in the same direction, agreeing not to separate until reinforcements, if there were any, arrive.<<else>>I nod my head as if I was actually listening to whatever he had to say. While I nod, I slip the item into my bag, which gets the reaction I was hoping for. The man shouts as I run off, giving chase a second later.<</if>> <<include "LP1_5">>

<<if $cp>>I nod my head as if I was actually listening to whatever he had to say. While I nod, I begin walking away, looking the item over more. The man yells at me to stop, but I do no such thing, finally getting him to chase us. Chris and I both run in the same direction, agreeing not to separate until reinforcements, if there were any, arrive.<<else>>I nod my head as if I was actually listening to whatever he had to say. While I nod, I begin walking away, looking the item over more. The man yells at me to stop, but I do no such thing, finally getting him to chase me.<</if>> <<include "LP1_5">>

<<if $cp>>I drop the item on the ground, hearing it clatter without care. That gets the man moving. Chris and I both run in the same direction, agreeing not to separate until reinforcements, if there were any, arrive.<<else>>I drop the item on the ground, hearing it clatter without care. That gets the man moving. The man shouts after me as I run off, trying to figure out what my next play is.<</if>> <<include "LP1_5">>

One guard turns into two, and the two into five. I was more concerned about why a museum this size had five-night guards than actually getting away from them. Wherever Sydero was, I hope she was close to finding that bowl because it was time for me to go. <<if $combat >=10>>\ I decide to turn up the speed dial, picking up speed and sprinting away from the guards chasing me. I struggle to find where some of those exits rest, hoping to just run across them whenever I can. Thanks to my speed, I’m always ten steps ahead of the guards. I finally find the exit and shoot out of the museum, hearing the sounds of police sirens close by. This just got dangerous. I push myself even farther, aware of the sound of men still behind me. One I hear threatens to taze me. <<else>>\ The men loom closer, catching up to me and threatening to grab me thanks to the proximity. I try to go faster but fail time and time again, sweat dribbling down my forehead as I try to figure out what to do. The only thing I can do is to keep turning randomly until I find an exit. I do soon, and I shoot out of it, barely dodging a policeman who comes hurling towards me. This just got dangerous. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="LP1_6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

My footsteps echo off the damp gravel road as I sprint, struggling to find my way through the darkness. Numerous times I lose my footing due to a large puddle causing the road to become incredibly slick. The bag on my shoulder seems to increase in weight, reminding me of why I was being chased in the first place. I’d give anything to just check my phone to see how far I had left to go. Sydero had better gotten her hands on that bowl of hers. I fly past another corner, my smile widening when I see the outline of a car idle in the distance, the only signs of someone being inside is the hardly visible outline of a figure inside. I dart to the familiar car, smiling hard as I’m almost there. Suddenly the door is thrown open, catching me right in the stomach. I hit the ground with mumbled groans, whimpering as I gather my wits about me again. “You should watch where you’re going next time, Roe,” I hear a familiar voice say, the last voice I’ve ever wanted to hear. I groan, though it comes out more like a whimper as I roll over just enough, staring into the golden eyes of Petri. <a data-passage="EP9-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/acttwo.png"> I never thought I’d learn how hard a cell’s bed actually was. Getting comfortable is impossible and even worse, the smell makes me want to throw up. Or perhaps that was because my cell was right across from a guy who had thrown up all over his. I approach the bars, immediately met by Langston and Petri. Both have satisfied smirks on their face, though Petri’s is more predatory than satisfied. “I seriously feel like a bounty hunter right now,” Langston says, looking me up and down, “we finally caught you.” “Congratulations, you caught an innocent person,” I reply. “That’s not what this warrant for your arrest says,” Petri states next, waving a sheet of paper that looks as real as this cell, in front of my face. “We both know I didn’t do anything,” I growl, hitting the bars and regretting it a minute later. The two of them laugh until they look over at the man in the cell across from me, their expressions change to disgust. [[“When I get out of here, I’m whooping both of your asses.”][$pacifist -=3]] [[“What’s really about to happen?”]] [[“Why not just kill me?”]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> “When I get out of here,” I start, looking between both of them, “I’m whooping both of your asses.” This gets them laughing again, Petri howling since I guess he isn’t afraid to show me his real nature. “I’m looking forward to seeing you free,” Petri tells me, “get used to a jail cell, $name. With your crimes, you’re looking at life without parole.” <<include "LP2_0_1">>

“What’s really about to happen to me? I’m sure Raum doesn’t mean for me to go to prison.” Petri snorts and sighs, gazing at me with mock sympathy, “Raum doesn’t care about you, he just wants you out of the picture. So yes, you’re actually going to prison. Get used to a jail cell, Roe. With your crimes, you’re looking at life without parole.” <<include "LP2_0_1">>

“Why not just kill me?” I question the two of them. “Because Raum doesn’t want you dead,” Langston answers, “he just wants you out of the way. Oddly, you’ve been a pain in our ass. Once we’re done with the girl, then I’m sure Raum will figure out what he wants to do with you.” “Get used to a jail cell, Roe,” Petri continues, getting up and standing, “with your crimes, you’re looking at life without parole.” <<include "LP2_0_1">>

“You’re bold to assume that I’ll be in here for that long,” I remark with a smile. Yet the words that come out of Petri’s mouth next sends a shiver down my spine. Enough to cause me to doubt the confidence I have in others and my future. He leans as close as the bars allow, baring those canines of his, “no one's coming to save you. Where do you think Raum is?” The question is left in the air as they both walk away, murmuring to one another. It didn’t matter what they said. I will get out of here, Sydero<<if $cp>> or Chris<</if>> will come and save me. Maybe even Bradley. Regardless, someone will come. They won’t just leave me here. Right? I head back to the bed, remembering them arguing with the sheriff about keeping me here until the transport truck arrives in three days. My group has three days to figure out how to get me the hell out of here. I really did feel like a criminal, one who can’t step foot back into a state that once used to be their home. My entire world has changed, and I’m about to pay the price for someone else’s deeds. <<if $optimism >=50>>No. I needed to stop thinking like this. I would be found. My group was some of the luckiest bastards I knew, uncannily lucky to add to that. One of them will find me, I had no doubt about that. I just needed to wait.<<else>>My mind goes to darker thoughts. Thinking of what would happen if they don’t come for me. If no one comes for me. Me, living the rest of my days in prison. I would never taste freedom again.<</if>> I close my eyes and take a deep breath, thinking about one person and what they might be doing at this moment. [[Bradley|LPBradley]] [[Sydero|LP2Sydero]] <<if $cp>>[[Chris|LPChris]]<</if>>

<img src="images/divider.png"> Chris unlocked the door, praying about what he’d find on the other side. He’d open it and find Bradley typing away on his keyboard, Sydero hovering close by and saying some rude remark. And then finally, he’ll see $name on the bed, wondering where Chris has been all this time. He’d probably say a few rude remarks about how they left him, but otherwise would claim that he won the bet. Yep, his plan was a success. They got the bowl … his plan was a success … Suddenly, the key in his grip felt a lot heavier. //Let my plan be a success//, he whimpers. And with a turn and a push, Chris’s hopes were dashed. Instead, he found a mostly empty motel room. A room that looked like it hadn’t been inhabited for a while. All of their stuff was gone, the beds were made, and that stale motel air freshener was in the air. Chris backed out and tried his phone again, attempting to call Bradley but finding that his phone went straight to voicemail for the umpteenth time. He tries Sydero next, and then $name. Each one going straight to voicemail. This was a disaster. He collapsed on the front step of the room, rocking back and forth as he tried to think. He needed to figure out where everyone might be. He and $name split up, Chris had two guards chasing him and then some cops once he was free. He was able to lose them after a while though and decided to wait out in an abandoned building until he thought it safe. But that was when demons appeared. Chris wasn’t equipped nor prepared for them, and so all he could do was flee. His blade helped some, but otherwise, his feet were to thank that night. He fled to a nearby church, taking refuge behind its doors and in the care of the preacher there. His phone was dead, and his energy levels almost completely depleted. And so, as his phone charged, he slept. It was only when morning unveiled itself that the real mess revealed itself. No one was picking up their phones, and he had no idea where he was. It took three buses just to get back to the street of the motel, and he soon found that to be a wasted trip, no one was here. <a data-passage="LPChris2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $CRomance >=5>>\ <<if $gender is "female">>\ <<if $jealouschris>>\ <<if $chris >=50>>Much to his dismay, he was starting to see the group as his family. Bradley, the annoying little brother, Sydero, the sister with an attitude, and $name, the friend that he was having a hard time forgiving, yet desperately wanted to. The friend that had slept with another, and yet, Chris was trying so hard to forget that little detail. No, that wasn’t a small detail, that was a significant detail that had hit him deeply.<<else>>Though he was used to this group, he still wasn’t their biggest fans. He saw them more as teammates, teammates that he needed time away from. Bradley wasn’t so bad, but Chris still believed that keeping his distance was necessary, and of course, Sydero was just an epic asshole. And then there was $name, the only one he could actually stand at all hours of the day. Though he still hadn’t forgiven $name, even if he desperately wanted to. Chris was trying so hard to forget that little detail. No, that wasn’t a small detail, that was a significant detail that had hit him deeply.<</if>> As soon as he found out, realized what had happened, he told himself to stop looking at $name in such a way. Of course, $name was single, free to do as ?he chose. So why, no matter how many times he told himself that, it still hurt. The thought of another pleasuring ?him in ways that he couldn’t, mostly because he was too afraid. For a while, he wanted to sit $name down and speak to ?him, not necessarily about it, but his feelings. Maybe if he finally came clean about the crush that was going nowhere, then ?he’d stop. //Or ?he’ll laugh in his face and call him cute or something.// The feeling caused his stomach to turn upside down. He couldn’t picture ?him accepting his feelings, but he could easily imagine ?him laughing, maybe even telling Sydero later and the two of them laughing over drinks about it. It didn’t matter now anyway. He didn’t need to be focusing on this, he needed to find them. <<else>>\ <<if $chris >=50>>\ Much to his dismay, he was starting to see the group as his family. Bradley, the annoying little brother, Sydero, the sister with an attitude, and $name, the friend that he had yet to confess his feelings to. He was going to tell ?him that night while he was messing with ?his car. That was the real reason behind him messing with it anyway. He was considerably lucky that his grandfather had taken the time to teach him those skills. The moment was right, they were alone, and he had a good feeling that if Sydero happened upon them, she would dash off before they even knew she was there. She wasn’t a complete asshole … at times. He hadn’t gone over what he was going to tell ?him, he was going to wing that part. And somewhere along the line, probably end up putting his foot in his mouth with either sounding stupid or saying the completely wrong thing. But his feelings would be out. <<else>>\ Though he was used to this group, he still wasn’t their biggest fans. He saw them more as teammates, teammates that he needed time away from. Bradley wasn’t so bad, but Chris still believed that keeping his distance was necessary, and of course, Sydero was just an epic asshole. And then there was $name, the only one he could actually stand at all hours of the day. And the one-person Chris kept failing to admit his feelings to. He was going to tell ?him that night while he was messing with ?his car. That was the real reason behind him messing with it anyway. He was considerably lucky that his grandfather had taken the time to teach him those skills. The moment was right, they were alone, and the only thing that could ruin it was Sydero. He knew that if she happened upon them, she would do everything in her power to ruin it, it was in her nature. He hadn’t gone over what he was going to tell ?him, he was going to wing that part. And somewhere along the line, probably end up putting his foot in his mouth with either sounding stupid or saying the completely wrong thing. But his feelings would be out. <</if>>\ He pushed his hair out of his face as he thought how ?he might take it, hopefully, ?he wouldn’t just laugh, pat his shoulder, and walk off. He couldn’t count how many times he’s gone to sleep with ?his face haunting his dreams. Every dream ?he was in was a fantasy, a pleasant dream that made him abhor waking up. And the only thing making him actually open his eyes, the understanding that ?he was somewhere close. And he prayed that when he opened his eyes, that the first thing he would see was that sexy, stunning, wondrous smile of ?his. A smile that made all the darkness go away that could sway even the most malevolent of monsters. He swooned, almost forgetting where he was and what he was doing. Almost causing him to forget that none of that would ever happen. Because one little interruption had him back to doubting. //Maybe we’re not meant to be// and //maybe God is trying to tell me something.// These thoughts had rushed through his mind and had yet to fully get out. And so, he chickened out. And even if, by some odd miracle, he got his balls back, he might never see ?him again. His best friend could be gone forever. No! He wouldn’t believe it until he saw it. He needed to find them, not mope on some dusty motel step. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $jealouschris>>\ <<if $chris >=50>>Much to his dismay, he was starting to see the group as his family. Bradley, the annoying little brother, Sydero, the sister with an attitude, and $name, the friend that he was having a hard time forgiving, yet desperately wanted to. But only because why shouldn’t he? $name’s deeds had nothing to do with him ... He just ... ugh, why wasn’t this natural for him? He easily understood that who $name slept with was ?his own business, and that was the end of it. Chris shouldn’t care, nor should he still be harboring feelings against it. So, why did he care? Why was it that every time he saw $name, his heart quaked in pain? Why did his anxieties cling so tightly to the idea that if $name slept with another, then it should be proof that nothing was there? Why did he want something to be there!<<else>>Though he was used to this group, he still wasn’t their biggest fans. He saw them more as teammates, teammates that he needed time away from. Bradley wasn’t so bad, but Chris still believed that keeping his distance was necessary, and of course, Sydero was just an epic asshole. And then there was $name, the only one he could actually stand at all hours of the day. Though he still hadn’t forgiven $name, he was still confused about why he was even mad. $name’s deeds had nothing to do with him ... He just ... ugh, why wasn’t this natural for him? The easiest thing for him to be able to say that who $name slept with was ?his own business, and that was the end of it. Chris shouldn’t care, nor should he still be harboring feelings against it. So, why did he care? Why was it that every time he saw $name, his heart quaked in pain? Why did his anxieties cling so tightly to the idea that if $name slept with another, then it should be proof that nothing was there? Why did he want something to be there!<</if>> This wasn’t the time, Chris knew that, but he couldn’t help it. This had been bugging him since they had got to Sydero’s safehouse and $name had tried to make some passes towards him. The more ?he flirted, the more Chris wondered. And every time his thoughts got too far away from him, he heard his father’s voice. He heard his father condemning him to the deepest pit in hell. He saw his mother crying and turning her back to him. Chris ran his hands through his already disheveled hair. The only good thing about everyone missing was that he had a valid reason not to do this. Not to, once again, question his sexuality. Chris just needed to find his friend and his family. <<else>>\ <<if $chris >=50>>Much to his dismay, he was starting to see the group as his family. Bradley, the annoying little brother, Sydero, the sister with an attitude, and $name, the friend that he was really starting to doubt things about. Like Syd said, it was obvious that $name liked him, and he wasn’t too blind or stupid not to notice that. But it was always the simple, understandable fact that he didn’t like ?him, or not so much of ?him as much as … his gender. And each time he said that classic line of his, well he felt himself believing it less. His dad had a screwed up mind, so why was he acting like he had the same trait? He had no problem with gay people, but did he if he refused to even believe that he could be that?<<else>>Though he was used to this group, he still wasn’t their biggest fans. He saw them more as teammates, teammates that he needed time away from. Bradley wasn’t so bad, but Chris still believed that keeping his distance was necessary, and of course, Sydero was just an epic asshole. And then there was $name, the only one he could actually stand at all hours of the day. Also, the one person that had him doubting something that was supposed to label him. Though he hated to hear it, Syd was right. It was obvious that $name liked him, and he wasn’t blind or stupid not to notice that. But it was always the simple, understandable fact that he didn’t like ?him, or not so much of ?him as much as … his gender. And each time he said that classic line of his, well he felt himself believing it less. His dad had a screwed up mind, so why was he acting like he had the same trait? He had no problem with gay people, but did he if he refused to even believe that he could be that?<</if>> “You sound like one of those guys that say they have gay friends and can therefore say homophobic shit,” he chuckles to himself. He wondered if any of those guys ever just stopped and wondered too. Or if they were just //that// comfortable. He wished he was already pan-sexual, it would make this a whole lot easier, though his parents would hate him the same. Every time he even thought about what could be interpreted as a gay thought, his parent’s voices echoed in his mind, reminding him that he was no sinner. But he was no saint either, and like Sydero had once mentioned, “if you’re not a saint, then might as well have some fun and be a sinner.” He was quoting Sydero now, that was great. Ugh, he just wanted his group back. Right now wasn’t the time to doubt his sexuality. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $chris >=50>>\ Much to his dismay, he was starting to see the group as his family. Bradley, the annoying little brother, Sydero, the sister with an attitude, and $name, the best friend that always ended up in a heap of trouble. He should put trackers on all of them, each and every last one of them. He was actually getting upset. How dare they leave the least experienced alone? This was going to be a repeat of every other time, and all of them was going to have to come save him. He had no clue what to do, he just knew he needed to find the others. <<else>>\ Though he was used to this group, he still wasn’t their biggest fans. He saw them more as teammates, teammates that he needed time away from. Bradley wasn’t so bad, but Chris still believed that keeping his distance was necessary, and of course, Sydero was just an epic asshole. And then there was $name, the only one he could actually stand at all hours of the day, well //some// hours of the day. Chris supposes that this was his moment to prove himself. To prove that he could survive on his own, as well as help the others. It was about time he actually started adding to the team’s dynamic. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<include "LPChris3">>

He had a feeling that the cops grabbed $name, but he felt like something even worse had happened. That plan wasn’t perfect, no plan ever is. But what happened shouldn’t have. Something had to have occurred, especially since he was met by demons further in. Something that made a meager plan go straight to hell. With a not yet defeated sigh, Chris rises and dashes into the motel’s lobby, coming out later after calling a uber and knowing that he needs to get to a gas station and a fast food restaurant. <img src="images/divider.png"> <a data-passage="LP2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> Bradley’s eyes stayed closed despite the blaring horn coming from the car. It’s been going off for at least two minutes, all due to his forehead refusing to budge away from the button. The only reason he finally picked his head up was because the horn intensified the headache he was experiencing, making it unbearable. “Shit! Shit! Shit!” Bradley repeatedly shouted, throwing a mini tantrum in the seat that he had been occupying for the entire night and morning. This wasn’t supposed to happen, not at all. And the worst part isn’t even that it happened, it’s that he didn’t know what to do. He’s tried everyone’s phone, and no one picked up. It just goes straight to voicemail on every single one of them. “Breathe, buddy,” he tells himself, leaning his head back as he tries to think the night over again, trying to figure out where <<if $cp>>Chris and <</if>>Sydero could possibly be. Bradley had waited all night when he finally heard that the police had captured a deadly fugitive. Immediately, he knew that was $name. Bradley even tried to go after ?him, driving past the police station when he spotted Petri and Langston hanging outside, on the phone with someone. He didn’t stay long enough to figure it out. <<if $cp>>He had then decided to go get Chris, to pick him up. But Chris wasn’t at the rendezvous point. He was nowhere to be seen and not answering his phone. The last person he tried was Sydero, and when she didn’t pick up his call after three rings, he began to panic.<<else>>Then he tried Sydero, and when she didn’t pick up his call after three rings, he began to panic.<</if>> Everything had fallen apart in less than one night. Their plan was supposed to work. <<if $cp>>Chris’s plan wasn’t the best, but it was good enough to work, and that’s all that mattered. In their group, a group that never made plans, that was a decent plan. But perhaps, this was fate’s way of warning them against it in the future, if they had a future. The thought caused Bradley to stiffen even more.<<else>>His plan failed. Bradley’s heart picked up at that, knowing that at the end of the day, it was all his fault. He might never see anyone again because he had decided to open his mouth and utter some ridiculous plan.<</if>> <<if $bradley >=50>>\ There will be a future, even if he had to break every damn law. He was tired of seeing those he cared for taken away. Never again. He was going to figure out a way to get his family back. He put the car in drive, unsure of his destination. Well, his first destination would have to be the gas station, seeing that the car was near E, and he doubted $name would appreciate an almost dead vehicle. <<else>>\ What if this is it, the end of their road? <<if $cp>>He didn’t want to say it, but he could easily see Chris either taking off or getting his head chopped off. Inexperience wasn’t the best thing in this life, in fact, it could kill you faster than a defective weapon. <</if>>$name would be sent to prison for crimes ?he didn’t commit, and there is no way Bradley can get to ?him there. And Sydero, well if Petri and Langston are close, then where’s Raum? Sydero is at her weakest, not even able to pick up the presence of a demon right in front of her. That made his stomach worse than anything else. Is he truly all alone? A small tear rolls down his cheek. Even when he’s alone in his abandoned house, he knows he’s never alone. He has Faye and Sydero. But now ... now he feels the walls closing in, and there’s no one left. <</if>>\ <img src="images/divider.png"> <a data-passage="LP2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> //This is bad. So very bad.// Sydero’s only problem is figuring out which part of her entire situation is worse. Is it the 'being completely separated from her team aspect,' the fact that she has no idea where she is? Or the fact that if she could put numbers to her energy levels, then she would currently be at a twenty? Or maybe that's being too generous because she honestly feels like she's teetering on ten. “Stop running and fight me!” she hears Raum scream. Oh, how could she have forgotten that she was practically being hunted? Even in her current state, she gives credit where credit is due. She knew the museum was going to be somewhat of a trap, in a way. No demon would just grab and disappear with the bowl they knew she needed, only to give it to a museum without any knowledgeable guards. She even thought Raum was behind it, somewhere. But the plan, after working it through her own mind, actually computed. While <<if $cp>>Chris and <</if>>Roe captured most of everyone’s attention, with a clean getaway, she would go in and retrieve the bowl. The bowl was in the storage area, hidden among five hundred other pots that were probably all fake. But she had somewhat of a bond with that bowl, there could be five hundred replicas of it, and she would know just by looking at it which was real. But that plan also included her and her abilities behaving normally. She grimaced at how long it took to find the correct bowl, having to channel her energy into the act. This is pathetic! And the longer she thinks about it, the more it angers her. “No,” she growls, fighting herself as she realized where that anger is leading. She feels ready to throw up, willing to just give up. Something is going to have to give soon. She still has another essence bottle at the motel, that will help, right? She wants to laugh at that thought. Yea, because the other one she gulped down had been tons of help. She’s burning through them faster than usual. “Sydero!” Raum screams from a farther distance than when she had last heard him. She shifted the bookbag straps, making sure it was tight. She then checked her phone, what she wouldn’t give to see Roe’s name light up on the screen right now. She knew where Roe was, Raum made sure he bragged about it when he first caught her. And almost got her a second time when she was a block away from the jail, ready to somehow break Roe out. But now, now she was spent. She had no idea where she was. No idea how long her phone was going to stay lit up, and no idea if she was going to make it. And Raum knew all of this. She just knew she had to run. <img src="images/divider.png"> <a data-passage="LP2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I shoot forward, heart thumping viciously and my brain wishing to be free of the cage that I call my skull. I try to steady myself, but it’s impossible and when I look around the small cell, I realize why I’m feeling such a way. “Wakey wakey,” the Entity chuckles, resting their head on the concrete wall, sighing happily. “What the hell do you want?” I question, scowling as I sit up. I mentally attempt to send them away, but fail and they laugh at the attempt. <<if $entitytakeover>>\ “I’m part of you, remember? You know, if I wanted to, I could jump your body right now and take over, you did give me that approval. Of course, you could fight me and try to cast me out, but you’d only get brain damage. Stuck with me now.” They go to the cell’s bars and tap them, creating an irritating chime with each tap. <<else>>\ “I’m part of you remember? I could go into that brain of yours right now and torture you, make you watch things you’ve never even imagined. That’s how much power I have over you.” They go to the cell’s bars and tap them, creating an irritating chime with each tap. <</if>>\ “Gloating, are we?” I ask. “Hey, buddy?” a new voice asks, I’m guessing the guy in the cell across from me, “are you stupid or something?” <<if $honesty >=50>>\ “No, just drunk,” I tell him, and for a minute there’s a long pause, “you been in here for like an entire day, how you drunk?” The Entity laughs at that, shaking their head as they turn to me, leaning on the bar, “can’t even lie to a drunk. You really are pathetic.” <<else>>\ “No, you’re still drunk,” I tell him, and I hear him huff in acceptance, and his mat creak. “Round of applause for you, Roe, fooling the local drunk. You’re doing big things, huh?” <</if>>\ “I could get you out of here,” they say, not looking at me, still looking out and down the hallway. “Would be easy too.” “Really?” I question, and they turn to me, shocked that I even had to ask. “Of course,” I feel the punchline, I know it’s coming, just don’t know what it will be, “but I won’t.” They prance over to the farthest corner, sitting happily. “I kinda like the idea of Prison Roe. Means that you’re not running around with that mismatched group of yours and you’re stuck in one place. The only thing you have to worry about now is which group to hang out with and which group needs a good shanking. Never thought I would say this, but I’m on Langston and Petri’s side.” [[Get them to reconsider.]] [[Ask them to be silent.]] [[Stay silent.|LPSilent]]

“Come on, Entity,” I beg, “how is your plan going to work if I’m in prison?” “Don’t worry about my plan,” the Entity chuckles lowly, “it’s going to work even better now. Just sit there and wait two more days, that truck will be coming for you soon.” <<include "LP2_0_2">>

“Hey, Entity? How about you shut the hell up?” I ask, turning my back to them, wishing to just get some kind of sleep. Suddenly they begin hitting the bars again, and despite the horribly lit cell, I can see them glaring at me as they do it, challenging me. <<include "LP2_0_2">>

I say nothing, only wishing to go to sleep and not have to worry about some damn spirit sharing the cell with me. <<include "LP2_0_2">>

“It doesn’t even matter,” I decide to tell them, “I’ll be getting out of here soon enough.” That causes the Entity to burst out laughing, so hard that I have to turn and face them, thinking that they were going to die from it. <<if $optimism >=50>>\ “Well, you have always been the optimistic one, huh. Guess it’s a hard pill to swallow that you’re on your own now. Your group has their own problems to deal with.” “What do you mean?” I ask, wanting to know if they knew anything. <<else>>\ “$name, be honest with me, do you even believe that? Do you really think that that group is coming for you?” “Why?” I ask, wanting to know if they know anything. <</if>>\ <<if $cp>>\ “Well, let’s see, Chris is in the wind. Even he doesn’t know where he is or what’s going on. And we all know that poor defenseless Chris can’t stand on his own. He’ll be dead within the hour. Then there’s that little hairless monkey who has your car, and the only thing he can do is cry. Seems being smart can only go so far, and we definitely know he’ll die. Maybe by a pack of werewolves? And finally, that pest, Sydero. Well, Raum is handling her. I despise demons, but I must thank him one day.” <<else>>\ “Well, let’s see, that little hairless monkey has your car, and the only thing he can do is cry. Seems being smart can only go so far, and we definitely know he’d die. Maybe by a pack of werewolves? And that pest, Sydero. Well, Raum is handling her. I despise demons, but I must thank him one day.” <</if>>\ They continue to talk, but I’m no longer listening, thinking about my team and what could possibly be happening. Did they even know where I was? “They’ll come,” I mumble, squeezing my eyes shut, I just want to sleep. “Want to bet on that?” the Entity whispers into my ear, I turn to gaze at them, seeing that they were serious. “What’s the prize?” The Entity smiles that horrible cartoonish grin of theirs, the grin spreading across the majority of the mass intended to be their face. “If I win, I get full control. You’re going to be taking a backseat to your own life, only gaining control when //I// want you to have it. All to make sure you’re a good little pet for the day everything happens.” That was a pretty big prize, and I doubt anything I wanted would even touch that. “And if I win, you leave, period.” The Entity shakes their head, “as much fun as that sounds, no can do.” “Then you give me the truth about you, and what happened //that// night. And about what’s so damn important I sit back and wait for. I want the truth about everything.” The Entity hums to themselves as they walk the length of the cell, pacing back and forth. “Alright, deal.” They extend their hand towards me with a mischievous smirk, “can only seal this with a shake.” I stare at the hand that’s actually just a smoky tendril. [[Shake it.|LPShake][$zillah +=5; $entityBet = true]] [[Refuse.|LPRefuse][$zillah -=5]]

I reach out and shake the tendril, as soon as my hand touches it, the Entity moves back and laughs loudly. “Oh, $name, you make this so easy. How much fun this will be. Maybe you’ll finally learn how to be a good pet.” Before I can question them further on that, they disappear. Whether they were back in my head or not, I don’t know. <<include "LP2_0_3">>

I shake my head and retreat further onto the bed. The Entity steps back and narrows their eyes but they don’t say anything else, they just vanish. <<include "LP2_0_3">>

“Roe!” a booming voice shouts, and I feel a pain in my stomach as something connects. Suddenly my world is filled with light, and I realize it’s because it’s day time. Petri stands in front of me with Langston to the side, both of them glaring at me. I hear distant laughter. “How many times I got to call your damn name? Huh?” Petri shouts, and I involuntarily wipe the spit that lands on my face away. “What do you want?” I ask. Petri points to the breakfast tray, or what I suppose is supposed to be breakfast, sitting right beside me. Some kind of liquid, some hastily made grits, toast that was practically bread, and two horribly shaped sausages. Just staring at the food made me want to vomit. “You eat it, or I’ll take you out back and show you how werewolves play with their food,” Petri growls, grabbing my shirt and then letting me go with a harsh shove. “I know you didn’t mean for that to sound weird, but it definitely did,” Langston adds, gaining Petri’s ire. The two of them go back and forth, insulting one another as they leave the front of my cell and then walk out of view. I really was in deep. Not only was I captured, but it wasn’t just by some regular cops, but by Petri and Langston. I’ve fought werewolves before, but that was with backup and with a weapon. I was unarmed and had a lack of backup. And I’ve never fought a shapeshifter, not sure if they were much different than fighting a regular human, or if they too had enhancements. I’m taken out of my thoughts by another figure standing at my cell. I look up to see a man that I haven’t noticed since the start of my stay. Judging by his uniform, I can tell that he’s an officer of the station, and either he doesn’t get out much, or he’s new. He’s eating something, fruit snacks maybe, and he’s smacking on them as if they were the best thing in the world. Kinda was making me want some. [[Ignore him.]] [[Ask him what he wants.]] [[Ask for some of the snacks.]]

I ignore him, sighing heavily as I mess with the food sitting in my lap. Maybe ignoring him would make him go away. <<include "LP2_0_4">>

“Can I help you?” I question, raising a brow as he continues to stand there. He just continues chewing, his eyes wide as he looks me over. I suddenly feel like I’m some animal on display. <<include "LP2_0_4">>

“If you’re just going to stand there, how about giving me some snacks too?” He seems to actually consider it, looking into his packet and then stopping. He continues to eat them and behave as if I hadn’t said anything at all. <<include "LP2_0_4">>

“So, this is what a cop killing fugitive looks like? I don’t know why, but I actually thought you would’ve looked tougher than this. <<if $darktruth>>Though I will say, sick scar,” with his free finger, he traces the area where I already know my scar lies, on his own face.<<elseif $darkburns>>Though I will say, sick burn scars,” with his free finger, he points to his arm.<<else>>Maybe a few scars or at least a killer look in your eye. Gotta say I’m disappointed.”<</if>> “Are you done.” “One more question,” he leans forward as if there weren’t bars separating us. <<if $cp>>\ “Why’d you do it? Rob that bank and kill those cops I mean? And who’s your accomplice? I realize they never said anything about them.” [[“Yes, because I’m going to blab about that.”]] [[“Let me out, and I’ll tell you everything.”]] [[“Get lost, fanboy.”]] <<else>>\ “Why’d you do it? Kill those two men and then those cops I mean? What’d they do to you? And wasn’t it your best friend that you killed too?” [[“Yes, because I’m going to blab about that.”]] [[“Get lost, fanboy.”]] <</if>>\

I roll my eyes, continuing to eat, “yes, because I’m going to blab about that.” He shrugs nonchalantly, “not like you’re going to ever know what the outside of a jail looks like ever again.” I don’t have time to answer him as he walks away from the cell. <<include "LP2_0_5">>

“Let me out,” I tell him, approaching the bars, “and I’ll tell you everything.” “You must think I’m stupid?” he asks, and I have to bite my tongue to keep from answering. His proximity to the cell gave him his own answer, I could quickly grab him, his taser, and ruin the rest of his day. The look in my eyes must give away my thoughts, he takes a step back and then quickly leaves. <<include "LP2_0_5">>

I huff and after taking another bite of the food, launch the plate at him, smirking at his squeal. “Get lost, fanboy.” He almost seems offended by that. And while he marinates, trying to figure out how to get me back, I look over at him. I don’t know what he sees, but it makes him step back in fear, and with that, he leaves. <<include "LP2_0_5">>

Time ticks by and though I didn’t have a clock to stare at, I did have a window that proved the passage of time. Breakfast turns into lunch, and I could see how one could practically feel themselves wither away. What if the Entity was right? If my group was long gone, and the only thing I had to look forward to was a road trip back to Virginia? Prison. I could be going to jail. I was going to go on trial for something I didn't do and never see freedom again. All because ... I helped Sydero. No good deed goes unpunished. [[Sing prison blues.]] [[Scream.|LPScream]] [[Dig a tunnel?]]

I didn’t know many prison blues, only one I could actually think about was Johnny Cash’s, “Folsom Prison Blues,” and even those lyrics escaped me. So, I just think about the most cliché blues beat I can imagine and start belching out words, hitting the bars to help me out. “Now, I haven’t done nothing wrong,” I shout, “regardless of what all those fancy folks say. They said I murdered cops, but I’m telling you there just ain’t no way.” “I wanna be free! Taste the air, smell the flowers, I don’t really care. I just wanna be free! Do I care how? Just get me out from behind these prison bars because this is not my ... style?” That part had me stop. Well, there was a reason I wasn’t some famous blues singer. It was sad, to not even be told to shut up before you annoy yourself. <<include "LP2_1">>

I take in a deep breath, letting it out in a scream that would make horror movie producers wipe a tear from their eye. Surprisingly, no one comes running to see what I need, and only Jeff, my drunken partner across from me, stares at me in horror. I do it again, and then a third time. I’m about to do it a fourth when I hear Petri yell at me to shut up before he makes me. Seeing that he was probably itching to do so, I actually do hush. <<include "LP2_1">>

I grab the spoon from the tray that they still haven’t taken, staring at it and then at the ground. One could dig through cement, right? Especially with a spoon? I hit the ground with the spoon, for some reason, shocked when the spoon dents and not the cement. Well, there goes that plan, I guess. <<include "LP2_1">>

Minutes continue to tick by, and I realize that I would have another day of just this, of just laying back and rethinking each and every decision I’ve ever made. I wasn’t even in prison yet and I was already sick of it. At least there I would get more interaction, though that doesn’t make me feel much better. Having two cops under my belt meant I was going to the type of prison that killers resided in. The guards would have it out for me and seeing that I really wasn’t //that// type of killer, I probably wouldn’t fit in very well. I hear someone cough and look over to see Jeff finally sitting up on his bed. “Hey,” I begin, “what are you in here for anyway, Jeff?” He looks at me but doesn’t answer, coughing again, “drunken and disorderly content. Snuck up behind the sheriff and pissed on him.” He laughs at that, almost falling off his small mat. But he soon goes into another coughing fit, calming back down. “Huh, and how long are you staying?” “Until my court date next week. But then I’ll be back, they’ll give me bond.” “Can’t pay it?” “Me? Naw, all my money is represented in the number of empty bottles at my apartment, and the apartment itself, I guess. My paycheck goes to two things.” He raises two fingers when he says it, spitting on the ground as he rests his head on the wall near his mat. “And I don’t have anyone who cares for me so, yea, there goes that.” “No one? No friends at all?” I find it hard to believe, even the movies with the town drunk had at least one friend, even if it turned out to just be some annoying, inquisitive kid. “Nope, everyone’s given up on me. Said I wouldn’t be nothing more than a piss poor drunk, and guess what? They were right!” He laughs, but it’s a sad one. A laugh that said he didn’t care much anymore only because he’s heard it so many times, from so many people. “What about you?” he asks, standing and coming to the bars, he gives me a closer inspection, “you don’t look like no cop killer.” [[“Looks can be deceiving.”]] [[“Because I’m not.”]] [[“I’m in here because I’m stupid.”]]

A small smile etches itself upon my face, and I gaze over at Jeff who still looks like he’s trying to figure me out, either that or he’s deciding whether or not to barf a second time. “Looks can be deceiving,” I say plainly, and he laughs at that one. “No, they ain’t.” I don’t know what I expected his reply to be, but it wasn’t that. I turn my full attention to him as he gestures to himself, “I look like a piss poor drunk. Am I wrong?” “One person doesn’t count,” I mumble, but Jeff doesn’t stop. He points down the hall, and after a lot of leaning, I see he’s pointing at Langston and Petri. “They look like two crooked cops with a whole lot of secrets, am I wrong?” Well ... He then points at the sheriff who’s walking around with a donut, “and he just looks like a donut-loving cop.” “And what do I look like?” I ask, relaxing again, curious to see what he would say. He looks me up and down. “You look like a kid who’s in way over ?his head.” Well, that proves it, Jeff is the smartest guy alive. I chuckle and sigh, “you’re not as stupid as you look, Jeff.” “Ah, yes I am,” he replies, curling up on his mat, “especially since the only thing I want to do right now is grab another bottle and chug it. Like I said, there ain’t no fancy tricks. Not some, look deeper bullshit. Sometimes,” I barely hear his next words as I hypothesize that he’s falling asleep, “a bird is just a bird. A cat is just a cat, and the local drunk just likes his bottles.” <a data-passage="LP2_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I roll my eyes, wondering how many times I would say this, “that’s because I’m not.” “Oh, hoy, so you innocent, huh? Aren’t we all?” he laughs, but I don’t laugh with him. “I am innocent,” I tell him. Jeff quiets down, running his hands through his long dark grayed beard. He presses his face to the bars, and I can’t help but wonder if he’s still a tad bit drunk. <<if $honesty >=50>>\ “I believe ya,” he tells me, and I actually cock my head to the side in shock. “Really? Maybe, I’m just a good liar?” “Yea, maybe. But ya ain’t.” I watch as Jeff goes back over to his bed. “And how would you know, you’re nothing but the town’s drunk.” “Exactly, and that title holds all my credentials. A liar knows a liar,” he points out. He lays down on his mat and then leans forward to look at me. “You know how many times I said I’ll stop, kid? How many times I looked my ma in the eye and said, ‘that was my last one?’ My ma was buried with that lie.” He snorts as he lays back down, “turned up at the old woman’s funeral drunk.” “Shame,” I sigh quietly, the only noise coming from the officers further down, talking and typing up their various reports. “Ain’t nothing wrong with being honest, kid,” he murmurs from his spot, his voice sounding as if it was fading out, probably due to him falling asleep, “I’d give my last bottle for that trait.” I snort to myself, “was that a lie?” He never responds, but he does chuckle softly. <<else>>\ “I believe ya,” he tells me, and I actually cock my head to the side in shock, “sike!” He shouts, slapping his leg as he rocks back and forth, laughing at his own joke. “You’re just a drunk, what makes you think I care what you think?” I ask, and he shrugs earnestly. “Yea, I’m just a dirty old drunk, but at least I accept it. I don’t walk around saying I’m the King of Norway.” I watch as Jeff goes back over to his bed, falling onto it and still laughing. “And how would you know I’m lying?” “You already answered your own question, kid. A liar knows a liar,” he points out. He lays down on his mat and then leans forward to look at me. “You know how many times I said I’ll stop? How many times I looked my ma in the eye and said, ‘that was my last one?’ My ma was buried with that lie.” He snorts as he lays back down, “turned up at the old woman’s funeral drunk.” “Shame,” I sigh quietly, the only noise coming from the officers further down, talking and typing up their various reports. “You got a gift, kid, embrace it,” he murmurs from his spot, his voice sounding as if it was fading out, probably due to him falling asleep, “most folks can’t lie to save their own ass.” I snort to myself, “who’d you think would win in a lying contest, old man, me or you?” He never responds, but he does chuckle softly, and I swear I hear him say, “you can’t beat a pro.” <</if>>\ <a data-passage="LP2_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I sigh, looking over at Jeff and then back at my own cell, staring at the wall now. “I’m in here because I’m stupid. One wrong move and everything just crashes down. No good deed goes unpunished.” I hear him snort and look over to see him laughing from his spot on the mat, “well, duh. Because their ain’t no such thing as a good deed.” I raise a brow at that. “Yes, there is.” “No there isn’t, ya idiot,” he replies. He sees the flicker of doubt cross my face again and smack his lips, staggering to the bars, “tell me. Why did you do this good deed?” “I wanted to help someone who needed helping, it was the right thing.” “And what would’ve happened if you just didn’t do it? Would it have bothered you? Haunted you forever?” “Maybe, kinda? I don’t know.” “Listen, kid. Everyone does something because they get something out of it. Sheriff over there saves some random cat from a tree, he doesn’t do it out of the goodness of his heart, but because someone somewhere is going to appreciate the random stranger that did it. And if not that, then he does it to make himself feel better. He gets a warm tingly feeling ... kinda how I do when I gotta piss.” I stare in disgust but that doesn’t seem to bother him, I doubt it would since I saw the man lying in his own throw up when I first got here. “Point is, whether we do it for that warm feeling or for a thank you, there’s intention.” “Great, doesn’t help me. Only makes me feel stupider.” He shrugs and walks back to his mat, “every time I end up in this cell, I feel stupid. But not because I was drinking, but because I got caught.” I think on his words, trying to figure them out. “Are you trying to say that I wouldn’t have regretted anything if I hadn’t been caught? That this moment right here, is the only reason why I’m rethinking everything?” I never receive an answer, unless a small snore is his way of replying. <a data-passage="LP2_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

An early dinner arrives and after feeling even more disgusted, I pass my food to a starving Jeff. He scarfs it down, finishing his and mine in record time. I walk up to the bars, grabbing Langston’s attention. “Hey! When is my phone call?” “What does this look like? A Hollywood movie, those aren’t real,” he snorts, lazily kicking his feet up on the desk. “Come on. I’m never going to taste freedom again, let me have this.” “How stupid do you think I am, Roe? You’re just going to call your group and try to get out of this.” <<if $charisma >=10>>\ [[“But didn’t you say there’s no way?”]] <</if>>\ [[“Come on, humor me.”]] [[“I thought you were the cool one.”]]

“Of course, but didn’t you say they were all caught up, there was no way they could come and get me? Do you doubt your own plan?” That seems to get Langston’s attention, and he sits up, carefully peering at me. A lot could be said about Langston, but I could see that calling him stupid wasn’t one of them. <<include "LP2_3">>

“Come on, Langston, humor me. If they even pick up then where’s the harm? You’ll be right there, hearing the entire plan.” “Because code words don’t exist.” Though we didn’t have such a thing, maybe we should start. “Yea, because me randomly saying broccoli isn’t suspicious at all.” Langston doesn’t say anything, still staring at me. A lot could be said about Langston, but I could see that calling him stupid wasn’t one of them. <<include "LP2_3">>

“Wow,” I start, shaking my head, “and here I thought you were the cool one.” “Not falling for it, Roe. You will not use my personality against me like that.” I have nothing else to say, and Langston doesn’t say anything either, still staring at me. A lot could be said about Langston, but I could see that calling him stupid wasn’t one of them. <<include "LP2_3">>

“You know what, sure. One phone call, you better hope they pick up.” I think the last part is a warning until I see the smirk on his lips, it was more of a challenge. He grabs me and walks me to the phone. I call Bradley’s phone, begging he’ll pick up. The rings drag on until I finally hear them stop, my heart soaring. “$name!” I hear Bradley shout, relief in his voice and my heart. “Oh finally! Bradley, are you okay?” I ask, peering at Langston who taps his watch. “Yea, I’m fine. I have our stuff and everything ... are you in?” “Jail? Yes! With my supernatural escorts too. Please tell me you’re devising a plan.” Silence. “Bradley!” <<if $cp>>“I’m sorry,” he squeaks, “Sydero is gone, and I have no idea where. And Chris, I can’t find him either. I’ve been searching everywhere. He’s not picking up my calls and when I stopped at the motel again, he wasn’t there.”<<else>>“I’m sorry,” he squeaks, “Sydero is gone, and I have no idea where. I’ve been searching everywhere, ever since we all got separated.”<</if>> “Then you come,” I try, knowing that that wasn’t going to happen even before the words fully leave my mouth. “Yea, because both of us should go to jail, together, of course.” “Bradley ... what are you saying right now.” “I’m saying that ... no one is coming for you.” <a data-passage="LP2_3_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> Sydero managed to get back to her feet, albeit unsteadily. She feels drunk, her body fighting on two fronts and both are a lost cause. “Come on, Sydero, go ahead and give in. You’re fighting a losing battle,” Raum chuckles, holding up a strange charm to her. Sydero narrows her eyes on it, realizing exactly what that charm was and what it was doing. It’s been so long since she’s seen one of its kind, but her memories regarding it were not friendly. //This really is a losing battle//, she thought to herself. She needed to get out of here, but part of her found that to be stupid. She could run, and Raum would just locate her again, no problem. Using most of her energy, she gets to her feet and darts away, sliding behind a pair of trashcans to hide herself. “How much energy do you think you have now?” Raum questions, walking past her current hiding spot unbeknownst. She was asking herself the same question. It wasn’t much, and that’s what she was afraid of. That book ordeal really had zapped much of her remaining energy. Leaving her scrounging among the bottom of a mostly dry barrel for anything more. It was a shame that Raum knew this as well. Suddenly, her body was launched through the air, skidding across the gravel road as she slowly came to a stop. Her entire left side ached, she felt like one big bruise. “To think, once you would’ve seen that coming, avoided it, and killed me in all one strike,” he recounts, stopping at her side. She was going to die here, or worse, get captured and brought back to his employer, whoever that was. She had one thought but failed to see why he would need to hire a bounty hunter, to come and get her. This was a losing battle. She wouldn’t make it past this moment. But ... Roe needed her. She needed to save herself. The thought of Bradley finding her either dead or gone, surfaced. That thought alone caused her insides to transform, stroking a fire that hasn’t been seen to in forever, began to relight itself. Her body quakes as it consumes her, part of her fighting to calm it back down. It was a natural response now. Keep the beast inside, she would tell herself, but it was too late for that. The monster woke up, and it consumed her. <img src="images/divider.png"> <a data-passage="EP9-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/actthree.png"> Hearing your thought said aloud by another made it ten times worse. Just thinking it was bad enough, but when another party entirely confirms those very same thoughts, it just brought the world crashing around you. It caused you to sit back quietly and just think. But that was the hilarious part, your mind wasn’t really focusing on anything but the words they said. You replay them time and time again until they make sense, but they never do. Part of you still fights, trying not to believe, while the other part laughs, saying it already knew that to be the answer. In my case, I sit, staring at a stained grey wall, trying to envision a colorless future. <img src="images/divider.png"> Bradley hung up the phone and wiped his eye, knowing that it was growing red in the corners and that bags were developing under his eyes. He once thought himself immune to dark circles but looking in the mirror now changed his mind. He’s gone longer than this without sleeping, but he’s never worried this bad either. Every two minutes he was refreshing his laptop, hoping for a dot to appear to say that he was successfully able to trace his group's cellphone signal. The only location he knew was $name’s, but ?his location wasn’t the easiest. Bradley thought about just driving the car into the prison, but he was pretty sure that was a stupid idea. And yet, here he was, rethinking it. <<if $cp>>\ “Damnit Chris, how hard is it to find an outlet and charge your phone up?” he asks himself, more than anyone else. If his suspicions were correct, then Sydero was far too busy to check her phone. But Chris, besides maybe being lost, he should’ve already called him. <</if>>\ He no longer knew what to do, besides slump back in his seat and complain about how horrible his life was. Yea, feeling sorry for himself seemed like the smart thing to do. Maybe he should order another milkshake, question the server about what was life and the meaning of it. <<if $cp>>\ Bradley was so down that he almost didn’t register the new light on his laptop’s screen, an overview of the town. It was moving every four minutes, but it was there, blinking repeatedly. Joy rushed through Bradley’s bones, Chris. “I found Chris!” <</if>>\ <img src="images/divider.png"> <a data-passage="LP3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I stare up at the ceiling, half of me listening to Jeff’s ramblings while the other half is focused on nothing, not really anyway. “Come clean up my piss!” Jeff hollers, and I look over to see that it was just his dried up throw up on the floor. I surmise that he was just trying to find something, or someone, to occupy his time. “And where’s my damn water?” “Mr. Clark, this is not a hotel, it’s a sheriff’s office,” one of the uniformed officers say, walking by. He spares me a glance, but most of his attention is on Jeff who continues to hoot and holler about the treatment. When the officer walks away, Jeff grabs my attention and bursts out laughing, causing me to chuckle. But my spirit was gone. In two days, I’ll be introducing myself to my cellmate, hoping they weren’t as horrible as entertainment sources say they are. Maybe I’ll get someone like Jeff, just sober and more manners, hopefully. I’m still lying down when two cops abruptly rush by, their radios going off with people shouting on the other side. I get up and try to steal a peek at what’s going on, failing when I can’t see anything. “You know what’s going on, Jeff?” I question, pressing myself as close as I can to the bars. I can hear shouting, and at some points, I even think I hear Langston and Petri discussing something, but that’s it. “Nope,” he answers, “and I still want my damn water.” I ignore Jeff, trying even harder to hear what was going on. “Move that prisoner now,” I hear Langston shout, “I don’t care about the others, just get Roe.” A shaking officer appears, in his hands the keys to my cell. Gunshots go off in the distance, causing all of us to jump in shock. The officer begins to cry, tears running down his face as he tries to unlock the gate. [[Grab his arm.]] [[Snatch the keys.]] [[Wait till he opens it.]]

I grab his arm, pulling him towards me and causing him to ram right into the cell’s bars. His forehead collides with the bars, and as soon as I let him go, he’s on the ground, groaning in pain. With the keys now in my hands, I get to work on unlocking my cell. “Woo-wee, you gonna let me out next, right?” Jeff asks, tapping his lock, giving me an almost smug look. I look from him to his lock. [[Free Jeff.][$freejeff = true]] [[Keep going.|LPKG]]

I groan profoundly and approach the bars, grabbing the keys from the man. “Fuck outta here!” I scream at the guy, and he doesn’t need to be told twice. The man immediately runs away, sobbing about how he doesn’t want to die and how he has a family, the usual. I position myself by the gate, trying out the various keys until I get to the right one. “Woo-wee, you gonna let me out next, right?” Jeff asks, tapping his lock, giving me an almost smug look. I look from him to his lock. [[Free Jeff.][$freejeff = true]] [[Keep going.|LPKG]]

I wait patiently, deciding to knock him out once he unlocks the cell. I lunge towards him and spin him into the cell, grabbing the keys as I go. Seeing that he was already unfocused, the task wasn’t hard and with a smirk, I lock him in the cell. “Woo-wee, you gonna let me out next, right?” Jeff asks, tapping his lock, giving me an almost smug look. I look from him to his lock. [[Free Jeff.][$freejeff = true]] [[Keep going.|LPKG]]

I roll my eyes but unlock his cell. “Exit is this way, compadre,” Jeff states, running the opposite way, away from whatever is going on. Knowing that this is probably my rescue, I wave Jeff off. He doesn’t seem to be bothered, he just goes right on his way, waving me off. I continue heading towards the central area when an officer rounds the corner, eyes widening when he sees me. [[Pretend to beg for help.]] [[Immediately attack.]]

“Sorry, Jeff,” I say, shrugging my shoulders as I continue along my way. I expect to be bombarded with some curses and phrases that only a drunk like Jeff can think up, but instead, he just says goodbye. Though I refused to let him out, I have a feeling that Jeff can let himself out. Either that or he was just going to go back to sleep. I continue heading towards the central area when an officer rounds the corner, eyes widening when he sees me. [[Pretend to beg for help.]] [[Immediately attack.]]

“Oh, thank god,” I start, rushing towards him, “you gotta help me.” I get closer and once I’m in range, send my knee to his gut and then punch him. I hardly had any energy, thanks to not eating much and sleep being the worst thing ever on that mat. But the punch knocks the man out, and I follow the sound of screams and shouts. The lights overhead flicker on and off as I navigate my way through the station, finding the storage room and grabbing my phone, wallet, and bookbag. I set out once again, sprinting down the hall and turning. <<include "LP3_1">>

Before he can do anything, I lunge forward and tackle him. He hits the floor with a loud thud, and I deliver punch after punch, my movement slowing as my energy wanes considerably. I know I hadn’t eaten much but dang. Thankfully, the punches do their job, and the man lays still. After making sure he won’t follow, I go and follow the sound of screams and shouts. The lights overhead flicker on and off as I navigate my way through the station, finding the storage room and grabbing my phone, wallet, and bookbag. I set out once again, sprinting down the hall and turning. <<include "LP3_1">>

“Guys –,” I start, but my words die in my throat if they had even gotten that far. I cock my head to the side, as if the angle would allow me to see the scene differently, paint a new one that made much more sense. Sydero gazes over at me, the brightest of the red’s in her eyes seem to swim, like a predator lurking through a bloody ocean. Her eyes move from me to the figure which she has by the neck, their blood covering her hands like a glove. The once living man was no longer identifiable. His face was contorted in an assortment of ‘creative’ ways, all which had been dealt by the hand of Sydero. He looks less like a man, and more like a creature. Someone whose face had gotten jumbled up by a blender and then was forgotten where each feature was supposed to sit. I’ve seen my share of death, but up this close, and knowing the person who had done it, it causes bile to rise. “And now you know,” Sydero chuckles, disrespecting the body further by lazily tossing it away. She looks at her fingertips in disgust. This woman, this thing … this wasn’t Sydero. Or maybe that’s just it, this was her. The woman I knew, wasn’t. “I hope this reaffirms the lesson I tried to teach you about trusting people.” Her tone was laidback, not matching the dire situation and her current predicament. “Sydero,” is all I find myself saying, my words still being held hostage in my throat. They didn’t even feel like my words. “Should’ve walked away when you could,” she adds with a yawn, turning her back to me as she observes her work. I don’t know for sure, but what looks to be six individual officers rests around us, each looking more mangled than the last. “What the hell are you?” I question, though a piece of me already knows, can already figure it out. Everything, from her behavior to her words, to her entire appearance, screams the same thing to me. She turns and gives me a wicked toothy grin, “don’t you know a demon when you see one?” <a data-passage="EP9NT"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/nexttime.png"> <img src="images/divider.png"> “To start,” Bradley begins, looking from Syd to me, “I knew what she was.” “I figured that much out. You didn't seem exactly shocked at the demon part.” I state. <img src="images/divider.png"> “We don’t know where Raum is or what he’s planning,” Sydero reminds us. “Did he let anything slip when he was attacking you?” I ask, and she shakes her head. “All he said was that he was done playing games and that all of this was about to end.” “So he’s making his move soon,” I sigh, “but that’s all we got. We don’t know where he is, what he’s planning, or anything really.” “There might be a way,” Sydero says, standing and going into the kitchen. She comes back out with her bowl and sets it down on the coffee table. <img src="images/divider.png"> I’m about to continue practicing when a sullen wind rolls in, and with it a putrid aroma. I spot a dark mist on the horizon, getting closer and closer to our current location. [[Episode Ten: The Thing About Safehouses]]

<>\ <<set $fired = false; $custody = false>> <<audio "prologue" fadeout>> <<playlist "ambience" loop play>> <>\ <img src="images/epone.png"> <img src="images/actone.png"> "And then what happens?" The darkness evaporates, and in its stead rests a fluorescent white light <<if $dark_sight>>that irritates my sensitive eye. Rubbing at it,<<else>>.<</if>> I glance at the woman sitting stoically before me, commending her for her brave face. It's almost believable. Almost. Yet, I have seen far too many therapists to know the signs of barely constrained horror. Always that or the slight rise in their brow that tells me they're thinking of whether or not they should lock me away. "Nothing. I woke up after that." I fiddle with a loose string from the sofa as the last few images of the dream leave. "And this specific dream? Do you have it often? And always the same way?" "No. More comes back to me each time as if trying to complete the overall picture." "So, you believe that's not the end? That something happens after this darkness consumes you?" "Maybe. It feels like the end. I mean, what more can happen, right?" I chuckle nervously, releasing the thread and placing my hands in my lap. They don't remain there for long. "Let's say this is the last time you'll ever have this dream. How would you feel about that? Relieved? Worried?" [[“Confused.”|1.00Confused]] [[“Yea, definitely relieved.”|1.00Relieved]] [[“Worried.”|1.00Worried]] [[“Indifferent.”|1.00Indifference]]

"More like confused, I think." "Why that emotion?" "What was it all for? To help me relive trauma? I'd rather have blocked it out and act like everything was fine." "Rarely do our minds care about what we want," she laughs, hardly earning a snort on my part. I found hardly anything funny about any part of this situation. She's not the one who will be haunted by reminders of what supposedly happened that night. <<include "1.00">>

"Relief?" "Are you asking or telling?" "Guessing. I know I wouldn't necessarily be upset so maybe ... yea, maybe relief is it. Relieved that it's over and I can finally move on." A look of doubt crosses her face, but I do my best to ignore it. I want to live in my made-up world where trauma is something I can run from and actually escape. <<include "1.00">>

"Oh," I snort, "that's not even a hard one. Worried." "Why so?" "The end of my dream is me meeting an overwhelming darkness. I don't even want to think about what that may mean." "Freedom?" she questions, and though I don't necessarily agree, I also don't comment on the topic further. Freedom would be forgetting this dream altogether. As long as I remember even a scrap of it, I will never be free. I will always be chained down by the thoughts and the confusion surrounding that entire night. <<include "1.00">>

"Honestly," I shrug, "I can't see myself feeling one way over the other." "Really?" "Part of me keeps saying it's nothing but a dream, and that's that. But then, on the flip side, it's ..." I trail off, not knowing what word to use. "I see," she responds, writing something down that causes my frown to deepen. <<include "1.00">>

"And when was the last time you had this dream? Not counting this most recent time, of course." I shake my head, trying to recall. "Um, three or four years ago, maybe. That one ended with my mother dying." "So, right around the time you started college?" she asks, but it feels more like a statement. She busies herself with writing something down. "It may be connected to stress. Perhaps your brain's way of trying to explain away the trauma. Graduation is coming up, and your future is being questioned. These are things that can surely bring upon stress." <<if $dark_burns>>\ "Then why does the dream explain how I got these?" I question ... [[... holding up my visible arms.|1.00Burns][$darkburns_visible to true]] [[... pushing down my sleeves to show my hidden arms.|1.00Burns]] <<elseif $dark_truth>>\ "Then why does the dream explain how I got this?" I question, pointing to the scar resting along my jaw. Even with proper healing, it proved too deep and remained a haunting dark red shade. At times, I forget that the scar still rests there, and I pay for it when I accidentally scratch and find a deep gully on the side of my face. "Your records show that you had an accident. You slipped and fell on exposed metal. It says that the cut was gravely infected and almost killed you. Perhaps this is your brain's way of coping with that information." I let out an exasperated sigh, shaking my head and leaning back in my seat. She's right. I remember the metal slicing through my skin as I clutched my jaw in horror. Weeks of grasping for a life that felt like it was slipping away. Missing my mother's death ... <a data-passage="1.01"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<elseif $dark_control>>\ "Then why does the dream explain how I got the scars over my heart?" I question, knowing she's seen the images. Mangled skin that always reminded me of some writhen, horror painting. In fact, if it was simply that, then it would be beautiful, in a way. A piece displaying the symbolism of a wounded heart. But my skin was not the proper canvas, and beauty has never come to mind. "Your records show that you were caught up in an unfortunate robbery. The bullet just barely missed your heart, but your mother was killed. Perhaps this is your brain's way of coping with this information." I let out an exasperated sigh, shaking my head and leaning back in my seat. But she is right. I remember the event, the sounds of gunshots ringing in my ear, the panicked screams from everyone nearby. And that quiet yet oh-so-clear sound of my heart slowing, the beats fading with every loud thrum. <a data-passage="1.01"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ "Then why does the dream explain how I got this?" I question, pointing to the scar and the eye it inevitably affected. It reminds me of the characters I'd see on television. The fantasy action heroes fought some grotesque creature, and though they emerged victorious, they were permanently marked. Only, my scar was not earned by valiant means, and I find it far more irritating than epic. Light irritates me and only recently have I gotten used to the sectoral heterchromia that resulted from the damage. "Your records show that you were in a car accident that caused your eye wound. The doctors were sure you would either lose the eye or go blind. Regretfully, your mother was killed. Perhaps this is your brain's way of coping with this information." I squint at nothing in particular. She is right, of course. I remember the event, the panic from the driver, my mother's screams, and the glass shattering as metal collided with metal. And glass with flesh. Still, I can't remember what I was doing, but something inside snickers as it tells me that the crash falls on my shoulders. <a data-passage="1.01"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

<>\ <<if settings.choiceShow>> <<if $darkburns_visible>><<notify 5s>>You have no problem with your burns being visible to onlookers.<</notify>><<else>><<notify 5s>>You typically wear long sleeves to hide your burn marks from wayward eyes.<</notify>><</if>> <</if>> <>\ I <<if $darkburns_visible>>hold up my arms<<else>>push down my sleeves<</if>> to show her the permanent reminder of that day. The skin tone along my hands and forearms is severely lighter than my true tone, causing the skin to look like long, splotchy gloves. She peers at them for only a moment before looking down at her notebook. "Your records show that you were severely burned in a house fire, the same one that took your mother's life. Perhaps this is your brain's way of coping with this information." My mouth opens to argue. To point out that the dreams constantly show that I am the cause, but these words receive no further development. My recounts are dark enough. There is hardly any good reason to magnify them. I let out an exasperated sigh,<<if $darkburns_visible is false>> push my sleeves back down and lean back in my seat<<else>> shaking my head and leaning back in my seat<</if>>. Ultimately, she's right. I remember the fire, the feeling of passing out as the flames licked my skin, the smell of acrid smoke invading my nostrils. I can even recall my mother screaming for me to help her, begging for me to save her from the bed she had been condemned to. And I certainly could not forget how I chose to run. Does it matter which is true? Either way—dream or reality—I killed my mother. <<include "1.01">>

"Humor me, if you can. During these dreams, do you ever find yourself facing a certain fear? Something that might not be clear initially but is a repetitive theme?" I think about her words, my mind painfully going back over my dreams. "I think so. There is one fear." "What is it?" [[Fear of being corrupted.|1.01.1][$m_fear to "evil"]] [[Being unloved.|1.01.1][$m_fear to "unloved"]] [[Becoming insignificant.|1.01.1][$m_fear to "insignificant"]] [[Being left with no friends or allies.|1.01.1][$m_fear to "supportless"]]

<<if $m_fear is "evil">>\ "The best way I know to word it is that I end up evil. It's not the best word I know, but there's this darker version of me—a version that isn't me." "As if you were corrupted?" "Yes, exactly. And I'm there, the real me, I mean. I'm present for all of it, but this is the new me, and I can do nothing about it." <<elseif $m_fear is "unloved">>\ "I give the folks closest to me everything I have, and it's not enough. It never is. I'm just ... thrown away." "You feel unloved?" I don't immediately agree. Hearing someone else say the words strike something profound within me, but I nod after a few seconds. <<elseif $m_fear is "insignificant">>\ "It always starts out okay. I'm doing my best, and it's enough, but then ... I don't know what changes, but suddenly it isn't, and I'm just worthless. I can't do anything. I'm nothing. "As if you were insignificant? Or worthless?" "Sure," I state, trying to sound apathetic. <<else>>\ "It's always the same thing, really. Maybe the person changes, but I'm this fighter. I defend everyone, but then, when I need that same attention and defense, I'm alone. When I need help, I have no one." "So you are without a support system?" I hold in my snort. I can practically hear my uncle arguing such a thought. "Yea. Exactly that." <</if>>\ She stares at me, and I back at her, though my thoughts are elsewhere. She clears her throat and clicks her pen. "Well, it seems we've run out of time for today." She closes her notebook and, despite her words, seems to grow comfortable as she regards me. "Just in time for you to get to work. How is that going by the way?" [[“It’s hell.”|1.01Hell][$optimistic -=10]] [[“Well it’s going.”|1.01GoingGoingGone][$optimistic -=5]] [[“I have nothing to complain about.”|1.01NothingToComplainAbout][$optimistic +=5]] [[“Great! I think I’ll be promoted soon.”|1.01Promoted][$optimistic +=10]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Pessimistic ++<</if>> I laugh, "it's hell if I'm to be honest. A job in all the worst ways." She nods in understanding. "I would imagine it to be very stressful. You're a full-time college student who works, and who knows what else you do in your spare time. Add on this tumultuous trauma, and it can grow tiring." I say nothing as I gather my things. <<include "1.02">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pessimistic ++<</if>> "Well ... it's going." "I suppose that means it's neither good nor bad." "Basically. Though I'd say that it leans closer to bad." "I would imagine it to be very stressful. You're a full-time college student who works, and who knows what else you do in your spare time. Add on this tumultuous trauma, and it can grow tiring." I say nothing as I gather my things. <<include "1.02">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Optimistic ++<</if>> "I don't have anything to complain about. At least I have a job that treats me fairly and pays me on time." She hums. "I would imagine it to be very stressful. You're a full-time college student who works, and who knows what else you do in your spare time. Add on this tumultuous trauma, and it can grow tiring. But it is nice to know that you are coping." I say nothing as I gather my things. <<include "1.02">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Optimistic ++<</if>> "So far, it's going great, actually. There's even talks of a promotion." She nods, pleased to hear such words. "You deserve it. Full-time college student, plus a hard worker, and who knows what else you do in your spare time. Add on this tumultuous trauma, and it can grow tiring. But it is nice to know that you are coping." I say nothing as I gather my things. <<include "1.02">>

"This guardian of yours," she starts as we head to the exit, "do you still see them?" I stiffen, wishing to keep walking and behave like I never heard her question. I didn't want to remember that ... that thing. Regardless of whether my dreams were veridical, I didn't wish to remember the figure I once sought comfort in. "No." "As a child, what was it to you?" [[“A guardian.”|1.02Guardian]] [[“A friend.”|1.02Friend]] [[“I don’t know.”|1.02IDK]]

"A guardian, I suppose." "And what was it guarding you against?" I shrug. "I don't know." A lie. Up until the moment it proved differently, I believed it to be the soul of my father. I've never known the man, having died before I was born and so I suspected the figure to be his spirit. A faith-built belief ... [[... when I'm not religious.|1.03]] [[... due to me being religious.|1.03][$religious to true]]

"It was like a friend if anything." "Did you not have any //human// friends?" "Not really. <<if $dark_burns>>Children were always mean to me and picked on me for my arms.<<elseif $dark_sight>>Children were always mean to me and picked on me for my eye and my scar.<<elseif $dark_truth>>Children were always mean to me and picked on me for my scar.<<else>>I had a few but none that really stuck.<</if>> I then became a target due to having a sickly mother and a dead father." "Huh. We haven't really touched on the topic of your father." "There's nothing to touch," I say a bit too harshly. "He died before I was even born." In truth, until it proved differently, I believed it to be my father's soul. Since he would never have the opportunity to know me, this was his way of being there. A faith-built belief ... [[... when I'm not religious.|1.03]] [[... due to me being religious.|1.03][$religious to true]]

"I ... I don't really know." "Can you try to explain? Maybe we can both figure it out." "It was there for me, but I never considered it a friend. I guess I knew it was just some figment of my imagination, so I didn't really let it go past that. I entertained it when it was around, but that was about it." A partial truth, one that I've gotten used to saying to avoid looking crazier than others have already decided. Until it proved differently, I believed it to be my father's soul. Since he would never have the opportunity to know me, this was his way of being there. A faith-built belief ... [[... when I'm not religious.|1.03]] [[... due to me being religious.|1.03][$religious to true]]

"Well," she continues, "maybe this dark figure represents the evil that took your mother from you. And in some cases, you find it to be your fault. Self-flagellation somewhat, as it always keeps some pieces from you while also only ever arising when you're already stressed. Either way, we can talk more about it during our next session." She offers me a friendly smile before turning and heading back inside. That next session will mark my longest time with a therapist. Turning back to the parking lot, I find myself ... [[... pulling out my carton of cigarettes.|1.03Cigs][$badhabit to "cigs"]] [[... rubbing my eye tiredly.|1.03Insomnia][$badhabit to "sleep"]] [[... biting my nails.|1.03Nails][$badhabit to "nails"]] [[... walking to my car.|1.03None]]

Absentmindedly, I pull out the carton that always rests in one of my available pockets. I pull out a single cigarette and light it before my mind catches up to my actions. My uncle says it's a bad habit that I need to drop. And I suppose I can't argue, seeing that if anyone would know about bad habits and stress, it's him. And yes, I listen, but that doesn't mean I have any plans on actually following through. My thoughts head back to the therapist's words. Could she be right? This dream is rare but horribly ironic. Every time I begin to forget about it, it extends itself as if to remind me of its validity. <<include "1.03.1">>

I rub at my eye, and joined by that action is a yawn. When was the last time I actually had a good night's sleep? I take naps, but they are never long enough to constitute anything more than glorified blinking. The problem is never actually sleeping; it's staying in the state of sleep. It'll take hours for it to come, and when it finally hits, I wake up an hour or so later. I fight back another yawn, annoyed already and deciding to shift my attention. My thoughts head back to the therapist's words. Could she be right? This dream is rare but horribly ironic. Every time I begin to forget about it, it extends itself as if to remind me of its validity. <<include "1.03.1">>

Absentmindedly, I start chewing on one of my nails, only realizing what I'm doing when my teeth fail to grasp anything. Of course, the habit has completely decimated my nails. They'll start to grow, but I'll stop them in their tracks before they can grasp onto too much hope. Sighing, I shift my thoughts to other things like the therapist's words. Could she be right? This dream is rare but horribly ironic. Every time I begin to forget about it, it extends itself as if to remind me of its validity. <<include "1.03.1">>

I head straight to my car, allowing the therapist's words to replay over in my head. Could she be right? This dream is rare but horribly ironic. Every time I begin to forget about it, it extends itself as if to remind me of its validity. <<include "1.03.1">>

Fumbling with my keys, I pause and look back at the building. She could be onto something. This could just be my mind's way of dealing with all the trauma I've faced. My permanent scar, my parent's death, feeling like I wasn't there for my mother, and the cause of her passing. Anything else makes little sense, especially seeing what my dreams consist of. The only element in my dreams that I doubt is the presence of the shadow entity. The sane part of me keeps reiterating that it was always my imagination. But something deeper just rolls its eyes and appears highly doubtful. Maybe I really was just falling back on the image of it to further visualize my inner pain? I finally unlock my car. A ... [[... a Dodge Challenger.|1.04][$car to "Dodge Challenger"]] [[... a Ford F-150.|1.04][$car to "Ford F-150"]] [[... a Honda Civic.|1.04][$car to "Honda Civic"]] [[... a Jeep Wrangler.|1.04][$car to "Jeep Wrangler"]]

A gift from my uncle. When my world came crashing down, he was there. Before my conception, he had lost his child and wife due to birth issues, followed soon by my father's death. He told me how the stacking deaths had just been too much for him, and he turned to drinking. It lasted all the way up until my mother gave birth to me. From there, he made a promise to be present in my life—present and sober. He was the first to envelop me in a hug after what happened and the only person who could ever say tell me that they understood and I have no doubts. He took me in, and though the next few years were hard, he helped me through. We helped each other. [[He reminded me of my purpose for living. :: Trigger Warning-Suicide Mentions ::|1.04Purpose][$optimistic +=10; $suicidal to true]] [[No matter how much I fought him, he never gave up on me.|1.04NeverGaveUp][$pacifist -=10]] [[He refused to let me carry the entire weight.|1.04CarryWeight][$stubborn +=10]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Optimistic ++<</if>> They were dark days, and at times, I felt like I wouldn't make it. I didn't wish to make it ... Everything had happened all at once, and no matter how hard I sought it, I couldn't catch a break. I withdrew within myself and, with fangs bared, told everyone to stay back. The more they listened, the deeper I sank until the pit seemed impossible to climb out of. But my uncle was stubborn and refused to give up on me. No matter what he had to do or how many times the ladder snapped. He simply sent another down until I made it out. He didn't back down and never let me forget my importance. <<include "1.05">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> They were dark days. I lashed out as if I were a primitive being, and he caught the brunt of it, being that I lived under his roof. I did what I wished and cared little for the consequences. I would repeatedly push his buttons and dare him to retaliate. I went out, hung out with the wrong crew, and more than once found myself coming home in the back of a police cruiser. He punished me when I deserved to be reprimanded but there was always care after the harsh truth. After a while of dancing, I finally stopped fighting him and others. I became me. <<include "1.05">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++<</if>> They were dark days. At first, I forgot that, like me, he had also lost people important to him. I was selfish with my pain. My mother was ripped from my grasp at such a young age and in such an unfair way. But he had lost a sister-in-law, a brother, a wife, and a child. And though I was selfish, depriving him of his grieving at times, he never held it against me. He helped me the entire way. <<include "1.05">>

Through middle and high school, our combined strength kept me going. Graduating high school was a feat in itself, something many thought I would never be able to accomplish. Truthfully, even I possessed doubts. I was a broken teen with a mounting amount of issues that failed to see any resolution. The majority of my teachers felt only stress in regards to me. They had given up on me, turned their backs on seeing me become anything sculptable by their teachings and wisdom. I forced myself to do extra activities to get my mind off everything. I thought the more I did, the less time I would have to remember, and therefore, the dreams and pain would lessen. I'd be left safe behind a barrier of stressful foolhardiness. Despite my best intentions, the load got the better of me and stopped nothing. The pain kept coming, the dreams still bothered me, and my teachers did not let up. But regardless, I learned skills and formed new hobbies. [[I enjoyed working with my hands, creating new things.|1.05.1][$engineering +=25]] [[I participated in numerous sports.|1.05.1][$combat +=25]] [[I got into creative projects.|1.05.1][$creativity +=25]] [[I got into computer programming and code work.|1.05.1][$engineering +=25]] [[I took martial art classes, choosing a worthy discipline.|1.05.1][$combat +=25]] [[I learned how to help others through the use of medicine.|1.05.1][$medical +=25]] [[I became interested in debates and a bit of politics.|1.05.1][$charisma +=25]]

After graduation, my uncle pushed me to pursue college, reassuring me that he'd help me pay for it. Along with that, some scholarships, and my own personal money, I was able to get into a college close by. I chose to major in ... [[Creative Arts.|1.06][$cmajor to "Creative Arts"; $creativity +=20]] [[Nursing.|1.06][$cmajor to "Nursing"; $medical +=20; $charisma +=10]] [[Education.|1.06][$cmajor to "Education"; $charisma +=20]] [[Law or Criminal Justice.|1.06][$cmajor to "Criminal Justice"; $combat +=10; $charisma +=10]] [[Exercise Science.|1.06][$cmajor to "Exercise Science"; $combat +=20; $medical +=10]] [[Communications.|1.06][$cmajor to "Communications"; $charisma +=20; $creativity +=10]] [[Business.|1.06][$cmajor to "Business"; $charisma +=20]] [[Psychology.|1.06][$cmajor to "Psychology"; $medical +=10; $charisma +=10]] [[Computer Science.|1.06][$cmajor to "Computer Science"; $engineering +=20]]

I drive to my place of employment, occupying my mind with anything but the words of my therapist. Instinctually, I head for my usual parking spot, which I claimed all but physically over the past two years of working here. At first, it wasn't common. Typically if my place was occupied it was due to a new hire not understanding the hierarchy or someone coming in and leaving just as quickly. But lately it has been happening more and more often and those guilty of it have no respect. So, when I see a car residing there today, I practically feel my eye start to twitch. I find another spot, park, and head towards the offending car. [[Go inside and ask about it.|1.06.1]] [[Check to see if I recognize the car.|1.06CheckItOut]] [[Key the car.|1.06KeyThatBitch]]

It's a pretty blue BMW with an unrecognizable license plate from another state. I can spot no blemishes, and it looks recently washed. The inside is tidy, with nothing but a pair of large fluffy white dice hanging from the rearview mirror to help me discern whose car it is. For all I know, the driver is unaware and part of my former guesses of being a new hire or guest. The new hire will get a pass, but the guest one will not, as these are employee-only spots. Finishing my inspection, I conclude that I've never seen the car, but I know someone who probably has. <<include "1.06.1">>

I've had a shit day. And though my conscience tells me I shouldn't pull another into my mess, I don't care. Fuck my conscience. I grab my keys, and as I walk past, I dig the key into the metal, hearing that horrible—yet oddly satisfying—screech of metal being scratched. I stop before getting to the passenger's side door, whistling and pocketing my keys with a devilish grin. The asshole shouldn't have taken my spot, I don't care who they are. <<include "1.06.1">>

Hardly two minutes inside, and I am already made privy to the daily dose of drama that my co-workers always have to share. Most are about crazy exes, overhyped pregnancy scandals, upcoming parties, and finals. Everyone at The Alley is either a college student, a dropout, or has enough common sense not to attend in the first place but still needed an in-between job. They made for interesting conversation on the best of days. Other times, it only serves as a minor distraction from the crappy tips and rude customers. The Alley is a small amusement park with a bowling alley, skating rink, mini-golf area, laser tag, bumper cars, bouncy house, and arcade areas. There are two fully-fledged restaurants here, not counting the room for private parties and birthdays. There are also two bar areas, one inside near the bowling section and another near the outdoor pool and restaurant. It's a popular tourist attraction and a hotspot for both the young and old in town. And with the approach of summer, our days will only get longer and harder. [[It's a great job, not a career choice, but I love it nevertheless.|1.07][$optimistic +=10]] [[It's a decent job, good pay and company but that's about it.|1.07][$optimistic +=5]] [[I hate the job but I need it so what can I do?|1.07][$optimistic -=10]] [[I'm indifferent about the job, I show up, work, and then go home.|1.07][$optimistic -=5]]

I double-check today's schedule before heading to the pool area where my close friend, Chris, should also be. Sure enough, he's there with his vape pen in hand, and speaking with a few of our other co-workers. When he finally spots me, he grins like the Cheshire cat. "Did you see that we're on outdoor bar duty? Those tips are about to be rollin' in." <<if $optimistic >=50>>\ "Nice. If we're lucky, we'll get a nice mix of folks." "Right. And here I was, questioning if I'll be forced to eat your leftovers until finals." I shake my head with a smile. "By the way, do you know whose car is in my spot?" <<else>>\ "Yea, let's just hope we don't get the crowd allergic to tipping." "Hey, try to keep that pessimism away from my side of the bar. Today, we're all about million-dollar smiles and perky attitudes." I give him a dead-pan stare before saying, "sure. Also, do you know whose car is in my spot?" <</if>>\ "Someone's in your spot?" he asks, seeming just as shocked. Like me, Chris has been working here for the past two years. We actually found out about it and applied together. As part of the senior staff, we practically claimed our parking spots. It's basically an unspoken understanding: if you see a car in a spot, then it's permanently taken, and you should look for a new one. It was a problem we didn't really have here. "Yep, a blue BMW. Know anyone who drives that?" He takes a long puff of his e-cig<<if $badhabit is "cigs">>, causing me to regret having thrown mine out before entering.<<else>> and closes his eyes, rocking back and forth slightly.<</if>> "No one. None of us have the money for a damn BMW. Did it look new?" <<if hasVisited("1.06KeyThatBitch")>>\ "Sure ... until I keyed it." He coughs, pulling the e-cig from his lips as he tries to control himself. His coughing fit soon turns to a chuckle and he shakes his head in what some may believe is disappointment. "You're an ass." "The law around here is simple. Don't park in my spot." The appearance of our manager brings the conversation to a pause, and I raise an interested brow at the man walking alongside her. <<else>>\ How was I supposed to tell, Chris? Did you want me to try opening the door?" He shrugs, "I'd have." The entrance of our manager brings the conversation to a pause, and I raise an interested brow at the man walking alongside her. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="1.08"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"Afternoon, crew. I'd like to introduce you to our new General Manager, Mr. Pinsky. He's going to be supervising you today to get a better understanding of how our days usually go." "Nice to meet you, Mr. Pinksy," Chris greets, turning his pen off and tucking it in his pocket. "Nice BMW, by the way. Is it new?" "Yes," the man answers, stepping away from our manager. "Well, there you go. <<if hasVisited("1.06KeyThatBitch")>>You are most definitely fired,<<else>>Case closed, Watson,<</if>>" he mumbles to me, shooting me a challenging grin that I ignore. Mr. Pinsky begins to hand each of us a card as he explains his station, purpose, and the point of the cards. Suddenly, I'm thrust back to my freshman orientation class three years ago. "I'll review each of you and write down my notes on these cards. Later, I'll give them to your manager and speak to her about them. The Alley has huge potential, and I plan to expand on it. If that means you no longer fit, then so be it." A low mumble of discontent spreads through my coworkers. The pressure of trying to act overly professional is hard enough, and now we have no other choice but to grin and bear it. I take a moment to look over the contents of the card. It asks the necessary things, most of which I surmise are already on file. //Note: Choose your pronouns. If you happen to forget or wish to change them later on in the story then simply head to ''Settings'' on the left sidebar and change them there.// <img src="images/divider.png"> <<link 'My pronouns are ...'>> <<pronouns>> <</link>> <<set _gender = ["Cis Male", "Trans Male", "Cis Female", "Trans Female", "Nonbinary"]>>''Select gender:'' <<listbox "$gender">> <<optionsfrom _gender>> <</listbox>> ''My gender was ...'' (nothing)<<script>> $(document).one(":passagerender", function (event) { /* Initial display of text pulled from the "gender Info X" passages. */ $(event.content).find("#gender-info").empty().wiki("<<include 'Gender Info " + State.variables.gender + "'>>"); /* Trigger text display upon listbox change. */ $(event.content).find("#listbox-gender").on("change", function (event) { /* Fade out text. */ $("#gender-info").fadeOut(500, function () { /* Update text and then fade it back in. */ $("#gender-info").empty().wiki("<<include 'Gender Info " + State.variables.gender + "'>>").fadeIn(500); }); }); }); <</script>> And though this is not on the card, the questions may you think about them regardless. //If you do not want to see explicit content then the next two choices are not necessary.// Choose your sex (genitals). <<set _sex = ["Vagina", "Penis", "No Disclose"]>><<listbox "$sex">> <<optionsfrom _sex>> <</listbox>> ''Sex:'' (nothing)<<script>> $(document).one(":passagerender", function (event) { /* Initial display of text pulled from the "Sex Info X" passages. */ $(event.content).find("#sex-info").empty().wiki("<<include 'Sex Info " + State.variables.sex + "'>>"); /* Trigger text display upon listbox change. */ $(event.content).find("#listbox-sex").on("change", function (event) { /* Fade out text. */ $("#sex-info").fadeOut(500, function () { /* Update text and then fade it back in. */ $("#sex-info").empty().wiki("<<include 'Sex Info " + State.variables.sex + "'>>").fadeIn(500); }); }); }); <</script>> <<set _chest = ["Breasts Present", "Breasts Not Present"]>>''Select chest:'' <<listbox "$chest">> <<optionsfrom _chest>> <</listbox>> ''Chest:'' (nothing)<<script>> $(document).one(":passagerender", function (event) { /* Initial display of text pulled from the "Chest Info X" passages. */ $(event.content).find("#chest-info").empty().wiki("<<include 'Chest Info " + State.variables.chest + "'>>"); /* Trigger text display upon listbox change. */ $(event.content).find("#listbox-chest").on("change", function (event) { /* Fade out text. */ $("#chest-info").fadeOut(500, function () { /* Update text and then fade it back in. */ $("#chest-info").empty().wiki("<<include 'Chest Info " + State.variables.chest + "'>>").fadeIn(500); }); }); }); <</script>> <a data-passage="1.08.1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Please state your name. <<textbox "$name" "" autofocus>><<button "Enter">><<replace "#name">>I write out $name Roe.<</replace>><</button>> <a data-passage="1.08.2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I prepare to hand the card back when Chris nudges me, flips it, and shows me that there is an entire backside. I flip my own over, shocked that the man wants us to fill out appearance information. "Who else feels like they're back in middle school taking some standardized test on a scantron?" Chris asks, clearing his throat when Mr. Pinsky looks his way. <<if $dark_sight>>//*Note: Your sectoral heterochromia will be referenced but not specified to allow wider headcanoning for your Roe.//<</if>> ''Eye Color'' <<if ndef $eyes>><<set $eyes = "brown">><</if>><<listbox "$eyes">> \ <<option "Brown" "brown" `$eyes == "brown" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Hazel" "hazel" `$eyes == "hazel" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Amber" "amber" `$eyes == "amber" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Green" "green" `$eyes == "green" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Blue" "blue" `$eyes == "blue" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Gray" "gray" `$eyes == "gray" ? "selected" : ""`>> <</listbox>> ''Length of Hair'' <<if ndef $length>><<set $length = "medium">><</if>><<listbox "$length">> <<option "Bald" "bald" `$length == "bald" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Short" "short" `$length == "short" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Medium" "medium" `$length == "medium" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Long" "long" `$length == "long" ? "selected" : ""`>> <</listbox>> ''Type of Hair'' <<if ndef $type>><<set $type = "wavy">><</if>><<listbox "$type">> <<option "Straight" "straight" `$type == "straight" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Curly" "curly" `$type == "curly" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Wavy" "wavy" `$type == "wavy" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Kinky" "kinky" `$type == "kinky" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Braids" "braids" `$type == "braids" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Dreads" "dreads" `$type == "dreads" ? "selected" : ""`>> <</listbox>> ''Color of Hair'' <<if ndef $color>><<set $color = "brown">><</if>><<listbox "$color">> <<option "Black" "black" `$color == "black" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Brown" "brown" `$color == "brown" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Red" "red" `$color == "red" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Blonde" "blonde" `$color == "blonde" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "White" "white" `$color == "white" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Blue" "blue" `$color == "blue" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Pink" "pink" `$color == "pink" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Purple" "purple" `$color == "purple" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Green" "green" `$color == "green" ? "selected" : ""`>> <</listbox>> //*Note: For story and variable purposes: short is anything below 5'2(157.48cm), tall is anything above 6'0(182.88cm), and average anything between that. The character's heights and how they will be referenced to is found in their bios. For characters, height does differ depending on sex, it does not for Roe.// ''Height'' <<if ndef $height>><<set $height = "average">><</if>><<listbox "$height">> <<option "Short" "short" `$height == "short" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Average" "average" `$height == "average" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Tall" "tall" `$height == "tall" ? "selected" : ""`>> <</listbox>> ''Number of Tattoos'' <<if ndef $tattoo>><<set $tattoo = "none">><</if>><<listbox "$tattoo">> <<option "None" "none" `$tattoo == "none" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Few" "few" `$tattoo == "few" ? "selected" : ""`>> <<option "Several" "several" `$tattoo == "several" ? "selected" : ""`>> <</listbox>> <a data-passage="1.09"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Man, if life was a video game, I'd have just saved to ensure I would never have to do that again. Upon his return, we return the cards. <<if $dark_burns and $darkburns_visible>>He freezes at me, eyeing the scarred markings along my arms in horror. I clear my throat and sigh inwardly. At the very least make it less obvious.<<elseif $dark_truth or $dark_sight>>He freezes when he gets to me, <<if $dark_sight>>his eyes widening as he looks over the scar resting over my affected eye.<<else>>eyeing the deep scar on my cheek with a raised brow.<</if>> I clear my throat, and he realizes what he's doing.<<else>>He nods his thanks and continues his task.<</if>> With the cards all completed and collected, he and our manager retreat, leaving us to continue preparing for what feels like a long day. The day starts like any other. The best part about working at the outdoor bar is the attractive company and the large tips earned by a few flirtatious smiles and well-placed compliments. I've learned that curating just the right vibe will open many up, improving my chances of a well-sought-after tip. Chris' primary audience is women; age and appearance matter little. He adores working in this area strictly due to how well he does compared to any other station. Our dress code is more superficial and follows a tropical theme, allowing Chris to wear clothes that complement his athletic physique. He has never shied away from muscle tank tops and loose swim trunks that give away just enough to elicit an active imagination. With a small smirk, I watch as a woman takes a seductive sip of the drink Chris passes to her. She lets her eyes roam over his body before writing down her number and sliding it over to him along with a twenty-dollar tip. "Excuse me." I turn my attention to the patron approaching my side of the bar. //*Note: The next few choices will determine your orientation and sexual and romantic attraction. For more information on romance and the individual characters see the [[Affiliates|Sidebar_Affiliates]].// [[A pretty young woman.|1.09Women][$int to "women"]] [[A handsome young man.|1.09Men][$int to "men"]] [[I was fine with anyone, it just happened to be a handsome young man this time.|1.09Men][$int to "all"]] [[It didn't matter, I wasn't interested at all, but it was a young woman.|1.09Women][$int to "none"]]

"How can I help you?" I ask, plastering a smile on my face. "Can I get a Strawberry-Lemon Mojito?" I nod and immediately begin to prep the overly-ordered drink. I top it off with a beautiful flower ornament and slide it to her. "This flower is beautiful. Does it always come with the drink?" she asks, gently touching the flower as if scared it would fall apart under the pressure of her touch. "No, I just didn't think the drink was pretty enough to give to a girl as gorgeous as you." I chuckle softly and send her another warm smile, one she returns immediately. "Is that like some undercover compliment?" "Nothing undercover about it." She snickers and cocks her head to the side as if she is now seeing me differently. "Thank you, that's nice of you." She seems to try and calm her blush but after multiple failed attempts, she just gives up. Her friends call her over and she thanks me by placing a twenty in my tip jar. <<if $int is "none">>It is not until she is out of sight that I drop the charade, sighing internally.<</if>> <<if $int is "none">><a data-passage="1.10"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a><<else>><a data-passage="1.09.1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a><</if>>

"How can I help you?" I ask. "A Rum and Tonic," he states, placing his ID and credit card down. I grab the card and lazily check the ID before getting to work on my next drink. I give him a quick look over, trying to figure out how I would earn my extra tip. He appears like any of the other college frat guys that show up; even his swim trunks hold the symbol of his fraternity. I fight the need to turn to Chris and make a joke, choosing to focus on typecasting the stranger. He pulls out his phone to take a selfie, and I choose to photobomb—a risky maneuver but one that I have confidence in. He doesn't kick me out, but he does laugh, turning to face me with a raised brow. "Do you want to make it look like you're having fun? Include me," I joke, and he smiles, backing up more. I lean forward seductively, and he matches my vibe almost immediately, taking the picture before showing me. "You're really photogenic, or it could be that you're naturally handsome," I compliment. "Thanks, I'm trying to be a model." I nod, you and everyone else that comes in here with glistening six-pack abs. "Nice, I can definitely see it," I lie with the most genuine smile I can muster. He smiles again before handing me a twenty and sending me a wink, leaving to join his friends. <a data-passage="1.09.1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Chris sighs dramatically, "that last girl didn't even ask for my number." "Would you have given it to her?" I question, wiping down my station. "Hell yea. I mean, I would've just chosen a one-night stand, but no one's judging, right?" //*Note: For more information on romance and the individual characters see the [[Affiliates|Sidebar_Affiliates]]. This information will help with understanding who you can and cannot romance due to your choices. You can also keep up with your romance POINTS by clicking on the character's individual bios.// [[I definitely was, but only because I could.|1.09SP][$s_att to "present"]] [[Sex didn't mean much to me but it didn't mean I wasn't interested.|1.09SF][$s_att to "flux"]] [[I didn't care at all. I never found myself interested in sex.|1.09SNP][$s_att to "absent"]]

"I am 100% judging you right now." I gesture to my face. "See this face. This is my judgmental face." "Oh my gosh, you don't say," he gasps sarcastically, "I could've sworn that was just your resting bitch face." The two of us chuckle before Chris snaps as if remembering something. "I can't remember whether or not you feel the same way about romance? You're the one who told me about not being interested in that type of thing, right?" [[“Hell no. Definitely interested in romance.”|1.09RP][$r_att to "present"]] [[“Yea I was.”|1.09RA][$r_att to "absent"]]

"I am definitely judging but only because of the whole one-night stand part." "You wouldn't have one?" I take my time answering before finally shrugging. "Never say never but no. Sex is there but there are much more important things to me. I wouldn't just have sex because the person exists." "Ah, you need a connection?" "Probably. I just know I wouldn't want to do that with random strangers like some folks." The two of us chuckle before Chris snaps as if remembering something. "I can't remember whether or not you feel the same way about romance? You're the one who told me about not being interested in that type of thing, right?" [[“Hell no. Definitely interested in romance.”|1.09RP][$r_att to "present"]] [[“Yea I was.”|1.09RA][$r_att to "absent"]]

"I'm not judging you at all. I can't really judge you about something I don't feel and am not interested in." "I know we've had this conversation once, but it still boggles my mind that you don't like sex." "You mean in the same way as you? Because I don't think most can hit those hoe-ish levels." "Oh, you wound me. I'm a whore, not a hoe." "Potato. Potahto." The two of us chuckle before Chris snaps as if remembering something. "I can't remember whether or not you feel the same way about romance? You're the one who told me about not being interested in that type of thing, right?" [[“Hell no. Definitely interested in romance.”|1.09RP][$r_att to "present"]] [[“Yea I was.”|1.09RA][$int is "none"]]

"You definitely didn't hear that from me. I'm interested in romance." "Want to find that special someone?" he asks, wiggling his brows. "Don't we all?" He seems to consider his own question before shrugging, yet the nod of his head contradicts his previous gesture. If you hope to receive an explanation, he shows no indication of giving you one. Both of you focus back in on your work. <<include "1.10">>

"Yep, that was me." "How does that work? You just see everyone as a friend?" "Are you asking for me in particular or aro people as a whole?" "You don't -" His mouth closes as he realizes what he's about to say and nods. "Yea, never mind. I answered my own question." "Ignorance, huh," I jest, and he flips me off before chuckling. "I guess it's just odd to me. I mean I'm sure you'll find someone but I know personally I just couldn't be with someone who didn't love me the same way I love them in that way. You know?" "Different strokes for different folks." He nods in agreement as the conversation fades away and we focus back on work. <<include "1.10">>

<>\ <<if $r_att is "present" and ($s_att is "flux" or $s_att is "present") and ($int is "men" or $int is "all")>> <<set $flirt_chris to true>> <</if>> <<if $s_att is "present" and ($int is "women" or $int is "all")>> <<set $flirt_syd to true>> <</if>> <<if ($int is "men" or $int is "all") and $r_att is "present" and $s_att is "present">> <<set $flirt_zillah to true>> <</if>> <<if $int is "women" or $int is "all">> <<set $flirt_chanara to true>> <</if>> <>\ "How much?" Chris inquires, shaking his tip jar with a cocky grin. "I got twenty from that one. So, fifty so far." "Gotta do better than that if you want to surpass the master, young Jedi." [[“No thanks. I'd rather be inside.”|1.10RatherBeInside]] [[“The only reason you get more is because your shorts are mere inches from showing your crotch.”|1.10YouShowTooMuch]] [[“You get better tips because you make better drinks, that's it.”|1.10MakeBetterDrinks]] [[“It's only midday, I'll surpass you like I do every day.”|1.10Midday][$bartending to true]]

"This is your kind of thing, not mine. I'd rather be inside anyway." "Doing what? Screaming at kids that there's no running in the arcade?" "I'm more in my element in there than out here." "That's only because you don't like bartending." "Exactly," I huff as I gaze at the numerous bottles that decorate the shelves behind me. Chris loves bartending. A feeling that I do not share. I would much rather be ... [[Supervising those inside.|1.11][$charisma +=5]] [[Making sure the arcade machines were working.|1.11][$engineering +=5]] [[Supervising laser tag, which also meant playing when I wanted to.|1.11][$combat +=5]] [[Designing some of the promotional posters.|1.11][$creativity +=5]] [[Sleeping.|1.11]]

"The only reason you get more tips is because your shorts practically give all the exciting bits away." "Whoa," he starts, putting his hand to his chest as he looks down at his shorts, "take notes, don't hate." "No one is hating, trust me." I snicker as I push him playfully. Chris loves bartending. A feeling that I do not share. I would much rather be ... [[Supervising those inside.|1.11][$charisma +=5]] [[Making sure the arcade machines were working.|1.11][$engineering +=5]] [[Supervising laser tag, which also meant playing when I wanted to.|1.11][$combat +=5]] [[Designing some of the promotional posters.|1.11][$creativity +=5]] [[Sleeping.|1.11]]

"Yea, yea. You get better tips because you make better drinks, simple as that." "A well-formulated argument. But I think my natural charismatic attitude and bodacious body helps me." "No. Please tell me you did not just say bodacious," I laugh, turning to face him. "What's wrong with bodacious?" "You're from Tennessee! Who says bodacious there?" "Probably no one, but I'm bringing it back." "No, let it rest in peace." We both laugh, and I lean on the bar as Chris goes, ensuring everything is in its proper place. Chris loves bartending. A feeling that I do not share. I would much rather be ... [[Supervising those inside.|1.11][$charisma +=5]] [[Making sure the arcade machines were working.|1.11][$engineering +=5]] [[Supervising laser tag, which also meant playing when I wanted to.|1.11][$combat +=5]] [[Designing some of the promotional posters.|1.11][$creativity +=5]] [[Sleeping.|1.11]]

"It's a new day, $name." "Yea, but it's the same you. And let me remind you, in case you forgot, I make better drinks than you; that's why I always make more tips than you." He rolls his eyes. Both of us loved bartending, and though this gives us exciting things to discuss, it also means we constantly compete to see who is better. <<include "1.11">>

The day continues. Every few minutes, my eyes will dart to the clock, believing that I can speed up time by refusing to leave it alone. I turn to Chris, about to comment on the absurdity, when a large white flash goes off in the distance, catching everyone off guard. My view is blocked by a few buildings, but I can still see the flashes as they continue to go off, each a few minutes apart. It's a sight unlike anything I've ever seen, and I'm left bewildered. I want to claim that it's just fireworks, but the bold lighting of each explosion is nothing like a firework. "What kind of firecrackers are those? And why would someone be setting them off?" I ponder aloud, watching as another goes off. This one isn't as intense as the previous ones; in fact, it's as if it were a different grade entirely. "Who knows?" Chris says from beside me, sipping on some of the water that he poured himself to combat the two drinks he had. Some of the others seem to agree with Chris and show little interest, continuing as if the light had never happened. Perhaps it really was just fireworks. I look in the direction again, but when I see nothing, I shove it from my brain and continue my work. <img src="images/divider.png"> ''Meanwhile, a couple streets away ...'' With a disgusted grimace, the woman gathers and spits out a wad of blood. The metallic taste prolongs her sneer, and for a minute, she desperately craves the taste of water. But as quickly as she rid herself of it, more blood gathered in its place. "For once in your life, Sydero, listen to me. Stop this." A proud character with a blade orders, his voice wavering. She sneers; even when he tries to sound in command, it still comes off as begging. Fucking pathetic. The woman introduced as Sydero rises to her feet and cocks her head, wiping a mix of sweat and blood from her brow. "Done playing already?" she inquires. She lunges before her opponent can reply, half of her body shrouded in a dark grey mist that threatens to grow darker and consume all within its path. He bites his lip, involuntarily drawing blood. He has no choice but to match her ferocity, lest he wants to be killed. The two figures strike one another for what seems like the tenth time, a weak, bright light appearing before flickering and then finally disappearing. Their bodies fly backward, and they again find themselves on opposite sides of the street, glaring at one another. <a data-passage="1.12"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"This is getting us nowhere! We're doing nothing but bringing attention to ourselves," he points out. "Is that your way of surrendering?" Sydero questions, flicking dirt out from underneath her fingernails. She looks at him with an uninterested raised brow, knowing the expression and lack of care would further anger the figure. "You selfish brat," he growls, and Sydero's back stiffens. She turns to face him fully, waiting for him to continue. "You know damn well why I can't give you what you want, but still you search for it. If you love her, you'll let her go. You know she's safer with me." "Says who exactly?" she shouts back, "you? You're on the opposite side of the river from me, but you're still sinking in the same type of boat. You just refuse to patch the holes because you're busy acting like they don't exist." He opens his mouth to respond, but she cuts him off with a warning growl. "Here's a promise. Either give her to me or die. Damn the consequences." The figure freezes as he glares at the woman before him, his eyes searching hers. If he failed to see the seriousness in her words, he only had to look into her color-shifting eyes. The amber color slowly fades, dribbling down as if something is causing it to melt out of her iris. Replacing it is a bloody red whose brilliance is only rivaled by the slightly darker crimson color that edges along the borders. The whites of her eyes disappear along with her pupil, leaving nothing but the deadly shades of red. The silence prolongs as he replays her words. This battle wasn't their first, but no matter how many times they had met, she had never threatened him with death. "Is this what it has come to?" he asks, shaking as a white mist surrounds him. Appearance-wise, it is similar to her own. But that is the only similarity, for his is far more potent. The brilliance and actual color is proof enough of that. "You threaten to kill me?" Sydero doesn't answer. She meant her words and, if forced to, would carry them out. She knows that going through with her threat would mean no return from the place she'd descend into. Their eyes meet, hers a sea of blood and death, and his a pleading and cold arctic blue. "If you don't surrender her, then so be it." It is as if all the air in the area has been sucked out, giving room to an oppressive atmosphere perfect for an explosion. "Then so be it," he whispers, and the two surge towards one another in perfect accord. Their mists grow into crackles of raw energy, gray and white sparks shooting off their bodies and ricocheting off the streets and sidewalks. The figures meet. <a data-passage="1.13"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> <<if $freeze gt $flight and $freeze gt $fight>>I freeze<<elseif $fight gt $freeze and $fight gt $flight>>I stiffen<<else>>I jump, wishing to run,<</if>> as the loudest of the explosions are emitted. It rocks the ground, and a blinding white refulgence appears far too close to make me believe I'm safe. A cloud of smoke now rises from the origins of the explosion. Chris falls backward into one of the shelves, inconsequently causing some of the bottles to fall from their perch. But that doesn't hold my attention quite like the state of the pool. The once jovial scene twists into one reflecting that of a horror scene. Screams cover every corner, and a mass of bodies scramble for cover from a force not truly known. "The hell is going on? Did somethin' blow up, like a pipe or somethin'?" Chris asks no one in particular, especially since I'm just as clueless as he is. "Someone call the cops or the fire department!" I hear someone shout and despite the wisdom in their words, no one pauses to do so. Every single person has gone into a fight or flight state and it would be a hassle to get them all back under control. [[Take charge.|1.13TakeCharge][$leader +=10]] [[Stay out of the way.|1.13OutOfWay][$leader -=10]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Leader ++<</if>> I jump over the bar and grab a nearby stool to stand on, <<if $height is "short">>otherwise I'll just be overlooked no matter how loud.<<elseif $height is "tall">>though I don't really need it, it's overkill actually.<<else>>to give me an extra couple of feet.<</if>> Whistling loudly, the commotion calms down just enough, and the majority glance in my direction. "The police and fire department have been notified and are sending people to investigate. Please gather your stuff, and for your safety, either head inside or head home." Though there is still a fair amount of chaos, it's at least organized. "Nice," Chris compliments, extending his hand for me to take and helping me down. "Who notified the cops, though?" "Hopefully, someone did," I tell him, shrugging, "I just had to tell them something to get them all to calm down and shut up." "I have," our manager informs, nodding her head at me. "Oversee them and go ahead and start cleaning up for the day, we're closing up early." <<include "1.14">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Follower ++<</if>> I have no idea what to do, and to a certain degree, I can't really blame everyone's behavior. Chaos will always rise when the unknown and fear are combined in such a volatile way. "Everyone calm down," my manager shouts. Upon realizing that no one is listening, she goes to the nearest lifeguard and grabs their megaphone. "I said calm down." This at least gets everyone's attention, and though some people are still moving, the majority freeze and listen to what she says. "We're going to close up early. Please gather your stuff and either head inside to wait on further news or head home." I watch as the once chaotic crowd subdues their fears just enough to at least do what she ordered. <<include "1.14">>

And thus, we begin the long and arduous job of rounding up a bunch of freaked-out customers and cleaning everything up. We finish earlier than usual but are no less jumpy when we end. As we leave, Chris and I bounce ideas off each other, trying to deduce what may have happened and when the news will cover it. <<if hasVisited("1.06KeyThatBitch")>>\ "Who did this?" we both hear someone scream and see Mr. Pinsky standing beside his car, pointing at the side. "Who keyed my car?" The few people around to listen to him hollering simply mumble, but no one steps forward. "I'm checking those cameras!" he shouts before getting inside, slamming the door, and driving off in a rush. I can feel Chris' gaze on my back but I ignore him as I slip my hands into my pocket and feeling the emptiness, frown. Of course, with all the excitement, I end up forgetting something. <<else>>\ A few of our other co-workers chime in, but soon, the ideas become outlandish, and the conversation turns stale. "You're still going to visit your uncle, right?" Chris asks, and I start to nod as I slip my hands into my pocket, feeling the emptiness. I frown; of course, with all the excitement, I end up forgetting something. <</if>>\ "Crap," I growl, checking my pockets a second time and then sorting through my bag. "What happened?" "Left my wallet inside." "Need my keys?" Chris asks, already reaching for them. "No, I got it. Go ahead and go, I'll see you tomorrow." Chris nods, and we part ways there. <a data-passage="1.15"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Heading back in, I grab my wallet and <<if $leader >=50>>recheck the doors to make sure everything is properly locked up.<<else>>head back to the exit.<</if>> I finish locking the main door when I hear a strange sound coming from a nearby path on the other side of the building. Walking a few meters, I gaze down it, wishing I had kept the lights on. The sound repeats, and multiple imagined sources come to mind. [[Call out.|1.15CallOut][$daring +=3]] [[Try to figure out the noise.|1.15FigureOutNoise]] [[Shine a flashlight down the path.|1.15Flashlight][$daring -=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> "Hello?" I call out, taking a few more steps towards the entrance. This is starting to feel like the start of some scary movie starring yours truly. I never imagined myself being the person who died first, though. In fact, I'm starting to feel more like the person at the very beginning who is worth nothing more than a victim to introduce the premise through. I hear the sound again but can at least make out what it is: a moan. <<include "1.16">>

I stand there silently, attempting to figure out what the sound may be before deciding on anything else. It takes a few minutes, but I finally hear the sound again and successfully make out what it is: a moan. <<include "1.16">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> I take my phone out and cut on the flashlight, shining it down the path. This is starting to feel like the start of some scary movie starring yours truly. I never imagined myself being the person who died first, though. In fact, I'm starting to feel more like the person at the very beginning who is worth nothing more than a victim to introduce the premise through. I hear the sound again but can at least make out what it is: a moan. <<include "1.16">>

My mind begins to play cruel tricks on me, choosing now of all times to remind me of my nightmares. Fighting a shiver, I wander further down the corridor. "Hello? I'm here to help." I receive another moan in response, this one a bit louder. I can see the shifting of legs in the near distance. I approach and, looking past a trashcan, find a young woman lying there, hardly breathing. <<if $medical <10>>\ "Crap. Are you okay, miss?" I reach out and lightly touch her arm, hearing her grumble and even put up a mild fight but I receive no further response. I notice her body shaking significantly, perhaps the result of her having a seizure. <<else>>\ "Aw crap. Are you okay, miss?" I reach out and lightly grab her arm, checking for a pulse. I'm unable to find one, but there can be several reasons for there not being one. I then place my phone under her nose, watching as a bit of condensation appears on the surface. At least she's breathing normally, so that is a good sign. I do a quick search of her body to make sure she's not bleeding and to make sure nothing is broken. Otherwise, moving her is unwise. <</if>>\ "Hey, I'm going to help you, alright? I'm taking you to the hospital." I bend down and attempt to pick her up when a wave of nausea washes over me. I stumble back, fighting the overwhelming need to abruptly vomit. Allowing a minute to pass, I finally feel up to moving and reach to grab her. I manage to drag her back to my vehicle, freezing once I get there. [[Put her in the passenger seat.|1.16Passenger][$syderoLo +=1; $sympathy +=5; $daring +=5]] [[Put her in the backseat.|1.16Backseat][$syderoLo +=1; $sympathy +=3; $daring -=3]] <<if $car is not "Ford F-150">>[[Put her in the trunk.|1.16Trunk][$sympathy -=5; $daring -=5]]<</if>>

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++ | Daring ++<</if>> It's the only logical option. If the fates decide to curse me and have her wake up to stab me, I'll at least be able to see it coming. She might also tell me what happened to her if she ever gains consciousness. Though—on the other hand—she may wake up, see she's in a stranger's car, and panic. How would one even fight the allegations when questioned by police? <<include "1.17">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++ | Cautious ++<</if>> Honestly, I'm not a fan of having a complete stranger in the seat right beside me. I imagine her waking up and, out of panic, attacking me instantly. Something traumatic could have befallen her, or she could be a psycho, a psycho needing medical attention. It seems like the safest place to put her is in the backseat. <<include "1.17">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++ | Cautious ++<</if>> It's a suspicious thing to do, especially moving from the darkened path to my car with an unconscious woman in tow. But I'm not about to trust a passed-out stranger, and the idea of having her anywhere in the car makes me shake. I just don't want her resting anywhere close to me. Of course, the whole idea of putting someone in a trunk brings up other health issues but my health comes first. I'll be careful not to go flying over any bumps and to park away from prying eyes, but I'm not putting her in the passenger or back seat. <<include "1.17">>

<<if $cmajor is "Nursing">>\ I enter the hospital with the woman, trying to make my struggle look as obvious as possible in hopes of getting a nurse to come running to my aid. A familiar nurse sees me and rushes over. "$name? What happened?" Nurse Hillary asks. She's one of the many nurses I've had the pleasure of working with, thanks to my volunteer hours, and she's also the nurse I'd be shadowing for my future internship. "I don't know, I found her like this on a path near The Alley. No bruising, bleeding, or broken bones. I think she's in shock, though." Hillary hails another woman, this one I'm not familiar with, and after relaying what I told her to the woman, rushes the woman away on a gurney. "Thank you, $name. I need a quick statement from you before you go, though." This is to be expected, especially seeing that she could've been assaulted or raped. I nod in compliance, and Hillary begins to go through the motions. Once all the questions have been asked and answered, I leave and finally head home. <<else>>\ Once I arrive at the hospital, I enter with the woman, trying to make my struggle look as obvious as possible in hopes of getting a nurse to run to my aid. Finally, a nurse sees me and rushes over. "What happened?" "I don't know. I found her like this on a path near the building where I work. I think she was having a seizure or something earlier." The nurse hails another woman and, after speaking in medical jargon, rushes the woman away on a gurney. "Thank you, but I will need to ask you some questions." This is to be expected, especially seeing that she could've been assaulted or raped. I nod in compliance, and she begins to go through the motions. Once all the questions have been asked and answered, I leave and finally head home. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="1.18"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Once back at the car, I check my phone for missed calls or texts from Chris or my uncle. It makes sense that Chris hadn't sent anything; he knew I'd be going over my uncle's. But no word from my uncle causes me to ponder the reason. Sending a quick text to visit tomorrow, I turn to head home. It had been a hectic day. My mind jumped from my talk with my therapist to the fireworks and explosion and ended on finding the unconscious woman on the path. Hectic seems to be too little of a word. Rolling down the window, I take a moment to cherish the feel of the cold, late spring air. I just need to drive home and end the day. Tomorrow, everything will go back to normal—a return to the regular grind of my dull, inconsequential life. Walking into the apartment, I'm greeted by Chris and a woman at the kitchen island. I'm unsure what I walked in on, but Chris looks more than pleased by the interruption. "$name?" Chris greets, the happiness twisting to surprise, "I thought you were staying the night with your uncle?" "Plans changed," I tell him tiredly, nodding at the woman to not appear rude. I recognize her but not enough to recall a name. "Is everything okay?" I simply hum in response to his question. "Want to talk about it?" "Whoa, no offense," the woman says, clearing her throat and waving her hand to regain Chris' attention. "But we were having a discussion." Chris rolls his eyes and runs his hands through his dark brown hair, causing the normally wavy hair to appear even more unkempt. He turns to face the woman. "Yea. The same discussion we've had three other times." "And the one you keep putting off for the next day and then the one after that," she snaps. "I'm not going to keep accepting you putting our relationship off." [[“It’s fine. I’m going to sleep.”|1.18GoingToSleep]] [[“I don’t want to interrupt …”|1.18Interrupt]] [[Let Chris make up his mind.|1.18ChrisMind]] <<if $flirt_chris>>\ <<if settings.dialog>>[[I snort, “what relationship?”|1.20WhatRelationship][$CRomance +=1; $chris +=3]]<<else>>[[I snort, “what relationship?”|1.20WhatRelationship][$CRomance +=1; $chris +=3]]<</if>> <<if settings.dialog>>[[Shoot her an irritated glare but remain quiet.|1.20GlaringQuietly][$CRomance +=1; $chris -=3]]<<else>>[[Shoot her an irritated glare but remain quiet.|1.20GlaringQuietly][$CRomance +=1; $chris -=3]]<</if>> <</if>>\ [[Just walk off.|1.18WalkOff]]

"It's fine," I voice before they enter into a full-blown argument in front of me. "I just want to wash up and go to sleep." Chris opens his mouth, but I toss him a quick glare, telling him to leave it. He wants to be saved, and I'm not in a heroic mood. <<include "1.18.3">>

"I don't want to interrupt anything," I start, barely getting the words out before Chris interjects. "You're not. In fact, Natasha was just leaving." "If I walk out that door that you can delete my number." "If you think I'm going to leave my friend for you, you're crazy." "I'm crazy now for wanting a fucking -" She takes a deep breath in and grabs her stuff, rushing to the door. She opens it and glares at Chris, "fuck you." She slams it, and though Chris seems remorseful, he turns his attention to me. "You didn't like her, I'm guessing?" "No, I did," he admits, "I didn't mean to say it like that. Just that you matter more than my confusion with a girl I don't want a relationship with. I probably could've said it better and maybe not have called her crazy ... but I don't really care in the end." The frown that remains plastered on his face tells me differently. "What happened?" "Nothing dramatic. Just a long day." <<include "1.18.1">>

I remain silent, allowing Chris to decide what to do, a process that hardly takes a second. "Tomorrow," he states, "please." Despite her previous words, she seems to accept this. Rolling her eyes dramatically before grabbing her purse from the couch and walking towards the door, Chris walks her to it. "Tomorrow. But we will have this talk." "Obviously," he grins, kissing her cheek. As soon as the door is closed and he turns to me, I raise a brow, and he shakes his head. "The 'r' word, huh?" "No. But telling her I'm not interested in her is harder than normal." "Do I want to know?" "No," he answers, shooing away the lingering air as if it's infected with her presence. "What happened?" "Nothing dramatic. Just a long day." <<include "1.18.1">>

I snort, "what relationship?" Chris and the woman both turn to me, and I realize that those words I //thought// were said in my head were actually said aloud. "Uh," I start, but the girl has already raised her hand to stop me. "Fuck both of you." "Whoa," Chris chuckles, "fuck me, sure. But $name isn't exactly wrong here. I keep telling you that there's nothing between us." <<if $gender is "female">>\ "Is that because you're housed up with ?his ass?" She questions, pointing her chin in my direction. "Yes," Chris sighs dramatically, "I totally won't date you because I'm so lovestruck with my beautiful best friend, who happens to be my roommate. Babe," he says, turning to me, "my heart burns for you. Now you know." I chuckle, but I feel a bit uneasy, mostly because my heart just skips a beat as if his words are true. Regardless of their verity, they seem to have their intended effect as the girl gathers her stuff and leaves. I'd hate to be petty and say that I'm happy to see her go, but I do. Yet, a deeper part of me knows that her disappearance will do nothing for Chris and I. I watch him bring home a new girl almost every other week and I have always kept my thoughts—not to mention my feelings—to myself. <<else>>\ "No, actually," she sighs. "You never told me that. But I guess I have $name to thank for finally helping me see that truth." She gathers her things and heads towards the door. Part of me knows that I should feel bad, that I shouldn't get between the two of them, but I can't say I'm exactly mad at the results. Liking a straight guy always felt more like some kind of horrible curse or even a joke that my own common sense decided to play on me. It all feels like a waiting game of when the crush will finally vanish. So far, it has shown no signs of doing so. Nor has my common sense proved to be on my side as I agreed to get an apartment with him and am forced to smile each time he brings in yet another woman. So, when one of those women are walking out, I can't help but feel some sort of relief. <</if>>\ "You didn't like her, I'm guessing?" I ask. "No, I did," he admits, "but I know that I don't want a relationship with her, not yet anyway.<<if $gender is "female">> And now, since I'm technically in love with you, not ever." He chuckles, but my frown remains plastered on my face.<<else>>" He shrugs, about to say something more when he chooses against it.<</if>>This will later affect the story. <a data-passage="1.18.1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I keep my thoughts to myself but I can't help but send an irritated glare at the woman. I've never been a fan of this, the idea of Chris bring home a new girl almost every other week. But I have resigned myself to this fate to preserve our friendship. <<if $gender is "female">>At the end of the day, these girls are just braver than I, or at least have a lot less to lose. I hear Chris when he talks about his relationships, he'd probably break my heart.<<else>>Crushing on him period has always been a stupid idea that feels more like some horrible curse or even a joke that my own common sense decided to play on me. It all feels like a waiting game of when the crush will finally vanish. So far, it has shown no signs of doing so. Nor has my common sense proved to be on my side as I agreed to get an apartment with my crush and smiled each time he brought in yet another woman. So, when one of those women are walking out, I can't help but feel some sort of relief.<</if>> "Tomorrow," he states, "please." Despite her previous words, she seems to accept this. Rolling her eyes dramatically before grabbing her purse from the couch and walking towards the door, Chris walks her to it. "Tomorrow. But we will have this talk." "Obviously," he grins, kissing her cheek. As soon as the door is closed and he turns to me, I raise a brow, and he shakes his head. "The 'r' word, huh?" "No. But telling her I'm not interested in her is harder than normal." "Do I want to know?" "No," he answers, shooing away the lingering air as if it's infected with her presence. "What happened?" "Nothing dramatic. Just a long day." <<include "1.18.1">>

I walk off as she continues to argue with Chris despite his attempts to pacify her with empty words. It seems like my disappearance encourages her to get louder as if she wishes for me to hear every word she has for my friend. Thankfully, when I close the door, their voices become nothing more than distant mumbles. <<include "1.18.3">>

"You never told me how the therapy session went." "Like every other session." "Seriously?" he growls, "they suggested you to another therapist again?" "Oh, no," I laugh, "more like how it always seems to have the opposite effect. Sitting there and recounting it doesn't help; it makes it worse, especially when everything inside me screams that it's real and it happened, but reality tells me differently." "Trauma is a fucked up thing, huh?" Chris voices and I swallow a chuckle. I appreciate him listening; I always do. But he hardly knows how to react when I talk about this specific topic. "But," he points out as he grabs two water bottles, handing one to me. "That doesn't explain why you didn't go to your uncle's. Did you get into a fight with him after work?" "Oh, no. Right as I was closing, I found this woman on the path—bruised and half out of it." <a data-passage="1.18.2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"Wait, what?" he asks in shock. "Yea. I took her to the hospital. No idea what happened to her." "The path leading to the pool?" "Yea." "That's crazy," he says in shock, "did you tell Lauren about it?" "No. Not yet. I wasn't even thinking about sending her a warning text with everything that was going on." Chris nods in understanding. "If you want, I can." "No, I'll do it. Otherwise, she may question me later about why I didn't and be more pissed off about it." I grab my phone and send a quick text to her, turning it off after. "I'm going to turn in though." He nods, glancing at his own phone and cringing at whatever rests there. I have a good enough idea and leave him to his mess. <a data-passage="1.18.3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Heading towards the shower, I take a quick one and immediately get into bed, closing my eyes and mind off the best I can. <<if $badhabit is "sleep">> It's almost like a ritual now; despite wishing for sleep, it does not visit me. What makes it worse is that I know nothing will work, not tea, music, or the annoyingly long process of counting sheep. I'm doomed to simply exist until time finally slows and sleep deprivation weakens its hold. When it finally does, I run from dreams and try my best to maintain an empty space.<<else>> Like every night, I run from dreams and try my best to maintain an empty space.<</if>> It doesn't work this time. I stand in the middle of a street, finding everything shrouded in a thick veil of fog. Hardly anything is visible, and though I wish to travel deeper to discover what is hidden, something warns me to stay put. Shouting, I find my voice is gone, or perhaps that's not quite right. I hear myself scream, but the fog snatches any sound, cautioning me not to break the status quo it has so carefully constructed. Everything appears still and frozen in time. Breaking free of the dream is pointless, and no matter how much I wish to wake myself up, I stay in that very same spot. In the middle of my attempts, I hear a whisper, and parts of the fog shift as if something has disturbed it. My heart thumps wildly against my chest. And then I wake up. <a data-passage="EP1-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/acttwo.png"> The next day, I visit the library hoping to finish my final essay of the semester, of my college career actually. To my left rests a series of books, to my right my notes, and directly in front of me is a laptop whose screen grows blurrier by the second. I glance over at my graded draft, which is no longer recognizable due to the bright red markings and comments that adorn it. At first, I doubted this paper was even mine. But one look at the upper left-hand corner and I had my answer. Sitting nicely, void of that wretched red pen, in Times New Roman, 12-point font, double-spaced, was my name. That was probably the only thing not crossed out or accompanied by that dreaded red slash. I couldn't, and still can't, grasp how I got such a bad grade on this paper. Things have been hectic but so much that I can't even remember how to write a simple sentence? This is the first paper I've done on time, no procrastination. [[I pulled out all the stops for it.|1.19AllTheStops][$stubborn -=5]] [[I did it piece by piece.|1.19PieceByPiece][$stubborn -=3]] [[Yea, no. I definitely procrastinated this essay.|1.19DefinitelyProcrastinated][$stubborn +=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Reasonable ++<</if>> I visited the library, grabbed tons of sources that I actually used, and even grabbed some of the reference books. Some of those same books sit with me now, only this time they mock me. Telling me that they alone will not help. <<include "1.19">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Reasonable ++<</if>> I did a little each day, taking about two hours out of my day to write. I finished quickly doing it that way, but apparently, it didn't make a difference. <<include "1.19">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++<</if>> It wasn't horrible procrastination; I didn't do it the night before or anything. But to write an essay, I had to be in the mindset. It just so happened that I wasn't in the mindset for this particular one until a day or two before it was due. <<include "1.19">>

I stare at the words typed out on the screen, watching as it blurs and replacing it is that of the dream from last night. It remains a mystery to me, especially when the last dream I had is of //that// night. Dreams have become headaches and sound sleep, a luxury. I glance over at Chris, who, for some reason, has decided to join me. At the moment, he's far more concerned with his phone than studying, which doesn't shock me. I take a moment to observe him, hopefully, to rid my mind of all the things it wishes for me to suffer through alone. Unlike yesterday night, his hair seems to be more orderly, though you doubt it'll last long. It also looks like he shaved just enough to keep the stubble along his chin from transitioning into a beard. His deep blue eyes sparkle with barely restrained mirth, lightening significantly under direct light. "Damnit!" Chris shouts, cringing and ducking his head when he remembers where he is. "I can't win this level." I gaze at his screen, but the game doesn't look familiar. "What are you studying anyway?" he asks, setting his phone aside and turning to me entirely. "Not studying. Trying to get this final essay done." "Oh, right, the one in Professor Perfection's class. Did you ever check out the news and read about that explosion?" I shake my head. I forgot all about it after finding the woman. "Cops and firefighters say an underground gas line blew up. No one was there and besides some houses taking the brunt of it, everything was fine. That neighborhood is completely abandoned anyway, so the city doesn't care much." "Are they going to fix it?" "Probably, but I'm sure they're not going to be working their butts off to do it." I nod and go back to reviewing the professor's notes, hearing Chris get impatient with the lack of attention probably. The thought causes me to smirk. "Alright, I'm going to go to the coffee shop to get something real quick. You want your usual?" [[“Tea? Yea.”|1.20]] [[“Definitely, bring me my coffee.”|1.20]] [[“Naw, just a bagel for me.”|1.20]] [[“I’m good with a fruit parfait.”|1.20]] [[“A bottled juice please.”|1.20]] [[“Just water.”|1.20]]

"I know what you want," Chris huffs, straightening his clothes. "I look decent right?" "Ah," I laugh, "so you're going over there to flirt with that new barista. What happened to the girl from last night?" He rises. "These things never last long. I can either sit and whine about it or get back on the horse." "Yea, but to get back on the horse you have to have dismounted in the first place." "Semantics," he laughs and then shouts over his shoulder, "I'll be back." <<if $flirt_chris>>\ <<if settings.dialog>>[[My smile vanishes immediately as I stare after him longingly.|1.20IfOnlyYouWereMineeee][$CRomance +=1]]<<else>>[[My smile vanishes immediately as I stare after him longingly.|1.20IfOnlyYouWereMineeee][$CRomance +=1]]<</if>> <</if>>\ [[Wish him luck.|1.20Luck][$chris -=5]] [[Go back to working.|1.20Work][$chris +=5]]

As soon as he's no longer focused on me, my smile vanishes, and I watch him go with a wistful feeling budding within me. I can't rightfully say how long I've had this crush on him, but it has proven to be resilient. Perhaps that's part of the deal when it comes to crushes. Dare to have one, and you take the risk of it being unrequited. <<if $gender is "female">>\ Sure, that can be due to never actually bringing it up with Chris. <<if $daring >=50>>There are times when I actually entertain the idea. My courage rises, and my patience lowers, but then something always come up, and I resign to simply being that one really good friend.<<else>>A bit too afraid of how he may respond. He has made it clear that he sees me as a friend and a good one at that.<</if>> <<else>>\ Especially when the person you have a crush on is straight and, therefore, will find nothing desirable in you. One of these days I may figure out how stupid this all is. But yesterday was not the day, and it doesn't feel like today will be it either. <</if>>\ <<include "1.21">>

"Good luck," I shout after him, nervously chuckling as eyes dart to me. I have a handful of people I consider friends, but Chris is the only one among them who I count as a close one. Hence why the two of us agreed to move out of the dorms this year and get an apartment instead. <<include "1.21">>

As soon as he's up, I focus on my work. I have a handful of people I consider friends, but Chris is the only one among them who I count as a close one. Hence why the two of us agreed to move out of the dorms this year and get an apartment instead. Despite being good friends, we have more than our share of arguments and differing opinions. Some of them bad enough to cause me to question how a friendship even formed. But he always manages to remind me moments later. <<include "1.21">>

<<if $cmajor is "Nursing">>\ A couple minutes pass before Chris returns, not only with my previous request but also a coffee cup with a number written on it. I sneer, but I'm unable to comment as my attention shifts to my vibrating phone, the hospital's ID reflecting back at me. "Hello?" I answer. "Hello, $name?" Ms. Alanna asks, putting on her professional voice. It always tickles me how formal she is over the phone, yet how casual and carefree she is in person. "Hey, Ms. Alanna, is everything okay?" "I'm calling about the young lady you found and brought in last night." "Is she okay?" "She's fine. There's some scattered bruising that seems to be healing quite rapidly, actually. But that's not the reason I called you. The police failed to get anything from her, and we were hoping that she would talk to you since you were the one who found and helped her." <<else>>\ A couple minutes pass before Chris returns, not only with my previous request but also a coffee cup with a number written on it. I sneer, but I'm unable to comment as my attention shifts to my vibrating phone, an unknown number reflecting back at me. "Hello?" I answer cautiously. "Hello. This is the Saint Thomas Hospital. Am I speaking to $name Roe?" a professional woman asks on the other side. "Yes, this is ?he." "Good afternoon. I'm calling in regards to the young lady that you found and brought in last night." "Is she okay?" "She's fine. There's some scattered bruising that seems to be healing quite rapidly, actually. But that's not the reason I called you. The police failed to get anything from her, and we were hoping that she would talk to you since you were the one who found and helped her." <<if $cmajor is "Psychology">>\ "Ah, you hope that she'd have formed some kind of bond with me since I'm the one who saved her?" "Exactly. It would help us out a lot to at least learn what happened to her." <</if>>\ <</if>>\ "Yea, sure. Should I come by now?" I notice Chris glance over at me, raising a questioning brow. "Any time before five o'clock will be fine. Thank you." I hang up and glance back at my still mostly blank document. Might as well go now since the campus is closer to the hospital than my job. "Where are you going?" Chris asks as I begin to pack my stuff up. <<if hasVisited("1.18.2")>>\ "Remember that woman I told you about yesterday? The one that I found and took to the hospital?" "Yea. Was that the hospital? Did they find out what happened?" "No. They said she's not talking to the cops and hoping she'll talk to me." "Oh, sounds interesting. Maybe she's some undercover detective with amnesia." "You and that imagination of yours." "Right. I should be writing children's books." Snorting, I say my farewells and head to the hospital. <a data-passage="1.22"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ [[Tell him.|1.21TellHim][$honesty +=10; $chrisLo +=1]] [[Lie.|1.21Lie][$honesty -=10]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Honesty ++<</if>> "Yesterday, when I was locking back up after getting my wallet, I found an unconscious woman on the path leading towards the pool restaurant. The hospital wants me to come in and try talking to her." "Wait, seriously? She was there when we were all leaving?" "Maybe. I don't know. Only reason I heard her was because she was moaning." "And they need you to get to the bottom of why she ended up there?" "They said she's not talking to the cops. They're hoping she'll talk to me." "Oh, sounds interesting. Maybe she's some undercover detective with amnesia." "You and that imagination of yours." "Right. I should be writing children's books." Snorting, I say my farewells and head to the hospital. <<include "1.22">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Deceit ++<</if>> "My uncle needs me to do some errands for him. Simple stuff, but he doesn't want to do them." "Ah," Chris nods, "it definitely makes sense with how you <<if $cmajor is "Psychology">>were talking about some woman you saved bonding with you and whether she's okay."<<else>>were just talking about if someone is okay or not."<</if>> He stands up, stretching his back as he sends me a glare. "Next time, just tell me to mind my business or some shit." He leaves before I can even begin to pack up my things but I simply sigh. He'll get over it. <<include "1.22">>

<<if $cmajor is "Nursing">>\ I arrive at the hospital sometime later, weaving my way between patients, doctors, nurses, and really anyone else who happens to be walking around. I make a beeline for Alanna's office and knock on her door. "Enter." Opening the door, I find her furiously typing at her keyboard, her eyes never leaving the screen, even when she stops to sip her coffee. "$name, I'm glad to see you. We can speak later if you want, but she's in room number thirteen." Straight to business, it seems. "Anything specific you want me to find out?" "No. Just the gist of who she is and how she ended up in that predicament." I nod, making my way to the appropriate room and spotting two nurses talking outside of it. One, I don't know, but the other is Hillary. "Excuse me?" "Ah, $name, thanks for coming. She still hasn't said a word to anyone since she's woken up. We don't know her name, age, or if she has a family. Think you can do better?" [[“Doubt it.”|1.22DoubtIt][$optimistic -=5]] [[“I'll attempt.”|1.22Attempt][$optimistic +=5]] <<else>>\ I arrive at the hospital sometime later, weaving my way between patients, doctors, nurses, and really anyone else who happens to be walking around. I make a beeline for the busy appearing receptionist. "Can I help you?" she asks, raising a brow but otherwise not giving me any other kind of attention. "Yes, I'm here for ..." I soon realized that I didn't even know the woman's name or the name of the nurse who called me. "I'm $name Roe. I received a call to come by and talk to a young woman I helped bring in last night." The receptionist nods in understanding. "Head to room thirteen. Go down this hall and take a right." I nod, making my way to the appropriate room and spotting two nurses talking outside of it. One, I don't know, but the other I recognize from yesterday. "Excuse me?" "Ah, $name, am I right?" I nod. "She still hasn't said a word to anyone since she's woken up. We don't know her name, age, or if she has a family. Think you can do better?" [[“Doubt it.”|1.22DoubtIt][$optimistic -=5]] [[“I'll attempt.”|1.22Attempt][$optimistic +=5]] <</if>>\

<<if $cmajor is "Nursing">>"You're one of the most charismatic people I know, Hillary. If you can't, then I doubt I can." She chuckles but moves to let me into the room anyway.<<else>>"I highly doubt it," I shrug, being honest with my confidence. They both chuckle but move to let me into the room anyway.<</if>> <<include "1.23">>

"I'll try my best." The nurses nod and let me into the room. <<include "1.23">>

The sound of me entering perks the woman up, and I can see curiosity blazing in her amber-colored eyes. We look each other over with interest, me taking the chance to take in her appearance and she trying to figure out the reason for my presence. Her eyes hold an untrusting glimmer that then shifts to bewilderment. She has loose, wavy black hair pulled into a messy bun, and I note just how much the color contrasts—yet goes incredibly well—against her light olive skin, which is riddled with bruises and a series of long-aged-looking scars. Two prominent ones rest on her face, one near her right brow and the other resting against her nose. Some of the other scars are still the color of fresh blood, causing me to wonder if she allowed the nurses to touch her at all. But, try as I might, my attention keeps shifting back to her eyes. The intense amber looks as if it may change to either a more brownish shade or an unnatural dark red. Even under the strained fluorescent light of the hospital, they hold a bright golden tinge to them. But they aren't soft or welcoming. Instead, they penetrate my entire being. It feels like she's raking through my memories, flippantly shoving parts that don't interest her to the side as she scours for something I'm not sure I possess. [[Continue staring.|1.23Staring]] [[Greet her.|1.23Greet]] [[Get straight to it.|1.23StraightToIt]]

I attempt to pull myself away from her gaze but feel it impossible. Part of me wonders if I even want to. There is something ... unnatural about all of it. It sets me on edge while also relaxing me, wanting to run but also bravely loom closer. Only when she clears her throat do I realize what I've been doing, and I stiffen, clearing mine as well. "Do I know you?" she questions. "Um, probably not. My name is $name Roe. I'm the one who found and brought you here." <<if hasVisited("1.16Trunk")>>\ "So that was your trunk I was rattling around in last night?" she asks, less than pleased. "Wait. You know about that?" "I was drifting, not unconscious. Well, I wasn't until you took a flying leap over that one pothole." "Yea, sorry about all that. But hey, it's better than that path, right?" "You should have left me there," she mumbles. <<else>>\ "Mistake number one," she mumbles. <</if>>\ "Excuse me?" She doesn't reply or show any sign that she heard my question. Her gaze is focused on the window, studying nothing in particular. <<include "1.24">>

"Hello," I start, giving her a friendly enough nod, "I'm $name Roe and -" "I don't care," she informs, cutting me off. Indeed, every part of her demeanor shouts such truths. She gives me another once-over before meeting my eyes again. <<if hasVisited("1.16Trunk")>>\ "So that was your trunk I was rattling around in last night?" she asks, less than pleased. "Wait. You know about that?" "I was drifting, not unconscious. Well, I wasn't until you took a flying leap over that one pothole." "Yea, sorry about all that. But hey, it's better than that path, right?" "You should have left me there," she mumbles. <<else>>\ "Mistake number one," she mumbles. <</if>>\ "Excuse me?" She doesn't reply or show any sign that she heard my question. Her gaze is focused on the window, studying nothing in particular. <<include "1.24">>

"Alright," I start, scratching the back of my head. "I'm $name Roe. The one who brought you here yesterday. The staff asked me to come by in hopes that you'll actually tell me something helpful." "Straight to it," she sneers, "I can appreciate it. Better than you trying to act like we're friends or some shit." <<if hasVisited("1.16Trunk")>>\ "Wait. So that was your trunk I was rattling around in last night?" she asks, less than pleased. "Oh ... you know about that?" "I was drifting, not unconscious. Well, I wasn't until you took a flying leap over that one pothole." "Yea, sorry about all that. But hey, it's better than that path, right?" "You should have left me there," she mumbles. <<else>>\ "That was your first mistake," she mumbles. <</if>>\ "Excuse me?" She doesn't reply or show any sign that she heard my question. Her gaze is focused on the window, studying nothing in particular. <<include "1.24">>

<<if hasVisited("1.23StraightToIt")>>\ "So, is there any chance you'll give me any information?" "No." "Not even a name?" She stares at me blankly, and I roll my eyes. [[Grill her for more information.|1.24Grill][$stubborn +=2; $serious +=10]] [[Try and guess her name.|1.24GuessName][$stubborn +=2; $serious -=10]] [[Ask if she's okay.|1.24CheckUp][$sympathy +=3]] [[Give up.|1.24GiveUp]] <<else>>\ "Well then," I start after clearing my throat, "how are you feeling?" "Why does it matter?" "Look, I'm just trying to please the nurses here. They say you won't talk to anybody and –" "And they brought you along in hopes that I'll spill my guts out to you, huh? Wow, and I thought they were supposed to be smart." I continue to stare at her. This isn't exactly how I pictured this going. It's not that I expected her to blurt out her life problems, but I did expect her to give me the gist of what happened and how she ended up near my job. <<if hasVisited("1.16Trunk")>>I suppose stuffing her in my trunk wasn't the most brilliant move, especially when now, I'm trying to form a line of trust. But how was I supposed to know it would come back to bite me in the ass?<</if>> "At least give me your name." "No," she says in a challenging tone, as if interested in seeing how I will respond or what I will do. [[Grill her for more information.|1.24Grill][$stubborn +=3; $serious +=10]] [[Try and guess her name.|1.24GuessName][$stubborn +=3; $serious -=10]] [[Ask if she's okay.|1.24CheckUp][$sympathy +=3]] [[Give up.|1.24GiveUp]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++ | Serious ++<</if>> "What happened to you?" I question. She raises a brow but says nothing, more prone to ignoring me. "How did you end up on the path? Any family members?" "You're a horrible interrogator." "I'm just trying to help you by figuring out what happened." "You can help me by keeping your numerous questions to yourself. And by helping me get out of here." She leaves the bed, causing me to question if she truly is the same woman from yesterday. The way she behaves, one would doubt she had been wholly incapacitated a few hours ago. She draws near, looking me over. <<include "1.25">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++ | Comical ++<</if>> "Amelia? No. Um, you don't look like you'd have a common name, to be honest. But then I guess reverse psychology would mean you do." She raises an eyebrow but remains silent. "Alright, rapid fire. Wendy. Kalani. Tya. Toni. Martina. Neri. Daisha. Niaja. Tianna. Sushi?" "Are you finished?" "I can go for round two." She opens her mouth to answer but then closes it, shaking her head and somehow appearing even more irritated than before. "I have a better idea. You just stop completely." She leaves the bed, causing me to question if she truly is the same woman from yesterday. The way she behaves, one would doubt she had been wholly incapacitated a few hours ago. She draws near, looking me over. <<include "1.25">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> "Are you okay though?" She's about to answer when she suddenly stops, cocking her head to the side in interest. "That's the question you go with?" I nod, not knowing what else to say, especially since she refuses to answer any other question. She stares at me before shrugging and nodding her head. "Now then, if you're done asking questions." She leaves the bed, causing me to question if she truly is the same woman from yesterday. The way she behaves, one would doubt she had been wholly incapacitated a few hours ago. She draws near, looking me over. <<include "1.25">>

I scoff in both defeat and disbelief. If she doesn't want my help, then I won't give it. I don't know her, and she doesn't know me, so I fail to see why I should continue pushing her. At the end of the day, whatever happened to her is her problem. If she wants to reveal her story, she'll do it on her own time, regardless of who questions her. They called me here to see if I could get her to open up and the answer is no. "Now then, if you're done asking questions." She leaves the bed, causing me to question if she truly is the same woman from yesterday. The way she behaves, one would doubt she had been wholly incapacitated a few hours ago. <<if $height is "tall">>She walks up towards me and a moment later seems to stumble backward in what I can only describe as a delayed reaction. She blinks as she looks me up and down.<<else>>She draws near, looking me over before soon smirking. I wait but she gives me no verbal clue of what seems to be so amusing to her.<</if>> <<if $height is "tall">>\ "Whoa, <<if $gender is "male">>big boy.<<elseif $gender is "female">>big girl.<<else>>you're a tall one.<</if>> No idea why you looked shorter from the bed." She cocks her head to the side. <<else>>\ "Is there something funny?" I question and a glimmer enters her eye as she <<if $height is "average">>leans<<else>>bends<</if>> down a bit to be closer to me. "I like short people." She's about to say something else but seems to think twice, though that smirk never vanishes. <</if>>\ <<include "1.25">>

"What are you anyway?" "Um, a struggling college student? How does one even respond to that?" I question, bewilderment, painting my features. She narrows her brow, and something causes her eyes to light up in realization. "Point," she says, though she doesn't seem to be paying attention to the conversation any longer. She walks out of the room and heads straight for the exit with me close behind. I glance around, waiting for someone to stop her, but the farther she gets, the more I believe she'll make it. "Wait," a voice says behind us, "did she say anything to you? Why is she leaving with you? Do you know her?" <<if $cmajor is "Nursing">>Turning, I see Hillary approaching<<else>>Turning, I see one of the nurses approaching<</if>>, glancing from the woman to me bewilderedly. [[“She's my best friend's girlfriend.”|1.25Girlfriend]] [[“She’s a classmate, only recognized her today.”|1.25Classmate]] [[“No, she just chose to leave when I did.”|1.25Leave]] <<if $cmajor is "Nursing">>[[“I was going to run a few tests.”|1.25Tests]]<<else>>[[Don't answer.|1.25Silence]]<</if>> <<if $cmajor is "Criminal Justice">>\ [[“She wants to speak to the police.”|1.25Police]] <</if>>\

"She's actually my best friend's girlfriend," I tell her. “And you didn’t recognize her?” <<if $cmajor is "Nursing">>Hillary<<else>>the nurse<</if>> asks me suspiciously. "I did, but she didn't want me to disclose any information because she was afraid of him finding out." "And why is that?" She further questions, eyeing the girl at my side. "You know we don't have to tell them shit, right?" she questions, not even attempting to whisper her words. Thankfully, the question comes off less like a moment of defiance and more like one bred from fear. "If he's abusive," <<if $cmajor is "Nursing">>Hillary starts, glancing at me to see if I'll give her any clue about whether she is nearing the truth. I keep my face as neutral as possible, knowing I won't hear the end of this later.<<else>>the nurse tells her, studying the woman's face.<</if>> "I'm fine," the woman growls. "Well then, before you go, I need you to sign some papers." She disappears to retrieve the paperwork, but the woman seems to have something else in mind. She leaves without another look over her shoulder. I quickly join her, not really understanding what I'm doing any longer. <<include "1.26">>

"We're actually classmates," I tell her. "Yes, the shock of knowing we're in the same BS class," she adds, ignoring the glare I throw her. "What does -" "Science," I interject, "you know, like bachelor of science. Same major and all." "Interesting," <<if $cmajor is "Nursing">>Hillary<<else>>the nurse<</if>> answers, giving the woman a dubious look, "so then what happened to you?" "She had a drunken adventure. Went bump all through the alley and didn't feel any of it. She was lucky I found her." If she refuses to answer my question about her name, there is no way she'll answer a nurse about what befell her. "Well then, before you go, I need you to sign some papers." She disappears to retrieve the paperwork, but the woman seems to have something else in mind. She leaves without another look over her shoulder. I quickly join her, not really understanding what I'm doing any longer. <<include "1.26">>

"No. She just chose to leave when I did. To be totally honest with you, I don't know what's going on." "I hate people," I hear her mumble before pushing me out of the way to speak to the nurse herself. "I was just about to go to the front desk and get the check-out paperwork. What happened to me is my business." <<if $cmajor is "Nursing">>Hillary<<else>>The nurse<</if>> and I exchange a look, but she tells us to wait so that she can go get it for her. As soon as she walks off, so does the woman. <<include "1.26">>

"She agreed to do a few tests, but only if I administered them." Hillary glances from her to me and nods in understanding. "Just make sure you file the usual papers, okay? I trust you, $name." I nod at her, ushering the woman to follow me. We head towards the testing area before making a detour out of the building. <<include "1.26">>

"She agreed to talk to the police to give them her statement. I offered to take her since I know the officers and what will probably happen." The nurse glances from her to me and nods in understanding. "Have the officer in charge call once they're done then. We'll need her information to file the paperwork on our end as well." I nod at her, ushering the woman out the building. <<include "1.26">>

I look over at the woman who looks at me with an almost identical expression. The two of us simultaneously look back at the nurse, who simply stands there in an attempt to understand what is happening. For the next handful of seconds, we look at each other until I finally turn and leave. I suppose we have the same idea since she follows close behind me as I go. I half expect her to stay behind to do what the nurses ask, seeing that she has gotten caught. <<include "1.26">>

"What was that?" She raises an uninterested brow. "What was what?" <<if $cmajor is "Criminal Justice">>\ <<if hasVisited("1.25Police")>>\ "I hope you understand how big of a risk that was." "I hope you understand that I have a lack of care about it all." "I could get in serious trouble." "You work at the department?" she inquires and I wordlessly shake my head. "There you go. Can't get fired from a job you don't have in the first place." <<else>>\ "What you did back there could land you into trouble, and I mean with law enforcement. I'm unsure how they handle medical stuff, but you didn't put your insurance down, so the hospital may call the cops on you." "And I'm guessing you know this because?" she asks, turning to me. "College." "Nice. Then you should know that I'm listed as a Jane Doe. They can't do anything about my lack of ID and refusal to speak. Unless you all practice torture down here." <</if>>\ <<elseif $cmajor is "Nursing">>\ "You just walked out of a hospital against a doctor's wishes and didn't sign the disclosure papers. They will contact you and get payment, even if that means calling in law enforcement." "Oh, look who did their homework. You should know then that a doctor can't detain me. If I want to go, then I can go. And who will they contact when they have no contact information?" "But then that's when you have to sign disclosure papers." "Well, I guess we've both learned something new today. I learned about disclosure papers, and you learned how not to sign them." <<else>>\ "What you did back there is probably a crime." "Sucks for you then," she snickers, "they do charge accomplices." <<if hasVisited("1.25Silence") or hasVisited("1.25Leave")>>\ "I didn't help you do anything." "I'm sure that nurse will report it differently." <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <a data-passage="1.27"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"You're something else. You know that?" "It's a gift. Mind giving me a ride?" My mouth falls open, but I close it a second later, shaking my head. "Most people who need something tend to say please and generally just have a better attitude." "It's a yes or no question." "And where do you need to go?" "243 Melbrook Road." I retrieve my phone and type in the address. It isn't more than a twenty-minute drive away, and it just so happens to be close to work. I peer up at her, seeing her waiting impatiently for my answer. [[Deny her a ride.|1.27No][$sydero -=5]] [[Give her a ride.|1.27Yes][$sydero +=5]] [[Ask for payment.|1.27GasMoney][$sydero +=3]] [[Ask for the truth.|1.27TruthPay][$stubborn +=3; $sydero -=3]]

"Sorry, but my charity work for today has come to an end." "Then where's the closest bus stop?" she asks plainly, making me feel like she knew the answer before I even opened my mouth. "Just over there," I point out, and she nods. "After this, forget you ever met me. We don't know each other." She starts to walk towards the specific area and I watch her for a few more seconds. Technically, we didn't know each other. I was left without a name or understanding. Finally, I get in my car and head towards work. <<include "1.28">>

"Sure, I can give you one," I tell her, and she nods her thanks before following me to my car. <<if $car is "Dodge Challenger" or $car is "Jeep Wrangler">>\ "Hmm, nice taste," she tells me, resting her gaze on my car. I don't answer as I get in and wait for her before pulling out of the parking lot and driving toward the intended destination. <</if>>\ I drive to the address the unknown woman gave me and stop in front of the house. I gaze around; this has to be wrong. The house looks nearly uninhabitable. From the state of the lawn to certain aspects of the house. It's almost painfully obvious that no one has lived here for some time. In fact, the entire neighborhood seems deserted. "Are you sure this is the right place?" I question, turning just in time to see the woman leaving the car. "Hey!" "Your work here is done," she says over her shoulder, "you can go on with your life now. I don't know you, and you don't know me. We never met." The last part of her sentence is said just as she opens the door to the house and enters. "You're welcome," I murmur. <<include "1.28">>

"Sure, but this won't be a free ride," I tell her. "How much?" The drive isn't worth more than five or ten dollars, but I suffered a lot dealing with her. "Twenty." "Done." She reaches into her boot and pulls out a wrinkled twenty. "<<if $serious >=50>>That's one place to put money, I guess." She hums, getting into the car, and I follow her lead.<<else>>Can athlete's foot be transferred through paper?" "Keep your foot fetish to yourself. Let's go." I frown but follow her lead as we both get into the car.<</if>> I drive to the address the unknown woman gave me and stop in front of the house. I gaze around; this has to be wrong. The house looks nearly uninhabitable. From the state of the lawn to certain aspects of the house. It's almost painfully obvious that no one has lived here for some time. In fact, the entire neighborhood seems deserted. "Are you sure this is the right place?" I question, turning just in time to see the woman leaving the car. "Hey!" "Your work here is done," she says over her shoulder, "you can go on with your life now. I don't know you, and you don't know me. We never met." The last part of her sentence is said just as she opens the door to the house and enters. "You're welcome," I murmur. <<include "1.28">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++<</if>> "I want the truth," I tell her, and she rolls her eyes, appearing much like a teacher dealing with a disobedient child. "Did I not just say it's a yes or no question?" "And it's a yes if you pay me with the truth." "Then it's a no from me. After this, forget that I exist. We never met." She turns and heads towards nowhere in particular, probably in search of a bus stop. Or maybe she'll even walk. I watch her for a few more seconds before getting in my car and heading towards work. <<include "1.28">>

The entire drive finds me attempting to rid my mind of the woman but ultimately failing. Who was she, and what was she hiding? I've met some interesting characters, but never one like her. That pure, intense look in her eyes was unlike anything I'd ever seen. The thought of her doesn't waver until I am deep in work. Moments like these disallow other thoughts to establish themselves because I have to calm down unruly children, appease annoyed parents, and supervise co-workers who shouldn't need facilitating. "Have fun," I tell the group, letting them into the laser tag arena. I'm becoming a pro at predicting who'll win these games. From what I was gathering while addressing them, they were going to be nothing but a warmup for the other team. I suppose I should go in there and help them out, but I had already played enough games to satisfy my needs. <a data-passage="1.29"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I retrieve my phone, planning to catch up on social media posts or just watch any missed videos. None of that gets accomplished, though, as my manager turns the corner, waving her hand to catch my attention. "$name, some agents would like to speak with you." "Agents?" "Don't ask me. You're the one who has FBI agents requesting their presence." She motions for me to follow her to her office, and as I trail close behind her, I try to come up with reasons why they may want to talk to me. I haven't done anything, didn't see anything I shouldn't have. Unless ... my thoughts go to the woman, but even that seemed trivial for FBI involvement. I gather myself. I'm not in trouble; otherwise, they'd arrest me and not just wish to talk. Entering, I find two men mumbling to one another. They seem like polar opposites; the only thing they seem to share is muscles. The taller of the two <<if $height is "tall">>glares straight at me<<else>>glares down at me<</if>> as if he could be anywhere but here, and he wanted everyone to know it. His partner, on the other hand, can't seem to get rid of his small, goofy smile. He gazes at me as if he just discovered some new creature and he couldn't help but think about all the accoldades he'll receive when he shows me to the world. <<if hasVisited("1.25Girlfriend") or hasVisited("1.25Classmate")>>\ "Last night, you found and brought a woman into the hospital. The hospital staff stated that you knew the woman. Is this true?" the tallest one asks. He's the more intimidating of the two, his muscles threatening to bust out of the suit that appears two sizes too small. Two dark brown eyes that practically appear black don't help ease the intimidation factor either. Besides his brows, his only hair rests on his chin, a well-groomed goatee that matches the shade of his eyes and rests against dark brown skin. "I just followed her out." "So, you didn't know her?" I swallow the invisible lump in my throat. Technically, I don't know her; she's just a person that I helped out ... and lied for. <<else>>\ "Last night, you found and brought a woman into the hospital. The hospital staff stated that she left with you. Is this true?" the tallest one asks. He's the more intimidating of the two, his muscles threatening to bust out of the suit that appears two sizes too small. Two dark brown eyes that practically appear black don't help ease the intimidation factor either. Besides his brows, his only hair rests on his chin, a well-groomed goatee that matches the shade of his eyes and rests against dark brown skin. "Yea, it's true." "So, you did know? Or is this all coincidence?" He says the last part like he already knows the answer. I swallow the invisible lump in my throat. Technically, I don't know her; she's just a person that I helped. <</if>>\ [[Tell the agents the truth.|1.29Truth][$honesty +=3]] [[Lie to him.|1.29Lie][$honesty -=3]] [[Answer as vaguely as possible.|1.29Vague]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Honesty ++<</if>> "I didn't know her. First time I ever met her was last night, and I was just trying to help." The man nods as if he expected this and doesn't look upset about my words. "Gotta love a good Samaritan," the other chuckles. Continuing the theme of being the opposite of his cohort, there are three main appearance differences: blue eyes resting against fair, white skin, dark blonde hair that is combed neatly back, and no facial hair either. "Consider yourself lucky," the other continues, "she's an extremely dangerous character." <<include "1.30">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Deceit ++<</if>> "I know her, but not enough to vouch for her or anything else. We talked here and there in the past." The man frowns, no doubt seeing immediately through my lie. "Come on," the other chuckles, "you gotta lie better than that." Continuing the theme of being the opposite of his cohort, there are three main appearance differences: blue eyes resting against fair, white skin, dark blonde hair that is combed neatly back, and no facial hair either. <<include "1.30">>

"I know her but not like a friend or anything, an acquaintance more so." The man raises an inquisitive brow. He gives his colleague a look, but he just continues to smile. Continuing the theme of being the opposite of his cohort, there are three main appearance differences: blue eyes resting against fair, white skin, dark blonde hair that is combed neatly back, and no facial hair either. "So, you wouldn't know just how dangerous she is. Consider yourself lucky." <<include "1.30">>

"Look. It's imperative that we find her. Do you know where she is?" The exact address evades me, but I'm sure my phone still holds the address she gave me. But that's if she's even there. I look at the men, both glaring at me with unreadable expressions. If this was poker, I'd undoubtedly lose. [[Give them the address.|1.30Address][$honesty +=3]] [[Tell them a fake one.|1.30FakeOne][$honesty -=3]] [[Say I don’t know.|1.30IDK]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Honesty ++<</if>> "Yea, I can retrieve it from my phone," I tell them as I do just that. I open the app and find the address, showing the men and waiting for them to copy it. They discuss it with themselves before turning back to me. <<include "1.31">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Deceit ++<</if>> "She asked me to drop her off at the park near the hospital. I thought she was going to meet someone there. Didn't really stick around to find out." They nod and then turn their backs to me to discuss it. I can only hope they believe me. But why am I even protecting her? It's not like I know her or even owe her anything. <<include "1.31">>

"I wouldn't know. After we left the hospital, she went her own way." The men turn to one another and mumble about something. They don't seem to doubt my words, but they also don't seem to like them. <<include "1.31">>

<<if hasVisited("1.06KeyThatBitch")>>\ <>\<<set $fired to true>><>\ "Make sure you're available for any future questioning," the tall bald one states. They turn to leave when Mr. Pinsky bursts into the room. "Great, the police are already here. Officers, please take this delinquent away. ?He keyed my car." I spot my manager behind him, sighing deeply as she tries to steer the man out of the room. "Do I look like an officer to you?" the short one questions, snickering to his partner as if he had just said a joke. They push past him, leaving me with my manager, who may just become my former manager if I know how this conversation will play out. My attention shifts to Mr. Pinsky, his gaze alight with rage. <<if hasVisited("1.13TakeCharge")>>\ "I hope you know that this all means you're fired!" he shouts, but my manager steps up. "I think we're taking this a bit too far," she says in my defense. "Too far? This delinquent keyed my car!" "Yes, I heard you ten other times. But I still think it's too far. The cost to fix it will be taken out of $name's paycheck, and they'll be given two marks, but firing them is too far. They're one of my best, and we're already heading towards being short-staffed this summer." Mr. Pinksy seems to want to argue, but I suppose being told that I'll be forced to pay his bill quiets his objections. I sigh, at least I still have a job I suppose. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ "Make sure you're available for any future questioning," the tall bald one states. Concluding their business, they leave. What did I just get myself into? Who was this woman, and what could she have possibly done to draw the FBI's attention? <</if>>\ <a data-passage="1.32"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> ''Outside //The Alley// ...'' A lone man takes a puff from the cigarette he's balancing between his fingers. In all actuality, he hated these things due to the repulsive smell, but the calm and numbing feeling they offered overrid the single drawback. His eyes settle on the building before him. The words 'The Alley' are painted blue and built in an annoyingly hard-to-read cursive font. The entire thing is an eyesore. They could have made the building out of brick, not bright blue and yellow plaster. It would make it easier to see, he guesses. He continues to point out everything he dislikes about his immediate area until he spots two familiar figures walking toward him. And with that, he ends the internal rant and straightens up. Flicking the cigarette off to the side. "Well?" "It's like you thought. The kid didn't know much. I doubt there's any kind of ties between them." "What do we know?" <<if hasVisited("1.30Address")>>\ "?He gave us the address that she gave ?him. Guess she needed a ride or something." The man scrunches up his nose at the words, his eyes landing on the paper. He knew the address. Heck, they had just scoured the neighborhood that the house belonged to. Something is off. Why would she return after the sky show she put on the other day? Not only would they be on the alert, but the local government would also. The only reason he could come up with is that she left something behind. Either way, it's a lead when they had nothing just a few minutes ago. "I'll go check out the validity of the address. You two keep an eye on the kid." <<elseif hasVisited("1.30FakeOne")>>\ "?He said she requested to be dropped off at a nearby park. She probably was going to meet someone there." The man scrunches his nose at the words, stroking his beard as he thinks. Who could she possibly be meeting up with? She's a loner and a runner at that. There is no one. Regardless of his doubts, it's a lead when they had nothing just a few minutes ago. "I'll go check out the validity of this. You two keep an eye on the kid." <<else>>\ "?He said ?he <<verb "has">> no idea where she went. She left as soon as they made it out of the hospital." He could believe this more than anything else with all the information and experience he had pertaining to her. She's a resourceful person, but she is a loner and a runner above all else. This will prove to be both a good and bad thing regarding his job. It means that detaining her should be easy, but to apprehend her, they had to find her, and she's as slippery as they are determined. "I'll go look for leads. You two keep an eye on the kid." <</if>>\ "Why? I thought you said ?he<<verb "'s" "'re">> unimportant," the one who had barely spoken before adds. He's a man of a lot of words, but he isn't a fan of making a fool of himself. A joke here and there is all well and fine. But adding his thoughts to a sophisticated or intelligent conversation always had him taking a backseat. "I said that the probability of ?him not knowing anything is high, but that doesn't mean we should rule out ?him being an accomplice altogether." Both agents nod as their boss turns on his heel and walks to one of the three waiting black SUVs. <a data-passage="1.33"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> <<if $fired>>\ I learned something new today, a lesson that anyone would say should be common sense: don't key a random person's car. You never know who it may belong to. I suppose it was idiotic in the first place, but it was certainly not worth losing my job over. Now I'll have to look for another job that pays half as well as this one. Chris pokes his head into the room as I pack up my locker. "So, it's true, you got busted?" "You can't be surprised. You even called it the other day." "Callin' it and seein' it happen is two different things," he sighs. "If it comes down to it, think you can handle next month's rent if I can't get a job by then?" "Yea, I got you," he nods, walking with me as I head toward the exit. "You should come by now and complain about the service like some grumpy customer. Keep saying you want to talk to the manager." "No thanks, I know first-hand how annoying they are, and I wouldn't put you guys through that." Chris nods as we get to my car, helping me pack my few things. I'll have to check how many car payments I have left. You don't know what you have until you lose it, and all your bills are staring at you. "Tomorrow, we celebrate your, uh, newfound freedom." "Sure, if you're offering to pay." He nods and waves me farewell, speeding back inside to avoid getting into trouble himself. I'm about to get in my car when I see Mr. Pinsky's car just a few feet away. [[Key it.|1.33KeyIt][$stubborn +=5]] [[Leave it alone.|1.33LeaveItBe][$stubborn -=5]] <<else>>\ After the two officers leave, my manager lets me go early. <<if hasVisited("1.06KeyThatBitch")>>The stressful days and my inability to use keys for their intended purposes led her to believe that going home would be the wisest course. I can at least use the new free time to work on my essay I suppose.<<else>>The last few days have been stressful, but I can use the new free time to work on an essay my brain refuses to focus on. It shouldn't affect my paycheck too much, either, so it's a win/win.<</if>> I quickly gather the few things I bought and leave<<if not hasVisited("1.06KeyThatBitch")>> before she has the chance to change her mind<</if>>. <<include "1.34">> <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++<</if>> It's an incredibly petty thing to do—probably the pettiest thing I've ever done. But I have nothing to lose, and my relationship with him no longer matters. That, and the authorities already showed their uncaringness about the misdemeanor. I smirk evilly as I approach the car, whistling a short little tune as <<if $creativity >=10>>I actually take a moment to draw something creative. Might as well. I suddenly have //plenty// of time on my hands.<<else>>I make the go-to image on his hood.<</if>> With my daily show of artistic integrity done, I get in my own car and disembark. <<include "1.34">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Reasonable ++<</if>> It's foolish, not to mention petty, to mess with the new general manager any further. For all I know, Mr. Pinsky can affect my chances of getting other jobs. The man already dislikes me. I also don't want to waste any more energy on him. He's out of my life and I'd like to keep it that way. With my mind made up, I head to my car and disembark. <<include "1.34">>

I pull into my uncle's driveway an hour later, in my lap sits an apology gift for switching up our day. [[Donuts from my uncle’s favorite café.|1.34Donuts]] [[A pack of beer.|1.34Beer]] [[Another funcle t-shirt.|1.34Shirt]] [[Some more painting equipment.|1.34Painting]] [[Another book from his favorite author.|1.34Book]] [[Nothing, he’ll be fine.|1.34Nothing]]

I grab the donuts and trek to the house. Once inside, I find my uncle sitting on the couch, lazily flipping through his many channels. He seems ready to say something when he sees me but then spots the box. "You want to see me dead, don't you?" "Depends, am I inheriting the house?" I joke, and he grins from ear to ear, accepting the donuts and offering me one. "I thank you, Wise One, for the donuts. But what happened yesterday?" <<include '1.35'>>

I secure the beers and make the short trek to the door. Once inside, I find my uncle sitting on the couch, lazily flipping through channels. When he sees me, he seems unamused until he sees the pack in my hands. "Oh, what did I do to deserve you?" "Funny, I've been asking myself the same thing," I joke, and he grins from ear to ear, accepting the pack and offering me one. "I thank you, Wise One, for the beers. But what happened yesterday?" <<include '1.35'>>

I grab the t-shirt and make the short trek to the door. Once inside, I find my uncle sitting on the couch, lazily flipping through his many channels. When he sees me, he seems unamused until he sees the shirt in my hands. "And what's this?" "Another one of your favorite t-shirts," I say, showing him. He grins from ear to ear, accepts the shirt, and lays it on the arm of the couch. I will never understand his obsession with these things, but if they make him happy, I suppose it doesn't matter much. "I thank you, Wise One, for the shirt. But what happened yesterday?" <<include '1.35'>>

I grab the bag with the painting equipment and make the short trek to the door. Once inside, I find my uncle sitting on the couch, lazily flipping through channels. When he sees me, he seems unamused until he sees the bag in my hands. "Oh, and what's this?" "Just some more painting stuff, I know you're always in need of more," I inform, and he grins from ear to ear, accepting the bag. He sorts through some of the things before nodding his head and setting it aside. "I thank you, Wise One, but what happened yesterday?" <<include '1.35'>>

I grab the book and make the short trek to the door. Once inside, I find my uncle sitting on the couch, lazily flipping through channels. When he sees me, he seems unamused, that is, until he sees the book in my hands. "Is that one by Alfred Chester by chance?" "Yes," I smile and offer it to him. He grins from ear to ear as he looks the book over, finally setting it down on the coffee table. "I thank you, Wise One, for the book. But what happened yesterday?" <<include '1.35'>>

I hadn't brought him anything, simply because I didn't see the need to. It was only one night, it's not like I don't seen the man for months on end. I make the short trek to the door, unlocking it with my key. I find my uncle sitting on the couch, lazily flipping through his many channels. When he sees me, he appears highly unamused. "Look who it is?" "Don't be like that, I got caught up yesterday is all." "What happened?" <<include '1.35'>>

"Didn't you see my text?" "The text that told me you weren't coming by and explained nothing?" "Yea, that text," I chuckle, "I ended up having to help this woman that I found. I was kept at the hospital for a while, and by the time they let me go, it was way too late." He nods in understanding. "Do you know if she's okay at least?" My mind goes to the scene she had pulled at the hospital. "Oh yea, definitely fine. No sign of trauma or anything." <a data-passage="1.36"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"Well, count your blessings, huh?" he offers with a shrug, "anything else?" <<if $fired>>\ "Yea," I snap, "I lost my job today." He studies me for a minute. After realizing that I'm serious, he sighs and hangs his head. "$name, how?" I tell him about Mr. Pinsky and the car. Though he's disappointed, and rightfully so, he doesn't scold me. But that may be because he wants to do the same to his own boss' car. <</if>>\ The conversation flows from there to finals and what I hope to accomplish once summer hits. The joy of summer never feels the same as when I was a child. It was the most important time of the year, followed closely by Christmas break. And now, it feels like any other period. Just a break until fall claims me for yet another round of school. I'll be far too busy <<if $fired>>looking for another job<<else>>working<</if>> to care for much else. My uncle sits quietly and listens the entire time, interjecting only to clarify something or make a funny statement. As the conversation begins to wind down, I spot him biting the side of his lip, a tell of his that I learned some time ago. I already know what he wants to ask, so I beat him to it. "I went to the session," I tell him, and he sighs in relief. "And it was ... beneficial?" he asks carefully. No. Yes. Partially. Hardly. It's so hard to know if something is beneficial when you leave feeling like nothing is better, but it never gets any worse. The dreams come; they terrify and haunt me for a week or so. Then grant me a reprieve, and besides my own trauma, I once again start to feel ... normal. Or as normal as one can be until an overly inquisitive stranger or some therapist reminds me that I'm not. [[“Yea, it was.”|1.36Deceit][$honesty -=5]] [[“No. No, not really.”|1.36Honest][$honesty +=5]] [[Shrug.|1.36Shrug]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Deceit ++<</if>> "Yes, it was." He smiles, looking relieved by the lie I just told. Lying has become far too easy for me. It just slips off my tongue without even a hint of doubt. One day, I'll begin to believe my own lies. <<include '1.37'>>

<<if settings.statShow>>Honesty ++<</if>> "No ... no, not really." "Did you tell your therapist that?" I want to answer him, to tell him how I can already tell that I'm just bordering on losing this therapist with all of my ramblings and dark thoughts. One of these days, I won't be lucky. They'll see an adult with high delusions and will transfer me to a facility instead of simply handing me over to another person. "I will," I tell him, hoping to end the conversation. <<include '1.37'>>

I shrug, but of course, my uncle doesn't let the matter go. "Maybe," I state, "I don't know yet. I've only been with this therapist for three sessions." "Which is longer than any other." He claps his hands. "I have a good feeling about this one." I manage a curt smile, not wishing to bring up how the therapist seems right on the edge of backing out. Or how I'm keeping so much to myself just to make it seem like I'm not completely losing my mind. <<include '1.37'>>

"I'm sure you're hungry," he blurts, rising and walking to the kitchen without waiting for an answer. "I'll go make your favorite, and if you want, you can spend the night." I thank him, and seeing that I am both hungry and tired, take him up on the offer. I take a seat at the table, trying and failing to keep my attention off the nearby bookcase that holds a collection of memorabilia. [[A losing battle. Go towards it.|1.37Memories]] [[Stay where I am and get my mind off it.|1.37Convos]] [[Offer to help with cooking.|1.37Cook][$cooking to true]]

Rising, I head towards the shelves like I've done so many other other times. The books are sparse, consisting of three cookbooks and a few children's books that somehow found their way here. There are also some card and board games, trophies, and ribbons. As well as ... [[... a few plants that I gave him.|1.37Memories1][$plants to true]] [[... some scout medals and books.|1.37Memories1][$scouts to true; $class_tracking to true; $class_survival to true]] [[... one or two trinkets that I sewn together.|1.37Memories1][$tailor to true; $class_sewing to true]]

My eyes continue to peruse each object until it rests on two pictures. One is of my high school graduation, my uncle standing beside me with his signature smile and looking as if he's going to rip the diploma from my hands. I remember the moment more than I can remember the day. Mainly because even though every student in attendance had graduated, he kept speaking as if I had been the only one. There was so much pride and joy, tears, and countless hugs that I couldn't escape. My heart lurches as I look at the one right beside it—this one of my mother, uncle, and me. I couldn't be anything more than a year or two old. I don't know what inspired someone to immortalize the moment. My mom and uncle were dressed casually, and the backdrop looked like some random building. And yet, here it sits—one of the only pictures I have of her—of all three of us. [[Turn away.|1.37TurnAway]] [[Touch it.|1.37TouchIt]] [[Say hello.|1.37SayHello]]

I spend no more time on the photo or, more so, the memories held within them. Sweeping my eyes across the contents one last time, I back away from the shelf and head back to the kitchen table to await dinner. <<include "1.37.1">>

I reach out and gently slide my finger across my mother's face. I have always been told that I am a spitting image of my mother, hardly a trace of my father to be found save for the color of my eyes. Parts of me believe that Uncle Matheus secretly reveled in that fact, eliminating the need to look into a face reminding him of his now-deceased brother. I know nothing about him, and most of what I have been told are stories about his youth. My mother. I knew her, but it feels like each year I spend without her causes my memories to grow foggier. The only memory that has not yet become desaturated is the one of her lying in bed, her eyes pleading for me to do something to ease her pain. And I ... I turn away from the thought. Remembering where I am, I straighten up, glancing into the kitchen to see if my uncle is paying me any mind. I release a thankful breath to see him as before, dancing to a tune only he can hear. Taking one last look at the photo, I return to the table and await dinner. <<include "1.37.1">>

"Hey mom," I whisper. <<if $religious>>"I hope you're doing well and taking care of yourself. I miss you. And ..." <<else>> "I'm talking to myself, I know, but ... wherever you are. I hope you're doing fine. And ..."<</if>> My heart thumps as the words stop in my throat; the therapist's words rewind in my head. It's not my fault. It's just stress and the desperate attempts to make sense of tragedy. Remembering where I am, I straighten up, glancing into the kitchen to see if my uncle is paying me any mind. I release a thankful breath to see him as before, dancing to a tune only he can hear. Taking one last look at the photo, I return to the table and await dinner. <<include "1.37.1">>

Turning my attention to Uncle Matheus, I ask, "any news on that cruise you were looking to take for my graduation?" "Thank you for reminding me," he snaps, "I found three that are embarking in June but I'll have to see which one is more affordable and where they're going. It'd be nice to go to the Caribbean or even to Alaska. I didn't know they actually had Alaskan cruises." "Both sound nice. Though I wonder how warm it'll be in Alaska this time of year." "I've heard that it gets into the 60's and 70's. Should be perfect weather. And imagine, we could see those northern lights everyone is always talking about." I smirk as he grows more and more excited. "I think I know which cruise we'll be going on," I chuckle. <<if $CRomance >=1>>\ "Are you going to invite Chris?" I glance away and clear my throat, "why would you ask that?" "Well, he's graduating too, isn't he?" he questions but continues before I can answer. "And it's so obvious you have the biggest crush on him." "I do not." "You laugh at all of his jokes." "He's funny!" My uncle snorts, turning away from the food as he calms himself down. "No. He really isn't. But someone with a crush wouldn't know that." His smile disappears as he looks me over. <<if $gender is "male">>"Unless something changed, you told me he's straight. Shouldn't you ... I don't know, drop it?" "Easier said than done." "I just don't want to see your heart get broken, especially when you know you don't have a chance." I hum. He's right. Of course, he's right. I'm not one of those self-centered people who find it fun and a challenge to convert another's orientation. No, I just like the personal pain of having a crush on a man who will always be out of my reach.<<else>>"Aren't you too old to be playing this game?" "Game?" "I don't mean to offend, but crushes seem elementary. Agree with me on at least that," he chuckles, and I nod. He is right, but it never seems as easy as just admitting your feelings. It can be, I get it, but in reality, all the other things that can happen always bring me pause. "Maybe. Plus, I even doubt that Chris feels the same about me in any manner. You should see how fast he hops from girl to girl." "He's enjoying his college days," Matheus laughs, "but once he's gotten it out of his system, he'll be looking for that one girl, and I can bet he won't even hesitate to look at you." His words warm me, but I don't hold onto them too tightly. There may be truth hidden underneath, but one must move far too much debris out of the way to find it. <<else>>\ "I only ask that you stay away from the karaoke lounges. We don't want a repeat of the Bahamas cruise." "You were like thirteen years old. Can you please forget about it?" "It's seared into my memory. Trust me, I'd love to forget, but seeing you embarrass yourself and then try to fight the entire lounge as they boo you off the stage is not something easy to let go of." "They had rather listen to that old croon than me. My singing voice is beautiful." "Debateable." "You should have joined me. The crowd would have been much kinder to a teenager." "No. It was smarter for me to stay out of it; otherwise, I wouldn't have been able to record such wholesome moments. You were so possessive over that microphone." He laughs, not bothering to argue. Despite how scared I was that we would be banned, I was also grateful for that scene and more. It was the first time I felt I had truly seen my uncle able to relax and have his own fun. Most of the time, he is far more worried about my happiness and sets his own to the side. <</if>>\ "Alright," he speaks up, "food is ready." <a data-passage="1.37.1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"How about I help with cooking?" He turns to face me with a raised brow. "Trying to say that I can't cook?" "You've been feeding me for years, and I haven't died," I point out, "so no. But I don't want to just sit here and watch you." He knows me well enough to hear the words I don't say and nods and motions for me to join him with no further arguments. "You can chop the lettuce." I accept the job, and the two of us fall into a comfortable rhythm with nothing but the sound of sizzling meat and vegetables being chopped, providing a comfortable ambiance. Once finished, I add all of the cut-up vegetables to a bowl, apply a bit of seasoning, and then turn to see how my uncle is doing. His attention is completely set on the task in front of him, and I hum at how natural this all feels. <<include "1.37.1">>

With the food completed, I set the table and dig right in. The conversation is sparse before growing nonexistent as we both busy ourselves with eating. <<if hasVisited("1.37Cook")>>\ "This taste different," he points out between chews, "did you do something different?" "I tried a few different seasonings, and I also mixed up the salsa. Is it good?" "Perfect," he smiles, focusing back on eating. And yet, when I look up, I find him gazing at me with a soft smile. When he realizes he's being watched, he'll naturally look away, but there is a twinkle in his eye. <<else>>\ There are times when I look up and find him gazing at me with a soft smile on his face. When he realizes he's being watched, he naturally looks away, but there is a twinkle in his eye. <</if>>\ "Okay, what is it?" I ask, unable to ignore his stare any longer. He looks prepared to shove the topic to the side, to say that he had just been thinking and that I should ignore him. But then he shakes his head and nods. "I'm proud of you." "For what?" "Everything. Sometimes, I feel like I don't tell you enough. You've gone through so much and now look at you. Less than a month to go before graduating college. I haven't even done that." "You can always go back." He snorts, "and get into debt like you? No thanks." The two of us laugh despite the truth that plagues his words. "But I'm serious. You're an extraordinary person, and though I wish a lot of things were different. I'm proud of you." [[“I'm proud of us.”|1.37ProudOfUs]] [[“Yea, I'm great, huh.”|1.37GreatHuh]] [[“Change the topic.”|1.37TopicChange]] [[“Thanks.”|1.37Thanks]]

"I'm proud of us," I add on. "I think we both came a long way." "The family that trauma bonds together, stays together," he chuckles, and I join him. But he's right. We've both come so far that it sometimes amazes me that at the end of it, we were still able to stand up and find a reason to keep going. <<include "1.37.2">>

"Yea," I draw out with a smirk, "I'm pretty great, huh?" "The best there ever was," he laughs. I hadn't been prepared for him to entertain my confident statement and blush a bit from the attention. <<include "1.37.2">>

I feel a rush of embarrassment wash over me. Clearing my throat, I nod to the food. "Were you in a Mexican food mood?" "I'm always in a Mexican food mood. I must not forget where I came from. My abuela would never forgive me if I forgot some of her recipes." "I noticed you don't speak Spanish as much anymore. Any reason?" He shrugs but doesn't answer, the reason perhaps being personal. When I was younger, he seemed to do it a lot more. Enough for me to pick up a few words and understand enough of the language to wear the bilingual badge but never enough to brag about being fluent. I never thought that the reason he stopped may have something to do with me, but something far more traumatic. Part of me wishes to push the issue, but seeing his expression and how quickly he wished to let the topic go, I do as well. For now. <<include "1.37.2">>

"Thanks uncle. I couldn't have gotten this far without you." "No, no," he smiles, "I am complimenting you, not the other way around." We laugh together. <<include "1.37.2">>

We eat and talk about random things like TV shows and what's happening with the news. After cleaning the kitchen and saying goodnight, I go to my old, untouched room. <<if $badhabit is "sleep">>For the first time in a very long time, my insomnia does not visit me, and I fall straight to sleep.<<else>>It doesn't take me long to fall asleep.<</if>> <a data-passage="1.38"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png" style="float:center"> I am once again on that foggy street. A single thing has changed, and that is an incessantly flickering streetlight. Attempting to see if I can move, I am successful and move in its direction. As soon as I appear by its side, it pauses its flickering and seems willing to work. Rows of decaying houses stand on both sides of the road, along with unmanicured lawns enjoying their freedom. The only sound is a distant dog continually barking at some unseen force. I attempt to head in the direction from which I believe the barking originates but always end up back where I began. I walk down the street, feeling like I'm walking in place, but the houses shift. The feeling is surreal, even for a dream. I continue down the street and spot a lone figure standing in the middle of the road, her black wavy hair immediately catching my attention. This is definitely the woman from earlier. I continue to approach her still body, cautiously closing the distance between us. Once I'm close enough, I find her eyes wide in terror with all the color drained, leaving an abyss of blackness. There is no pupil, just an entirely black sclera, giving her a horrific appearance. Suddenly, her body turns towards me, her fingers gripping my arms and squeezing. If this were real, she'd have punctured flesh, easily drawing blood. [[Try to shake her out of it.|1.39ShakeHerOutOfIt][$flight +=1]] [[Fight her off of you.|1.39FightHerOff][$fight +=1]] [[Scream in shock.|1.39Scream][$freeze +=1]]

Grabbing her shoulders, I shake her roughly. Hoping her grip will lessen if not release me entirely. This is a dream; just thinking about her removing her hands should be enough, and yet I stand there in pain and wishing she would release me. The strength of her grip amplifies until I feel my leg shaking, but right before I fall to my knee, she releases me. Dread enters her eyes as she stares through me, and then she screams. "Find me!" <<include "1.39">>

I land a punch to her jaw, and though it does connect, it does not weaken her grip, and she hardly even looks like she registers the hit. I then try to force her hands off of me, practically wrestling her, but she does not budge. Before I can think up something else, she releases me. Dread enters her eyes as she stares through me, and then she screams. "Find me!" <<include "1.39">>

I scream from the sudden movement and pain, my brain freezing as I struggle to figure out what to do. This is a dream; just thinking about her removing her hands should be enough, and yet I stand there in pain and wishing she would release me. The strength of her grip amplifies until I feel my leg shaking, but right before I fall to my knee, she releases me. Dread enters her eyes as she stares through me, and then she screams. "Find me!" <<include "1.39">>

<img src="images/divider.png" style="float:center"> The next morning, I roll out of bed near noon and am greeted by a headache bordering a migraine. Is this to be my fate? <<if $badhabit is "sleep">>The only times I find sleep easily are the nights when I have some enigmatic dream that will mean hardly anything to me?<<else>>Constantly suffering from dreams that will more so haunt me than anything else? <<if $badhabit is "cigs">>Fuck, I need a cigarette.<<else>>I begin picking at my nails, biting them until whatever has grown since last time has been reduced back to nothing more than a nub.<</if>><</if>> <<if $badhabit is "cigs">>\ Grabbing a cigarette, I head outside and sit on the front porch, lighting it and taking a long puff before slowly exhaling. The humid air, combined with the relief that the cigarette brings me, allows my brain a moment of clarity. I rub my eyes and stare at nothing in particular, hoping for but knowing that a moment of solace will not be attainable. It never is. I smoke for a few more minutes before getting up and stomping the stick out. Tossing it in the trash can, I head back inside just as my uncle enters the kitchen. <<else>>\ Rubbing my temples, I enter the kitchen and inhale the scent of french toast. Despite the delightful aroma, it does little to rid my mind of last night's dream or, more so, the woman in it. So, was the first dream a precursor to last night? No, a better question is why these dreams always come in fragments. Will tomorrow bring an extended version of this dream? Despite that possibly being the case, something tells me that what I saw last night was the dream in its entirety. But then, why? I've only met the woman once and didn't even know her name. Why would I dream of her? I rub the area of my arm that the woman grabbed hold of. It doesn't hurt, but I swear the area feels sensitive. I pour myself some juice and take a seat, <<if $badhabit is "sleep">>staring at nothing in particular as the dream replays in my mind.<<else>>absentmindedly picking at my nails as the dream replays in my mind.<</if>> <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("1.34Painting")>>\ "Someone took their precious time getting up," my uncle says as he enters, a paint-splattered towel in his hands. "Painting?" "Yes. Your gift from yesterday was perfectly timed. I was running out of some colors." "Can I see, or will you continue to keep it a secret?" "You'll see it when it's done," he smiles goofily. "I'm proud of how this one is coming out. But let's talk about you. <<if $badhabit is "cigs">>Don't you think it's a bit early to be smoking? And why do you look like someone kicked you in the face?"<<else>>Why do you look like someone kicked you in the face?<</if>>" <<elseif hasVisited("1.34Book")>>\ "Someone took their precious time getting up," my uncle says as he enters, refilling his mug. "Where have you been?" "In the study reading that new book that you bought me." "Is it good?" "Slow start, but I have high hopes. The author has a beautiful style. But let's talk about you. <<if $badhabit is "cigs">>Don't you think it's a bit early to be smoking? And why do you look like someone kicked you in the face?"<<else>>Why do you look like someone kicked you in the face?<</if>>" <<else>>\ "Someone took their precious time getting up," my uncle says as he enters, <<if hasVisited("1.36Shirt")>>and I notice that he's wearing the shirt I bought him yesterday.<<else>>placing something in the trash and a cup in the seat as he turns to face me.<</if>> "What's wrong?" he interrogates, "you look like someone kicked you in the face." <</if>>\ "Thanks," I huff, "those are the exact words I want to hear." "If I said you looked like you got your beauty sleep, I'd be lying. And I've sworn to always tell you the truth." He continues to stare at me. "Are you going to tell me? Was it another dream? Did you see something?" The line of questions irks something deep inside me as I instinctively begin to close myself off. I feel like I'm back in the therapist's office, carefully picking through my thoughts to not reveal too much. <<if $badhabit is "sleep">>"I'm fine. It's just the insomnia. "I sometimes forget that you suffer from it."<<else>>"I'm fine. I just didn't sleep well." He doesn't look like he believes me but doesn't push the topic.<</if>> He says something else, but my mind has returned to its previous thought. //Find me//, she had said. What if something bad was going to happen? Why would I think I can help her if that is true? To say the dream means nothing would mean my fears about my main dream are unfounded. But to say that it holds meaning and a message that I should heed ... well, that brings an equal amount of realization and fear that I am not ready to greet. "$name," my uncle calls out, regaining my attention. "I'm fine," I tell him. I hug him goodbye, not providing a proper reason for suddenly departing. Getting into the car, my hands tighten around the steering wheel. [[Go check on the woman.|1.39CheckOn][$daring +=5; $stubborn +=5]] [[Drive directly home.|1.39Drive][$custody to true; $daring -=5; $stubborn -=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++ | Stubborn ++<</if>> //Find me.// Again, those words echo through my head and sound far too much like a warning for me to simply ignore them. What happens if I find her? Do I tell her that a dream led me to believe that she needed my help? That she personally, in the most eerie way possible, told me to come and search for her? "How many people need to think I'm crazy?" I bring up the address that she had given me the other day. For all I know, she may not even be there; she is probably long gone, and this entire trek to check is pointless. It was nothing more than a dream. And yet, I tap the address and put the car in gear. I don't make it far when I notice a black SUV behind me. Usually, it wouldn't bother me. Coincidences exist, and I have far too many things to worry about. I do not wish or want to add stalking to that list. But I remember this car being with me since leaving the neighborhood. They should have turned already. There's no way ... right? It may genuinely just be my nerves; it's not like I'm not on edge due to my dreams. I'm having a heck of a week; I'd rather not add paranoia to the mix. I turn a corner and watch as the car does the exact same. I take another, trying to follow my GPS but also shake whoever is following me if that is what they're doing. No matter what I do, they're there. My heart thuds quicker at the realization. If I ever complained about the un-excitement of my life, I take it all back now. <a data-passage="EP1-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++ | Reasonable ++<</if>> I have no need for excitement in my life. Not now when everything feels like it's mounting. She told me to forget her, and I plan to do that. I grab my keys and head out, doing my best to push the thought of the woman and dream out of my head. By the time I arrive home, I've just given up on the whole idea of letting go of the dream. Why now? It feels like the recurring dream was the catalyst, and now I can't seem to stop having cryptic dreams. One dreamless night of sleep is all I ask. My thoughts cause me to pay less attention to my surroundings, and before I know what has happened, I bump straight into someone. "I'm sorry," I start, reaching down to grab my keys as the stranger's hand closes around my forearm. The rest of my apology dies on my lips as I glance from the hand to the owner, shocked to see it's the tall, black agent from the other day. "You're coming with us." <a data-passage="EP1-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/actthree.png"> <<if $custody>>\ "Whoa! Let go of me," I shout, trying to push the agent away. His grip on my arm tightens, and he leans in. <<if $dark_control>> "You want a permanent scar to haunt you for the rest of your life?<<else>> "You want another permanent scar to haunt you for the rest of your life?<</if>> If not, behave." I narrow my eyes, hoping to come off as intimidating, but his smirk tells me I'm failing. <<if $cmajor is "Criminal Justice">> "Correct me, but I didn't hear you tell me what I'm being arrested for, and you damn sure didn't read me my Miranda rights." <<else>> "You got a warrant?" <</if>> He snorts as he drags me away from the apartments and back towards the parking lot. <<if $cmajor is "Criminal Justice">>"You're adorable, really. Dreaming of going into law enforcement, huh? Then let me teach you your first lesson." His grip tightens, and I try as I might to free myself; I find him exceedingly strong, almost inhumanly. "I do what the fuck I want. Now move." <<else>> "Does it look like I'm looking to search your home or car? I don't need a fuckin' warrant." <</if>> He walks me back to my car, where his partner stands, yet again smiling like he knows something everyone else doesn't. "Keys and phone," he orders <<if $stubborn >=50>>and I snort at the thought. I have half a mind to throw them, but with how my day is going, I'll probably throw them straight into a storm drain.<<else>>and though I wish to be difficult, I understand that will only worsen whatever happens next.<</if>> <<if $stubborn >=50>>\ "Alright," he growls, one hand closing around my throat as the other grabs hold of my wrist. He snatches the keys from my grip and throws them towards his partner before focusing back on me. He then pats me down with his free hand until he finds what he's searching for. "In case you haven't realized, I'm not the most patient person. So, let me tell you how the next few minutes will play out. We're going to get into your car, and you'll help us with that woman. After that, you'll never see me or my partner again, and you can go back to living your mundane life. Understand?" "If I say no?" His grip tightens, and I nod vigorously, understanding the alternative. <<else>>\ "Glad we understand each other." He snatches the keys and throws them towards his partner before accepting the phone I hand over. "So, here's how this is going to go. We're going to get into your car, and you'll help us with that woman. After that, you'll never see me or my partner again, and you can go back to living your mundane life. You do what we want without problem, and nothing will happen to you. This'll all be over soon. Okay?" I nod. <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("1.30Address")>>\ "What do you want? I already gave you the address." "The boss came up with this idea. You're going to play the role of bargaining chip." I open my mouth to question what that means, but he raises his hand to stop me. "No more questions. Just do what we say so you can put this behind you." <<elseif hasVisited("1.30FakeOne")>>\ "What do you want? I already told you the address." "Are you still singing that song?" Langston asks as he closes the door. We know you lied; there's no trace of her ever being at the park." "How would you even know -" "Shut up. Let's just skip everything else and get straight to the fact that we know everything." Petri growls, showing me my phone screen, "unlock it." <<else>>\ "What do you want? I already told you that I don't know where she is." "Still singing that song," Langston questions, sighing and leaning on the car door, "we know what you said. But the boss doesn't believe you." "And that's my -" "Shut up. Let's just skip everything else and get straight to the fact that we know everything." Petri growls, showing me my phone screen, "unlock it." <</if>>\ <a data-passage="1.41"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ I'm being followed—or, at least, I believe I am. Solutions to this problem evade me. Do I want to try to lose them, giving away the idea that I'm clueless about them trailing me? But if I don't do that, I'll lead them straight to my destination. Even if I head somewhere else, they'll follow me there too. There is no clear way out. I glance in the rearview mirror, the truck is now trailing behind me by two cars. It at least gives me time to ponder my next move. [[Go into a nearby gas station.|1.40GasStation][$daring -=3]] [[Lose them in traffic.|1.40Traffic][$daring +=3]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> I notice a nearby, decently crowded gas station, and without a second to doubt my plan, I turn into the parking lot. I park off to the side and get out, feeling my heart thumping louder than it should. What if they get out as well? This exact gas station is crowded, but I've seen plenty of videos where crowds will just stare on, far too concerned for themselves to do anything. The truck parks next to a gas pump, but no one gets out, and the windows are too darkly tinted for me to make out those within. Entering, I head to the back and act like I'm perusing the drink selection, trying to figure out my next move. They are most definitely following me. Any shred of coincidence has been ripped away and replaced by fear. <<if $coping is "risky">>The need to do something random and destructive enters my mind. Knocking all the goods off the ground, breaking a glass, something that will cause so much commotion that the threat outside is no longer just that. Of course, that brings about so many other issues, but the thought at least fills me with some kind of joy.<<elseif $coping is "comfort">>I take an unsteady step and then pause, closing my eyes and counting just like my mother told me to do. I think about all the places I could be right now. All the things I could be doing. Each thought comes with a number until I reach zero, and I feel much calmer.<<else>>But maybe this all was still a coincidence? I'm not watching them now; perhaps one got out of the truck and pumped gas. This is one of the first gas stations I've come across. Would it really be so odd for them to have come from the same neighborhood and, searching for a station, followed me here?<</if>> <<if $badhabit is "nails">>Absentmindedly, I begin to bite down on whatever nails I have left as I move in an attempt to spot the truck. It's still sitting there,<<else>>I move just enough to spot where the truck once was and find it still sitting there,<</if>> now with a car behind it. If I can time my exit just right, I may be able to lose them in the parking lot's traffic. It's my best idea, so I wait a while longer, grabbing an armful of snacks to avoid suspicion. Once I get outside, the person in the car behind them seems to have had enough. The other pumps are all busy, and this is the only car just sitting there. They march to the truck's window and bang on it, cursing at whoever is inside. This is my chance. I pick up my pace and head to my car, hoping that luck remains on my side. I start my car, hoping to peel out and get back into traffic before the truck can eliminate their little distraction. But even better, I watch another car pull out in front of them, boxing the SUV in. I cheer as I waste no time leaving the gas station behind and getting back on track. To be sure, I take random turns whenever I can, and by the time I get to my destination, I see no sign of the car. <<if $badhabit is "cigs">>I'm going to need an entire carton of cigarettes after this. This ... this is too much.<</if>> <a data-passage="1.40.1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> I increase my speed and consider the most crowded streets in the area. Thankfully, it's still early enough in the morning that others are still attempting to make their way to work. I run the red light at the last minute only to catch another right after. A quick glance in my rearview mirror tells me they'll catch up by the time this one turns green. I'll have to be more aggressive. Otherwise, there's no way I'll get away fast enough. At the next light, I speed past it and take a turn, speeding past that one as well. I'm less worried about the truck and far more concerned with a red and blue light appearing in my rearview. When I don't see that, nor the car. I start to calm down. Satisfied, I return to my previous task of following the GPS. <<if $badhabit is "cigs">>I'm going to need an entire carton of cigarettes after this. This ... this is too much.<</if>> <a data-passage="1.40.1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if hasVisited("1.27GasMoney") or hasVisited("1.27Yes")>>About twenty or so minutes later, I find myself driving down a familiar neighborhood. I drive by the house in question a few times before finally just stopping the car.<<else>>About twenty or so minutes later, I find myself driving down an unfamiliar neighborhood.<</if>> In hindsight, after everything I just went through, this seems crazy. No, crazy feels too light of a word. Idiotic. Insane. I dream about a woman I met once, and that's enough for me to do all of this. Repeatedly telling myself that this dream has to mean something doesn't help either; it simply hammers down the idea that I am now losing my mind. Did I even bother to think how this woman might feel about seeing me again? And yet, I'm already here. Making up my mind about what to do, I park my car three houses down and in an overgrown backyard. Walking back to the house, I notice that the vibe I'm feeling from my surroundings isn't quite what I had been expecting. I feel far more depressed than frightened, which could be blamed on the sun's positioning in the sky, giving me a clear and beautiful view of everything. The idea is that these houses, this neighborhood, were once alive with energy but now void of it all. It is easy to imagine how the neighborhood might've looked in its prime and how neighbors treated one another. I smile at the thought of children riding their bikes up and down the streets, dogs barking, and an ice cream truck's joyful yet annoying sound. <a data-passage="1.40.2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

But whatever the past held, the present has long forgotten. Unmanicured lawns and yards filled with an assortment of trash leading up to vandalized houses. Each house holds its own story, some far more than others, yet they will be left untold. Once a place of refuge, now nothing but an eyesore and a waste of space. How fast did it become that? Who was the last to leave? Did they feel hopeless? Glancing out their window and watching as neighbor after neighbor moved on until no one remained. "This isn't why you're here," I murmur. I approach the house cautiously and knock against my better judgment. For all I know, she's gone, or someone else may be here. Who in their right mind would open the door upon hearing someone knock anyway? I jiggle the knob and find the door unlocked, entering and finding myself standing in the living room. Debris litters the floor and any leftover furniture has been pushed off to the side to provide room for the collection of symbols drawn freely across the floor. In the middle of one symbol rests a bowl, an assortment of objects resting inside. [[Search for the woman.|1.40Search]] [[Investigate the symbols and bowl.|1.40Investigate]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> "Hello?" I call out. "It's me, $name, from yesterday. I helped you out at the hospital." <<if hasVisited("1.25Leave")>>Well, not really. I completely threw her under the bus, but it's not like it hampered her plans. <</if>>I hear no sound; the house seems just as empty as the rest of the neighborhood. I walk up the stairs, not touching the dust-covered railing. How will I feel to learn that this has all been pointless? It doesn't answer who was following me and for what purpose. It doesn't answer anything, nor will it change anything. I'll walk away and still fret over that dream and will find myself glancing over my shoulder numerous times. It takes me driving here to figure out how much of a mistake it all is. What did I genuinely hope to figure out? I open the door closest to me, curious about what else may be here. I hardly have opened the door when it shoots open, and a hand closes around my throat as I'm thrown to the ground. "You?" the woman from earlier questions, releasing me. "Me. Was that necessary?" I gingerly massage my neck and peer over at her. I know judging one's strength from looks alone is unwise, but I would have never guessed her to be //that// strong. She practically dragged me across the floor, and I had no way of rising if she chose not to release me. "Are you hard of hearing?" I hear her say, but the words don't really stick. "What?" She snorts, straightening up as she looks down at me. I suddenly feel like choice meat hung up on a hook for the viewing pleasure of curious eyes. [[“Mind helping me up?”|1.40HelpMeUp]] [[“Do you have a staring problem?”|1.40StaringProblem]] <<if $flirt_syd>>\ <<if settings.dialog>>[[“At least buy me a drink first.”|1.40BuyMeADrink][$SRomance +=1]]<<else>>[[“At least buy me a drink first.”|1.40BuyMeADrink][$SRomance +=1]]<</if>> <</if>>\ [[“I'm not interested.”|1.40NotInterested]]

"Do you mind helping me up?" She moves, and at first, I think she's about to aid me, but instead, she walks over and past me. "Get yourself up, and while you're at it, mind telling me what you're doing here?" I push myself into a sitting position, wondering if I cared to actually tell her, but then I realize that all of this would be for nothing otherwise. [[“I was worried.”|1.40Worried][$sympathy +=3; $sydero +=3]] [[“I wanted to know what happened to you.”|1.40Nosy][$sydero -=5]] [[“I ... had a dream.”|1.40Dream][$sydero +=5]]

"Do you have a staring problem?" "Do you have a listening one?" "No." "Then explain what the fuck you're doing here. Last time I saw you, I remember saying to forget that I exist." I push myself into the seated position and watch as she heads downstairs. [[“I was worried.”|1.40Worried][$sympathy +=3; $sydero +=3]] [[“I wanted to know what happened to you.”|1.40Nosy][$sydero -=5]] [[“I ... had a dream.”|1.40Dream][$sydero +=5]]

"If you're going to keep undressing me with your eyes, then at least buy me a drink first." She smirks instantly, almost like I'd been speaking a different language earlier, and now she can understand me. "Is that a promise?" "And what if I say yes? What then?" "Careful. You may be getting in bed with the devil." She sneers at her own words before moving towards the stairs. "What you can do right now," I hear her say as I push myself up off the ground, "is tell me what the fuck you're doing here." [[“I was worried.”|1.40Worried][$sympathy +=3; $sydero +=3]] [[“I wanted to know what happened to you.”|1.40Nosy][$sydero -=5]] [[“I ... had a dream.”|1.40Dream][$sydero +=5]]

"Look, I'm not interested." The word 'interested' is hardly out of my mouth when she snorts, tilting her head to the side as she continues to look me over. "And what makes you think //I'm// interested?" "The way you're looking at me." "Someone thinks highly of themselves. Only one thing about you interests me right now, and it has nothing to do with your body." She turns and heads towards the stairs while I slowly pick myself up off the ground. Along with a sensitive neck, my back feels overly sore. "The fuck are you doing here?" I hear her question. [[“I was worried.”|1.40Worried][$sympathy +=3; $sydero +=3]] [[“I wanted to know what happened to you.”|1.40Nosy][$sydero -=5]] [[“I ... had a dream.”|1.40Dream][$sydero +=5]]

I look over some of the symbols. I'm not an expert on the topic, but none of them look demonic in nature. <<if $religious>>I know enough to know what reversed pentagrams mean and look like. As well as some of the symbols easily identifiable in religious texts. But it isn't like my knowledge on the topics goes in great depth.<<else>>Though, how I'm supposed to know the difference is beyond me.<</if>> They look like symbols one would find in a witch's hut ... though, I suppose that would count as demonic if all the rumors about witches hold any truth. I then turn my attention to the wooden bowl that sits towards the edge of the circle and crouch down to get a better look. The contents are floating in some kind of dark liquid, shrouding the other ingredients and making it difficult to tell what the fluid is. I don't smell anything and the color seems too dark for it to be my first suspicion, blood. The few things I can make out seem to be herbs and flowers, others I can't rightfully deduce without sticking my hand inside. [[Stick my hand in.|1.40StickInStickInAndROLLLLITTT][$daring +=5]] [[Keep my hands to myself.|1.40HandsToSelf][$daring -=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> I carefully touch the liquid and move it around with a finger. It's thick, but that is the most I care to discern. Fishing around for the first object I can find, I grab onto something sturdy and pull it up. "What is this?" I ask aloud, rotating the small white and brown stick around. <<include "1.40Investigate2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> I'm not about to stick my hand into whatever that is. I'm barely holding on to the fragments of sanity that I do possess; I'd be damned if I do something so idiotic to lose the rest of it. Instead, I rotate the bowl around, hoping to discern the objects within. I spy a white and brown stick, but I must keep rotating the bowl to see it better, thanks to the viscous contents. "What is that?" I ask aloud. <<include "1.40Investigate2">>

"Are you hard of hearing?" a familiar snarky voice questions. I look up to see the woman leaning on the staircase rail, staring down at me. "What part of //forget// did you not understand?" <<if hasVisited("1.40HandsToSelf")>>\ "What is that?" I ask her, inviting her to come and see. When she doesn't move, I decide to simply describe it: "The white and brown-looking stick. It's really small." "Probably the two-month-old baby bone." Her words startle me so much that I release the bowl and turn away as the contents leak across the floor. "For fucks sake!" she growls, walking down the remaining stairs. "What are you even doing here?" <<else>>\ What is this?" I ask again. "That would be a two-month-old baby bone." Her words immediately cause me to drop it, moving away from the bowl, fearing what else I may find. <<if $serious >=50>>My heart thuds harshly in my chest as I look from her and then back to the bowl. "You're not serious." "I am." <<else>>My heart thuds harshly in my chest, but I force myself to calm down; she's joking. All of this is a joke. "Cute," I say through gritted teeth. "You're hilarious." "Does it look like I'm joking?" It feels like someone presses a button to get my heart back to thundering loudly.<</if>> <</if>>\ "What the hell is this? Demonic worship?" "Not so much," she chuckles, walking down the remaining stairs. "<<if hasVisited("1.40HandsToSelf")>>Again. <</if>>What are you doing here?" "First, answer my question." She sneers and takes a threatening step closer to me, and I suddenly feel claustrophobic. My eyes shoot to the <<if hasVisited("1.40HandsToSelf")>>spilled liquid and its contents<<else>>symbol and bowl<</if>> on the floor. It would be wise not to anger her when I hardly know what she is capable of. [[“I was worried.”|1.40Worried][$sympathy +=3; $sydero +=3]] [[“I wanted to know what happened to you.”|1.40Nosy][$sydero -=5]] [[“I ... had a dream.”|1.40Dream][$sydero +=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> She raises a brow, no doubt wondering why I would be concerned with a stranger's well-being. "Some agents showed up and said that you were a dangerous character and that they needed to find you<<if hasVisited("1.40Search")>>," I tell her as I make my way down the stairs, my eyes flashing back over to the symbols and the mysterious bowl. Only now do I think that they may have been right. Either dangerous or delusional.<<else>>."<</if>> "Aw, and so you thought a potentially dangerous character needed your help and worry?" My mouth opens and closes, my brow narrowing. "What if I was a serial killer, and you just became my next victim?" Part of me wants to point out that if her words held truth, she wouldn't be saying them, but why not? Why not speak whatever is on her mind if she just plans to kill me? <<include "1.40.3">>

"Ugh, curiosity killed that cat, you know," she points out, looking quite bored at my reason. She reminds me of a professor who has heard the same excuse far too many times to keep count of. "Good thing I'm not a cat. Look, I just want answers. The FBI agents said that you were an extremely dangerous character when they questioned me about you. And this house isn't helping your case<<if hasVisited("1.40Search")>>," I tell her as I make my way down the stairs, jabbing my thumb in the direction of the symbols and the mysterious bowl.<<else>>."<</if>> "Let me get this straight," she chuckles, leaning on the wall. "You heard from federal agents that I was an extremely dangerous character and thought it smart to let your curiosity lead you here to figure that out for yourself?" My mouth opens and closes, my brow narrowing. "What if I was a serial killer, and you just became my next victim?" Part of me wants to point out that if her words held truth, she wouldn't be saying them, but why not? Why not speak whatever is on her mind if she just plans to kill me? She chuckles, "I think you're the cat in this scenario." <<include "1.40.3">>

She straightens, narrowing her eyes. "What kind of dream?" "What do you mean what kind of dream? You were on the street looking terrifying. Then, you grabbed me and told me to come find you." She doesn't immediately respond or even react to my words. All she does is stand there and stare, and after some time, I wonder if she's even paying attention to me anymore. <<if hasVisited("1.40Search")>>I make my way down the stairs to stand in front of her. While she seems to be lost in whatever thought my words caused her to mull over, my eyes flash back over to the symbols and the mysterious bowl. The agents had said she was dangerous, either they were right or they meant delusional. I shake my head and place my attention back on her.<</if>> "Look," I start once the silence has gone on for far too long, "I'm just really confused about a lot of things, and something told me that you may know something." She snorts, "whatever told you that lied. Points though for risking your life on a dream." "Risking my life?" I ask, stiffening. I surmise that I react exactly how she wants me to as a sneer spreads across her face and she shakes her head, failing to keep in a chuckle. <<include "1.40.3">>

"I still see no point in telling a complete stranger my reason for doing anything," she tells me. "A complete stranger that shouldn't even be here." That part is said with venom laced through the words. "At the very least, tell me what you did to get the FBI on your trail. I had a black SUV following me, and I'd rather not be pulled into whatever you have going on." "You were being followed, and you still came here?" she growls, going to the nearest window and looking out. Her cool demeanor shifts almost instantly, and she appears frightened at what my words may mean. "I'm not stupid," I start, ignoring the look she tosses me over her shoulder. "I lost them and parked my car two or three houses down and in the backyard." If she hears me, I can't tell. She leaves and enters what I guessed to be the kitchen, and I follow close behind. She picks up a bookbag stowed away in the corner and sets it on the counter before approaching multiple cabinets and pulling down water and snack bars. "What are you doing?" "You ask the worst questions. What does it look like? I'm leaving." "Why?" She groans, sparing me a quick, irritated look before continuing. "You also ask a lot of them." "And you haven't answered any of them." "What can I say? It's a curse," she chuckles sarcastically. Whether it's my intolerance for the moment or just my total confusion about the situation, that smirk of hers grates my nerves. It reminds me that I know so little and will remain left in the dark. She returns to her task, behaving like I had disappeared entirely from the house. Obviously, I'm not going to get anything from her. This was all a massive waste of time, sanity, and gas. <a data-passage="1.40.4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The thing is, she's right. I came all this way for no reason. I questioned what I hoped to discover when I first came, and I got my answer, nothing. Part of me questions whether I should say something or try to coax answers just one last time. But I realize that it will probably be a waste of time. Honestly, what did I expect coming here? Would I not behave the same? A random person that I met only once finds and questions me. Her secrets are hers, yet I still feel I should be privy to them. Especially since they seem to now include me. I start to leave the kitchen when she quietly asks, "do you hear that?" I stop, trying to figure out what she's talking about when I hear the unmistakable sound of tires screeching on asphalt. "A car?" My words catch up with me. What would a car be doing in an abandoned neighborhood? We stand frozen as the sounds of more cars join in. We both race to the nearest window simultaneously, gazing out of it in curiosity. Three black cars rest outside, and a group of people in all black stands in front of them, their eyes on the house. "Well, shit," she growls, "thanks for leading them here." <<if $serious >=50>>"So this is my fault?"<<else>>"Oh, so it's official? We're blaming me for this?"<</if>> "Do you see anyone else who could've possibly done it?" I watch her return to the kitchen and gaze back out the window, noticing two recognizable people among the group. They're the same agents who questioned me. Never in a million years would I forget their faces. "I recognize two of them," I tell her, and though she responds, she continues with her task. "Is that supposed to make me feel better?" <<if hasVisited("1.40StickInStickInAndROLLLLITTT")>>\ <>\ <<set $sydero -=3>> <>\ "No," I say as she walks out the kitchen and towards me, her pack in her hands.<<if hasVisited("1.30FakeOne") or hasVisited("1.30IDK")>>"But it doesn't explain how they were able to track you down. I didn't tell them anything when they questioned me about you."<</if>> She holds up her hand. "It doesn't matter. We need to get out of here and thanks to a horribly nosy person, I can't use a spell to accomplish that." My face feels like it shifts from one expression to the other, finally turning neutral as I stare at her. I'm not sure what exactly I'm waiting for her to say. To remark that she's joking or to double down on supposedly insinuating that she's a witch or something akin to it. <<else>>\ "No," I say as she rushes past me, heading to the symbols and the bowl. She studies it briefly before making new ones off to the side.<<if hasVisited("1.30FakeOne") or hasVisited("1.30IDK")>>"But it doesn't explain how they were able to track you down. I didn't tell them anything when they questioned me about you."<</if>> She remains quiet, continuing her work as I glance over her shoulder for a better look. <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("1.40Search")>>[[Joke about using a spell.|1.40JokeSpell][$serious -=3; $sydero +=3]]<<else>><<if hasVisited("1.40StickInStickInAndROLLLLITTT")>>[[Ask if she's serious.|1.40SeriousSpell][$serious +=3; $sydero +=3]]<<else>>[[Ask if she's really doing a spell.|1.40SeriousSpell][$serious +=3; $sydero +=3]]<</if>><</if>> [[Suggest we make a run for it.|1.40RunForIt][$pacifist +=3; $sydero -=3]] [[Question. Her.|1.40Question][$stubborn +=3; $sydero -=5]] [[Stay quiet.|1.40QuietTime][$sydero +=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Comical ++<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.40StickInStickInAndROLLLLITTT")>>\ "It's a spell," I start, laughing nervously, though I had meant to sound far more sure of myself. "It shouldn't be that hard to whip up something new." She gives me an unimpressed look and rolls her eyes. <<else>>\ "Just use a spell or something? Something to either get us out of here or to keep them from getting in," I joke, not ready for her reaction. She smirks and winks at me. If I didn't know better, I'd say she was proud. But that may be my mind hallucinating after everything that has happened in a short period. "That's exactly what I'm doing." Is she taking me seriously? Can she actually use a spell? <</if>>\ <<include "1.40.5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Comical ++<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.40StickInStickInAndROLLLLITTT")>>"Were you really about to do a spell? So what I said before? This is all some kind of witchcraft?"<<else>>"Are you ... are you really about to do a spell?"<</if>> I question, a mix of horror and curiosity strewing about within me. She hums, the closest thing to an answer I'll probably receive at a time. <</if>>\ <<include "1.40.5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> "I suggest we run. Is there a back door or something? If we manage to sneak away, we can head straight for my car." <<if hasVisited("1.40StickInStickInAndROLLLLITTT")>>"A horrible plan, really. But I think it's the only one we have."<<else>>"I doubt we'll make it far, but I'll give you a C- for effort."<</if>> <<include "1.40.5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++<</if>> "If I have to ask you what's going on one more time then –" "Then you'll again get no answer and just ask again." I sigh in frustration, though I don't know why. She's right; if she didn't answer me then, she won't answer me now. <<include "1.40.5">>

I stay quiet, simply curious about what's going on and how it'll help us get out of this mess. <<include "1.40.5">>

"Hey, $name. How about you come on out. We know you're in there. We don't want you, we're after the woman. Come out, <<if hasVisited("1.30Address")>>and you'll be ... pardoned."<<else>>and we'll overlook you lying to us and let you go."<</if>> I look out the window, not liking how the words were said. It doesn't take a genius to know that they're lying. "How do they even know I'm here?" "One of them probably got your scent," she answers matter-of-factly. "Dogs can track like that?" I question, my brows furrowing in confusion. "No, but werewolves can." I look over at her, <<if hasVisited("1.40StickInStickInAndROLLLLITTT")>>finding that she's concentrated on her pack.<<else>>finding that she's still concentrating on whatever she's doing with the symbols and the bowl. Her eyes frantically travel from one sign to the other as the gears turn in her mind.<</if>> "What did you just say?" <<if hasVisited("1.40StickInStickInAndROLLLLITTT")>>"Werewolves. As in full moon, howl at the moon, smelly little creatures with an odd obsession with what? The moon."<<else>>"Oh, for fucks sake. Werewolves. As in full moon, howl at the moon, smelly little creatures with an odd obsession with what? The moon. Now leave me be so I can figure this shit out."<</if>> Oh goodness, I think she's serious ... [[“Fine, don’t tell me.”|1.40FineDontTell]] [[“Nope, impossible.”|1.40Impossible]] [[“Out of all things to tell me, you choose this!?”|1.40YouChooseThisOne]] [[“Right ...”|1.40Right]] [[“A werewolf. They exist?!”|1.40TheyExist]] [[Stare.|1.40StareOn]]

"If you didn't want to tell me then fine. But don't make up ridiculous lies,” I huff. "You can go outside and check if you’d like.” I think about her words. She hasn't lied to me yet. Instead, she just refused to tell me anything at all. But this, this is impossible. Right? <<include "1.40.6">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Serious ++<</if>> "Nope, impossible." I shake my head and cross my arms over my chest, refusing to believe her. <<if hasVisited("1.40StickInStickInAndROLLLLITTT")>>She gazes at me with a raised brow<<else>>She halts her frantic hands, sitting back on her knees and gazing at me with interest<</if>>, "I haven't lied to you yet. So why would I now?" "Cause you're evil ... and tricky like that." "I appreciate the compliment, but I can assure you I'm not lying. You can go outside and see for yourself if you'd like." I think about her words. They did hold truth, she hadn't lied to me. Instead, she just refuses to tell me anything at all. But this ... this is impossible. <<include "1.40.6">>

I stare at her, my jaw practically touching the floor. "Out of all things to tell me, you choose this?!" "I can't help it. I like dropping the hammer on people's reality," she chuckles at her joke, though I fail to see the humor. <<include "1.40.6">>

"Right," I draw out, "and the tooth fairy and Bigfoot are upstairs having a tea party." "Bigfoot isn't real, and the tooth fairy's a bitch. Or at least the one I met." "I was kidding!" "I wasn't." <<include "1.40.6">>

"A werewolf. They exist?!" I shout. <<if hasVisited("1.40StickInStickInAndROLLLLITTT")>>"Look, I can answer your questions later, but right now, we need to get out of here."<<else>>"Look, I can answer your questions later, but right now, I need to focus."<</if>> <<include "1.40.6">>

I say nothing, mainly because my mind is in a different place. She continues as my mind races through everything I've ever known and what I apparently don't. She has to be joking. Right? <<include "1.40.6">>

<<if hasVisited("1.40StickInStickInAndROLLLLITTT")>>\ Suddenly the glass breaks and we both duck. She recovers far faster than me and during the chaos, grabs my hand and yanks me to my feet. I allow her to guide me to the back door, providing no resistance until I finally gain my bearings. Once I do, I take the lead and head straight to my car. Wasting no time, I put it in drive and speed out of the area. I don't have a destination in mind, so I simply follow road after road. Any route that'll take us farther from what we left behind is good with me. <<else>>\ Suddenly, the glass breaks, and we both duck. She recovers far faster than me and focuses back on the bowl. I can see her mouth moving and even hear a few of the words. It sounds like Latin, or if not that, then some other ancient language. I can see the contents of the bowl bubbling and growing lighter with each word said. Upon finishing her spell, she grabs my hand and pulls me after her. We dart to the back door just as I hear the front door being kicked open. We're forced to slow down as we try to navigate the undergrowth that has long since forgotten what it feels to be tamed. "What happened? What did you do?" "Just come on!" She yells just as the house explodes in a blinding light. The sheer intensity of it forces me to look away, reminding me of all the times I've been warned not to look directly at the sun. I can only imagine what happens to those captured in the light. We traverse the weeds a while more, and once I regain my bearings, I will begin to lead the way to my car. Wasting no time, I put it in drive and speed out of the area. I don't have a destination in mind, so I simply follow road after road. Any route that'll take us farther from what we left behind is good with me. <</if>>\ So many things have just occurred, and where I originally thought some of my questions would be answered, hundreds more have been added. It gets so bad that I'm forced to pull over, not only because of a headache but also because I need those same answers. She said she'd give them, and I was ready for the truth. <a data-passage="1.42"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if not hasVisited("1.30Address")>>I look from the phone to them and finally decide to unlock it. Langston shuffles through some things before the GPS announces our destination, the one the woman gave me the other day.<<else>>With everything they need, they pull out and drive towards the address.<</if>> I glance from one to the other, despising how relaxed they look in //my// car as I sit in the backseat, practically vibrating from anxiousness. My mind replays the day as if it'll be able to successfully come up with where I went wrong. It's only nearing ten. I haven't even had enough time today to practice bad decisions. "What's going to happen to me after this?" "All depends on how good of a job you do," Petri tells me plainly. "And what exactly is my job?" "To get her to give us a clear shot. That's it." "That's it?! You guys couldn't do that yourselves?" Langston turns in his seat to face me. "You ever watch one of those hostage movies?" "Yea," I start, trailing off as I try to figure out where he's going with this. "You know how the bad guys are held up somewhere with hostages, refusing to come out? Well, that's what this is like ... only there are no hostages, just the bad guy." "Oh, for fuck's sake," Petri grumbles, "stop trying to make comparisons. You suck at them, you really do." "You got a better analogy?" "Yea, I do. You're the bait, kid. She's the fucking fish. And we're the fishermen. Understand?" I nod, and Langston's frown grows more profound as he turns in his seat, I imagine he's pouting. My heart lurches as I replay the analogy. The bait hardly ever survives the fishing trip ... <a data-passage="1.41.1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"You're not real FBI agents, are you?" "As real as any other agent you'll ever meet," Petri says as Langston turns to give me an offended look. "What would ever make you believe we weren't?" he questions dramatically. "This whole predicament." "Don't blame us for you getting involved with the wrong folks," he snorts. "Choose your friends better." Before I can answer, Petri shouts to his co-worker, "can you stop talking to ?him? Quiet ride. Everyone shut up." "What's up with you? You've been pretty grumpy lately." "You would, too, if you weren't so damn cheerful all the time. I've dealt with enough unnaturals today," Petri growls, gripping the wheel tighter. "Never thought I'd want to be surrounded by the mundanes so much." I don't say anything, but my eyebrow quirks up at the entire conversation and what he could possibly be referencing when he said 'mundanes.' That and unnaturals. Was he dealing with people he thought to be crazy? But why not just say that then? "Ah, so you just haven't fed in a while. Poor baby," Langston whines sarcastically, "you miss a few meals, and the world comes to an end and everyone has to pay for it, huh?" "Whatever, skin-molt." [[Keep to myself.|1.41Quiet]] [[Ask them what they're talking about.|1.41Speak]]

I don't bother to ask, more so because I want to stay invisible and less because I doubt they'll answer me. I watch as Langston shifts so that he's now looking at me, and his smile grows uncomfortably large. <<include "1.41.2">>

"What are you talking about?" I ask. Langston turns to look at me while Petri glances up at me through the rearview mirror. <<include "1.41.2">>

"If you're so hungry, then just ask the boss if you can have our pal here." The atmosphere in the car goes from uncomfortable to aggressive. The hair along my hair standing as I get the feeling that I've just entered the start of a hunt. The moment right before the predator makes up its mind on whether the prey is worth it or not. "I'm not eating ... that," Petri finally says but the mood remains. Cannibals. FBI cannibals. I feel like my brain short-circuits at the accusation. No one would just laugh and joke about something like this, right? Maybe it's an inside joke? Langston scoffs, "and when did weres start caring about what they eat?" Petri says something but their voices feel distant. Weres? Like ... werewolf. No, I misunderstood. And yet, is that so crazy when I'm willing to label them as cannibals? //Well, one of them exists and the other doesn't//, my brain points out but that doesn't lessen the headache. Especially when part of me feels slightly more comfortable with the idea of werewolves than cannibalistic law enforcement agents. <a data-passage="1.41.3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Thirty minutes later, Petri parks the car in front of our destination and cuts the engine. I wipe sweat from my brow, not even knowing that so much had accumulated. "We should wait for backup to arrive," Langston murmurs, but Petri shakes his head. "They'll take too long. If she gets time to think her way out of this, we'll miss her again." Petri turns around to face me, "your turn." "What are you expecting me to do?" "Just get her to open the door. We'll handle the rest." I see Langston shift, pulling out a gun that looks similar to a pistol but is definitely not one. I don't want to stick around to figure out what it is and leave the now unlocked car, fighting a shiver as I face the house. "Oh, and $name," Petri mumbles, causing me to turn to see what he needs. Don't try anything funny. I'll be able to hear everything going on." I involuntarily swallow the lump in my throat and nod. The house is yards away from the car, and my brain reminds me that no normal human would ever be able to hear a conversation taking place. <a data-passage="1.41.4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I start walking, glancing back at the car before realizing that it probably isn't a smart move. I need to act like I'm here alone. But I shouldn't need to act like anything. I shouldn't be here! I was fine with minding my business and moving on. And now I'm stuck here trying to figure out if I'd rather help this woman or the FBI agents who say very odd things. I'm still deep in my thoughts when I get to the door. Mildew and dirt coat the majority of the door but aesthetically go with the rest of the abandoned look. Should I try to act composed and frantic? Or just remain calm and try to get her to open the door? Why am I even helping them? I bang on the door, trying the handle, but it remains closed. "Come on, I need help!" I let a few minutes pass before I attempt a second knock when it suddenly jerks open. I stand at the threshold of the house, hardly making out the figure of the woman I met the other day. She stands to the side, residing purely in the shadows. The only reason I can make out her facial details is because of the sunlight that she is being allowed to stream in. "You're not a clever one, are you? So, what's this about you needing help?" "Men are after me," I tell her. "They wouldn't be if you had just done what I said. Remember? I did say forget me." [[Try to warn her.|1.41WarnHer][$sydero +=3; $daring +=2]] [[Continue trying to get her out in the open.|1.41ContinueToGetHerToOpen][$sydero -=5; $daring -=2]] [[Just ... plead.|1.41Plead]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> "Yes, I remember, and I did just that. But they found me." I tell her, raising my eyebrows. She cocks her head to the side in curiosity, amusement evident in her features. I try everything I can think of to get her to realize what's going on. I wink, blink uncontrollably, and even try to mouth my warning. She laughs at me, shaking her head as she closes the door slowly. Right before it closes, I hear her whisper. "You can stop the act; I already know they're out there." I freeze, wondering if that's why she never came into full view. I'll give you props for trying to warn me, though. That was quite ... shocking." I bang on the door, jiggling the handle, hoping to keep up the act for those watching. "So, does that mean you'll help me?" I ask, relieved that at least that line wouldn't give away my true intentions: " Otherwise, I'm dead." There is silence from her side, and I begin to worry that she won't, that perhaps she's going to leave me to my fate. "Sure." The door suddenly opens, and her arm shoots out, grabbing me as she pulls me in. As she does this, I hear Petri and Langston yelling at me. <a data-passage="1.41.5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> "Come on, please, they're just over here." I move from my position and run a few steps away, desperately motioning for her to follow. "Sure, let me get my bag really quick," she says in a tone I'm not familiar with her using. Of course, I hardly know her, but her tone has me raising a cautionary brow. She sees my expression and bursts out laughing, wiping away an invisible tear as she closes the door. "Wait, no, please!" I shout, dashing to the door and banging on it in desperation. "Drop the act. I already know what's going on and who's watching. It's a cute act, though." "So that's it? You're just going to condemn me to death?" I question, unable to stop the anger that seeps into my voice. But why exactly am I angry? Who am I even mad at? There is silence from her side, and I begin to worry that she won't help me, that perhaps she'll leave me to my fate. "Maybe." The door suddenly opens, and her arm shoots out, grabbing me as she pulls me in. As she does this, I hear Petri and Langston yelling at me. "But maybe not." <a data-passage="1.41.5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"Please, just help me. I'm sorry, okay?" I practically scream, realizing that I'm not really acting anymore. If this woman can help me, whether by being caught or helping me out, then so be it. She closes the door slowly, laughing as she does. Right before it closes, I hear her whisper. "Continue the act. I know they're out there." I freeze, wondering if that's why she never came out from the shadows. She'd known what was going on this entire time. "Your acting is great, but your appearance says otherwise." "So, does that mean you'll help me?" I question, stuttering as I ask, "otherwise I'm dead." There is silence from her side, and I worry that she won't help me, that perhaps she will leave me to my fate. "Sure." The door suddenly opens, and her arm shoots out, grabbing me as she pulls me in. As she does this, I hear Petri and Langston yelling at me. <a data-passage="1.41.5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"$name Roe, come out now," I hear Petri shout in rage. Whether or not I trust or even think I have a chance of escaping this madness, I'm for sure not going back out there. Suddenly, the glass breaks, and the two of us instinctively duck. The woman leaves my side to mess with a bowl and some symbols in the middle of the living room. She quickly grabs a bag and pulls me after her as she rushes through the back door. Suddenly, the glass breaks, and we both duck. She recovers far faster than me and focuses back on the bowl. I can see her mouth moving and even hear a few of the words. It sounds like Latin, or if not that, then some other ancient language. I can see the contents of the bowl bubbling and growing lighter with each word said. Upon finishing her spell, she grabs my hand and pulls me after her. We dart to the back door just as I hear the front door being kicked open. We're forced to slow down as we try to navigate the undergrowth that has long since forgotten what it feels to be tamed. "What happened? What did you do?" "Just come on!" She yells just as the house explodes in a blinding light. The sheer intensity of it forces me to look away, reminding me of all the times I've been warned not to look directly at the sun. I can only imagine what happens to those captured in the light. We traverse the weeds, and as Petri and Langston deal with the blinding light, we dart to my car. Wasting no time, I put it in drive and speed out of the area. I don't have a destination in mind, so I simply follow road after road. Any route that'll take us farther from what we left behind is good with me. So many things have just occurred, and where I originally thought some of my questions would be answered, hundreds more have been added. It gets so bad that I'm forced to pull over, not only because of a headache but also because I need those same answers. She said she'd give them, and I was ready for the truth. <a data-passage="1.42"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"What are you doing?" she questions in a bored tone, but I don't answer. She's not stupid, or at least I didn't take her as so. I need answers and there's only person present who can provide them. "I'm not going anywhere til' I get some answers."" "Fine. I'll hitchhike," she chuckles triumphantly, and I lock the door. She unlocks it, but I lock it back. We go back and forth with this petty game, seeing which of us would give up first. Perhaps any other day, she'd be the victor, the stress and irritation beating out my curiosity. But this is all pure madness. I can play this game for the next week and not be tired. She shouts in frustration and leans back in the seat. "Let me rephrase, //you're// not going anywhere til' I get some answers. Like, who are those guys, and what do they want? And what happened back there? And you never told me about what happened to you in the alleyway, or –" "Okay!" she shouts, with a scowl, "take a breather, would you? You want answers, and I have them. But let's start with the basics. You need to understand that monsters are real, supernatural creatures – all real. Every little story you've ever heard about, every creepy thing, it's real ... except for the boogieman. That's a legend that backfired on parents trying to get their children to stop stuffing crap underneath their beds." "And you expect me to believe that?" "I really don't care what you believe. But why would I sit here and lie to you? About that anyway. There's no point. It'd be simpler, not to mention quicker, to just tell you I'm the mafioso's daughter or some shit and that the agents want me because of all the information I have on poor daddy." "So, you're telling me that vampires, werewolves, ghosts, and faeries are all real?" "There's way more than that, but yea." <<if $badhabit is "cigs">>I reach into my pocket and, with shaky hands, grab my lighter. Cigarettes ... where are my cigarettes?" "Oof," the woman voices, "those things will kill ya." "Shut up! Just, shut up." I finally find them and light the stick, inhaling deeply as I roll down the window and blow the smoke out a minute later. The familiar feeling eases some of the tension, but not enough. My hands are still shaking, and I still have questions.<<else>>It feels like the whole world slows, waiting for my reaction. The supernatural is real. The. Supernatural world. Is real. No matter how many times I repeat the sentence or how I divide the words up, it still leaves me sitting there in stunned silence. What does one do with this information, and why do I feel like the woman is sitting over there with a smug-ass grin? I glance over to check, but she just appears bored, as if my reaction isn't to her liking, so she found other things to keep her entertained.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q1")>>“So why don’t I ever hear about them?”<<else>>[[“So why don’t I ever hear about them?”|1.42Q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q2")>>“These supernatural creatures look like us, I mean regular humans?”<<else>>[[“These supernatural creatures look like us, I mean regular humans?”|1.42Q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q3")>>“So what happened to you in the alleyway?”<<else>>[[“So what happened to you in the alleyway?”|1.42Q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q4")>>“And those folks trying to kill us at the house?”<<else>>[[“And those folks trying to kill us at the house?”|1.42Q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q5")>>“And you’re ...”<<else>>[[“And you’re ...”|1.42Q5]]<</if>>

"If they're real, then why don't I ever hear anything about them?" "Do you think people just walk around telling others that they're monsters or that they fight em' or something? Did you not hear about what happened in Salem?" "Yea, but –" "There's no 'but'. No one says crap about it because regular people can't take it. Take yourself, for example; you experienced it and still can't believe it. Imagine how the average person would react. People have enough crap on their plates to where they can't worry about monsters too. So, we let them walk around in their little imaginary world." <<if hasVisited("1.42Q2")>>“These supernatural creatures look like us, I mean regular humans?”<<else>>[[“These supernatural creatures look like us, I mean regular humans?”|1.42Q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q3")>>“So what happened to you in the alleyway?”<<else>>[[“So what happened to you in the alleyway?”|1.42Q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q4")>>“And those folks trying to kill us at the house?”<<else>>[[“And those folks trying to kill us at the house?”|1.42Q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q5")>>“And you’re ...”<<else>>[[“And you’re ...”|1.42Q5]]<</if>> [[Take it all in.|1.43]]

"And they look like us? Humans, I mean?" She stares at me, fighting a grin before nodding. "Yes, they can look exactly like humans. Every group has their own way of camouflaging. Witches and shapeshifters have the easiest time for obvious reasons. And if a group has no idea how to blend in, they just hide. But glamors exist, so there's little excuse." <<if hasVisited("1.42Q1")>>“So why don’t I ever hear about them?”<<else>>[[“So why don’t I ever hear about them?”|1.42Q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q3")>>“So what happened to you in the alleyway?”<<else>>[[“So what happened to you in the alleyway?”|1.42Q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q4")>>“And those folks trying to kill us at the house?”<<else>>[[“And those folks trying to kill us at the house?”|1.42Q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q5")>>“And you’re ...”<<else>>[[“And you’re ...”|1.42Q5]]<</if>> [[Take it all in.|1.43]]

"Okay, so the alleyway I found you in? Did that have to do with supernatural ... business?" "Let's say I got into a violent altercation with another being. It didn't end well for either of us. I'm sure if you were on the other side of town, you would've run into him instead, just cos of your luck." <<if hasVisited("1.42Q1")>>“So why don’t I ever hear about them?”<<else>>[[“So why don’t I ever hear about them?”|1.42Q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q2")>>“These supernatural creatures look like us, I mean regular humans?”<<else>>[[“These supernatural creatures look like us, I mean regular humans?”|1.42Q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q4")>>“And those folks trying to kill us at the house?”<<else>>[[“And those folks trying to kill us at the house?”|1.42Q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q5")>>“And you’re ...”<<else>>[[“And you’re ...”|1.42Q5]]<</if>> [[Take it all in.|1.43]]

"So, what do the agents want with you? Why did they want to kill us?" "Kill you. Capture me." "Why?" "I don't know." I raise a doubtful brow, unable to read the look she gives me. "Again, believe what you want, but I haven't lied to you yet. Might've not told you everything, but I haven't lied. I'm actually a very honest person." She smirks, "some would even say too honest." Though I have no proof that she's lying, I also find it hard to believe she's being ... well, honest. <<if hasVisited("1.42Q1")>>“So why don’t I ever hear about them?”<<else>>[[“So why don’t I ever hear about them?”|1.42Q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q2")>>“These supernatural creatures look like us, I mean regular humans?”<<else>>[[“These supernatural creatures look like us, I mean regular humans?”|1.42Q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q3")>>“So what happened to you in the alleyway?”<<else>>[[“So what happened to you in the alleyway?”|1.42Q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q5")>>“And you’re ...”<<else>>[[“And you’re ...”|1.42Q5]]<</if>> [[Take it all in.|1.43]]

"And in all of this, you're a ..." "A witch, yes." "And the agents were ..." "A werewolf and a shapeshifter." <<if hasVisited("1.42Q1")>>“So why don’t I ever hear about them?”<<else>>[[“So why don’t I ever hear about them?”|1.42Q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q2")>>“These supernatural creatures look like us, I mean regular humans?”<<else>>[[“These supernatural creatures look like us, I mean regular humans?”|1.42Q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q3")>>“So what happened to you in the alleyway?”<<else>>[[“So what happened to you in the alleyway?”|1.42Q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.42Q4")>>“And those folks trying to kill us at the house?”<<else>>[[“And those folks trying to kill us at the house?”|1.42Q4]]<</if>> [[Take it all in.|1.43]]

<>\<<set $sanity -=10>><>\ <<if $badhabit is "cigs">>My hand tightens on the cigarette, but it feels so foreign. I open the door and drop it to the ground, stomping it out before putting it in a bag I keep in my car to throw out later. My heart feels like it's beating irregularly, and deep breaths turn to hyperventilation.<<else>>I grip the steering wheel and take a shaky breath. I try to steady my breathing but end up hyperventilating instead.<</if>> I have to focus on something. Anything that would help clear my mind and calm my rapidly beating heart. Monsters are real. They're fucking real! I feel a heavy gaze on me and look to see the woman staring me down. "What?" I finally question, recalling what she said she is—a witch. I'm sitting in the car with a witch. I always thought witches did spells, curses, and charms, and even then, I didn't think them very effective. On par with those who believe rocks will heal all wounds or that the stars hold one's entire personality and can tell them their whole future. But what if witches were what Salem painted them out to be? People with unique abilities and the ability to actually practice magic? How dangerous is she? The girl with no name. She unlocks the car, and I lock it back. "Seriously?" she shouts. "What do I do? I don't know how to handle this." <<if $custody>>"Obviously. Just keep your head down and don't go anywhere for a few days." <<else>>Just keep your head down and don't go anywhere for a few days. But I'm sure your stubborn ass will find a way to do the complete opposite of what I'm saying." <</if>> "So you're saying I should go home?" "No. That's the opposite of what you do. Don't go anywhere near your home. Don't even go to a friend or family's house." I stare at her, hoping she'll tell me she's only joking. "Why not? It's not like they would have information on them." "As far as I know, they're actual FBI agents. <<if hasVisited("1.25Police")>>Seeing that you're trying to get into that field, you should know what real authentic badges look like and that dirty cops exist.<<else>> They're just dirty.<</if>> They know who you are, and if they care enough, they'll ask around. Not to mention, they probably have information about your family." She pauses, gazing over at me with a critical eye. "You don't have any family nearby, right?" I fight back a shiver as her words echo through my head. I don't acknowledge her voice; my focus is still on my last family member. <<if $custody>>It would be quite easy for them to check if they didn't already know.<<else>>They had followed me from the beginning; at the very least, they knew I had a relationship with whoever lived there. How easy would it be for them to check records and notice that my home address doesn't match?<</if>> <a data-passage="EP1-Act Four"><img src="images/actfourbutton.png" alt="Act Four" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/actfour.png"> "Take a left in half a mile," the GPS tells me, and my eyes dart to my phone screen before snapping back to the road. "How long til I get there?" I ask she who refuses to give me her name. "Depends on where you're talking about. The grave? Cos that feels like it'll be sooner rather than later." "How long until I get to my uncle's house?!" I yell, and she simply snorts. "Ah, you meant the house you shouldn't be speeding towards right now." <<if $daring >=50>>"Yes, thank you for the tenth time. Objection noted. Now answer my question." <<else>> "You don't think I know that? You don't think I'm scaring myself?" <</if>> I grab my phone, ignoring her complaints about deciding what I want her to do. Frantically, I try to call my uncle, but it takes me straight to voicemail, just like all the other times. I find myself listening to it in its entirety. Would this be the last time I hear his voice? "Roe!" I hear my passenger yell and snap back to reality. She jabs her thumb behind her, "I'm pretty sure that was the turn." My heart feels like it plummets. [[“Either help or shut up.”|1.44ShutUpAndDrive][$sydero -=3]] [[Turn around and head back to the turn.|1.44TurnAround][$daring +=5; $leader +=5]] [[“You’re right, I need to think about this.”|1.44Think][$daring -=5; $leader +=3; $sydero +=3]] [[“What's the point?”|1.44WhatPoint][$uncledead = true; $optimistic -=3; $leader -=5]] [[Accelerate.|1.44Accelerate]] [[“Recalculate!”|1.44Recalculate][$uncledead = true; $leader -=3]]

"Either help," I shout and jerk the car to the other lane, quickly passing the vehicle in front of me, "or shut up." She snorts and picks up my phone. Because I'm driving, I can't necessarily see what she's doing, though I keep glancing over in hopes of finding out. "You got three options." "What are they?" "Continue on this road, take a nearby backroad, or completely forget roads and go off-road. From what I see, there's a trail that goes by your uncle's address." I know the path. A decently large park that didn't quite qualify as a state park but might as well be in terms of scope. There's a lake people typically bring their boats out to fish on, numerous trails, parks, and picnic areas. It is definitely a shortcut, cutting what may be a twenty-minute drive down to ten. The backroad isn't any faster per se,, butthere are fewer lights and cars. [[Go off-road.|1.44Offroad]] [[Stay on the current road.|1.44StayOnRoad][$uncledead = true]] [[Take a backroad.|1.44Backroad]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++ | Leader ++<</if>> "You might want to hold on," I tell her, and before she can even think of questioning me, I swing the car around. I suddenly feel like I'm in a video game or at the arcade, recklessly driving to earn the bragging rights. The vehicle drifts dangerously close to a nearby pole, barely avoiding it along with incoming, honking traffic. Suddenly, the adrenaline is joined by fear. <<if $coping is "risky">>And yet, this feels almost freeing. For a second, I forget everything that has been burdening me. A moment to breathe, though crazy to admit.<<else>>A moment of hesitation as I ponder what I'm doing and trying to figure out why. My uncle's life is on the line, yes. But is that grounds for putting my life in danger as well?<</if>> The turn is complete, and we're both still in one piece. I gaze over at the woman, smirking when I see her clutching at the door, staring at me as if I had gone crazy. "We survived, didn't we?" "I hate you." I chuckle, <<if $coping is "risky">>trying to calm my racing heart and telling myself that though I wish to do it again, it'd be wiser not to.<<else>>a nervous one that speaks volumes about my own state of being.<</if>> Once I center myself enough, I follow the GPS to my uncle's house. I can only hope that I get there before anyone else. <<include "1.44">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++ | Leader ++<</if>> "You're right," I sigh, trying to relax my grip on the steering wheel and take a moment to focus. "I need to think this through. Mind checking all possible routes? Maybe there's a faster way." She picks up my phone and begins fiddling with the navigation. "You got three options." "What are they?" "Continue on this road, take a nearby backroad, or completely forget roads and go off-road. From what I see, there's a trail that goes by your uncle's address." I know the path. A decently large park that didn't quite qualify as a state park but might as well be in terms of scope. There's a lake people typically bring their boats out to fish on, numerous trails, parks, and picnic areas. It is definitely a shortcut, cutting what may be a twenty-minute drive down to ten. The backroad isn't any faster per se,, butthere are fewer lights and cars. [[Go off-road.|1.44Offroad]] [[Stay on the current road.|1.44StayOnRoad][$uncledead = true]] [[Take a backroad.|1.44Backroad]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Pessimistic ++ | Follower ++<</if>> "What's the point?" I ask, taking my foot off the gas and relaxing my grip on the steering wheel. Behind me, a car honks its horn before passing me. "One minute, you're racing down the road; the next, you're just sitting there. I'm highly confused about your motives." I don't answer, picking up my phone and looking at my uncle's number. "I'm literally trying to outbeat supernatural creatures as if that's actually possible." She snorts in disgust, "ugh, if you're going to go all gloomy and sentence people to death then at least be accurate. It's definitely possible." "How? Even you tried to talk me out of this." "That's because I'm an ass who only cares about themselves. Unless you're about to admit to me that you're the same, how about we focus on saving your uncle." I sigh, step on the gas, and continue towards my uncle's house. <<include "1.44">>

I ignore her, mashing down on the gas and zooming past the cars. "So, I'm guessing the speed limit means nothing to you." "Didn't peg you for someone who cared much for rules." "I don't, but I do care about my life," she grunts, tightening her seatbelt up. I sneer but don't slow down, if anything I speed up. I continue to follow the GPS to my uncle's house, I can only hope that I get there before anyone else. My eyes drift to the speedometer, watching as it nears the one-hundred mark. Out of the corner of my peripheral, I see the standard colors of a police cruiser pass by, waiting for some unlucky fool. I glance in my rearview to see if he'll follow. He cuts his lights on and proves that I'm that unlucky fool today. I won't be able to outrun him with all these other cars. I look over at the woman, and she rolls her eyes and looks out the window. <<if $cmajor is "Criminal Justice">>\ Pulling over, I wait to see who it'll be and only somewhat relax when I recognize him. His eyes widen when I roll down the window. "Now, $name," he starts, but I wave the words away in the most respectable way possible. "I know. And you can punish me the next time I come in for my internship. But I'm about to be late for one of my final exams, and this professor will lock the door." He glances from me to the woman and nods. "We will talk about this next time I see you." "Thank you!" I shout, but he stops me before I can roll up the window. "Speed limit," he warns, and I nod. I waste no time in peeling out and heading back down the road. Slower than before but still not going the speed limit. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $uncledead = true>><>\ The ticket adds ten minutes to my time. He sends me off, but even more time is taken off as I'm now forced to drive closer to the speed limit, with him trailing me for at least two miles. <</if>>\ <<include "1.44">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Follower ++<</if>> "Recalculate!" I scream at my phone, though it's already considering a different route. "Damn it hurry up." To my surprise, the woman doesn't say anything. She's gazing out the window, shaking her head as she mumbles something under her breath. The phone finally does as I ask, giving me a new route and renewed hope as I surge down the street. <<include "1.44">>

<<if $car is "Jeep Wrangler">>\ I go with the off-road path, seeing that jeeps are practically made for that sort of stuff. "How do I get there?" She fiddles with my phone before setting it down so that I can see. The navigation shows the turn for the trail is coming up fast. I take it, and we're receiving a much more scenic view before long. Thankfully, most of this is a downhill or flat road venture, cutting the original time successfully. <<elseif $car is "Ford F-150">>\ I go with the off-road path, hoping that my truck can handle such a venture. "How do I get there?" She fiddles with my phone before setting it down so that I can see. The navigation shows the turn for the trail coming up fast. I take it, and we're receiving a much more scenic view before long. The truck does a decent job, nothing to brag over. There are a few times when the tires prove that the scenic route may have been a bad idea, but we're still able to shave some minutes off the original time. <<else>>\ <><<set $uncledead = true>><> I go with the off-road path, not knowing how my car will handle such terrain. "How do I get there?" She fiddles with my phone before setting it down so that I can see. The navigation shows the turn for the trail coming up fast. I take it, and we're receiving a much more scenic view before long. Due to my car's inability to handle this kind of terrain, the scenic route proves worse than the street one. Numerous times, my car gets stuck, and other times, it just feels like we're not even moving. My sarcastic companion only worsens the matter when she gets out of the car and begins walking, showing how slow I'm going. The time practically doubles before we get to our destination. <</if>>\ <<include "1.44">>

When I consider all the options, the smartest is to stay on the current street. Taking a backroad allows me to go faster, but I know this city, and that backroad connects to a lot of streets. This all means it's a hotspot for state troopers working this area. Taking it will just be a guaranteed ticket. Off-road isn't too bad, but for all I know, the terrain will just slow me down. And if the park is busy then that's even more of a delay. My GPS recalculates after the missed turn, and I surge down the street with renewed hope. <<include "NGD12">>

I think about all the options she told me about, the smartest being to take the back road. The backroad has a few turns but is typically a straight shot. It'll take me to the other side of my uncle's neighborhood, but the time it'll take to get there should be drastically reduced. The biggest thing is the officers who love to patrol the area. Regardless, I take it and push harder on the gas. My eyes drift to the speedometer, which is quickly approaching the one-hundred mark. <<if $car is "Dodge Challenger">>\ "How fast can this baby go?" my guest asks, smirking as she leans over to see. "I actually don't know. It would be faster if this were a Hellcat or a Demon." If it were possible, her smirk widens. And though the two of us are still strangers, I note just how happy she appears. Out of the corner of my peripheral, I see the standard colors of a police cruiser pass by, waiting for some unlucky fool. I glance in my rearview to see if he'll follow while also speeding up more in case he does. It's incredibly stupid to engage in a chase, but I'm almost willing to risk it. His lights flash and, a moment later, disappear. Releasing the breath I'm holding, I continue on. <<else>>\ Out of the corner of my peripheral, I see the standard colors of a police cruiser pass by, waiting for some unlucky fool. I glance in my rearview to see if he'll follow. He cuts his lights on and proves that I'm that unlucky fool today. I won't be able to outrun him with all these other cars. I look over at the woman, and she rolls her eyes and looks out the window. <<if $cmajor is "Criminal Justice">>\ Pulling over, I wait to see who it'll be and only somewhat relax when I recognize him. His eyes widen when I roll down the window. "Now, $name," he starts, but I wave the words away in the most respectable way possible. "I know. And you can punish me the next time I come in for my internship. But I'm about to be late for one of my final exams, and this professor will lock the door." He glances from me to the woman and nods. "We will talk about this next time I see you." "Thank you!" I shout, but he stops me before I can roll up the window. "Speed limit," he warns, and I nod. I waste no time in peeling out and heading back down the road. Slower than before but still not going the speed limit. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $uncledead = true>><>\ The ticket adds ten minutes to my time. He sends me off, but even more time is taken off as I'm now forced to drive closer to the speed limit, with him trailing me for at least two miles. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<include "1.44">>

I run up the driveway to my uncle's house, preparing to bang on the door when I find it unlocked. My entire world freezes as I push it further open, silence residing on the other side. I head inside, checking the living room and then the kitchen. Nothing is out of place, and is exactly how I left it earlier this morning. [[Everything is okay.|1.44Optimistic][$optimistic +=5]] [[Something is definitely wrong.|1.44Pessimistic][$optimistic -=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Optimistic ++<</if>> It'll be okay. My uncle is okay. The house is okay. There is nothing to worry about. It's getting late; for all I know, my uncle just retired to his bed early. It isn't unheard of, and if his day was tough, then it was actually expected. There are no signs of forced entry or a struggle, and the house is silent. Everything is fine. <<include "1.45">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pessimistic ++<</if>> Despite everything being left how I last remember it, I know I can't take my cues from that alone. I'll have to check out the rest of the house and confirm my uncle's safety with my own eyes. My gut screams that something is off. And my eyes only wait for the curtains to come falling down to prove it. <<include "1.45">>

<<if $uncledead>>\ <>\ <<set $sanity -=10>> <>\ I make my way up the stairs, slowing down when I spot a red mark on one of the steps. On a typical day, it could've been overlooked. Almost doing a perfect job of blending in with the cherry wood. But I'm on guard for things like this. I blink a few times, rubbing my eyes and mentally telling my heart to slow its rapid beating. Suddenly, I'm a child again. Standing in a long, dark hallway and staring at the door to my mother's room <<if hasVisited("0CallParent")>>far too scared to walk a step more.<<else>>far too curious for my own sake.<</if>> "Uncle?" I ask in a shaky voice, going further up the stairs. I see another print on the railing, followed by a thick trail of blood that still steadily drips off the side. [[Fight the need to throw up.|1.45BloodFear][$blood_fear to true]] [[Rush forward.|1.45RushForward]] <<else>>\ I head towards the stairs when I hear a door close. Glancing up, my uncle appears bewildered and only in a towel. "Guess I didn't lock the door. But I wasn't expecting you, $name. What are you doing here?" "No time to explain. Grab that travel suitcase you always use and some essentials, and come on." "Why?" "Please, Uncle Matheus. I know this is weird and scary, but just get a suitcase and come on. We don't have time." He stares at me suspiciously before agreeing, turning, and heading to his room. I stand in my spot for a few more seconds before walking back outside, heading toward the woman. She leans up against my car, her eyes scouring the neighborhood. I sigh once I reach her side, leaning on the side of my car as well. "Seeing that you're not crying and screaming. I suspect whoever's inside is alive." "Yea. Yea, my uncle's fine. See anything out here?" "No." I raise a brow. "Why do you say it like that's a bad thing?" "I'm not used to things going according to plan. I'm just waiting for them to show up and finish what they started." [[“How long have you been on the run?”|1.44OnTheRun]] [[“Maybe your luck is changing.”|1.45ChangingLuck][$optimistic +=3]] [[“Not really an optimist, huh?”|1.45NoOptimist]] [[“Anything to make you feel more comfortable?”|1.45Comfortable][$sydero +=3]] <</if>>\

At the last minute, I'm able to swallow the vomit that surges up my throat, wishing to be let free. The acidic tang by itself makes me want to throw up again. Turning away from the blood, I try to control my breathing, terrified of what I may find if I continue on. "I can't," I mumble, wishing the wall was colder to attempt to shift my attention. "Roe?" I hear the woman ask, and I glance down the stairs. She studies me momentarily before climbing the stairs, instantly noticing the blood trail. "Want me to check?" I nod. <<include "1.45.1">>

"Matheus?!" I scream, dashing the rest of the way and charging towards his bedroom door. I turn the knob, but the door refuses to budge; something on the other side blocks my entry. <<include "1.45.1">>

<<if $blood_fear>>\ She goes the rest of the way, and I hear a door burst open. I almost want to get up and go see for myself, but I can only imagine just how much blood may be there. Uncle Matheus ... Was he tortured, or did they just execute him simply for existing? How scared was he in his final moments? <<if $optimistic >=50>>A small part of me wants to imagine that he's still alive. Even with all the evidence that he isn't, I wish to believe that the agents left him alive like cartoonish villains from the television shows. They would have given him a message to pass on to me. But the thing is, he's alive.<</if>> The woman reappears. "He's dead. I cut him down." "Cut him down?" I ask in horror. "They wrung him up, but it's not what killed him. That much was just for show." She may think her words are supposed to comfort me, but it horrifies me even more. For show? What kind of sadistic monsters act like this? And if that isn't what killed him, what did? What am I supposed to do now? Why? Why did any of this have to happen? Having finished, she walks past me and down the stairs. <<include "1.45.2">> <<else>>\ "Uncle Matheus?" I shout, bracing myself and counting to three. Once I hit three, I turn the knob and slam my shoulder into the door with all of the force I can muster. <<if $combat >=10>>The door bursts open, and I stumble inside.<<else>>The door budges, but I'm no closer than I was before. I repeat the process numerous times, ignoring the pain that flees up my side. Finally, the door opens, and I stumble inside.<</if>> I scream in both surprise and horror at the sight. My uncle's room is trashed from wall to floor. Bloody handprints and a few small and large divots decorate the walls. The room has been remodeled into a torture room. The dresser rests on its side, blocking the closet, while the mattress leans up against a wall, and broken glass is scattered across the floor. Written on a wall are the words: You're Next. Try as I might, I can't fight where my eyes travel to next. Hanging from a ceiling fan is my uncle, his eyes wide open, and lacerations rest all across his body. What was once flawed skin is now waxy, turning an unnatural purple hue. One clean tear rests on his stomach, causing his entrails to dangle out, clinging hopelessly to the cadaver. Most of his lower body and the floor are painted red by his still-fresh blood. Some specks are still dripping off his shoes. "Uncle Matheus!" I hear someone scream, wondering if it is me, but I can't be sure. I don't remember opening my mouth or screaming anything. I can't even sense what I'm doing, whether I'm walking, standing, or on the ground. [[Bring him down.|1.45BringHimDown][$leader +=3]] [[Remain where I am.|1.45RemainThere][$leader -=3]] <</if>>\

I stumble towards him, feeling my body shake uncontrollably, not knowing how to stop it. I absentmindedly begin to undo the rope until it's loose, and what follows is a sickening thud followed by another. My body collapses on the ground right next to my uncle's. But my eyes stay on the wall before me, my body still trying to regain its bearings. I feel the presence of another behind me, and I glance up to see the woman looking around the room, her eyes landing on my uncle last. She examines him for a minute before her eyes travel to meet mine. With nothing but a blink, she turns on her heel and marches out of the room. <<include "1.45.2">>

I don't move a muscle, and I am not entirely sure I can, even if I choose to. I can only feel myself sobbing, my mind choosing now to replay pointless memories. I hear words uttered, but they're incomprehensible, just gibberish seeping out my mouth. I hear a thud but still don't register my body collapsing as I stare on. I feel the presence of another behind me, and I glance up to see the woman looking around the room, her eyes landing on my uncle last. She examines him for a minute before her eyes travel to meet mine. With nothing but a blink, she turns on her heel and marches out of the room. <<include "1.45.2">>

"So, you just walk away?" I scream, finally finding my voice. I get to my feet and go after her, stopping her before she can travel down the stairs. "You catch on pretty quick when you want to." "How heartless can you be? They did this just because I helped you?" I ask in desperation. She takes a few steps down the stairs before turning to me. "I told you to forget. You brought this on yourself." <<if $custody>>\ "I did fucking forget," I shout at her. "They came to me and forced me back into your life, so explain how I brought this on myself!?" She raises her hands in surrender. "You have a point." "I have a point?" I chuckle, about to <<if $length is "bald">>grab only to my head,<<else>>grab onto my hair,<</if>> but at the last minute I stop and move to hold myself. I again stop, not knowing what to do with my hands. Not knowing what to do, period. "What am I supposed to do?" I question quietly but she doesn't answer, if she even hears me. Instead, she walks down the rest of the stairs and heads towards the door. I hear it close and find myself alone in the house with my dead uncle. <<else>>\ I clench my jaw and, through gritted teeth, say, "so, I should've just let you suffer in that alleyway?" She continues walking down the stairs. I keep thinking that she'll stop and utter some nonsense statement or say something irrelevantly sarcastic, but no. She keeps going—out the front door and out of my life. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="1.45.3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I stand frozen on the staircase, still staring at the door. How one good deed just changed every part of my life. I am now questioning everything I know, and now the people I know are facing the consequences. But it isn't just the past that haunts me; it's also the future. If what she says is true, they'll be after me. And then there are the cops. I can't just report this to them. What will I even tell them? What if those who came are in on it too? I tremble and feel something crawl up my stomach, proving itself to be vomit. I hunch over, trying to catch my breath and regain some semblance of sanity. I can't stay here. I have to get out of the city. And my best hope of surviving this is to get her help. It's a decision I know I have to make, a decision with little choice. If there is another way, then I'll gladly take it. But what choice do I have? I'll be hunted, and the only way out is the way I'm currently thinking. Which is more of an in than an out. I rush to the room I used to stay in and gather some of my things. I'll have to somehow get access to my apartment to grab more, but that problem will be there for tomorrow me. I rush down the stairs, pausing when I see a picture of my uncle, my mother, and me. It sends a shiver up my spine. Two ... two people. And both deaths are on me. How many ... how many more? [[Take it.|1.45.4][$unclepicture = true; $sympathy +=2]] [[Leave it.|1.45.4][$sympathy -=2]]

I place the duffel bag in the back seat of my car and get in, driving down the street in search of No Name. I find her some ways down the road, walking and using the last bits of sunlight to examine a map. "Get in," I tell her as I pull alongside her and get out myself. She chuckles, "I've seen this movie. I don't want to go shopping, so no thanks." <<if $daring >=50>>Fighting the anger, I swerve the car to cut her off, and she raises an unimpressed brow.<<else>>I honk my horn, but she just laughs at the action.<</if>> "I said get in," I say, this time a bit harsher than the last. "Get in and do what, Roe? Huh?" "Whether you like it or not, we're stuck with each other." "No. I'm stuck with you simply because you don't want to be marked off of someone's hit list. Let's be honest here." "For a girl that acts like she's not afraid of anything, you sure are afraid." "And for someone who acts like they have everything figured out, you sure are stupid. You don't know what you're getting yourself into. You do this, and you'll either come back as a totally different person or dead." [[“Which is why you’re coming along.”|1.45ComingAlong]] [[“Don’t worry about me.”|1.45DontWorry]] [[“And if I don’t, I’m still dead.”|1.45StillDead]]

"Yea, by myself, I have no chance. With you, that chance goes up. Unless you're all talk and really don't know what you're doing at all." She chuckles, shaking her head and appearing very unimpressed. <<include "1.45.5">>

"Don't worry about me; I know what I'm doing." She shakes her head back, chuckles, and then gives me an incredulous look. <<include "1.45.5">>

"I'm already a different person. If I don't do this, I'm still dead. They won't let this go, you've said it yourself." <<include "1.45.5">>

"Let me get this straight. You find your uncle dead and think you can just take on anything?" "I don't have anything to lose." "You're going to end up rethinking that." She bites the side of her cheek and then gazes up at the sky as if asking it what it thought. "If you're going to do this, then you listen to what I say, got it?" "Fine, whatever. All this coming from a girl who's afraid to tell me her name." "Irrelevant. Got any friends? Special someone close to your heart? Acquaintances?" "Yea." "Not anymore. Your life has officially started right now, so happy birthday." "Is this all –" "Yes, it's necessary. Join the club of all who think it's unfair. Now, there's one thing left on our list." She enters the car and looks at me but doesn't speak about whatever is on her mind. "The name's Sydero." Sydero. I test the name again and again, all without saying it. <a data-passage="1.45.6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<>\<<set $SyderoTheron = true>><>\ "Where to then, Sydero?" "Your uncle's house." "Why?" "You'll see." I don't question her, turning the car around and heading back to the place that holds good and bad memories. We sit quietly, looking at the house like old friends, afraid to approach whoever resides inside. She finally speaks, "your uncle's body. We need to get rid of it unless you want the police putting you at the top of their list for suspects of murder." "Doesn't getting rid of it make me seem even more likely?" "That's why we'll make it look like an accident. I'll handle the fire." "You seem too calm about all this; how many times have you done this?" "This exact thing? Not much. Make a kill look like an accident? Tons of times. Just wait here. I'll be back." She gets out and heads towards the house I grew up in. I imagine all the times when my uncle would play with me in his yard, and we would have water balloon wars or snowball fights. The images disappear and are replaced by the look on his face as he dies. All that remains are questions about how quick his death was and what was going through his mind during it. I understand why this needs to be done. I have to go off-grid. If the house stands and I disappear with the body still inside, I'm more than a suspect. Regardless of what is inside and whatever I say. Those after me, along with the police, will at least pause at this. It'll buy us time. <a data-passage="1.45.7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

After a while, I see bright flames light up the living room and kitchen. I gaze out at the closest house, there is enough distance between the homes to where it shouldn't become an out of control fire. But I can only hope this will destroy just my uncle's house and nothing else. The fire spreads, quickly eating everything in its path. It's nowhere near as tame as most fires are, even those that rage. This one truly seems like it has a life of its own. It's concerning and every second that it continues, I find myself worrying more. Glancing over at Syd, she seems calm enough. "We should go. The neighbors will come out soon and if they see your car, all of this is pointless." I nod but don't move immediately. "I'm sorry," I mumble, trying to control my breathing as I put the vehicle in drive and leave the flaming house behind. For a while, I just drive, unsure of where I'm going. That is until she asks for my phone and puts the address in. It's outside of the city, not far but far enough that all of this will continue to feel real. I don't know how tomorrow will feel. I just know that I wish to wake up from this nightmare that I've found myself in. <a data-passage="EP1NT"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"How long have you been on the run?" "Since birth." I snort at her exaggeration, but the look she passes my way has me rethinking. Of course, that's an overused exaggeration by many; it isn't possible. But I know so little about her—I don't even know her name—and even less about the supernatural world. <<include "1.46">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Optimistic ++<</if>> "Who knows, maybe your luck is changing." "My luck never changes." "Well, you never know. Maybe." "I'll let you think that while I stay grounded in reality." <<include "1.46">>

"I'm guessing you're not the optimistic type, huh?" "Optimism is for those who can't handle the truth, so they paint a reality where the truth is more acceptable to them." <<if $optimistic >=50>>\ "Or for those who know that a bit of positivity can go a long way." She genuinely laughs, snorting with a relaxed smirk. "Cute." <<else>>\ "And for those who think that things will go their way if they only hope and have positive thoughts." She genuinely laughs, snorting with a relaxed smirk. "Exactly." <</if>>\ <<include "1.46">>

"Anything I can do to make you a bit more comfortable?" ""Yea, I'd like a device that can track the whereabouts of my enemies. Better yet, one that tracks my ..." her voice trails off, her eyes lowering to the ground as she goes into deep thought. She shakes her head, avoiding eye contact before going back to observing the area. <<include "1.46">>

"So, you grew up here?" she asks me after a few minutes pass between us. My uncle still hasn't come out, and the longer he takes, the more I find myself glancing around the quiet streets. I have an overwhelming need to check on him but refrain, mainly because my companion seems more relaxed. If she's calm, then danger isn't imminent, I hope. "Uh, yea. Just me and my uncle." "You two must be close." I'm unable to reply, though, as I see my uncle approaching us. Two suitcases are in his hands, and a large duffle bag is on his shoulders. "What did you tell him? To move out?" "Of course not," I growl and approach him, "uncle, what is this?" "It's everything I need. You sounded urgent, so I packed urgently." I hear her laugh and throw her a look. That sound coming from her is odd. She doesn't look phased by the look, and after clearing her throat, she straightens up. "Come on, we need to go before they get here. <<if $custody>>I'm pretty sure they won't find it hard to trace your car.<<else>>I'm sure they know what your car looks like by now.<</if>>" I agree, and once we're all piled in, I drive us away. "So, anyone going to tell me what's going on?" my uncle asks, his eyes studying the woman in the passenger seat. [[Tell him only what he needs to know.|1.46HalfTruth][$honesty +=3]] [[Tell him the truth.|1.46FullTruth][$honesty +=5; $uncleknows = true]] [[Lie to him.|1.46Lie][$honesty -=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Honesty ++<</if>> Telling him everything isn't smart, or at least I don't think it is. The woman gives me no indication of what I should say to him, her eyes on the window and watching the scenery pass. "I ... I got involved with some dangerous people." "$name Roe," he says in a parental and disappointed tone, "what did you do?" "Nothing. Hence why she's here." She turns and winks at him, "?he didn't do anything. He helped me out, and the folks after me didn't appreciate that very much. Guilty by association, that sorta thing." "And all of this is supposed to make me feel better? What did you do?" "That," she clicks her tongue, "is no one of your business." "It's my business when my family is pulled into your bullshit." She chuckles, glancing my way and jabbing her thumb toward my uncle, "I like him." "I don't think I like you," he growls, but I motion for him to calm down. "I have this handled. Trust me." "I trust you," he grumbles, attempting to relax in his seat but failing, "it's her I don't trust." "I won't be around for long," she hums in response. The rest of the ride is silent, something I'm thankful for. I can't wrap my mind around everything that has happened today. It feels like I haven't slept in forever, even though the clock tells me we only just passed noon. <a data-passage="1.46.1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.statShow>>Honesty ++<</if>> At first, I hadn't planned on telling him everything. But certain pieces won't make sense without others, and soon, I find myself telling him everything. No detail is left undiscussed, and even the woman helps to fill both of us in on parts that concern the supernatural. A good portion of the ride is spent in silence, both of us silently reflecting on what we learned. <<include "1.46.1">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Deceit ++<</if>> I lie, hoping to persuade him into believing that I was redecorating part of the house as a surprise. He’s suspicious, as any coherent person would be. But seeing that he has no reason not to trust me, accepts my words and promises to give it at least three days before returning. <a data-passage="1.46.1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I head to a nearby three-star hotel and help my uncle check in. "$name," he starts as I pass him his keycard, <<if hasVisited("1.46HalfTruth")>>"I'm worried about you. What will you do?"<<elseif hasVisted("1.46FullTruth")>>"I'm worried about you. No, my worry is past that. I don't know what to think right now." He trails off, his eyes wandering to his suitcase zipper as he fiddles with it.<<else>>"Are you sure you’re going to be okay? You seemed on edge earlier. Not to mention what you told me yesterday, and well ..." he trails off, his eyes wandering to the woman who still has no name.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("1.46HalfTruth")>>\ "I don't know. I was thinking about that on the way over here. I think there's only one thing I can do." He seems to know what I'm thinking and nods, resting his hand on my shoulder. I can feel it shaking and can see his lip quivering. "Please, be safe. I don't know what else to say. I want to say don't, but I don't know. I just don't know." I nod in complete understanding, hugging him. <<elseif hasVisited("1.46FullTruth")>>\ "You don't believe me?" "I don't know what I believe. You wouldn't do something so drastic if you were lying and have no reason to lie to me. Plus, that story, the details ... that girl. If this is a joke, then you're going a long way to pull it off. I woke up this morning thinking about what I would have for lunch. I'll be going to sleep wondering if my boss is a vampire." "It'll explain a lot, huh," I attempt to joke, and he chuckles, relaxing. "I'm worried about you though. What will you do?" "I don't know. I was thinking about that on the way over here. I think there's only one thing I can do." He seems to know what I'm thinking and nods, resting his hand on my shoulder. I can feel it shaking and can see his lip quivering. "Please, be safe. This isn't my field ... at all. I want to say don't go. But I don't know. I just don't know." I nod in complete understanding, hugging him. <<else>>\ "I'll be fine ... I just need to figure out ... everything." Thankfully, that much isn't a lie. I need to do just that. "$name, talk to me," he starts, resting a hand on my shoulder as he tries to meet my gaze. "I'm fine, Uncle. One of these days, you're going to stop worrying about me," I say jokingly, but he doesn't crack a smile. "Never," he reassures. <</if>>\ "I'll call whenever I'm situated." We separate, and he hands me the duffel bag. "I didn't know what was happening, but I packed all the clothes you leave at my place for your never-timed right visits. I'm kinda happy I did it now." I thank him and give him another hug before walking back outside. <a data-passage="1.46.2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Leaving the motel lobby, I approach the woman, watching her messing with the bag she packed back at the house. She stops only when she spots me approaching. "Well, Roe, it's been a fun little adventure. Remember what I said, and you'll be fine." Without even a proper goodbye, she begins to trek away. "Wait, that's it?" I shout after her, and she stops, turning to me with genuine confusion. "Yea. Your uncle's safe, and you're still kicking. No death can be blamed on me, so I'm going to disappear. I have shit to handle." "Do you do this a lot? Pop into people's lives, tell them the supernatural world is real, and then disappear. I mean, I don't even know your name." "That's a good thing; knowing my name brings up a whole lot more problems than you think." I stare after her, trying to come to grips with everything that has happened and how such a little thing, just saving someone and trying to be a good person, has led me here. My uncle having to spend a few weeks in a motel, and I not being able to go home or live my life like normal. "Answer this for me," I yell after her, "am I safe? Or will they continue to come after me?" Between now and the drive, I've been trying to come up with alternative plans. But I know I won't survive without her help. Every alternative plan proves irrelevant; the only one that doesn't is the one I'm putting into effect now. "They'll continue for a while," I hear her say. "All depends on how interested they are in seeing you pay." [[“So, if I die, my death can be blamed on you?”|1.46IfIDie][$sydero +=5]] [[“Let’s team up then.”|1.46TeamUp][$sydero +=3]] [[“Either you bring me, or I’ll make your life hell.”|1.46Hell][$sydero -=5]] [[“I wouldn’t be in this mess if it weren’t for you.”|1.46Mess][$sydero -=3]] [[“Look, just please take me with you.”|1.46TakeMeWithYou]]

"So then. If I die, my death can still be blamed on you?" I watch as she almost trips over her feet, jerking around to face me. "What's your point?" "I come with you." She looks ready to argue but stops herself before saying anything. <<include "1.46.3">>

"Then, I suggest we team up." I watch as she almost trips over her feet, laughing hysterically as she turns to face me. "Team up? You know, teaming up usually means that both sides can contribute something meaningful to the situation." "Well, I have a car," I point out. She shrugs and points to the nearby parking lot. "I can hotwire any one of those cars." <<if $cmajor is "Nursing">>\ "I'm a nursing major. I can patch you up, especially seeing that you don't shy away from fights." "I can do that myself. Plus, I know spells." "Don't spells take energy?" She nods her head and gently smirks. <<elseif $cmajor is "Criminal Justice">>\ "I'm a criminal justice major. I can help you navigate the cops, find loopholes, all that stuff." "What makes you think I want to avoid the cops? I like playing games with them." "I hardly know you, and even I know that's a lie." She nods her head and gently smirks. <<elseif $cmajor is "Computer Science">>\ "I'm great with technology. I'm sure that'll come in handy." "I have someone whose better. If I need a computer whiz, I'll just go to him." "Two computer whizzes?" She chuckles softly. <<else>>\ <<if $charisma >=10>>\ "I'm charismatic." "What does that have to do with anything?" "I can talk to folks, something you seriously have an issue with." "I can talk to people." "No, you really can't." <<elseif $combat >=10>>\ "I can fight. I know how to hold my own." "You won't be going up against typical humans. These are supernatural creatures." "So, what? I won't be starting from level zero, but I can still do something. I mean, unless they're like gigantic monsters." <<elseif $engineering >=10>>\ "I'm great with my hands," I begin, and she raises an interested brow. I sigh deeply and fight the smile. "Not like that, engineering-wise." "Aww," she fake pouts. "My thoughts make you five times more useful to have around." <<elseif $medical >=10>>\ "I can patch you up. I know my way around a first aid kit and other injuries. That'll keep you away from any more hospitals, especially seeing that you don't shy away from fights." "I can do that myself. Plus, I know spells." "Don't spells take energy?" She nods her head and gently smirks. <<else>>\ "I'm a quick learner, plus I just don't feel like dying anytime soon, and unless I throw my lot in with you, I will be. So, please." <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<include "1.46.3">>

"You have two choices. Let me come with you, or I make your life hell." I watch as she almost trips over her feet, turning to face me. Her eyes flare up in anger, and she stalks towards me, stopping short as she points an accusing finger at me. "Are you threatening me?" "Leave without me and find out," I say, trying to maintain a blank, unemotional expression. My heart beats rapidly, and my mind questions whether I said the right thing. I have enough enemies. Do I really need to add her to that list? "I don't know whether to be impressed that you just threatened me or pissed off about it." <<include "1.46.3">>

"You know, I wouldn't be in this mess if it weren't for you." I watch as she almost trips over her own feet, turning to face me. <<if $custody>>\ "No. You wouldn't be in this mess if it wasn't for you." I open my mouth to remind her of the agents, but she raises a hand to stop me. "Yea, yea, yea. The agents pulled you back in, but who decided to put me in their goddamn car and drive me to the hospital?" "Oh, I see. So I was supposed to leave you in the alleyway?" "You really should learn to mind your business." "It obviously doesn't matter. I'm going to be hunted now, and you're the only one who can help me, so suck it up." "For someone asking me for help, you're doing a lousy job of pleading your case. A case that revolves around me being able to feel sympathy." "You helped me with my uncle, I know you can feel sympathy." "Or maybe I just didn't want to see a man die because he's related to someone stupid." I take a deep breath, knowing what she's trying to do. She's relying on insulting me so that I'll give up my position. But I won't; I can't. <<else>>\ "Fine, your point is made. My curiosity got the better of me, but it still doesn't mean this is entirely my fault." "Oh no, but it is." "You're going to help me?" "For someone asking for my help, you're doing a lousy job of pleading your case." "Doesn't matter, we're in this together now. Like it or not." <</if>>\ <<include "1.46.3">>

"I don't want to die. No one wants to die. If I'm left to fend for myself, then that's what's going to happen. I have a better chance with you. So, can you please just take me with you?" <<include "1.46.3">>

<>\<<set $SyderoTheron = true>><>\ She taps the side of her cheek, murmuring some words to herself. The best that I can guess is that she's weighing her options. Her eyes meet mine at one point, and she refuses to look away. She studies me so intensely that I feel like I'm under a microscope instead of just standing in the parking lot of a motel. She walks back to me, stopping once she gets to the other side of the car. "If you join me, your entire life will change, and you'll have to change with it." "Done." "Aren't you in college? You'll just throw that away?" I pause. I was so close to graduation. A few more assignments, and I would be a college graduate. But it isn't like this is my choice. If I had a true choice, I would continue for graduation purposes. They know where I go to school and where I live. If they come after me, I won't have time for anything. "Yes." "You're going to have people and things hunting you." "Okay, too late." "Everyone you know, you no longer know. Unless you want to see them dead." I nod in understanding. "You say all of this now, but as soon as it happens, you're going to be thinking differently." "Let me worry about my existential crisis." She takes a deep breath and cocks her head to the side, studying me once again. Finally, she offers me her hand, and I shake it. "Name's Sydero." Sydero. I test the name again and again, all without saying it. I nod and let go of her hand, and she steps back. She sets her bag in the back seat and then gets in. She grabs my phone and gives me our new location. The ride is awkwardly quiet. //Sydero// is looking out the window while I replay the last two days. Supernatural creatures are real. I'm being hunted. My uncle is safe, but I'm now driving around with a witch. I've gone from having a semi-normal life to this. I keep telling myself that my path is foolish and that there is another way. But after exploring my own thoughts, I keep coming to the same understanding. There isn't. It's like she said, my life will change and everything within it will never be the same. <a data-passage="EP1NT"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/nexttime.png"> WILL BE EDITED <img src="images/divider.png"> WHEN I CORRECT <img src="images/divider.png"> EPISODE TWO <img src="images/divider.png"> BLEH [[Episode Two: Abandoned]]

<>\ <<set $claw = false; $afterhim = false; $hangover = false; $BradHill = false; $syderoBar = false>> <<unset $uncaring, $silence>> <<playlist "ambience" loop play>> <>\ <img src="images/epseven.png"> <img src="images/actone.png"> <<if $nogroceries>>\ I take a step back, looking over the room. Seeing that we were unable to bring any groceries back, and I wasn’t trying to send anyone back out there, cleaning wasn’t exactly easy. I did the best I could. My eyes move from one dirty area to the next, and I sigh. My best hardly put a dent in it though. <<else>>\ I take a step back, looking over the room, newly cleaned. The dirtiest thing now is the mattress, and whatever rests deep underneath the bed. I’m not going to move the heavy thing out of the way so whatever dwells there will continue to do so. The mattress can be overlooked, especially since I added a fresh sheet to cover it. I can probably do much more, but Sydero warned us all not to get comfortable. It’s her main safehouse, but in the end it is still just that, a safehouse. <</if>>\ The past few days have been the same, all of us helping to fix the house more and training. Each day I see progress, and my style grows more uniform and put together. But staying in one place, doing the same thing for too long, it allows other things to fester and grow as well ... I continue to make the room acceptable when the window suddenly bursts open, causing me to jump back and hit my back on the bedpost. I immediately hear giddy laughing, letting me know that my previous startle is just a show for another. “So clumsy, pet.” “Stop calling me that,” I growl. “Or what? You’re going to bang your head on the wall til I agree to show myself? You’ll be brain dead before that happens ... but it would be fun to watch.” Their voice echoes through my head, causing a mini headache and slight nausea to take hold. As the echo fades, my senses come back to me. I need to get my mind off of this and onto something else. I leave my room, heading towards the kitchen which has for some reason been deemed the place to gather. Like I thought, Sydero sits at the table looking over something on her phone, <<if $cp>>with Chris in the seat right next to her eating while reading from //The Lore//.<<else>>but Bradley is nowhere to be seen.<</if>> “Anything on the agenda for today?” I ask, taking a seat at the table after grabbing a granola bar. “You can practice some more, but I’m –” Sydero starts when Bradley rushes in with his laptop held delicately in his hands. “Hold everything, not another word.” The kitchen falls into silence as we wait for him to continue, “are you guys up for a hunt?” “Yes,” <<if $cp>>Chris and I both shout at the same time. It would seem I wasn’t the only one beginning to go crazy.<<else>>I shout, I was going stir crazy just sitting in this place all day.<</if>> “No.” Sydero’s voice rings out. All of our eyes falling on her. I’m shocked myself, I would think if anybody would want to get up and do something, it’d be her. She doesn’t seem like the type to like to stay in one place for very long. “Why not?” Bradley whimpers, exaggerating his tone and expression to make it seem like he was genuinely bothered by her words. “A hunt means I’m not getting paid. I don’t risk my neck for charity,” she says in a gruff voice. She makes sure she avoids eye contact with Bradley, I can’t blame her. The kid’s face was moving even my heart, and I wasn’t the target. “Come on. A great gamer friend of mine is asking for help. He really sounds like he’s scared.” “Why is your gamer friend asking you for help with the supernatural?” Sydero counters, raising an accusing brow towards Bradley. He shrinks away, clearing his throat as he glances at the floor. “Come on, please. He thinks it’s werewolves, we can’t just let that go.” [[“I say we go, why not?”]] [[“What all did you tell him?”]] [[“Where is this hunt at?”]]

“I say we go, I mean why not?” I ask, “it’s not like we’re super busy here.” <<if $cp>>\ “Are you sure you’re okay to go on a hunt, $name?” Chris asks, probably remembering what happened the other day. I wave his worry away and look at the others to see if we are all in agreement. <</if>>\ Sydero grumbles something but otherwise agrees on the trip. <<include "BB0">>

“What did you tell him exactly, for him to come to you about the supernatural?” I question. “Ahh, nothing serious, I mean just a few things here and there,” his voice trails off as he continues on saying something at an inaudible level. I exchange a knowing glance with Sydero, it would seem that our mutual young friend has said far too much. <<include "BB0">>

“Where is the hunt?” “In North Carolina,” he answers right away, “literally next door.” “You say next door as if all we have to do is click our heels together and we’re there,” Sydero huffs. “I didn’t peg you as a Wizard of Oz fan,” I chuckle, ignoring the glare she sends me but noticing that she didn’t have a comeback. <<include "BB0">>

“Are we even ready to go up against werewolves? <<if $cp>>We’re still training,” Chris points<<else>>I’m still training,” I point<</if>> out, but Sydero immediately shakes her head. “I’ve taught you the basics. Next step is actually just sharpening your instincts and gaining experience to make you better. This might actually be a good hunt for you to try that.” <<if $cp>>“We’re going up against werewolves,” Chris reminds her, and she sneers.<<else>>“Let me remind you that these are werewolves.” Though I’ve grown since, I can’t help but think about the last time I went head to head with werewolves. Guts spilled on me, one clawing at my chest, and the other ready to just plain out eat me.<</if>> “Even better, you get to think on your toes and fight to survive. I can’t think of a better opportunity.” I could. Regardless of anything we said before, we all agree on heading to North Carolina to at least look into the news, as well as to just get away from the small town. [[I was excited to test out my new skills.|BB1]] [[I needed a change in scenery.|BB1]] [[Anything to get my mind off of the Entity.|BB1]] [[I want to help as best as I can.|BB1]]

<<if $cp>>\ We pack up most of our things, not going overboard but enough to where if someone drops by the safehouse, they wouldn’t know a group was living there. I drive, and Bradley navigates, the two children sit in the back arguing about anything they can think of. But their current argument was really taking the cake. “No one would agree with that!” Chris shouts, as if we all weren’t in a close compact space. “I don’t care, that doesn’t make it any less possible,” Sydero comes back. I was embarrassed to even know them. “What are you guys talking about?” Bradley asks, taking a break from going through his dubstep playlist. “Which fruit would win in a fight.” Bradley pauses, looks over at me, and then turns to look at them. I was truly hoping he was about to put an end to the stupid argument when he says, “and which did you each say?” “I said a watermelon,” Chris states proudly. “And I said a pineapple,” Sydero adds in. Bradley takes a minute to think about both and then shakes his head, turning more in his seat to talk to them. “Obviously you’re both wrong, grapes would win.” The car erupts into shouts of denial as Bradley tries to explain his positioning, “grapes can split up and then form back up. You kill one and a dozen more still remain.” “In what universe?” Chris questions in disbelief. “Plus, they would have nothing but defense, you can’t win a fight being nothing but defensive,” Sydero adds. “Oh, but your pineapple can kick ass, huh?” “Yes. Spiny exterior for defense and it can use its leaves as a weapon, plus it’s not heavy enough to not be able to move at all.” I see her send a long glare to Chris who clears his throat to argue. [[Put a stop to the argument.][$sydero -=2; $chris -=2; $bradley -=2; $serious +=3]] [[Agree with Syd.][$sydero +=2; $chris -=2; $bradley -=2]] [[Agree with Bradley.][$sydero -=2; $chris -=2; $bradley +=2]] [[Agree with Chris.][$sydero -=2; $chris +=2; $bradley -=2]] [[Ignore them.]] [[Throw in dragon fruit.][$serious -=3]] <<else>>\ We pack up most of our things, not going overboard but enough to where if someone drops by the safehouse, they wouldn’t know a group was living there. I drive, and Bradley navigates, while Sydero relaxes in the back. The majority of the ride is quiet, our minds all on something else. I attempt to focus mostly on the road but fail, numerous times I escape further within my own mind and think of the Entity. They don't say anything, and the pulsing, nauseating feeling that I've acquainted with them increases over time. <<include "BB1_1">> <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Serious ++<</if>> “Alright, first of all, I need my navigator back,” I say to Bradley, passing a stern look his way, “and after that I need silence. I swear you guys argue over the stupidest crap. There’s no winner to your argument.” The car goes quiet, and I can feel the weight of everyone’s eyes on me, but I stand my ground, daring them to say anything. <<include "BB1_1">>

“Alright, that’s enough ... Syd is obviously the victor here.” “Booyah,” Syd chuckles. “So, all those years of friendship, you just throw it away, huh?” Chris questions. “I can lead us into a ditch, do you want that, $name?” Bradley asks next. “Dang, you guys are a bunch of sore losers,” I chuckle. <<include "BB1_1">>

“Come on guys, Bradley is clearly the only one who is making sense here.” “Told you, grapes have two votes.” “You can take those grapes and stick them up your –” Syd begins, but Chris’s hand shoots to her mouth before she can say anything else. “It’s fine, $name, you didn’t hurt my feelings or anything. Just thinking about where our friendship stands is all.” I roll my eyes at his dramatic nature, and how the argument has now turned to Sydero cussing Chris out about putting his hand over her mouth. <<include "BB1_1">>

“Chill, this argument is stupid since Chris is the winner.” “Where?” Syd questions in a monotone voice. “Like $name said, it’s obvious. A watermelon is big enough to squish all of your fruits easily,” Chris answers. “The grapes maybe, but where in the hell can a watermelon defeat a pineapple? It’s too heavy to do anything but roll,” Sydero points out, and their argument continues on. <<include "BB1_1">>

I zone them out, focusing on the road and the male voice coming from Bradley’s phone that tells me where to go. <<include "BB1_1">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Comical ++<</if>> “You know, dragon fruit could probably beat all of those fruit, no problem,” I add in, and the car goes quiet before they each erupt with questions about how dragon fruit is even a contender. “Bradley said grapes,” I remind them, “grapes!” “My grapes have numbers on their side,” Bradley shouts as we all try to be heard, “yours only looks intimidating.” “I say the dragon fruit beats the watermelon easily though,” Syd laughs, earning a rough push from Chris. The entire car was now in an argument that would see no victor. <<include "BB1_1">>

Later in the ride, with roughly thirty minutes to go, we begin to probe Bradley for more information. “What were some of the signs that your friend brought up?” I question after Sydero had asked about Bradley’s friend, he wasn’t able to give us much information pertaining to the kid besides that he was a gamer and pretty cool. “Animal killings, mostly dogs. Some of those who talked to the cops said it looked like a large animal. And all the pets were torn apart, almost shredded with hearts gone ... among other things.” “Dogs? Werewolves would eat their ... well, they would eat dogs?” I question, Sydero tapping her chin with a deep frown decorating her face. “It’s not totally unheard of. Vampires, werecats, and werewolves sometimes turn to animal feeding to stay under the radar, less urgency if you’re killing animals and not humans. But it’s rare, mostly because it’s disgusting to them.” <<if $cp>>\ “So, weak werewolves? I don’t see the problem here,” Chris points out. “Not weak, hungry. Think of a starving pack, finally faced with three people who they won’t get in trouble for killing.” Her words definitely just shifted what Chris and I were envisioning. <</if>>\ [[Ask about police action.]] [[Ask about the general plan.]]

“So, what has the police done about all of this?” I question. “Not much, like I said it’s animal killings so it’s more like, give it to the beginner officer and not an ‘oh crap’ type of thing,” Bradley tells us. <<include "BB1_1_1">>

“What’s the general plan here?” I ask. “Talk to Bradley’s friend at the meeting place and then investigate the latest death. We’ll work from there,” Sydero answers. It wasn’t much of a plan, but I suppose there was only so much we can plan since we didn’t have the entire picture. <<include "BB1_1_1">>

We arrive at the café that Bradley’s friend tells us to meet him at, looking it over before making any moves. Bradley is the first to take a step towards the corner building that is painted a pale pastel teal tone. Above it rests a wall of mahogany bricks that were most definitely apartments. Three wooden tables sit up against the exterior of the café, each with a clear bowl with a single candle inside sitting in the middle. “Ugh, I hate when I can only count one exit,” I hear Sydero mumble from beside me, glaring at the café in disgust. [[“You can always break a window.”][$sydero +=2; $pacifist -=2; $optimistic -=2]] [[“There’s probably a backdoor somewhere.”][$sydero -=2; $optimistic +=2]] [[“Do you always think of the worst possible scenarios?”][$sydero -=3; $pacifist +=2]] [[Say nothing.|BBSayNothing]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Pessimistic ++<</if>> “There’s always the option of breaking a window,” I point out, glancing at the five windows that make up the side of the café we were looking at. “Depends on what the glass is made out of,” Sydero answers, rubbing her chin. Before heading inside, she goes up to one and knocks on it, growling before moving inside. <<include "BB1_1_2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Optimistic ++<</if>> “There’s probably a backdoor somewhere, we just can’t see it.” I look towards the end of the building but see no alleyway, or perhaps it didn’t. “You see, it’s the ‘somewhere’ that gets me,” she tells me, grumbling something else as she enters the building behind Bradley. <<include "BB1_1_2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> “Do you always think of the worst possible scenarios?” “You make it sound like it’s a bad thing, I just like knowing my exits.” As she says this, she shrugs and begins to walk inside behind Bradley. <<include "BB1_1_2">>

I walk ahead of her, following Bradley into the establishment. <<include "BB1_1_2">>

The inside of the café mirrors the outside in only the classic downtown style that the exterior possessed. All walls are a pristine alabaster tone, accented by dark browns on the ceilings and multicolored wooden slabs that make up the counter and floor. Low indie coffee shop music plays overhead, creating a relaxing and ambient mood. <<if $cp>>\ We grab an empty table to the side, all of us too busy taking in our surroundings to notice Chris running inside and towards the counter. When I finally do notice his absence, and then presence, he is walking towards us with his hand wrapped up in thick gauze. “Whoa, what happened to you?” I question, stiffening. I can see the faint sight of blood still rushing out of whatever wound he had acquired. “This rude ass cat was injured, and I tried to help it, instead it decided to claw me,” he chuckles in embarrassment. “More like a dumbass guy decided to pet the cat minding its business,” Sydero corrects, relaxing in her seat, cocking her head to the side at Chris. He gets ready to say something when a young girl approaches the table confidently. <<else>>\ We grab an empty table to the side, all of us too busy taking in our surroundings to notice a young girl approaching the table, confidence guiding each of her steps. <</if>>\ “Bradley, I take it?” We all glance over at her, brows raised as we begin to connect the pieces. “EpicGameMaster8953?” he asks, his mouth hanging open as the girl nods and takes a seat. “Sorry for not immediately approaching, I had little to go off of,” she sends him a dashing smile, and the kid practically melts in his chair. His cheeks turn beet red and even as he tries to take back command of his face, fails. “My name’s Hillary,” she introduces, extending her hand towards Sydero since she was the closest. Sydero shakes it, and she introduces herself merely as Syd, Hillary’s hand moves towards me. [[Shake it.][$bradley +=3; $sympathy +=3]] [[Don’t shake her hand but say my name.]] [[Just stare at it.][$bradley -=5; $sympathy -=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> I shake it with a friendly smile, “$name.” <<include "BB1_1_3">>

“$name,” I say, not giving her hand a second look. She gives me a small smile and brings her hand back to her side, clearing her throat. <<include "BB1_1_3">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> I stare at her extended hand, making up my mind not to shake it, nor to introduce myself. She slowly withdraws it and clears her throat. “This rude person is $name,” Bradley tells her, sending me a threatening glare, the first I ever received from him. <<include "BB1_1_3">>

<<if $cp>>\ She turns towards Chris but upon seeing his hand, settles on him just giving her his name. <</if>>\ “Thank you for coming, I didn’t exactly know how to – well, go about this I suppose,” she blushes, her pink cheeks causing her light blue eyes to sparkle. “It’s totally fine,” Bradley suddenly shouts, clearing his throat when all eyes fall on him. He shrinks in his seat, waving for us to continue on. “Now, you say you think these are werewolves?” Sydero asks, and Hillary nods. “I know I’m not really in this world, but after talking to Bradley and looking it up, that’s the best thing I can come up with.” “The internet lies,” Syd tells her. [[“Why do you care so much?”]] [[“Have you talked to anyone else about this?”]] [[“Have you seen one of the animals attacked?”]] [[“How long has this been going on?”]]

“Why do you care so much?” I ask her. “I have three dogs that are my life, two of them are too big to always keep in the house and so I’m worried about their safety. Since the attacks started, I’ve kept them inside and only let them outside under supervision, but I can tell that they’re beginning to grow agitated. Plus, I have other friends with pets, and I just don’t think anyone should have to walk outside and see their beloved pet like that.” “Have these attacks been focused in one area, or spread around town?” Sydero asks. Her phone is out, and I look over to see her fiddling with a map of the town. <<include "BB1_1_4">>

“Have you talked to anyone else about this? Your parents, friends, police?” I question. “No, I mean not about the werewolf thing anyway. I don’t want them thinking I’m crazy, especially since all they’ll say is it’s an animal attack.” Makes sense. “Have these attacks been focused in one area, or spread around town?” Sydero asks. Her phone is out, and I look over to see her fiddling with a map of the town. <<include "BB1_1_4">>

“Have you seen one of the animals attacked?” I ask. “I wish I could say no, but yes. It’s ... disturbing.” She’s about to continue in describing the attacks but suddenly freezes, appearing as if she would throw up. She apologizes and refrains from telling us, I suppose we would have to just check that part out ourselves. “Have these attacks been focused in one area, or spread around town?” Sydero asks. Her phone is out, and I look over to see her fiddling with a map of the town. <<include "BB1_1_4">>

“Can you tell us how long this has been going on?” I inquire. She taps the side of her cheek, peering at the ceiling, searching for the answer between its cracks, “I would say a few weeks, three or four maybe.” “Have these attacks been focused in one area, or spread around town?” Sydero asks. Her phone is out, and I look over to see her fiddling with a map of the town. <<include "BB1_1_4">>

“Most of them are on the northwest side of town, but there have been some incidents in other places too.” Sydero jots something down before nodding, standing. “We’ll take a look around town and see what we can find, we’ll have Bradley update you later.” [[Encourage Bradley to hang out with Hillary.][$bradley +=5; $BradHill to true]] [[Order something before I leave.]] [[Leave.|BBLeave]]

“Actually, I think Bradley should stay with Hillary,” I start, sending a mischievous smile to Bradley, “Hillary can show him around town.” Bradley opens his mouth to combat what I say, but Hillary stops him by agreeing with me. “I can show you the arcade, which is basically my second home, and maybe even my setup.” Bradley lights up, his eyes turning into a million glistening stars. “I get to see the setup of //the// EpicGameMaster?” She chuckles softly, “you carry the team more often than I do.” “Lies. Remember that one move you did in the deathmatch? When it was four versus two, and we still weren’t even close to the objective?” Sydero motions for us to go, smirking at the two as they seem to have forgotten the world around them. <<if $cp>>\ “Aww, young love,” Chris jokes as we go. <</if>>\ <<include "BB1_1_5">>

I leave their side for a minute, heading towards the barista who gives me a sweet smile. I order water and a pastry and then head towards the door where Sydero and Chris stand waiting. Bradley sits at a table in the back by himself, Hillary nowhere to be seen. <<if $cp>>\ “We urged Hillary to go home. Bradley’s going to stay here and map out some of the places that are most likely to be hit,” Chris tells me, and I nod, leaving with the two of them. <<else>>\ “Hillary’s headed home. Bradley’s going to stay here and map out some of the places that are most likely to be hit,” Sydero tells me, and I nod, leaving with her. <</if>>\ <<include "BB1_1_5">>

Seeing that we are done discussing, I stand and head towards the door. Sydero <<if $cp>>and Chris hang<<else>>hangs<</if>> back while Hillary says her goodbyes, leaving. A while later Sydero and Chris join me. “Bradley’s going to stay here and map out some of the places that are most likely to be hit,” Sydero tells me, and I nod, and we leave. <<include "BB1_1_5">>

Sydero draws a circle around the neighborhood where the most attacks have been, not that far away actually. “This is where the attacks are concentrated. We can focus our efforts here first.” “Do you think they’ll be in the woods again?” I question her. “Maybe, but there’s a good chance that they’re living in a regular house. We don’t know how many werewolves we’re working with here.” She bites the inside of her cheek, for the first time ever, seeming uncomfortable and nervous. <<if $cp>>\ “You can’t tell me you’re nervous,” I laugh, my attention landing on Chris for a minute. He’s staring into the distance, his mind elsewhere I suppose. I notice him scratching the gauze, each stroke of his fingers seems to go deeper as if trying to tear it off. He notices my gaze and chuckles awkwardly, “it’s itching.” I nod and tune back into whatever Sydero was saying. “You two aren’t exactly ready to take on a pack of starving werewolves,” Sydero answers. <<else>>\ “You can’t tell me you’re nervous,” I laugh. “You aren’t exactly ready to take on a pack of starving werewolves,” Sydero answers. <</if>>\ [[“Aww, you’re worried about me.”][$sydero -=2]] <<if $flirt_Syd>>\ <<if settings.dialog>>[[“Ah, stop it Sydero, you’re going to make me blush.”][$SRomance +=1]]<<else>>[[“Ah, stop it Sydero, you’re going to make me blush.”][$SRomance +=1]]<</if>> <</if>>\ [[“I don’t need your worry.”][$sydero -=2]] [[“Oh, suddenly you care about my well-being?”][$sydero +=3]]

“Aww,” I coo, “you’re worried about me.” Sydero pauses, though her eyes stay on her phone screen. “Dress it up however you like, but I’m more worried about your heart feeding and spurring on a werewolf.” “Just admit it, you care,” I chuckle. “About my life? Yes, very much,” she snaps back with a wicked, selfish grin. <<include "BB1_1_6">>

“Ah, stop it Sydero,” I chuckle quietly, “you’re going to make me blush.” She pauses, peering at me and then back down at her phone. She grumbles her next words with a small smirk, but I still hear them, “I’d rather be making you do something else.” “What was that,” I ask, just wishing to see if she’d repeat herself. “I said we should get going.” She pockets her phone and walks past me, not escaping my notice is exactly how close she is to me when she passes me by. She had all the room in the world, her actions are more than just purposeful. <<include "BB1_1_6">>

“I don’t need your worry,” I remind her with a scowl. She snickers and turns to me. “Don’t flatter yourself, I don’t care about what happens to you. I’m more concerned with some well-fed werewolf turning his ire on me because you don’t know how to keep yourself alive.” “Guess if I live or die, it’ll be a reflection of my teacher,” I snap back. “No, it’ll be a reflection on your own survival skills. Notice how your ‘teacher’ has managed to keep herself alive.” <<include "BB1_1_6">>

“Oh,” I draw out, chuckling sarcastically, “suddenly you care about my wellbeing, huh?” “If you think I risked my life countless times just for you to die then you’re sorely mistaken.” She ends the conversation there, pocketing her phone before getting into the car. <<include "BB1_1_6">>

The drive to the neighborhood is short, part of me wishing we had just walked there instead. It’s a subtle suburban neighborhood, the type where every family seems to be of the white picket fence mindset. I’m not the only one who notices it, Sydero’s scowl appears to have somehow gotten larger<<if $cp>> while Chris seems to be reminiscing about a future he might’ve had.<<else>>.<</if>> The first people we see are walking three of their dogs. If they’re bothered about the recent attacks, they don’t show it. They laugh and continue on with their lives as if everything was fine. <a data-passage="BB1_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

We pull over at the local park, staying near my car as we people watch. I’m starting to see why this neighborhood has the most attacks, it seems like everyone has a pet here. I see some people with exotic pets, while others simply walk with their dogs and cats. “You ever have a pet, Roe?” Sydero asks. I was currently leaning on the side of my car while she leans against the hood. [[“Does a goldfish count?”]] [[“I’ve always wanted a dog.”][$doglike to true]] [[“I kinda adopted the neighborhood stray cat.”][$catlike to true]] [[“I wanted one, just never was able to.”]] [[“Naw, I’m not an animal person.”]]

“Does a goldfish count?” I question, remembering the goldfish that my uncle got me because I wanted more responsibility. I wasn’t really thinking of a fish when I had asked my uncle about a pet, but I wasn’t about to look a gift horse ... fish, in the mouth. “I don’t remember what I named him, probably since he didn’t last that long.” It also proved to him that I wasn’t ready for more responsibility. <<if $cp>>\ “How long did he last exactly?” Chris asks. He’s still sitting in the car, but the door was open, and his feet were out. “Eh, a year or two?” “Tragic,” Sydero mumbles. <</if>>\ <<include "BB1_2_1">>

“When I was little, I wanted a dog, but my uncle was allergic to them. I’m sure it would’ve made coping with my trauma easier but hey, can’t change the past.” <<if $cp>>\ “Oh, you’re a dog person too?” Chris asks, sending me a smile. “Of course,” I chuckle, “I feel weird, never owning a pet before.” “Not that weird. My parents had a chihuahua who practically drove me crazy. I learned soon after that I was a big dog type of person. When I volunteered at the animal shelter, they were the nicest ones. Sucks that they’re the first to be put down though.” <</if>>\ “What about you, Syd? You a dog person?” I ask. “Yes, cos who doesn’t want a giant hairy beast stomping around their house, shitting wherever they like?” Sydero asks, I can practically hear her rolling her eyes. “Are you a cat person then?” “No, I’m not sure I can deal with two assholes living under the same roof.” <<include "BB1_2_1">>

“There was this one stray cat that I ended up feeding one time, I ended up kinda adopting him. I mean, he came around every day for food and love but never came inside. He was a roamer.” <<if $cp>>\ “And he didn’t try to claw your face off? All the cats I’ve ever met have been straight up jerks, they don’t even like to be pet.” I shrug my shoulders, “he wasn’t friendly at first, but I’d like to think he grew attached. Cats take longer to trust you and they most of the time only trust the main caregiver. You just gotta be patient, and let cats do their thing, they’re independent.” “I’d rather have a large dog just come and plop itself on my lap.” <</if>>\ “How about you Syd, dogs or cats?” “Neither,” she states bluntly, “both are too high maintenance. The only difference is that one is stuck at your side and the other is plotting to kill you.” <<include "BB1_2_1">>

“I’ve always wanted a pet but never had the time. I was always busy, and my uncle was allergic to some of them, so I just lived without one. Have you ever had a pet?” “No.” “Would you want one?” “I wouldn’t mind owning a snake,” she answers. “Out of everything, you choose a snake.” “Yea. They’re independent, mesmerizing, and vicious. I grew up with a lot of snakes,” she tells me, snickering at the last part, “so they’ve always held my interest, especially pythons.” <<include "BB1_2_1">>

“Not really, I’m not much of an animal person. I stick to humans and/or myself.” “Agreed,” Sydero states. <<include "BB1_2_1">>

We continue gazing out at the others when we finally agree to split up and talk to some of the pet owners. On my side of the park rests a few possible people to choose from. [[Speak to the old man with one dog.]] [[Speak to the woman with two cats on a leash.]] [[Speak to the little boy who won’t let his dog go.]]

I go up to the old man who has a dog without a leash laying right beside him. They both seem to have a faraway look in their eye, staring out at the wooded area of the park where dogs and kids alike play. I slowly take a seat on the other side of the bench, only the dog gazing over at me before putting his attention back on the woods. “Beautiful day, huh?” I say, starting off with the only icebreaker I really know. “When are you people going to leave us alone?” he asks under his breath. “Excuse me?” “You and all those other curious young’uns that are just popping up. You don’t care that this town is grieving, you just want to be nosy.” “I have no idea what you’re talking about,” I say, hoping my voice is laced with sincerity. <<if $honesty <50>>\ He turns to me, his face flaring up a flaming red tone. I hear his dog produce a low growl. “Not only do you insult my intelligence, but you make it seem like you’re different than the others. Leave a man, fore I shoot you like I did that animal stalking round my home,” he shouts, and eyes swing towards us. His dog is now on his feet and is baring his canines. I immediately get up, taking one cautious step back, and then another. Once I’m a reasonable distance away, his dog lies back down, and at the same time, they look towards the woods. <<else>>\ He turns to look at me, narrowing his eyes and studying me. His face finally calms, and his dog licks my hand sadly before taking his attention off of me. “Gosh I’m sorry, it’s just, I’ve gotten more folks talkin’ to me now than I feel like I ever have. What’s killin’ the pets? What’s out there? Did you see it, do you know? Probably cos I’m an old man. Guess I’m supposed to be knowledgeable about these things.” “What do you tell them? To get lost?” I ask, snickering. “At first no, I told em honestly what I knew, which ain’t much. And then, when I saw the trend, I just decided to be that old man that everyone calls a grouch.” He looks away from me and back toward the woods. “What do you think it is?” I inquire. “I don’t know,” he sighs, “the other day I shot at the damn thing, don’t know if I hit it or not though. This happened when I was a young'un too. Oh, me and Jenkins here lost his father to whatever happened. I think it’s a wild animal, the only thing that makes a lick of sense. My dad went out with some other men to shoot it, said they did. It was a cougar. We don’t get those around here, bobcats sure but not no cougar.” I nod, relaxing in the seat before thanking the man and patting the head of his dog. With that, I get up and head back towards my car to rendezvous with the others. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="BB1_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I walk over to the woman with two calm cats at the end of her leash. They pay me no mind as I come to stand beside the woman, making sure to get her attention before I start asking any kind of questions. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen cats be walked,” I begin, pointing down to them. “They aren’t trained for it or anything, but this is the only way I can get them out of the house now,” she tells me, her eyes lowering to her two lazy cats. “But then I can’t let them off of the leash because of the dogs, not all these dogs are cat-friendly.” “I’m guessing you’re nervous because of all those animal attacks?” I inquire, and she nods, “I thought only dogs were being attacked.” “No, there’s been an assortment of animals, even wildlife animals that have been found.” “Really?” “Yes. A deer here and a fox there but nothing like the pet attacks. A good amount of the attacks has been against dogs, but there’s been some cats, mostly strays but nevertheless.” “Has anyone attempted to hunt it yet?” “I wouldn’t know, I’m quite the animal lover and I do think all animals deserve the right to live. But ... I can’t help but fear that it’ll begin attacking more frequently and that it’ll add us to its diet. Even I’m not too proud – or stupid – to recognize that one animal’s life is not worth hundreds of others. I mean, what kind of animal needs that much food? It's hunted tons of animals so far, shouldn’t it be full by now?” I agree with her words, carefully reaching down to pat the cat closest to me. It allows it, but I notice that both cats' behavior seem somber. I thank her and head back towards the car to meet up with the others. <a data-passage="BB1_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

A little boy captures my attention. All around him are other little kids, running around with their dogs or playing on the nearby playground. Yet here he sits, his arms around the dog’s neck as he keeps it close. The dog whines and will attempt to move away from the boy but that only causes the hold to tighten. He buries his face into the dog’s furry neck, whispering something I can’t hear. “Why don’t you play with the other kids?” I ask him, giving him my friendliest smile. He bites the inside of his cheek as I guess he judges my ‘stranger’ levels, his eyes wandering to the other kids. “I want to,” he begins, “but I can’t leave Muse by herself, she’ll –” The boy catches himself, gulping in fear as his head jerks and he stares at the nearby forest. “What’s wrong? Why can’t Muse be by herself? The other dogs look like they’re just fine,” I point out. He gazes around and then leans towards me as if we were conspiring. “You gotta promise not to tell anyone,” he starts, and I nod. I suppose my nod must’ve not been enough for him, for he shakes his head, his nose scrunching up. “You won’t believe me, mommy doesn’t.” “I’ve seen some weird things too.” “This isn’t a dream,” he tells me bluntly, perhaps his mother’s words. “The weird things I see aren’t in dreams,” I tell him. “Of course not, you’re perfectly sane,” the Entity laughs, the sound echoing throughout my mind. I jump at the sound of their voice, I had almost forgotten that they were living in my head now, they had been silent for so long. The boy leans in even closer, his dog whimpering and the boy responds by loosening his grip. “There’s a monster in the woods behind my house. It was staring at Muse while she was using the bathroom. And then that night I saw it outside of my window. It’s really big and has blue eyes and sharp fangs.” The boy shivers, and Muse whimpers, nuzzling the boy affectionately. “It wants to eat Muse ... or me.” I imagine a beast staring at the little boy, understanding the nightmares that probably followed him that night. From what he described, the beast sounds intelligent, but the sharp fangs and blue eyes have me at a loss. Could that still be a werewolf? “Is that what's been killing all the dogs?” I ask, and he nods quickly, his eyes going back to the woods. I thank the child for telling me his secret and head back to the car where we agreed to meet back up at. <a data-passage="BB1_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Sydero is already there when I arrive<<if $cp>>, and a few minutes later, Chris shows up.<<else>>.<</if>> “So, did <<if $cp>>anyone<<else>>you<</if>> discover anything that was actually helpful?” Syd questions, picking at a single strand of dog hair on her shirt. She releases it with a disgusted grimace, “because that mom had nothing to offer me but her life story.” <<if $cp>>\ “I was talking to some teens who say that it’s nothing but some predator who got brave enough to enter backyards,” Chris reports. <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Speak to the old man with one dog.")>>\ <<if $honesty <50>>\ “Well, I pissed an old man and his dog off, so I drew the short straw. But he did say that he shot at something the other day. The creature might be injured.” I tell, “what do we have so far?” “A lot of unsubstantial information. Everything we know can fit a werewolf packs MO, but it’s not typical werewolf behavior. Yet there’s nothing else that –” <<else>>\ “Well, I talked to an old man who thinks he managed to shoot it, and said this isn’t the first time that this had happened. When he was a kid something similar took place. I’m guessing that means the pack might have made this their permanent home. Is that normal?” “Nothing about this is normal,” Sydero sighs, “but like I said before, it’s not –” <</if>>\ <<elseif hasVisited("Speak to the woman with two cats on a leash.")>>\ <<if $cp>>\ “I talked to a woman with cats, she said that it’s not just dogs. Stray cats have gone missing and that some wildlife animals have been found as well.” “This thing seems to have a large diet,” Chris points out. <<else>>\ “I talked to a woman with cats, she said that it’s not just dogs. Stray cats have gone missing and that some wildlife animals have been found as well. This thing seems to have a large diet.” <</if>>\ “Yea, or it’s just multiple stomachs that need feeding,” Sydero shrugs, “if this pack is large, then all the killing –” <<else>>\ “I talked to a little boy who said he saw it. He described it having blue eyes, sharp fangs, huge, and smart enough to find his window and stare inside his room at him.” “I’ve never heard of a werewolf having blue eyes,” Sydero starts, rubbing her chin as if a beard resides there, “but from what he described it does sound like it would be a –” <</if>>\ Sydero is unable to finish as a scream pierces the once cheerful and relaxed air surrounding the park. Dogs bark, children whimper and cry, and parents rush to their kids as they try to figure out what’s happening. <<if $cp>>The three of us<<else>>We both<</if>> set off in a sprint, rushing to the source of the piercing scream that has now turned into loud shouts. Once there, we each recoil from the sight. A dog – or what’s left of one – lies on the outskirts of a nearby forest, his body ripped to pieces and his entrails leading a trail towards the tree line. His upper half is no longer in sight, and one can only imagine that it can be found in the forest. “Stay back,” Sydero growls, roughly shoving an older man out of the way as she marches towards the trees, disappearing within. I look around and spot the origins of the scream, a preteen on their knees, crying. [[Go with Sydero.]] <<if $cp>>\ [[Go with Chris.]] <<else>>\ [[Go speak to the preteen.][$sympathy +=3]] <</if>>\ [[Look around.]]

I rush after Sydero, heading into the woods after making sure no one else would follow. Most of them seem too shaken up to think about doing so, while everyone else has long since fled the park. There is no visible trail, and the grass here gradually begins to rise in length, along with difficulty in navigating it. “No small creature could get far in this, especially if dragging something,” I say aloud. “Agreed, unless it has freakishly long legs or neck to hold the object up,” I hear Sydero say. I pick up my pace after spotting her. “How do you know it went this way?” I question. “Tips of the grass, there’s blood and ... other things.” I look down at the grass and sure enough see small crimson liquid sparkling under the sunlight, as well as ... the other things. We continue on, following the blood until we come to a small clearing where the rest of the dog lies. Similar to its other body part, this half was ripped to pieces and nothing but some fur and bone remain. “Look at that,” Sydero begins, pointing to some ripped off fur with deep claw marks. “These aren’t canine marks.” “What do you mean?” “Canine claws are dull to a point because they’re always out, the marks they leave don’t look like this. This looks more feline than anything.” “A werecat?” I’ve heard of the beast, but I was curious to see what they looked like, as well as what they would turn into. “No, doesn’t fit them either. I’d say it’s a werewolf before a werecat,” Sydero corrects. She sits back on her heel and closes her eyes, taking multiple deep breaths. I watch her quietly, wondering if I should bring up her recent behavior. [[Ask her about it.]] [[Wrap this up and get back.]]

“Hey, Sydero,” I start, attempting to put the right words together, “are you okay?” She gives me an unamused look, waiting for me to further explain what I was speaking about. “It’s just, lately you’ve been kinda ...” Quiet? Even more mysterious than usual? A bit depressing? I really don’t know the word to use, mostly because all of those already described her personality, just something was off now. “I have no idea what you’re referring to.” It’s only when she says this that I finally figure out how to describe her new attitude. <<if hasVisited("ER6")>>\ “Does it have to do with the girl that came by?” She remains quiet, but I can see her stiffen. “Thought so. No matter how much you act like you don’t care -” “It’s not an act,” she corrects, sighing deeply afterward, “I’m just aggravated. At myself mostly, but …” Her eyes connect with yours <<if $sydero >=50>>and she lets out a long sigh, her shoulders drooping.<<else>>and she stiffens, shaking her head.<</if>> <<if $sydero >=50>>\ “There’s a lot right now, alright. And the way I handled that situation was purely selfish. I don’t regret it, but I’m not exactly happy with how I went about it.” “What’s bothering you?” “I just,” she balls her fist up, “would really like to know that we have a fucking choice in all this bullshit.” And though she murmurs the next part, I still hear her. “Especially since everything is saying we don’t.” She nods to the surroundings, “come on, we still have a creature to find.” <<else>>\ “For once, stop trying to dig deeper. It’s not that serious.” “The way you’re acting makes me think differently.” “Then do it on your own time. We have a creature to find.” She keeps going, ending the conversation. <</if>>\ <<include "BB1_4">> <<else>>\ “You’re less mean. I mean you’re still rude, but you haven’t insulted me for a while now, which is definitely weird. Ever since that meet up with Raum at the restaurant.” I stop, watching as her pupils flee to the corner of her eye. “Are you scared of him?” She scoffs loudly, truly looking insulted. “I could beat Raum in my sleep if I wanted to, it’s whoever sent him that bothers me. And I’m not feeling my best which might just prove to be the thing that gets us.” Not only did she answer the question, further proving that there is something wrong with her, but she also admitted to being weak, even if just for this moment. [[“We all have those ‘off’ periods.”][$optimistic +=2]] [[“I think I like weak Sydero better.”][$sydero -=3]] <<if $flirt_Syd>>\ <<if settings.dialog>>[[Blush. “If there’s anything I can do to help, just let me know.”][$SRomance +=1; $sydero -=3]]<<else>>[[Blush. “If there’s anything I can do to help, just let me know.”][$SRomance +=1; $sydero -=3]]<</if>> <<if settings.dialog>>[[Wink. “Sounds like you need a break.”][$SRomance +=1; $sydero +=3]]<<else>>[[Wink. “Sounds like you need a break.”][$SRomance +=1; $sydero +=3]]<</if>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\

“Well, there’s nothing else to discover out here, so I say we head back. See if <<if $cp>>Chris learned anything.<<else>>anyone saw anything interesting.<</if>>” Sydero nods in agreement, and we both trek back. <<include "BB1_4">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Optimistic ++<</if>> “There’s nothing wrong with that, Syd. We all have those ‘off’ periods,” I tell her with a cheerful and encouraging smile. She rolls her eyes and grunts, pushing past me and back towards the way we came in. “Save it, I don’t need some encouraging speech. We have a supernatural to kill, come on.” I shrug and follow behind her. <<include "BB1_4">>

“Well, would you look at that, I think I like weak Sydero better, less annoying.” “Don’t get used to it,” she sneers, but it disappears as she takes a threatening step closer to me, “and no matter how ‘off’ I feel, I will never be weak.” She growls this part, fire lighting up in her eyes before she turns away from me and heads back the way we came. It was a good attempt, but the fire residing in her eyes was weak and I’m sure it took every intimidating muscle she had to conjure it. <<include "BB1_4">>

“If there’s anything I can do to help, just let me know,” I tell her, trying and failing to control the blush that appears when she looks over at me, brow cocked up in interest. “Anything, huh?” she questions, taking a step closer to me. “I mean, almost anything? I guess it depends on what it is.” “Wow, already going back on your words and I haven’t even asked for anything yet,” she chuckles lightly. The smile disappears from her face, and she stares at the ground. She puts space back between us and begins marching off, heading the way we came in. I watch her, wondering what caused her to suddenly shift like that, but I don’t question it for long, quickly catching up and following her out. <<include "BB1_4">>

“If you ask me, it sounds like you need a break,” I smirk, winking at her suggestively. “Ugh, don’t tempt me, Roe,” she states, rolling her eyes and gazing back down at what was left of the dog. “What’s wrong with temptation?” I question, stepping up behind her, leaning down towards her ear. Suddenly she’s in front of me, and my back is to a tree, her hand on my chest as she keeps me in place. She narrows her eyes but the fire that once rested there is extinguished. She sighs and shakes her head, removing her hand and going back the way we came in. I watch her, wondering what caused her to suddenly shift like that, but I don’t question it for long, quickly catching up and following her out. <<include "BB1_4">>

I join Chris and approach the preteen who holds a leash close to her heart. “I’m sorry for your loss,” Chris starts, kneeling down beside her slowly. He wobbles a bit before balancing himself. With tear-soaked eyes, she glances up at Chris and I, thanking us quietly. “Did you see what happened? What took it ... what did that?” I ask, my eyes slowly moving back to the sliced up half-carcass. She shakes her head furiously, her ponytail hitting her cheeks harshly as she does it. “I was calling her to come back when I heard her whimpering and growling. When I got over here, I just saw a big massive blur disappear into the woods and saw, that.” She sniffles, wrapping her arms around herself. “I heard about the attacks, but only that something had killed some dogs, I didn’t know it did that.” “Excuse me,” Chris growls, quickly rising to his feet and walking off with purpose. He looks sick, ready to vomit. “What can do that to a dog?” she whispers, her sobs coming back, but this time she sounds angrier. This creature had no right to take away her beloved dog, and the despair that rests in her eyes would only turn to fury. It’s a good thing I was here to help eliminate the problem, but I wondered how messy this would get since this being’s head was wanted by the town. I give her my condolences one last time before turning to find Chris, not being able to spot him in the immediate vicinity. But perhaps that was for the best, I’d hate to be walking and accidentally step into his vomit. <a data-passage="BB1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I approach the preteen who holds a leash close to her heart, as well as a bloody hand. “I’m sorry for your loss,” I start, kneeling down beside her. I peek at her hand, “what happened?” “That thing!” she shouts in hatred, “I was calling my dog to come back when I heard her whimpering and growling. When I got over here, I just saw a big massive blur and went to kick it when it did this. It then just disappeared into the woods and I saw, that.” She sniffles, wrapping her arms around herself, spreading the blood on her clothes. “I heard about the attacks, but only that something had killed some dogs, I didn’t know it did that.” “What can do that to a dog?” she whispers, “look what it did to me!” She thrusts her hand out, four long scratches on the back of her hand. I tell her to wait for me and rush back to my car to grab some gauze. I wrap up her injury and give her my number for any more information. She was in mourning and pain, there was a lot of things she might have forgotten. I give her my condolences one last time before walking back to the car, waiting for Sydero to rejoin me. <a data-passage="BB1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<>\<<set $claw = true>><>\ I go my own way, curious about what the surrounding area near the initial attack might hold. I wait until most of the crowd has left, the mood of the park now somber and quiet as families leave. <<if hasVisited("Speak to the old man with one dog.")>>I catch sight of the older gentleman and his dog from earlier, both are sitting in the same place they were before, staring off at the woods that the beast had come out of. I would say it’s possible they saw something, but the man doesn’t appear shaken up, only sad.<<elseif hasVisited("Speak to the little boy who won’t let his dog go.")>>I catch sight of the little boy and his dog, Muse. Who I assume is his father is ushering him away from the scene, towards a waiting car. The boy doesn’t fight, but he keeps glimpsing back towards the woods. His gaze travels over to me, and we stare at one another, his eyes growing before he turns.<<else>>I catch sight of the woman and her two cats. She’s holding both as they hiss in the direction of the woods.<</if>> I walk towards the poor mangled animal, a smell beginning to build. I wonder who would come out here to clean this up. They have probably grown numb to the sight by now, but I can only imagine what their first reaction was. My eyes glance over the carcass one more time when I spot something glistening, the sun hitting it perfectly so that it catches my attention. I lean down and pick it up, finding a slightly curved and large tip of a black claw. Probably having been chipped when the creature managed to separate the dog into two. <a data-passage="BB1_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ The three of us meet back up at the car, Chris looking even more sickly than before. “Are you sure you should be on your feet?” I question, noticing that he seems much paler as well. “I’m fine, just feeling kinda weird is all,” he reassures us, though it’s not exactly reassuring. Sydero and I exchange a glance. <<if hasVisited("Go with Chris.")>>\ “Anyway, did you guys discover anything useful because we’re working with the bare minimum right now,” Sydero points out, crossing her arms impatiently. “Just that the girl is pretty upset, and she saw a massive blur before it took off into the woods,” I recall. “So, nothing, great. Worst hunt ever,” Sydero groans, getting into the car like an upset toddler. <</if>>\ <<if $claw>>\ “Oh yea, I did find this.” I reach into my pocket and toss the claw her way. Catching it, she turns it over multiple times as she studies it. “Ever seen it before?” I question. “The good thing is that this isn’t a werewolf’s claw, but ...” “But?” “It could be a werecat’s.” “So, I’m going to finally be able to see one?” “I said could.” <<if hasVisited("Speak to the old man with one dog.") and $honesty >=50>>\ “The old man did say the first time this happened they claimed it was a cougar, and cougars aren’t native to the state.” “Well dang Roe, you’re proving to be actually more helpful than I thought.” <</if>>\ <</if>>\ “Let’s go get a motel room and grab Bradley. We can figure out the rest later. I need a bed,” Sydero states and both Chris and I agree. <<else>>\ <<if hasVisited("Go speak to the preteen.")>>\ “Anything?” Syd asks at the car. “I talked to the girl who saw it, she also got scratched. All she said was that it was massive, fast, and ran back into the woods. I gave her my number in case she thinks of anything else.” “What did the scratches look like?” “They were deep and she had four of them. I can’t really say what animal if that’s what you’re asking.” “If they were deep then the claw is curved slightly, it’s better for gripping but will do horrible things to someone who’s moving their hand away at the same time.” “That’s great, but it gets us nowhere closer to figuring out what’s going on, or what we’re after.” “It actually does,” Sydero corrects, “werewolves don’t have curved claws, but werecats do.” So, a werecat, I couldn’t lie and say I wasn’t interested in seeing one in person. <<elseif $claw>>\ “Anything?” Syd asks at the car. “Yea, I found this near the rear end of the dog’s carcass,” I inform, reaching into my pocket and pulling out the black claw that I had found. I pass it to Sydero who turns it over a few times. “Ever seen it before?” I question. “The good thing is that this isn’t a werewolf’s claw, but ...” “But?” “It could be a werecat’s.” “Oh crap, I’m going to finally see one?” “I said could.” <<if hasVisited("Speak to the old man with one dog.") and $honesty >=50>>\ “The old man did say the first time this happened they claimed it was a cougar, and cougars aren’t native to the state.” “Well dang Roe, you’re proving to be actually more helpful than I thought.” <</if>>\ <<else>>\ “We really don’t have anything concrete to go after,” I remind Sydero once we make it to the car and she waves my words away, not wanting to be reminded of the lack of information. <</if>>\ “So, what next?” “Let’s head back to Bradley and see if he found anything.” I nod, and we both get in the car, driving back towards the café. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="BB2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The day is spent with us researching<<if $cp>>, telling Chris to lie down,<</if>> and more researching. Time gets away from me and somewhere along the way, my eyes close. A nearby sound causes me to awaken and as I look for the origins, I see Sydero grab her wallet and head towards the door. “Where are you going?” I yawn. <<if $cp>>\ “There’s a bar within walking distance and I need a drink. You in?” “I’ll keep an eye on him,” Bradley tells us, and I nod to him and then to Sydero, grabbing my ID and wallet. <<if $CRomance >=3>>\ [[“I’ll stay with Bradley.”|BB2_1Chris][$CRomance +=1]] [[“Alright, let's go Syd.”|BB2_1]] <<else>>\ <a data-passage="BB2_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ “There’s a bar within walking distance and I need a drink. You in?” I nod, reaching for my ID and wallet and waving goodbye to Bradley. <a data-passage="BB2_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

“You can go ahead,” I tell Sydero, glancing over at Chris, whose back is directed towards us. I can see him shake every now and then, reassuring me that I made the right choice. Syd leaves, and Bradley puts on his headphones and continues to work. “Chris?” I question, going over to his side. Sweat beads form on his forehead as he battles whatever nightmare he finds himself stuck in. I rest a hand on his shoulder, and he immediately grabs my hand. A second later, he releases me and shudders, looking at me with an enfeebled expression. “I’m sorry,” he sighs, shaking his head as he works on sitting up. “Bad dream?” “I’m sorry,” he repeats. I glance over at Bradley, who is paying no mind. “Maybe we should take you to the hospital. It seems like whatever is happening is getting worse.” I reach over and unwrap the scratch, finding it as bloody as before. <<if $medical >=10 or $cmajor is "Nursing">> It’s not infected, which is a good sign, but it is still bleeding, which probably means stitches are required. Even more, I believe that a trip to the hospital is needed as I doubt we have the things needed to perform such an action.<<else>>I can’t tell if it’s infected or not. In fact, I don’t know what to do besides wash it and pour water over it, and hope that it begins to close up.<</if>> “No,” he says urgently, but then every no that follows is spoken with less fervor. He shifts so he can look over at me, his eyes drooping and mouth moving despite no words being said. “... will it?” he questions. [[“You need to sleep.”|BB2_1ChrisINeedSomeSleep]] [[“Will what?”|BB2_1ChrisWillWhat]]

I stare at him for a few seconds more before sighing, “you need to sleep, Chris.” I go to move, but his arms seek out my waist, keeping me there as he pulls me closer. <<include "BB2_1Chris2">>

“Will what? Chris?” I try to get him to answer, but he seems to have dozed off. I go to move, but his arms seek out my waist, keeping me there as he pulls me closer. <<include "BB2_1Chris2">>

“Don’t,” he starts, inhaling and exhaling tiredly, “leave me.” <<if $gender is "female">>\ I sigh but stay where I am, “okay, Chris. But I’m taking you to a hospital if this gets worse.” I receive nothing but a hum as he continues to mumble something incoherently. <<else>>\ I frown at how my heart seems to do flip after flip. He didn’t realize what he was saying or doing. He was simply tired and didn’t wish to be alone. It made sense, so why was my heart still beating at a pace that was far too fast? Why was I willingly putting myself in such a situation? My eyes lower to him, and I absentmindedly play in his hair, laughing at myself at how far I seem to willingly bury myself in this hole. <</if>>\ “I’m tired,” he manages to say. “Then go to sleep.” “Of this.” I pause as he shivers, clutching onto me tighter, “of us.” “What do you mean of us?” “Sick of all of it,” he continues, probably in his own world. “How many times ...” His voice begins to drift off until you can no longer hear what he says, and he seems to finally fall asleep. Every now and then, he shakes and mumbles, but he sleeps. And soon, I do as well. <a data-passage="BB2_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

We wander into the local dive. It isn’t as classy as the last bar I worked at, which is more of a relief due to the impending memories in my mind, waiting to have a good enough reason to spring themselves on me. But the atmosphere of the bar is friendly, everyone seems to either mind their business or know the others. I follow Syd to the bar area, looking at the large-scale menu that rests between the shelves of alcohol on the wall. “Hmm, am I in the mood for bourbon or straight up whiskey?” Sydero says to herself, rubbing her chin in thought. It's a movement that I find myself seeing more and more of, especially today. Whenever she is thinking, mind focused on one thing, the action takes place. “What you’ll have?” the bartender asks, stopping in front of Sydero and I. Further down the bar another patron calls out for him, officially putting us on a time limit. I know how frustrated patrons can get at bars, especially when they have had one too many. “Jack Daniels whiskey neat for me,” Sydero answers, gazing over at me next. [[“I’ll just have a glass of lemonade.”][$sydero -=3]] [[“I’ll take a beer and a shot of the Jameson Irish Whiskey.”]] [[“Long Island Ice Tea.”]] [[“Same as what she’s having.”][$sydero +=3]]

I see Sydero roll her eyes, shaking her head lightly at my order. The bartender nods and goes to see what the other customer needed, leaving us to speak. “Seriously? You could’ve stayed back at the motel if you were just going to order lemonade.” “Maybe I wanted to give you some company.” “I’m a lone drinker,” she corrects. “Wow, did that sound more depressing in your head or out loud?” She rolls her eyes<<if $sydero >=50>> but can’t help the carefree smile that appears.<<else>>, sighing in disgust as she looks around.<</if>> <<include "BB2_1_1">>

The bartender nods and goes to see what the other customer needed, leaving us to speak. “Playing it kinda safe there, aren’t you?” “Well, excuse me if I go with the safe go-to shot at a dive bar I’ve never been before.” <<if $sydero >=50>>“No judgment, just an observation,” she reassures me.<<else>>“You’re excused,” she snorts.<</if>> <<include "BB2_1_1">>

The bartender nods and goes to see what the other customer needed, leaving us to speak. “How many dive bars have you been too?” Sydero asks, raising a brow. “Enough,” I tell her. Now, whether I was truthful or not was my own business, the tone in which she asked the question was already dripping with judgment, “why?” “Everyone knows that the golden rule of dive bars is to stick to beer and shots, anything else is dangerous territory.” “I’m just a brave soul,” I smirk. <<if $sydero >=50>>“Indeed,” she laughs.<<else>>“More like stupid, but hey whatever floats your boat,” she snorts.<</if>> <<include "BB2_1_1">>

Sydero smirks, “you might as well give us the entire bottle.” The bartender nods and goes to see what the other patron wanted, leaving us to speak. “I’m going to take you ordering what I got as a compliment.” “You have taste, don’t let it go to your head,” I smirk. <<include "BB2_1_1">>

We wait for our order and then grab a table that’s farther away from everyone else, tucked away in a dimly lit corner. A green neon sign with the words Unhappy Hour, rests above the table, offering it its light source. The first few minutes, we drink in silence. People watching and drinking in relative peace. The thoughts of the day are pushed to the side, along with the creature we’re hunting along with it. “Drink from the young man right there,” a waitress says, placing a drink in front of Syd. She points to a young man who raises his glass towards her, giving her a friendly and suggestive smile. “Cute,” Syd chuckles, picking up the drink and looking at it, she twists it around in her hand and then sniffs it, “but I don’t do cocktails.” Sydero hands the drink back and the waitress nods before taking the drink back with her, telling the man what Syd had told her. Syd watches the exchange, smirking and looking over at me. “You know, once upon a time I would’ve accepted the drink just because of what it meant.” “What do you mean?” “Sex,” she says simply, shrugging at the look I give her, “no strings, half-drunken sex. What? You’ve never done meaningless hookups?” <<if $virgin>>\ [[“I’m a virgin, remember?”]] <<else>>\ [[“Of course, tons of them.”]] [[“No, I don’t do random hookups.”]] <</if>>\ <<if $s_att is "none">>\ [[“I’m not interested in people like that.”]] <</if>>\

“I’m a virgin,” I remind her, taking a sip of my drink, “remember?” “Oh ...” she pours herself another shot and takes it, shrugging at my words. <<include "BB2_1_2">>

“I’m not really into people in that way,” I remind her, taking a sip of my drink. “Oh ...” she pours herself another shot and takes it, shrugging at my words. <<include "BB2_1_2">>

“Of course,” I begin, snorting at what she was insinuating, “I’ve had tons of random hookups, doesn’t mean I haven’t had a real relationship though.” “They’re overrated.” <<include "BB2_1_2">>

“No, I don’t do random hookups that have no emotional, mental, or anything else for that reason, value. They’re pointless.” “Pointless my ass,” Syd snorts with a large smile, “they definitely please one aspect of the human body that you failed to point out.” <<include "BB2_1_2">>

“So, you’ve never been in a relationship?” I question. “Hell no,” she smirks, “the closest thing I’ve had to a relationship is sleeping with the same random person two times.” I raise a brow, that wasn’t a relationship at all, even worse is that she said random person, not even remembering their name. She takes another shot, the look in her eye going distant as she looks out across the bar, “people are pawns, only instrumental in fulfilling some need, whether that’s information, sex, exploitation, or something completely different. That song doesn’t change.” I have hardly any time to consider what she says when her amber eyes swivel over to me. <<if $trans>>\ “I’ve wanted to ask you for a while, but the timing has always been horrible,” she begins, “so, if you don’t mind me asking, when did you know that your birth gender wasn’t who you really were?” I guess the conversation was just going to stay on serious topics then. [[“I mind you asking, so ...”]] [[“I’d rather not talk about that subject.”]] [[“Hmm ...”]] <<else>>\ “I’m curious, you really hadn’t met any other supernatural beings before all of this stuff happened?” she questions. [[“Besides the Entity? No.”]] [[“Nah, hence my surprise.”]] [[“My middle school music teacher was probably a vampire.”]] <</if>>\

“Yea, well, the problem is that I do mind you asking so,” I give her a fake smile that quickly falls as I take another sip of my drink. She raises her hands in surrender, not pushing the subject any further. “Okay, well, I’m also curious about you and the supernatural. Have you really never met any other supernatural beings before all of this stuff happened?” she questions. [[“Besides the Entity? No.”]] [[“Nah, hence my surprise.”]] [[“My middle school music teacher was probably a vampire.”]]

“I’d rather not,” I begin, taking a long sip of my drink, “I’m not really comfortable speaking about that subject.” She drops the conversation immediately and raises her hands in surrender. “Okay, well I’m also curious about you and the supernatural. Have you really never met any other supernatural beings before all of this stuff happened?” she questions. [[“Besides the Entity? No.”]] [[“Nah, hence my surprise.”]] [[“My middle school music teacher was probably a vampire.”]]

I take a long sip of my drink, turning to answer her questions. “That’s a hard question if I’m to be honest. Growing up with my uncle, it gave me an easier time to find myself. I can’t tell you when I started thinking it or about the moment I said, it’s enough, this is who I am. I’ve always been this way, not to sound cliché, I don’t remember a time when I thought differently.” “So, your uncle never threw masculine versus feminine vibes at you?” She asks, truly curious and open to hearing what I had to say. “I mean he’s human, and I doubt he ever dealt with another trans person, so of course he did, but not like that. Toys were whatever, behavior was too, he mostly paused and questioned my choice of clothing. I do remember him sitting down with me to figure out what I was thinking, and once I told him, well he accepted it, and we moved on. It took him some time to get the pronouns right, but he worked at it and was respectful, and that’s all I wanted from him.” “I can’t imagine everyone was that accepting of you though.” [[“Yea, people are assholes.”]] [[“Probably not, but I had a good support system.”]] [[“I’d rather not talk about that part.”]]

“Of course not, people are assholes, and they do asshole things. When I was smaller, it affected me a whole lot because it made me feel isolated and a freak. Teachers would try and tell me who I was, kids would yell at me and say that I couldn’t be the other gender, and parents would just stare at me. It was hard, but that’s when you figure out that people are assholes.” Syd laughs. <<include "BB2_2">>

“Probably not, but my uncle made sure to remind me to be me, and anyone who had a problem with it could kick rocks. I joined groups and organizations, I sought out friends who either accepted me or understood me. I mean there was still the outliers, the folks who would throw insults and choose to tell me what they thought but I ignored them. It never got violent.” <<include "BB2_2">>

“I don’t have the best memories regarding that, so I’d rather not get into it.” Syd nods. <<include "BB2_2">>

“I mean besides the Entity, no. No one that comes to mind, why?” She straightens, taking another shot as she mumbles something. “You seem to take to this far better than many is all,” she tells me, leaving it at that. <<include "BB2_2">>

“Nah, hence my surprise that the supernatural exists, why?” She straightens herself, taking another shot as she mumbles something that I can’t hear. “You seem to take to this far better than many is all,” she tells me, leaving it at that. <<include "BB2_2">>

“I’m not one hundred percent sure but my music teacher from middle school might’ve been a vampire.” “Or you were just a bad student,” she grins, taking another shot after she says it. “Whoa, I was a great student. She just hated me because I didn’t see her weird and crazy vision. She knew how to play the organ.” “What’s wrong with that?” “No one but vampires play the organ. Why do you ask though? About the supernatural thing?” “You seem to take to this far better than many is all,” she tells me, leaving it at that. <<include "BB2_2">>

We continue to drink, slipping into a carefree conversation about the supernatural and things that better explain the tendencies of one another. Sydero is still rude, and her insults still cut like normal, but the more she drinks, the more relaxed she becomes. And yet, even with that observation, she is still just as guarded. What she tells me is as cryptic as ever, never letting too much go, but still answering the question enough to dispel any immediate, future questions. [[Ask about her blade.]] [[Ask her about Raum and his team.]] <<if $SRomance >=3>>\ <<if settings.dialog>>[[Bring up her romantic life again.]]<<else>>[[Bring up her romantic life again.]]<</if>> <</if>>\ [[Drink in silence.]]

“I’ve always been curious about that blade of yours,” I begin, wishing it was nearby so that I could just point at it, otherwise, I had just brought it up randomly for conversation means. “What about it?” Syd pours herself another shot. This was what, her tenth shot and she didn’t seem one bit tipsy? “Doesn’t seem like a normal blade, is there some kind of significance behind it?” “Yep, plenty. It’s kinda weird,” she admits, “I got it off of my first kill, but the blade is uniquely mine. Will only react to me and it's kind of hard to explain.” Most of the time when people say things like that, they look truly bewildered or sometimes even shy at the inability to explain themselves. But Sydero says this as if she had rehearsed it. The look in her eyes as she looks into the distance is plain, no emotions residing in them. She knew how to explain it, she just wasn’t about to. <<include "BB2_3">>

I clear my throat, “so, about Raum and his team.” “How many times will I have to answer the same questions? I already told you I don’t know much about them. Petri and Langston, I’ve seen before but only because they’ve been on my trail for some time, I just recently found out that Raum is leading them.” “Yea, but the big question is whose leading him? Who conjured him? And are you seriously unsure about who would want your head?” “I piss tons of people off every year, Roe, it’s an extremely long list,” Sydero chuckles, swirling the alcohol around in the shot glass. “Why do you sound like it doesn’t bother you?” “I doubt some random witch or vamp is going to hire a demonic bounty hunter. I have a feeling I know who,” she suddenly stops, scrunching up her nose as she looks over at me, “just let it go. It’s my problem, not yours.” “But –” “Let. It. Go,” she growls deeply. I frown but find no point in pushing the subject. She takes another shot, next grabbing the bottle and chugging a quarter of it down. The conversation seems to end there, and I let it, finishing off my drink and just enjoying the ambiance of the bar. <<include "BB2_3">>

“I still can’t believe you never had a real relationship before, how old are you?” “I don’t see what my age has to do with not wanting to have some pointless relationship. Better yet, why are you so concerned with my romantic life? Hmm?” I fumble with my words as I try to answer her question, I had ninety-nine responses, but an answer to her question was not one. And to make matters worse, that flirty smirk of hers appears, and she leans towards me. “We might as well talk about your consistent flirting while we’re on this particular subject.” She pops the 'p' like one would do a piece of bubblegum, my eyes immediately traveling to her lips. No! Wrong thing to get distracted by right now. “Let’s talk about //your// consistent flirting,” I shoot back, my mind immediately reprimanding me for the lame comeback as soon as it leaves my mouth. “I won’t sit here and say that I don’t flirt back. I see no point in lying,” she says, leaning back in her seat, “I find you extremely attractive, especially when you’re all hot and bothered.” “Oh, so you’re just a big tease who likes seeing reactions,” I state in mock understanding, rolling my eyes at the thought. “Whoa,” Syd chuckles, her head lazily rolling to one side, bumping up against the cushion of the booth, “don’t get me confused with someone who’s afraid to go past second base. You should be honored, I have too much respect for you in //that// manner to treat you like I would one of these ...” she trails off, her eyes going from one person in the bar to another. I study her face, seeing her eyes alight with that desire that she never wishes to tempt further. She doesn’t finish her sentence. <<if settings.dialog>>[[“Maybe I still want to see what past second base looks like.”][$SRomance +=1; $sydero +=2]]<<else>>[[“Maybe I still want to see what past second base looks like.”][$SRomance +=1; $sydero +=2]]<</if>> <<if settings.dialog>>[[“Just because you think I should feel honored, doesn’t mean I do.”][$SRomance +=1; $sydero -=2]]<<else>>[[“Just because you think I should feel honored, doesn’t mean I do.”][$SRomance +=1; $sydero -=2]]<</if>> [[End the conversation there.]]

“Maybe,” I draw out, “I still want to see what it looks like past second base.” She makes a low growl, and I visibly see her shiver despite it being incredibly warm. She throws me a lopsided grin, “down, Roe, you can barely handle second base, let alone anything past it.” <<include "BB2_RomanticLife">>

“Just because you think I should feel honored, doesn't mean I do.” She rolls her eyes playfully, “whatever word floats your boat.” “What I’m saying is, maybe I don’t care about you thinking I feel honored. Maybe I don’t care about feeling honorable at all.” She cocks her head as she studies me, “so are you saying you want me to treat you like how I see the rest of them?” I bite the inside of my cheek, not really knowing what that would entail or mean. But she waves whatever I was about to say away, “impossible. I don’t know them, and don’t care what their name is. To me, they’re Person One, Person Two, and so on. I know you, not to mention have to deal with your annoying ass. You’re Roe, not number five, so it’s not possible.” “Then don’t think about it as me being just some random person who you happen to know. See me for me.” “This entire conversation is stupid,” Syd huffs, “you couldn’t handle me anyway.” <<include "BB2_RomanticLife">>

“Try me.” In the blink of an eye, she’s in front, leaning over me. My head rests up against the wall that the booth is pushed up against, while my arm rests on the table supporting me. The majority of her body rests between my legs as she leans closer. Part of me wonders if anyone is watching, but the dimness and how far off this booth is, probably not. That and even if they could see us, we were probably another drunken couple to them. I’m aware that I’m shivering uncontrollably, heat rising off of me, and my lower body tingling in anticipation. Her face is inches from mine, her lips right next to my ear. “We’re hardly standing on second base, Roe,” she whispers, “and yet you haven’t stopped shivering, and I can practically hear your body screaming.” The way she whispers the words makes my core shake, my heart speeding up considerably. “You can’t judge how far I can go based off of my reactions,” I manage to squeak out, and in response, she nibbles my earlobe teasingly, her other hand gripping my thigh. [[Kiss her.][$syderoBar to true]] [[Back out.]]

I don’t ask her anything else, and she doesn’t ask me anything, we both sit quietly, drinking and letting our minds wander about whatever. <<include "BB2_3">>

I don’t ask her anything, and she doesn’t ask me anything, we both sit quietly, drinking and letting our minds wander about whatever. <<include "BB2_3">>

I turn my head, capturing her lips in mine. I don’t know what to expect when she stiffens. For her to draw back or for her to let the kiss happen. She does the latter, but she stays stiff. Despite the stiffness, she deepens the kiss. It transitions from an ordinary kiss to one so much deeper, a kiss of exploration and curiosity. Each second pulls me deeper into a sea of dark desire. My mind swarms with thoughts that refuse to slow, each time I think I can focus, I’m pulled right back. How a kiss can make me feel like a ship being thrashed around during a storm, I don’t know. I’ve never had such a thing happen to me. And suddenly it ends. The storm clouds clear up, and my mind settles, my ability to focus is gifted back to me. The only thing telling me that the kiss actually happened is my rapid breathing and my fast beating heart. I look directly ahead, curious why Syd has suddenly stopped the kiss. Was it me? Did I do something? Her gaze is slanted down, a vexed and conflicting look painting her features. “Syd?” I say quietly, and her eyes meet mine. My heart trips over itself as I watch the bright red color slowly retreat from her eyes. She sighs and clenches her eyes closed, balling up her fists. Grabbing the bottle, she chugs the rest of it down, “I need a drink.” And with that she stalks off, leaving me utterly bewildered. <a data-passage="BB2_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I sigh, feeling my body shudder again as I shrink away from her. She smirks, straightening up. “Like I said, barely second base.” Her eyes linger on me for a minute, before she heads back over to her spot on the booth, taking another shot. <<include "BB2_3">>

<img src="images/divider.png"> <<if $cp>>\ Chris whimpers in his sleep, clutching the pillow closer. It’s so hot. Why the hell is it so hot? He shoots up, looking around what should’ve been a dark room, but he is able to see as clearly as if it is day. This is more than just his eyes adjusting to the darkness, this is an immediate adjustment. He can make out what some signs said, halfway across the room. His senses twitch at the garbled noise coming from the table, jerking towards the sound to see Bradley slumped against the table, asleep. Good, the kid never sleeps. <<if hasVisited("BB2_1Chris")>>On the other bed rests $name, ?her breathing quieter than Bradley's but he can hear it just as clearly.<</if>> Chris can smell the disgusting smell of whatever energy drink Bradley decided to chug. In fact, if he focused, he can smell cheap Chinese food as well, next door perhaps? A searing pain shoots through him, stopping in his head and causing him to clutch it in agony. What is happening? Everything hurt. And it is so hot. And ... he is incredibly hungry. But for what? The food he seems to be craving isn’t something he is familiar with. He can’t even put a name to what he wants. But he can smell it, it isn’t inside the room, but it is nearby. In fear and curiosity, he goes to the door, opening it and sniffing the air. His senses are bombarded with various smells, and though he fails to find the smell, something else peaks his interest. A call on the wind, almost sounding like a loving whimper, calling him forth. It lulled his heart, the agony of not being able to go to it pained him more than anything else. He heard the sorrowful sound again, and this time he doesn’t fight it, this time he goes to it. He doesn’t know where he is going, but he follows a sound that reminds him of home. <<else>>\ “I’m so sorry this happened, Winfrey,” her mother said, wiping the tears that had managed to be shed away. Winfrey hears her mother, but it isn’t like she is listening. Between the pain of this scratch and the loss of her dog, she doesn’t know what to do. She glares down at her arm, thinking that she sees it pulsing, but it can’t be, right? She whimpers, clutching the pillow closer towards her. As if high school isn’t hard enough, now she has to go through it with all of these problems to face. She feels like her world is unraveling. She flips from one side to the other, kicking the blanket away, but it does nothing. She rips off her shirt with a strength that she didn’t know she possessed. It’s so hot. Why the hell is it so hot? Next came her pants, but she feels no different. Winfrey shoots up, looking around what should’ve been a dark room, but here she was, able to see around it clearly. This is more than just her eyes adjusting to the darkness, this is an immediate adjustment. She can make out what some posters said, halfway across the room. She sniffs the air, being able to make out what smells like chicken and corn coming from the kitchen. But she can also make out the putrid smell of beer, she can hear it swishing around in the small bottle. And if she stresses her senses more, can hear her father swallow it down. A searing pain shoots through her head, causing her to clutch it in agony. What is happening? Everything hurt. And it is still so hot. And ... she is incredibly hungry. But for what? The food she seems to be craving isn’t something she is familiar with. The smell of the food in the kitchen is the farthest thing from what her insides are craving. She can’t even put a name to what she wants. But she can smell it, it isn’t inside the house, but it is nearby. In fear and curiosity, she goes to the window, opening it and sniffing the air. Her senses are bombarded with various smells, and though he fails to find the smell, something else peaks her interest. A call on the wind, almost sounding like a loving whimper, calling her forth. It lulled her heart, the agony of not being able to go to it pained her more than anything else. She heard the sorrowful sound again, and this time she doesn’t fight it, this time she goes to it. She doesn’t know where she is going, but she follows a sound that reminds her of home. <</if>>\ <img src="images/divider.png"> <<if hasVisited("BB2_1Chris")>> <a data-passage="BB2_4Chris"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ <a data-passage="BB2_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

We leave the bar around two o’clock. Sydero is perfectly fine, maybe slightly tipsy but her demeanor and her ability to walk in a straight line proves she isn’t incapacitated at all. I was ... <<if not hasVisited("“I’ll just have a glass of lemonade.”")>>\ [[Drunker than a drunk trucker on a drunk ... drunk.][$hangover = true]] [[I was tipsy, walking that thin line of awareness.][$hangover = true]] [[I only had one or two, I’m fine as well.]] <<else>>\ [[I was completely sober, I hadn’t had any alcohol at all.]] <</if>>\

I laugh at the thought, elbowing Sydero as if she had heard what I was thinking. She snorts, rolling her eyes as she continues walking. “Whoa, stop walking so fast,” I tell her, taking off into a run. Suddenly I can no longer – wait, no, there she is. And there I go. I don’t know how I end up on the ground, but I am, staring up at the stars and wondering why my head hurts so much. “At least I know how many shots it takes to incapacitate a Roe, huh?” I laugh, only stopping when I find the action to be giving me too much of a headache. “Alright, come on. I should drag you, but I feel nice and fuzzy right now.” I feel her lift me to my feet, and the blood rushes from one end to the other, making me want to vomit. If I do, I’m not sure, nor can I remember. As the world grows blurry and then dark. <<if $cp>>\ I wake up in the middle of the night, shooting forward and immediately being met with a pulsing headache. I growl, slowly going back to the bed. “Aww drinking is stupid, so stupid,” I growl, loud enough for the others to hear me. “Sober up, Roe,” Sydero barks. I open an eye and look their way, seeing only Sydero and Bradley standing there. Due to all of my movement, I know Chris isn’t in the bed with me, but the other bed is neatly made. “Where’s,” I pause to settle my head and stomach “where’s Chris?” “No clue, I woke up and he was gone. He’s not picking up his phone or anything,” Bradley tells me, and this wakes me up. “You mean he just ran off?” I shout, shooting up but then I remember why that was such a bad idea. I whimper and melt back to the bed. “Yes, now go take a cold shower so we can get you sober, we need to find him.” I’m about to ask how Sydero doesn’t feel like ultimate shit but I keep it to myself, heading to the showers. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="EP7-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a>

I snort at the thought, glancing over at Sydero and choosing to mimic her walking for fun. “What are you doing, Roe?” she questions. “I’m acting like you. Oh, look at me, I’m Sydero, and I’m a heartless witch who doesn’t care about anything or anyone. Everything is stupid.” Sydero stops, raising a brow at my behavior. “That’s very funny,” she says plainly, walking past me. I yawn, following behind her sleepily. At some point, I feel my body collide with hers, and I lean against her as a second or maybe third yawn makes its way past my lips. “You do walk funny,” I sigh, finding this position oddly comfortable. [[“I’m scared.”|BB2_4Scared]] [[“I want to go home.”|BB2_4WannaGoHome]] <<if $uncledead>>\ [[“I miss my uncle.”|BB2_4MissUncle]] <</if>>\ <<if $chrissafe is false>>\ [[“I miss Chris.”|BB2_4MissChris]] <</if>>\

“Sydero,” I start, sighing heavily, “I’m scared. Of all this crap. I’m trying, but ...” I pause as the feeling of bile feels like it rises in my throat. “I don’t want to die.” If she replies, it gets drowned out by my headache. And as the ache increases, the world and my ability to comprehend it also fades. <<include "BB2_4BarAfter">>

“I,” I start, sighing heavily and experiencing a moment of dizziness, “I want to go home." Bile feels like it rises in my stomach, and it takes a few minutes for me to hold it in. "I just want to go home." If she replies, it gets drowned out by my headache. And as the ache increases, the world and my ability to comprehend it also fades. <<include "BB2_4BarAfter">>

“Fuck,” I whimper, fighting back a wave of bile that rises, “I miss Chris. So much. I ... I should’ve...” A wave of dizziness gets to me, and everything feels like it starts to fade. If she replies, it gets drowned out by my headache. And as the ache increases, the world and my ability to comprehend it also shrinks. <<include "BB2_4BarAfter">>

<<include "BB2_4BarAfter">>

I hear her say words, but my tiredness proves to be more important, and it all gets darker and quieter. Peaceful. <<if $cp>>\ I wake up in the middle of the night, shooting forward and immediately being met with a pulsing headache. I growl, slowly going back to the bed. “Aww drinking is stupid, so stupid,” I growl, loud enough for the others to hear me. “Sober up, Roe,” Sydero barks. I open an eye and look their way, seeing only Sydero and Bradley standing there. Due to all of my movement, I know Chris isn’t in the bed with me, but the other bed is neatly made. “Where’s,” I pause to settle my head and stomach “where’s Chris?” “No clue, I woke up and he was gone. He’s not picking up his phone or anything,” Bradley tells me, and this wakes me up. “You mean he just ran off?” I shout, shooting up but then I remember why that was such a bad idea. I whimper and melt back to the bed. “Yes, now go take a cold shower so we can get you sober, we need to find him.” I’m about to ask how Sydero doesn’t feel like ultimate shit but I keep it to myself, heading to the showers. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="EP7-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a>

I walk alongside Sydero, both of our minds elsewhere as our feet carry us back to the motel. There was the ever-present buzz that yearned to tempt me to drink more, but otherwise, I was as clear-headed as before. <<if $cp>>\ We enter the motel, and the first thing we’re met with is Bradley’s frantic face. “Oh, thank god, I lost the grown man,” Bradley tells us immediately, yanking both of us into the motel room where he begins pacing back and forth. “Calm down, Bradley, what happened?” “I was tired, and I finally fell asleep,” he starts, and I interrupt by clapping. The kid never slept, whatever happened can be forgiven as long as he got some shut-eye. “And when I woke up, Chris was gone, and the door was wide open. I tried calling him, but he’s not picking up.” “When did I sign up for this level of babysitting?” Sydero asks, shaking her head in disapproval. She straightens up, pointing at Bradley, “track Chris’s location by his phone. Roe and I will head out and try to find him.” I grab my keys, and Sydero puts her hand out, stopping me dead in my steps. “Are you sure you can drive?” “I had one or two shots Sydero, with lemonade, I’m fine.” “You already drive crazy though.” “Ugh, just come on,” I growl, walking past her and outside. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="EP7-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a>

I walk alongside Sydero, both of our minds elsewhere as our feet carry us back to the motel. <<if $cp>>\ Upon entering the room, the first thing we’re met with is Bradley’s frantic face. “Oh, thank god, I lost the grown man,” he tells us immediately, yanking both of us further into the room where he begins pacing back and forth. “Calm down Bradley, what happened?” “I was tired, and I finally fell asleep,” he starts, and I interrupt by clapping. The kid never slept, whatever happened can be forgiven as long as he got some shut-eye. “And when I woke up, Chris was gone, and the door was wide open. I tried calling him, but he’s not picking up.” “When did I sign up for this level of babysitting?” Sydero asks, shaking her head in disapproval. She straightens up, pointing at Bradley, “track Chris’s location by his phone. Roe and I will head out and try to find him.” I grab my keys, and Sydero and I depart. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="EP7-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a>

“$name, wake up.” My eyes open, and I take in the dark motel room, releasing a yawn as I gaze over at Bradley. “What’s wrong?” “Chris is gone.” I glance over at the bed I left him in, and sure enough, Chris is not there. “Maybe he went for a walk.” “In his condition?” he inquires, and I pause to admit that he does have a point. “Did you call Sydero?” “Do you think there’s a reason I need to call her?” “Yea,” I mumble, looking at the door, “I do.” <a data-passage="EP7-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/acttwo.png"> <<if $cp>>\ <<if $hangover>>\ I search the streets of the neighborhood slowly, looking for any signs of Chris. Well, I was trying to nurse this hangover first. Thankfully, there was a 24/7 store and I was able to buy a decent energy drink and some snacks for the time being. With each tick of the clock, the pressure of my headache alleviates, but it was doing so slowly. “You alive over there?” Syd asks, her voice right beside me, yet also a thousand miles away. I tune back into my surroundings, looking over at her as she turns down another street. “Why did I do this to myself? And how are you not feeling worse? You chugged the entire bottle at one point.” “My tolerance for alcohol is supernatural,” she chuckles lightheartedly, “and it always feels good in the moment. Let’s be honest, no one drinks hardcore alcohol because it tastes good.” I growl in agreement, blinking a couple of times to get refocused. “This is a waste of gas. We’re never going to find Chris like this,” I tell her. <<else>>\ I search the streets of the neighborhood slowly, looking for any signs of Chris. Further discussion with Sydero and Bradley has led us to consider him possibly turning into whatever we were after. The thought was a particularly unnerving one, imagining Chris either dying due to this or actually turning into a supernatural being. “Hey!” Syd suddenly shouts, and I tune back into my surroundings, realizing that I was going fifty in a suburban neighborhood. I slow down immediately and give her a small smile. “This is a waste of gas. We’re never going to find Chris like this,” I tell her, bringing the car to a complete stop in front of someone’s house. <</if>>\ Syd opens her mouth to reply when her phone goes off, vibrating in the cupholder that she rested it in. “Bradley? Please tell me you have something besides he’s somewhere in the same neighborhood as us,” Sydero inquires, almost sounding like she was whimpering. I motion for her to put him on speaker and lean in. “Well, this has less to do with his location and more to do with what might be happening to him.” “We’re all ears, Bradley,” I state. “Well, I did some research and couldn’t really find anything until I went deeper. There’s a legend around it that might either be true or not, but the locals call it the Bladenboro Beast.” Bradley gets quiet, probably wanting his words to sink in. “Not very creative if you ask me,” Sydero mumbles, playing with the windows, “what else did you learn?” “Not much. Legend says that the beast is some large creature that feeds on animal hearts. A couple of years ago it was attacking and those that claim to have seen it say the same thing. It’s massive, walks on all fours, has blue eyes, and sharp fangs. Everyone thought that they killed it when the locals killed a large cougar and the killing stopped, but it’s not like they made sure.” [[“So, why did the killings stop?”]] [[“So, is it a werecat or not?”]] [[“This doesn’t help us find Chris!”]] <<else>>\ I hear a voice on the edge of my consciousness, one that grows louder and louder the more I ignore it. At one point, I fear it’s the Entity, reminding me of his presence, something that I had forgotten about. Yet, it ends up being Sydero, hitting me harshly with a pillow when I refuse to wake. <<if $hangover>>\ “Stop it!” I shout, or that’s what I mean to say. I hear my words come out entirely different and when I go to grab the pillow, I’m about five seconds too slow. Sydero moves it back and thwacks me with it again. “Hangover Roe is almost as much fun as Drunk Roe,” she smirks. “What do you want?” I ask, fighting the headache that I was now getting, and it wasn’t because of her hitting me. “Bradley has something,” she tells me, her eyes moving to the kid who, of course, is furiously typing at his laptop. <<else>>\ “Stop it!” I shout, grabbing the pillow from her when she attempts to hit me a third time. <<if $pacifist >=50>>I slam the pillow on the bed and glare<<else>>I slap her with it before tossing it to the side, glaring<</if>> at her, “what do you want?” “Bradley has something,” she tells me, her eyes moving to the kid who, of course, is furiously typing at his laptop. <</if>>\ “Go ahead, Bradley.” He nods, “I just picked up police chatter, a parent just found out that their daughter isn’t home. At first, they thought she just snuck out, but no one who knows her has seen her. Parents said that she was scratched by something and since then has been acting funny.” “Just something? No idea what?” “They think it was a stray cat. I won’t know unless I see the markings, but I think it’s worth looking into.” [[“This has nothing to do with the beast.”]] [[“Another crush of yours?”]] <<if $hangover>>\ [[“Yea, I don’t think I’m sane enough for this.”]] <</if>>\ <</if>>\

“I don’t understand,” I start, “this has nothing to do with the beast. Just some random teen who decided to play hooky and happened to be scratched by a cat, whoopty doo.” <<include "BB3_1">>

“Hmm, sounds like this young lady is just another crush of yours, you sly dog you,” I joke, but Bradley looks less than amused at my teasing. “No, I don’t know this girl,” he corrects. “Yea Roe, Bradley is a one lady at a time type of heartbreaker. He doesn’t move on to the next until he has secured the broken heart to his collection,” Syd jokes, causing Bradley to groan in frustration. “Seriously though, what does this have to do with our supernatural? It doesn’t sound related,” I point out. <<include "BB3_1">>

“I object,” I suddenly say. That’s not what I was trying to say. Bradley looks at me in worry while Sydero just looks amused, she was definitely going to bring me on her bar trips more often. “I mean, I don’t think I’m sane enough for this.” “I second that,” Bradley says, but Syd waves his worries away. “I don’t see why we need to go investigate this in the first place,” she points out, “I see no relation to the supernatural we’re hunting.” <<include "BB3_1">>

“Oh, I forgot that I haven’t told you guys what I also found. I think I know what you’ve been after this entire time.” “Well?” I question. “There’s a legend around it that might either be true or not, but the locals call it the Bladenboro Beast.” Bradley gets quiet, probably wanting his words to sink in. “Not very creative if you ask me,” Sydero mumbles, playing with the windows, “what else did you learn?” “Not much. Legend says that the beast is some large creature that feeds on animal hearts. A couple of years ago it was attacking and those that claim to have seen it say the same thing. It’s massive, walks on all fours, has blue eyes, and sharp fangs. Everyone thought that they killed it when the locals killed a large cougar and the killing stopped, but it’s not like they made sure.” [[“So, why did the killings stop?”]] [[“So, is it a werecat or not?”]]

“This is great and all, but why did the killings stop? No one was really worried about this creature, so obviously it just started up recently. But why?” I inquire. “Maybe hibernation?” Sydero guesses. “Or death,” Bradley counters. Sydero and I exchange a curious, but bewildered, glance with one another. “Death, Bradley?” I question. “It’s a possibility. I’m just throwing stuff out there.” <<include "BB3_2">>

“Are we dealing with a werecat or not?” I ask, growing frustrated. “I don’t think so,” Bradley starts, “this thing seems like a loner so far, and shows no werecat tendencies. Plus, what werecat has blue eyes and sharp fangs?” <<include "BB3_2">>

“Reality check! This doesn’t help us find Chris,” I tell them, “the beast comes second.” “Finding out what the beast is might be the clue in helping out Chris,” Bradley tells me. I nod, but I’m still not happy about the idea of just sitting here while Chris could be getting into who knows what. <<include "BB3_2">>

“What do we have and know?” Bradley questions and we list out all the thing that can possibly help us out. Despite the new information that Bradley gave us, I still feel like we’re far from any kind of decent lead. Our best lead is running around Bladenboro, a place we don’t know, hoping to catch <<if $cp>>Chris, who is going through who knows what.<<else>>some teen who might have some supernatural blood running through her.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “So, find Chris or find the beast?” Sydero asks. “Find Chris, we don’t need him running around looking like a madman,” Bradley tells us. “Where’s his current location now?” I ask. I hear Bradley typing before giving us the location ... the park. We hang up after Bradley promises to look deeper into the legend, as well as try and come up with guesses of what might be befalling Chris. We head towards the park. There are a few street lights on, but otherwise, it’s dark and silent. There’s no light breeze or the sound of night insects chirping and singing, everything is completely still. <<else>>\ “So, find the girl or find the beast?” Sydero asks. “Find the girl, we don’t need her running around looking like a madwoman,” Bradley tells us. “Where was she last seen?” I ask. Bradley begins typing something before giving us the location ... the park. We head out, driving towards the park that we had visited earlier that day, or yesterday, this whole hunting in the middle of the night thing is still getting me. There are a few street lights on when we arrive, but otherwise, it’s dark and silent. There’s no light breeze or the sound of night insects chirping and singing, everything is completely still. <</if>>\ <<if $hangover>>\ “Do you feel the need to just lay down on the grass and go to sleep?” I question Syd, running my hands through the grass ... how did I end up down here? “Shame, drunk Roe is pretty entertaining. I’m going to miss ?him,” she chuckles, yanking me to my feet and dragging me towards the woods. “Speaking of drunk Roe, should I be going in there with you? I feel like I’ll get in the way.” “You’ll be surprised at what fear can do to a hangover.” <</if>>\ <a data-passage="BB4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

We march to the outskirts of the familiar woods, stopping there. “Those are some pretty big woods, we might not be able to find him so easily,” Sydero starts, curling up her lips in disgust, “Bladenboro Beast, I hate local cryptids.” “Why?” “I know how to put a werewolf or vampire down, but local cryptids are always a special case. Your only source of information about them is local and you gotta hope there’s enough to go off of.” She grabs her unique blade and expertly tosses it a short distance into the air, admiring it, “luckily, most supernaturals die or at least are injured by silver.” I hear an owl in the distance, jumping into Syd as I tell myself to calm down. Woods and I don’t have a good track record, and the last thing I want to do is go into them at night to find my crazed best friend and some local cryptid. “Chill, Roe, you can’t tell me you’re afraid of an owl.” “Of course not,” I huff. “You sure?” [[“I actually am kinda scared of birds.”][$a_fear = "birds"]] <<if $doglike isnot true>>\ [[“No, I'm terrified of dogs.”][$a_fear = "dogs"]] <</if>>\ <<if $catlike isnot true>>\ [[“Birds I'm fine with, it's cats that make me scream.”][$a_fear = "cats"]] <</if>>\ [[“I actually don’t like insects.”][$a_fear = "insects"]] [[“Yes, now if that was a spider, it’s a different story.”][$a_fear = "spiders"]] [[“I’m terrified of snakes actually.”][$a_fear = "snakes"]]

“Well,” I say, hearing the owl again, “I actually am kinda scared of birds.” Syd whips around, giving me an incredulous look, “you’re kidding? So, a parrot comes, and you just shrivel up?” “Shut up,” I growl, “from a distance, I’m fine. But as soon as they come closer, I freak out.” My stomach churns at the thought of one coming super close, and I wave the thought and conversation away. Thankfully, Syd seems ready to start searching, entering the woods with me right behind her. <a data-passage="BB4_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“No, I'm terrified of dogs though,” I tell her, straightening up. “Dogs? Seriously? I mean, I don’t like them, but you’re scared of those cute little faces?” I ignore her but she doesn’t let it go, “so, how did you deal with being around them earlier?” “I stiffen and ignore it the best way I can.” Thankfully, Syd doesn’t seem interested in learning any more, instead she seems ready to start searching, entering the woods with me right behind her. <a data-passage="BB4_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Birds, totally cool with. Cats, on the other hand will make me scream,” I tell her. “Cats. I mean I can see why someone wouldn’t want to deal with them, but not why they would be afraid,” Sydero continues. “When I was small, one clawed the absolute crap out of me and just hated my guts. I was small and it was dark, and I was terrified. So yes, cats.” Thankfully, Syd doesn’t seem interested in learning any more. Instead, she seems ready to start searching, entering the woods with me right behind her. <a data-passage="BB4_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“I actually don’t like insects,” I tell her. “Like, insects in general or just a few?” “In general, really. Butterflies creep me out. I scream at ladybugs. Bees make me want to die on the spot. Don’t get me started on wasps and dragonflies.” Sydero snorts as if my fear is actually entertaining, but knowing her it probably is. She begins the walk into the woods, and I begin thinking about all the insects I might run into now. <a data-passage="BB4_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Yes, I’m pretty sure I’m not afraid of owls. Now, if that was a spider, then it’ll be a different story.” “What a common fear,” Syd snorts, motioning for me to follow as she walks into the woods. “I’d agree if mine was common. I once accidentally stepped on a black widow’s egg-nest when I was a kid,” I’m unable to finish the thought as I shiver, shaking my head at the memories that poke at my brain. My fear wasn’t just, ‘ew, spider,’ I was terrified of the things. <a data-passage="BB4_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Actually, I’m terrified of snakes,” I tell her, and she raises a brow, “their nature is just creepy, and nasty, and dangerous. And I don’t really have a good memory of them. My uncle and I were hiking when I almost stepped on a rattlesnake.” I shiver at the thought, sighing as I push it back out of my mind. “You would be terrified of the one creature I actually adore,” Syd points out, and I give her an incredulous look. Of course. Of course, she would like the one animal I feared most of all. She motions for me to follow her and we begin our trek through the woods. <a data-passage="BB4_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Both of us have our phones out and the flashlights on as we look around the area. I keep close to Sydero, shining my light on the side that she isn’t paying much attention to. <<if $cp is false>>Looking in the woods for some random girl we’ve never met before, it shouldn’t be that hard, right?<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “Roe, try calling Chris’s phone. Hopefully, it’s not on vibrate, and we can hear it from here.” I nod at the idea and do as she says. The plan works, and his ringtone gives us the general direction to go in. As we go, we can see the light of some of the nearby houses through peeks in the trees, we are nearing the outskirts of the woods. On one hand, that means we are getting out of the woods, on the other, Chris is over here but for what reason? I call his phone for the third time and hear it nearby, we were practically right next to him. Sydero swivels, flashing her light in the direction and it is there where we find Chris. He’s leaning most of his weight on a tree, his eyes almost glowing in the darkness. His gaze is set on a dog inside an enclosed fence. The dog is currently in its doghouse, and I can only tell that it’s staring at us because of the light shining over him. It looks terrified, and I can’t blame it. “Chris?” I call out, but Chris doesn’t react to my voice, still staring at the dog. His breathing is ragged, and I can tell that some of his clothes are ripped. At least I know he isn’t dying. “Using common sense here,” Sydero begins, slowly walking towards Chris’s rear, “I’d say he’s transforming, but it’s not complete. It might not be complete until he eats a heart.” “And how do we change him back?” “The easy way is simply be keeping him from eating or doing whatever he needs to do to shift. Sometimes it’s by killing the thing that turned him. Other times by doing some insane ritual. Worst case there’s no going back.” I give Sydero a long look, even if she is just trying to inform me, I could’ve done without the last one. <a data-passage="BB4_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ Syd stops, looking around with a bored expression, “maybe we should split up, see if we can find her better that way.” [[“Heck no!”][$daring -=3]] [[“Yea, maybe we should.”][$daring +=3]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> “Heck no! Are you crazy? The first rule to a horror movie, never split up, come on Syd, you’re better than this,” I scold, and she holds her hand up in surrender. “I’m just trying to find this chick faster. We’re never going to find her this way.” “I’d rather not find her at all than to find her and be by myself when I do.” With the matter put to rest, we continue on. We get closer to the outskirts of the nearby houses, seeing some of their backyard lights from where we were. I’m about to travel closer when we both hear someone snap a branch, the sound of a dog whimpering follows behind that. I get down, making my way towards the sound when I see the girl. It was the pre-teen from earlier, the one that had her dog taken away from her. She’s leaning most of her weight on a tree, her blue eyes almost glowing in the darkness. Due to my phone light still being on, I also realize that she’s practically naked, only a bra and underwear hiding her extremities. Her gaze is set on a dog inside an enclosed fence. The dog is currently in its doghouse, and I can only tell that it’s staring at us because of the light shining over him. It looks terrified, and I can’t blame it. “Um, girl?” I call out, never learning her name, but needing to catch her attention. She doesn’t respond to my voice, still staring at the dog, her breathing ragged. “Using common sense here,” Sydero begins, slowly walking towards the girl’s rear, “I’d say she’s transforming, but it’s not complete. It might not be complete until she eats a heart.” “And how do we change her back?” “The easy way is simply be keeping her from eating or doing whatever she needs to do to shift. Sometimes it’s by killing the thing that turned her. Other times by doing some insane ritual. Worst case there’s no going back.” I give Sydero a long look, even if she is just trying to inform me, I could’ve done without the last one. <a data-passage="BB4_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Yea, maybe we should. We’ll cover more ground that way. I guess we could yell when we got something?” I ask her, and she snorts, already walking off. <<if $SRomance >=3>>\ “I don’t yell, Roe,” she smirks and turns back to me, her eyes glancing up and down my body, “that’s something I make others do.” My mouth flattens into a thin line as she chuckles. Her and her light disappearing. <<else>>\ “I don’t yell, Roe, it’s not my style,” she tells me and then shakes her phone, “I’ll just call you. Like a normal person.” I roll my eyes, I have definitely heard her yell before, but whatever floats her sinking boat I suppose. <</if>>\ I continue on, on my own now, realizing that the absence of Sydero’s light makes it much harder to see my surroundings. I see the hint of light in the distance, peaking through the trees and I follow it immediately. The outline of houses appears, and I realize that the light that I allowed to guide me, were basic backyard lights. Either way, it was a much-needed source, and I stick close to the outskirts of the woods as I continue looking. I hear a branch snap, thinking it to be Sydero, when I then hear a dog whimpering. Unless Sydero is forcing some poor dog into listening to how emotionless she is, I doubt it’s her. I get down, making my way towards the sound when I see the girl. It was the pre-teen from earlier, the one that had her dog taken away from her. She’s leaning most of her weight on a tree, her blue eyes almost glowing in the darkness. Due to my phone light still being on, I also realize that she’s practically naked, only a bra and underwear hiding her extremities. Her gaze is set on a dog inside an enclosed fence. The dog is currently in its doghouse, and I can only tell that it’s staring at us because of the light shining over him. It looks terrified, and I can’t blame it. “Um, girl?” I call out, never learning her name, but needing to catch her attention. She doesn’t respond to my voice, still staring at the dog, her breathing ragged. I continue to approach her slowly, hands out in front as if she is some wild animal that needs to be calmed and tamed. The latter of my thought is probably a stretch but comparing her to a wild animal is not. //How is she changing this quick//, I ask myself, seeing that the beast had only scratched her yesterday afternoon. This question and many more will have to be pushed to the side for now. I’m more worried about the girl and how to subdue her. I creep closer towards her, speaking in a low voice to not scare her off. I’m really leaning into this wild animal angle. Once I’m close enough, I lunge towards the girl. She lets out a feral cry and throws punches left and right at me. Out of the fifteen she throws, one actually connects. It sends me reeling, <<if $hangover>>and combined with my still present hangover, triples the pain. Either she is much stronger than I initially thought, or this hangover is making me sensitive – or both.<<else>>my jaw aching as the pain slowly begins to fade.<</if>> Great, not only is she feral but she’s fighting as if she’s some kind of cornered prey. I move my jaw around and glare at the girl, trying to figure out what to do. [[Tackle her.]] [[Hit her with a stick.]] [[Use my shirt to cover her face.]]

I approach <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>the girl<</if>> slowly, hands out in front as if <<if $cp>>he<<else>>she<</if>> is some wild animal that needs to be calmed and tamed. The latter of my thought is probably a stretch, but comparing <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>her<</if>> to a wild animal is not. “How is <<if $cp>>he<<else>>she<</if>> changing this quick?” I ask Sydero who keeps her distance, “the thing only scratched <<if $cp>>him<<else>>her<</if>> yesterday.” “Bradley might’ve been onto something about the death part. Some creatures are able to quickly spread and infect to enable transformation since the act itself is rare.” “But the beast is still killing,” I argue. <<if hasVisited("Speak to the old man with one dog.")>>\ “And it was also shot by that old man, remember?” I close my mouth, now wondering if the beast’s life is coming to an end. My eyes drift back to <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>the preteen<</if>>, whose gaze flickers between Sydero and me. <</if>>\ The question that I’m most worried about concerned <<if $cp>>Chris, and how to subdue him.<<else>>the girl, and how to subdue her.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ [[Jump him with Sydero.][$pacifist -=3]] [[Coax him to you.][$pacifist +=3]] <<else>>\ “Alright, let's move in, both of us,” I tell her, and she nods, moving in a step more. “Shouldn’t be too hard, right?” Syd asks, “she’s just a little girl.” We creep closer towards her, angling ourselves so that she can’t just run off. I look at Sydero and nod, both of us lunging towards the girl. She lets out a feral cry and throws punches left and right at me. Out of the fifteen she throws, one actually connects. It sends me reeling, <<if $hangover>>and combined with my still present hangover, triples the pain. Either she is much stronger than I initially thought, or this hangover is making me sensitive – or both.<<else>>my jaw aching as the pain slowly begins to fade.<</if>> “Stop messing around Roe,” Sydero shouts, barely fast enough to dodge the girl’s attack. Not only was she looking feral, but she was fighting as if she was some type of cornered prey. One minute she was fighting like a human, the next she was slashing with her nails. [[Tackle her.]] [[Hit her with a stick.]] [[Use my shirt to cover her face.]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> “Hey, Syd, I think we have to jump him,” I tell her, and she nods, moving in a step more. <<if $hangover>>\ We creep closer, angling ourselves so that he can’t just run off. I look at Sydero and nod, both of us lunging towards Chris. He shouts, throwing out a fist that instantly connects with my jaw. I shake it off the best I can, which isn’t good at all. The hangover is still present and, combined with the punch, scrambling my thoughts. Either he is much stronger than I initally thought, or this hangover is making me sensitive – or both. <<else>>\ We creep closer towards him, angling ourselves so that he couldn’t just run off. I look at Sydero and nod, both of us lunging towards Chris. He shouts, throwing out a fist that instantly connects with my jaw. I shake it off the best I can, clenching my eyes closed so that the stars appearing would catch the hint and go away. He is much stronger than he originally was. <</if>>\ “Stop messing around, Roe,” Sydero shouts, barely fast enough to dodge Chris’s attack. Not only is he looking more feral, but he he fights as if he is some type of cornered prey. One minute he’s fighting like a human, the next he’s slashing with nails that he doesn’t have. [[Tackle him.]] [[Hit him with a stick.]] [[Use my shirt to cover his face.]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> “Hey, Syd,” I begin, approaching Chris slowly, “stay back, I’m going to try and bring him back to us.” “You’re going to what?” Syd questions, giving me her usual ‘you’re crazy’ look. “I believe Chris is still in there. If I can just calm him down and get close enough, I can get him.” “Oh, this I have to see.” Syd leans up against a nearby tree, patiently waiting to see how this will go. I slowly approach Chris, talking to him in a soft voice and bringing up past memories, hoping that it will move something inside of him. His attention is still on the dog, but when I get into his personal space, he jerks around to stare at me. His pupils are beginning to turn to slits, and I can't help but feel like I’m losing him. “Come on, Chris, there’s no way you went full beast on me just yet,” I say, taking another cautious step towards him. “Chris?” I question. He blinks once, then twice, and then rapid fire. It looks like the haziness in his eyes clear up, and he tilts his head to the side slightly, his mouth parting. Abruptly, he reaches for me and with all of his might, pushes me into a tree that is a few feet away. “And there it goes,” Syd chuckles from her spot, Chris charging towards me. [[Move so he hits the tree.]] [[Tell Syd to come help me.]]

I mimic Syd’s laughing, taking a step away from the tree at the right moment so that Chris ends up running into it. I hear the loud thud and shake my head at the pain that would’ve caused any sane person to be in enormous discomfort. Chris rests on the ground, still, and his eyes closed. “Nice, Roe. I can’t wait til he wakes up and questions how he got that knot on his forehead,” Syd smirks, and I glance down to see one beginning to form precisely where she says. “I’ll just blame it on you.” “Despite how funny that is, I won’t claim it. And that’ll probably be enough evidence for him to know it was your fault.” I grumble underneath my breath. “Let’s get this guy back to the car and then to Bradley,” Syd begins, grabbing him and supporting his left side. I go to the right, and we both quickly retrace our steps back, pausing when we hear growling in the nearby bushes. <<include "BB4_3">>

“How about you stop laughing and come help me,” I screech, dodging his fist. He immediately changes his direction and comes after me again. “Syd!” Before Chris can get to me again, he trips and hits the forest floor with a loud thump, hopefully, there aren’t any rocks nearby. Syd stands behind him, tossing the stick in her hands to the side. “Is the little baby okay?” she asks, mimicking the voice a concerned mother would make. “Shut up, but I’m fine, thanks for asking.” “Let’s get this guy back to the car and then to Bradley,” Syd begins, grabbing him and supporting his left side. I go to the right, and we both quickly retrace our steps back, pausing when we hear growling in the nearby bushes. <<include "BB4_3">>

I didn’t really have any good ideas, none of em were bound to work anyway. The best plan I could think of that could actually bring him down was tackling him. And that’s precisely what I do. I leap forward, grabbing Chris around the waist and letting gravity do the rest. Underneath me, Chris fights and struggles to get up, but I’m sitting on his back, trying to keep him down with all of my weight. <<if $CRomance >=2>>\ “Is this how you two flirt?” Sydero questions, smirking at the sight. <<if $SRomance >=2>>\ “Jealous?” I purr, smirking as she knocks him out. “Not really,” she answers. I’m surprised she didn’t have more to say, but I guess it isn’t as much fun if Chris doesn’t hear the insult meant for him. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ “Let’s get this guy back to the car and then to Bradley,” Syd begins, grabbing him and supporting his left side. I go to the right, and we both quickly retrace our steps back, pausing when we hear growling in the nearby bushes. <<include "BB4_3">>

I need a weapon. It is still too dark outside for me to be able to see anything clearly, and so I rely mostly on touch. I stick near trees, running my hands lightly over the grass and dirt. I finally feel something harsh, long, and with a circular base, and pick it up. Yep, it’s a stick alright. Albeit, not the thickest or strongest branch, but it’s going to have to be enough for now. I find Chris and Sydero still grappling. I’m reminded of the two sparring, Chris never coming close to being able to land a hit on Syd. Syd would continuously point out that Chris was better long distance, calling him a goner in hand to hand combat. But here he is, holding his own. It’s because of the foreign blood shooting through his veins, but visually it’s still Chris. I shake the thought away, creeping closer. This stick isn’t thick enough to get multiple hits in. I’ll have to do one good one and hope it’s enough. He comes closer, and I hit the back of his head. The stick breaks immediately on contact, and Chris turns to me, as if asking me if I seriously had the audacity to do such a thing. Before he can retaliate, Sydero knocks him out, shaking out her fist as he goes down. “A stick? Seriously?” “It bought you time, didn’t it?” I ask back, rolling my eyes at her question. “Let’s get this guy back to the car and then to Bradley,” Syd begins, grabbing him and supporting his left side. I go to the right, and we both quickly retrace our steps back, pausing when we hear growling in the nearby bushes. <<include "BB4_3">>

Public indecency isn’t really a thing when you’re trying to save yourself and your friend. Or maybe it was, but it doesn’t really concern me at four o’clock in the morning. I pull my shirt off and creep up on Chris as he’s busy dodging Sydero’s punches, and that’s when I make my move. I throw my shirt over his head, and the suddenness causes him to panic. Before he can topple onto me, Sydero swoops in and takes his legs out from underneath of him, causing him to fall to the side. And she knocks him out. <<if $SRomance >=3>>\ She straightens up and looks over at me, despite it still being too dark to see much of anything, I can feel her eyes lingering on my body. I hear her snort and feel her eyes lift off of me, I also realize that I’m blushing. <</if>>\ “Let’s get this guy back to the car and then to Bradley,” Syd begins, grabbing him and supporting his left side. I go to the right, and we both quickly retrace our steps back, pausing when we hear growling in the nearby bushes. <<include "BB4_3">>

“Uh, that doesn’t sound like it’s some cute little forest animal who wants to be pet,” I gulp, repositioning Chris’s limp form. “That’s because it’s not,” Sydero hisses in reply, “run.” The two of us take off, constantly repositioning Chris and then having to slow down for the other as we go. We don’t get far when I practically feel something on the back of my neck, and then feel something swipe at my legs. I trip, rolling out of the way as a claw comes down in front of me. My eyes widen as I stare back at the beast, and beast it was. Like all the accounts have said, the creature was large with mangled fur and haunting blue eyes. The entire thing reminded me of a bobcat who was incredibly large and had gotten into it with some barbwire. It rears up, howling as it plans to stomp me into the ground. Just as it does, Sydero flings herself towards it, ramming her shoulder into its side and causing it to fall and skid to the side. “We gotta go,” she tells me, yanking me up to my feet. [[“You grab Chris, I’ll hold it off.”][$daring +=3]] [[“I’ll grab Chris, you hold it off.”][$daring -=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> “You go grab Chris,” I tell her, “I’ll hold it off so you can make it to the car.” Surprisingly, she doesn’t argue about how stupid my plan is. She nods her head and goes to Chris’s side, quickly moving forward again. I place my attention on the beast who is just now shaking off Sydero’s previous ram. Its eyes land on me and alight with unrestrained rage. [[Grab my gun.][$guns +=5]] [[Grab my blade.][$blades +=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> “I’ll grab Chris and head to the car, you hold it off,” I tell Sydero. She nods and turns to face the creature, whistling at it so that its attention is solely on her. I flee, grabbing Chris and yanking him up. One arm keeps Chris secure while the other fiddles with my phone, lighting my way. Behind me, I hear the sound of shots being fired and a mix between a roar and a whimper. I find my way through the woods, happy when I can see the brightness of a nearby light post. I spot the car and make a dash towards it. “Ugh,” I hear Chris moan, oh great, he’s beginning to wake up. [[Knock him back out.|BBKO]] [[Keep running.]]

I didn’t really have any good ideas, none which were bound to work anyway. The best plan I can think of that may actually bring her down, is tackling her. And that’s precisely what I do. I leap forward, grabbing the girl around the waist and letting gravity do the rest. Underneath me, she fights and struggles to get up, but I’m sitting on her back, trying to keep her down with all of my weight. <<if hasVisited("“Yea, maybe we should.”")>>\ I suddenly hear a loud whimper, followed by a furious roar in the distance. I do believe Sydero found the beast. I’m surprised that it’s so close. Were it and the girl hunting the same thing? <</if>>\ <<include "BB4_5">>

I need a weapon. It was still too dark outside for me to be able to see anything clearly, and so I rely mostly on touch. I stick near trees, running my hands lightly over the grass and dirt. I finally feel something harsh, long, and with a circular base, and pick it up. Yep, it was a stick alright. Albeit, not the thickest or strongest branch, but it was going to have to be enough for now. <<if hasVisited("“Yea, maybe we should.”")>>\ I shake the thought away, creeping closer. This stick isn’t thick enough to get multiple hits in. I will have to do one good one and hope it’s enough. She comes closer, and I take the hit, hitting the back of her head. The stick breaks immediately on contact, and the girl goes down without a problem. I go towards her limp body when I hear a loud whimper, followed by a furious roar in the distance. I do believe Sydero found the beast. I’m surprised that it’s so close. Were it and the girl hunting the same thing? <<else>>\ I find the girl and Sydero still grappling. Sydero clearly had the upper hand, but the girl was fast enough to avoid Sydero’s punches and therefore was making Sydero work for this win. I can see her growing agitated, probably since she had to hold back with most of her blows. Sydero huffs, backing away from the body, “A stick? Seriously?” “It did the trick, didn’t it?” I ask back, rolling my eyes at her question. <</if>>\ <<include "BB4_5">>

<<if hasVisited("“Yea, maybe we should.”")>>\ Public indecency isn’t really a thing when you’re trying to save yourself and someone else’s life. Or maybe it is, but it doesn’t really concern me at four o’clock in the morning. I pull my shirt off dodging the girl’s wild throws until I find the perfect opportunity. I throw my shirt over her head, and the suddenness causes her to panic. Before she can topple onto me, I slide out of the way and then trip her. I go towards her limp body when I hear a loud whimper, followed by a furious roar in the distance. I do believe Sydero found the beast. I’m surprised that it’s so close. Were it and the girl hunting the same thing? <<else>>\ Public indecency wasn’t really a thing when you were trying to save yourself and someone else’s life. Or maybe it was, but it didn’t really concern me at four o’clock in the morning. I pull my shirt off and creep up on the girl, she lunges back, dodging Sydero’s throw, and that’s when I make my move. I throw my shirt over her head, and the suddenness causes her to panic. Before she can topple onto me, Sydero swoops in and takes her legs out from underneath of her, causing her to fall to the side. Before she can do any more damage to himself, or us, Sydero knocks her out. Poor girl. <<if $SRomance >=2>>\ Sydero straightens up and looks over at me, despite it still being too dark to see much of anything, I can feel her eyes lingering on my body. I hear her snort and feel her eyes lift off of me, I also realize that I was blushing. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<include "BB4_5">>

<<if hasVisited("“Yea, maybe we should.”")>>\ I scoop the preteen into my arms, taking off towards the car. I’m sure Sydero can handle the beast, and if she can’t then she’s smart enough to know where to run. I find my way through the woods, happy when I can see the brightness of a nearby light post. I spot the car and make a dash towards it. “Ugh,” I hear the young woman moan, oh great, she’s beginning to wake up. [[Knock her back out.|BBKO]] [[Keep running.]] <<else>>\ “So, what do we do with her?” I ask Syd, staring down at her limp form. “Normally, I’d say we should bring her to the motel, so we can figure out how to change her back. But I don’t think I want to risk getting caught by police.” “Do we have any other choice?” I ask next, personally not being able to think of anything else. “I don’t think we do, especially since we don’t know how to change her back yet.” Sydero sighs scooping the young girl into her arms. I lead the way out of the woods, pausing when I hear growling in the nearby bushes. “Uh, that doesn’t sound like it’s some cute little forest animal who wants to be pet,” I gulp, repositioning Chris’s limp form. “That’s because it’s not,” Sydero hisses in reply, “run.” The two of us take off, constantly repositioning the preteen and then having to slow down for the other as we go. We don’t get far when I practically feel something on the back of my neck, and then feel something swipe at my legs. I trip, rolling out of the way as a claw comes down in front of me. My eyes widen as I stare back at the beast, and beast it was. Like all the accounts have said, the creature was large with mangled fur and haunting blue eyes. The entire thing reminded me of a bobcat who was incredibly large and had gotten into it with some barbwire. It rears up, howling as it plans to stomp me into the ground. Just as it does, Sydero flings herself towards it, ramming her shoulder into its side and causing it to fall and skid to the side. “We gotta go,” she tells me, yanking me up to my feet. [[“You grab her, I’ll hold it off.”][$daring +=3]] [[“I’ll grab her, you hold it off.”][$daring -=3]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> “You go grab her,” I tell Syd, “I’ll hold it off so you can make it to the car.” Surprisingly, she doesn’t argue about how stupid my plan was. She nods her head and scoops up the girl, quickly moving forward again. I place my attention on the beast who was just now shaking off Sydero’s previous ram. Its eyes land on me and alight with unrestrained rage. [[Grab my gun.][$guns +=5]] [[Grab my blade.][$blades +=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> “I’ll grab her and head to the car, you hold it off,” I tell Sydero. She nods and turns to face the creature, whistling at it so that its attention was solely on her. I flee, scooping up the young girl’s body and yanking her up. One arm keeps her secure while the other fiddles with my phone, lighting my way. Behind me, I hear the sound of shots being fired and a mix between a roar and a whimper. I find my way through the woods, happy when I can see the brightness of a nearby light post. I spot the car and make a dash towards it. “Ugh,” I hear the girl moan, oh great, she was beginning to wake up. [[Knock her back out.|BBKO]] [[Keep running.]]

I grab my gun and check the cartridge and then take it off of safety, taking multiple breaths as I get ready. It does the same, its gaze drawn to the gun. It sounds like it’s grumbling as it begins to circle me. Once its eyes meet mine, it charges. I fire two rounds into it, moreso wanting to see how it will react to that. The hit doesn’t do anything though, it just keeps coming, as if I hadn’t even shot at it. The good thing is that I just need to buy some time, not actually kill the creature. Also, this is proof that silver bullets aren’t going to do the job. It gets too close for comfort, and I roll to the side, cursing to myself when I remember that I’m outside amongst sticks and rocks and other such things. “Roe!” I hear Sydero shout and after firing two more shots at its face, take off. <<include "BB4_4">>

I bring out my blade, twirling it around and then regretting it a second later, I wasn’t quite there yet. Putting my attention back on the beast, it charges without any consideration for the weapon now in my grasp. The reach of the blade wasn’t tremendous, it was about the same length, if not just a tad bit shorter as a short sword. The beast is upon me, swiping its paw towards me and I swing my blade. My blade skids across its paw, creating a deep gash that the creature doesn’t appreciate. It whimpers, its eyes blazing with new hatred for me. It charges again, this time barreling towards me, shoulder first. I time my jump, jumping out of the way and sliding my blade down its flank as I go. It turns around, and I narrowly avoid its claws. “Roe!” I hear Sydero shout and after firing two more shots at its face, take off. <<include "BB4_4">>

<<if $cp>>\ I ignore him, picking up my pace as I struggle to get there quickly. Once I’m nearby, I immediately call for Sydero, putting Chris in the car and then heading to the other side to start it. <<else>>\ I ignore her, picking up my pace as I struggle to get there quickly. Once I’m near the car, I immediately call for Sydero, putting the young woman in the car and then heading to the other side to start it. <<if $hangover>>\ Sydero was right, fear was a hell of a cure to a hangover. <</if>>\ “Let’s go,” Syd encourages, getting into the car, no questions asked. <</if>>\ <<include "BB4_4">>

<<if $cp>>\ I pause and put him down, mumbling a short apology as I put all my energy into the punch. At least, that’s how the movies and video games always knock out opponents. I guess it works since Chris is quiet once again. If he asks who, I’ll just blame it on Sydero, or him hallucinating. I grab him and go back to running, calling for Sydero as loud as I can. <<else>>\ I pause and put her down, mumbling a short apology as I put all my energy into the punch. At least, that’s how the movies and video games always knock out opponents. I guess it works since she’s quiet once again. I grab her and go back to running, calling for Sydero as loud as I can. <</if>>\ <<include "BB4_4">>

<<if $hangover>>\ Sydero is right, fear is a hell of a cure to a hangover. <</if>>\ <<if $cp>>\ “Let’s go,” Syd encourages, getting into the car, no questions asked. [[Go back in and handle the beast.][$afterhim to true]] [[Get in the car and drive back to the motel.]] <<else>>\ “Don’t have to tell me twice, let’s go!” I shout, quickly hopping into the car and then speeding away. I forget that we’re still in a residential area and I book it, probably going sixty. Whatever gets us out of there faster. We arrive at the motel about ten minutes after leaving the park. The girl just now waking up from being knocked out, and by the way she fights the restraints Syd put on her, we are probably going to have to knock her out again. “Who knew teens could be so rowdy?” Syd growls, dragging her out of the car, but then letting her go after almost being kicked in the gut. I flinch at the sound of her body hitting the ground, though it seems she feels nothing. Her thrashes continue as normal. I grab her legs while Syd grabs her shoulders, “she is a lot feistier now, huh?” I question, grimacing as she attempts to wrestle her legs back, but I refuse her this luxury. We get her into the room without further incident. I planned on putting her on the bed, but Sydero has other plans. As soon as we’re near a corner, she lets go of her, abandoning the girl and joining Bradley who's staring from us to the girl. <a data-passage="BB4_6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

I bite the side of my cheek, looking back towards the woods where the beast is still probably at. “Hold up, Syd, I think we should go and handle the beast. We have a perfect window.” She opens her door and turns to me. “Chris is in the back seat, dying, and you want to go ‘handle’ the beast. We need to secure him.” “It’s stupid to just let the beast run off, especially when we’re this close.” “When did I start caring more about Chris’s life than you?” she questions, cocking her head to the side in interest. “This is for Chris,” I say, “that creature, whether through death or something else, holds the answer to getting Chris back. Are you seriously saying we should just leave?” “No. What I’m saying is that it’s stupid to handle two crazies at the same time. We make sure that the crazy human is secure, and then focus on the crazy creature.” I begin to argue her point further when a loud roar pierces our ears. We both glance in the direction to see the beast charging out of the woods and towards us. “Doesn’t seem to matter anymore,” Sydero growls when suddenly Chris hops onto her back, bringing her to the ground. “Who do I go for?” I question. I receive nothing but the roar from the beast, and grunts from Sydero as she tries to grab Chris. Guess I was making this decision. [[Go after the beast.]] [[Go after Chris.]]

“Don’t have to tell me twice, let’s go!” I shout, quickly hopping into the car and then speeding away. I forget that we’re still in a residential area and I book it, probably going sixty. Whatever gets us out of there faster. We arrive at the motel about ten minutes after leaving the park. Chris is just now waking up from being knocked out, and by the way he fights the restraints Syd put on him, we are probably going to have to knock him out again. “Who knew your friend could be so rowdy,” Syd growls, dragging him out of the car, but then letting him go when he almost kicks her in the gut. I flinch at the sound of his body hitting the ground, though it seems he feels nothing. <<if $CRomance >=3>>\ I grab his legs while Syd grabs his shoulders, “well,” I smirk, giving her a knowing look. “Nope, not what I meant. Get your mind out of the gutter and focus on not getting kicked.” As soon as she says this, Chris attempts to wrestle his legs back but I refuse him this luxury. <<else>>\ I grab his legs while Syd grabs his shoulders, “he is a lot feistier now, huh?” I question, grimacing as Chris attempts to wrestle his legs back, but I refuse him this luxury. <</if>>\ We get him into the room without further incident. I was planning on putting him on the bed, but Sydero had other plans. As soon as we’re near a corner, she lets go of him, abandoning him and joining Bradley who calls us over. <a data-passage="BB4_6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $sympathy >=50 and $cp>>\ “Can you be a little more careful with him?” I scowl at Sydero. “No, I really can’t. What do you have for us, Bradley?” <<elseif $cp is false>>\ “Is there a reason why she has no clothes on?” he questions, getting up and grabbing a blanket, resting it over top of her. Her eyes bulge at the material, and she hisses at Bradley. “We found her like that. Now, what do you have for us, Bradley?” Syd asks once she gets to his side. <<else>>\ “What do you have for us, Bradley?” Syd asks once she gets to his side. <</if>>\ “I think I finally realized what’s going on. What’s going on with <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>her<</if>>, BB - everything really.” “Hold up, hold up,” Sydero interrupts, her face scrunching up in confusion, “BB?” “Yea, Bladenboro Beast, BB, try to keep up here.” <<if $serious >=50>>\ “Can we get back to the subject, please?” I groan, rolling my eyes and motioning for him to continue. <<else>>\ “Very creative, Bradley,” I chuckle, motioning for him to continue. <</if>>\ “I think BB is – well, parenting <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>this girl<</if>>. I was able to get on the dark web and look deeper. Which is saying a lot cos there is still literally nothing even on the dark web. Anyway, I found that the beast before this one was said to have yellow eyes and a white mark on its chest, this one obviously not fitting that description. Meaning, not the same beast. BB seems to pop up, hunt, someone goes missing, and then it disappears again. What if those it ends up scratching and changing - what if it ends up taking a mothering role over them? Teaching them to survive?” “So, BB just wants to be a parent, I still don’t see why it decides to go on a pet killing spree,” Sydero points out, “plus, we’ve only run into one of these things, what happened to the one with the yellow eyes?” “I was wondering the exact same thing,” Bradley continues, “and this is more of a hypothesis than a fact, but what if it’s killing to feed whoever it ends up transforming? Remember my death idea, what if it goes after someone when it knows its life is coming to an end, and the last thing it does is teach and parent this person? Pets are easy prey, so it goes after them to make sure the transforming person has food.” [[“BB’s parenting is highly flawed.”]] [[“So is this how BB ... breeds?”]] [[“But how do we stop it?”]]

Sydero is handling Chris, which means that I should probably put my attention on the beast. It heads for Sydero, and so I pick up a large rock, chucking it straight at its head. Its head whips towards me and it changes its path but then it comes to a complete halt, its attention going back to Sydero and Chris. The beast does a long call before turning and cantering back into the woods, Chris following behind it as it goes. The two disappearing and neither Sydero nor I make a move to follow. <<include "BB4_8">>

I turn my attention to Chris, if I can get his attention on me, then Sydero can focus on the beast. I pick up a rock and throw it at him. His eyes blaze with fury as he looks over at me, the slowly rising sun not helping the murderous glint in his slit-styled eyes. “Syd, wanna handle the beast?” I ask. “No, I want to get out of here,” she growls but sprints towards the cryptid anyway. She retrieves her blade and skids, swinging the blade right as the creature gets into striking distance. She can handle herself, I need to handle Chris. He stalks around me, his posture twisted to mirror that of the beast. I pause at that. I just fought him a few minutes ago, and he hadn’t done this. Before he can attack me, the beast does a long call and canters back into the woods. Chris follows behind it. The two disappear and neither Sydero nor I make a move to follow. <<include "BB4_8">>

<><<set $answer1 to "teaching">><> “And we lost both of them, again,” Sydero mutters, helping me to my feet. She lightly hits me upside the head, “have I told you how much I hate your plans? Because I do, I really do.” It isn't like I expected Chris to run off after the beast like some obedient little pup. Before I’m able to say anything, my phone rings and I look to see that it’s Bradley. “You call me to tell me how much you hate my plans too?” I give Sydero a look, and she matches it with one of her own. “Um no, should I ... whatever, I called because I think I finally realized what’s going on. What’s going on with Chris, BB - everything really.” “Hold up, hold up,” Sydero interrupts, her face scrunching up in confusion, “BB?” “Yea, Bladenboro Beast, BB, try to keep up here.” <<if $serious >=50>>\ “Yes,” I groan, rolling my eyes, “I think I know what’s going on as well. The beast is ...” <<else>>\ “Very, creative Bradley,” I congratulate, “but I think I know what’s going on as well too. The beast is ...” <</if>>\ //The answer is a single word and ends in ‘ing.’// <<textbox "$answer1" "">> <a data-passage="BB4_9"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $answer1.toLowerCase().includes("teaching")>>\ <><<set $bradley +=5; $supernatural +=5>><> “I realized it when Chris attacked me the second time, his posture mirrored that of ... BB. And then it got me thinking about how we found the beast and Chris in the same area. How Chris looked like he was hunting that dog and the beast was nearby. The beast, for whatever reason, is teaching Chris how to survive.” “Bradley?” Sydero questions, stroking her chin as she thinks about my words, but seems to also want a second opinion. “I’ve come to the same conclusion. Well, not because of Chris’s mannerisms, but due to the pattern. I was able to get on the dark web and look deeper. Which is saying a lot because there was still literally nothing even there. Anyway, I found that the beast before this one was said to have yellow eyes and a white mark on its chest, this one obviously not fitting that description. BB seems to pop up, hunt, someone goes missing, and then it disappears again.” <<else>>\ “... yea, I don’t know.” “I’m surrounded by idiots,” Sydero mumbles, “Bradley?” “I think BB is – well, parenting Chris. I was able to get on the dark web and look deeper. Which is saying a lot cos there was still literally nothing even there. Anyway, I found that the beast before this one was said to have yellow eyes and a white mark on its chest, this one obviously not fitting that description. BB seems to pop up, hunt, someone goes missing, and then it disappears again. What if those it ends up scratching and changing - what if it ends up taking a mothering role over them? Teaching them to survive?” <</if>>\ “So, BB just wants to be a parent, I still don’t see why it decides to go on a pet killing spree,” Sydero points out, “plus, we’ve only run into one of these things, what happened to the one with the yellow eyes?” “I was wondering the exact same thing,” Bradley continues, “and this is more of a hypothesis than a fact, but what if it’s killing to feed whoever it ends up transforming? Remember my death idea, what if it goes after someone when it knows its life is coming to an end, and the last thing it does is teach and parent this person? Pets are easy prey, so it goes after them to make sure the transforming person has food.” [[“BB’s parenting is highly flawed.”]] [[“So is this how BB ... breeds?”]] [[“But how do we stop it?”]]

“I don’t know what you guys are thinking, but BB’s parenting is highly flawed. I mean, for starters, it kinda involves kidnapping.” “I don’t think BB cares about what you think of his ... hers ... its parenting skills,” Sydero assures me, “this is all interesting, but we have no idea how to kill BB, or how to turn <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>this girl<</if>> back.” My eyes venture over to <<if $cp>>him, relatively peaceful even though he’s not knocked out.<<else>>her, relatively peaceful even though she’s not knocked out. She hugs the blanket close to her, her eyes on us.<</if>> <<include "BB4_7">>

“Weird question, but is this how BB ... breeds?” “Ew,” Sydero says from beside me, “can we not say breed, it’s giving me some creepy images. Let’s just say spread or something.” “Yea, I think so, $name,” Bradley answers. Sydero sighs, “this is all interesting, but we have no idea how to kill BB, or how to turn <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>this girl<</if>> back.” <<include "BB4_7">>

“This is all good, not really, but how do we stop it? And how do we turn <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>her<</if>> back? It doesn’t seem like killing BB is going to help us, since the beast is planning on dying anyway.” <<include "BB4_7">>

<<if $cp>>\ “Try iron, one of the sites said that the hunters from a while ago said that they used weapons made of it,” Bradley informs us, “as for Chris, it doesn’t say anything about it, but I have an idea. It requires your help, Syd.” She grumbles, rolling her eyes<<if $afterhim>>. I’m sure if she was near a tree or wall, she’d be hitting her head against it.<<else>> and walking towards the window, moving the blinds to peer out of it.<</if>> “Of course you do, does it require keeping BB alive?” “Yes,” Bradley squeaks. <<if $afterhim>>\ “Ugh, tell me the plan.” <<else>>\ “Well then, we just need to find it again,” I say, huffing, not exactly ready to face that monstrosity a second time. “No need, it found us,” Sydero tells us, still looking out the window. Oh geez. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ “Try iron, one of the sites said that the hunters from a while ago said that they used weapons made of it,” Bradley informs us, “as for her –” “Winfrey,” the girl squeaks. We each freeze, gazing over at her as she readjusts herself in the blanket. “My name is Winfrey.” “How long have you been sane?” Syd asks accusingly, earning a sharp tap across the head from Bradley. “Long enough to hear you guys call me ‘girl’ numerous times. I ... I know what you guys did for me in the woods too, you helped me, but –” she growls. Suddenly she clenches her head, moaning in agony. “What’s happening to me?” I look at the other two, wondering if any of them will tell her. Before any of us can, she screams again, pointing to the door and backing away, “it’s coming. It’s mad at you. It’s mad that you keep trying to keep me from it.” Her eyes go wide, and she clutches her head. When she looks back at us, I don’t see Winfrey anymore. I see whatever I fought back in the woods. Oh geez. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="EP7-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/actthree.png"> <<if $afterhim>>\ We run through the woods, attempting to catch sight of Chris or the beast. We fail to see them, but we hear them easily. The whimpers of the creature and what I can only believe is Chris’s labored breathing. “Stop, slow down,” Sydero suddenly directs, putting her hand out in front of me and getting down. The whimpering of the beast is gone, but we both hear something else, something that we don’t exactly know. And not only that, but a horrible smell intrudes our noses, causing both of us to want to gag. Crouched, we continue forward until we get a better view of what’s going on. A sizeable makeshift nest has been built out of rocks, twigs, and leaves. In the middle rests the dead animals that we had heard about. The decomposing bodies are surrounded by flying insects, enjoying the buffet. “Well, I think we found the animals,” Sydero whispers, looking around for something else. I tug her sleeve and point to the side where the beast rests. It lays on its side, whimpering quietly as it licks a collection of wounds. Chris is sitting off to the side, curled up in a fetal position. He gasps and kicks, and upon further investigation, I can hear him struggling to break himself of BB’s hold. “Help me,” I hear him cry out weakly, “$name.” I barely make out him saying my name, but it’s enough to make me move closer. Sydero grabs my arm, raising a brow at my involuntary action. “So, we stick with the plan we made back there?” I question, and she nods decisively, creeping away from me and closer towards the beast. The plan called for me to subdue Chris while Sydero performs a ritual to look into BB’s motivations. Bradley hopes that an empathy spell will tell us what we are searching for, therefore learning how to turn Chris back. I don’t know how long this spell will take Sydero to complete, but I am to make sure Chris doesn’t do anything to jeopardize us turning him back. This mostly means eating any of the spoiled hearts sitting not too far off. <<else>>\ <<if $cp>>I join Sydero by the window, looking across the street at BB. I swear it’s staring right back at us. Its blue eyes raging with fury at what we stole from it. Though, it took Chris from us first, so I lack any sympathy.<<else>>Sydero and I both approach the window, looking across the street and, sure enough, seeing BB standing there. I swear BB’s staring right back at us, its blue eyes raging with fury at what we stole from it.<</if>> “Exactly what do you have planned, Bradley?” I question, turning to him. His eyes are on <<if $cp>>Chris who is now twitching in his<<else>>Winfrey who is now twitching in her<</if>> spot, fighting against the binds. “It will have me,” <<if $cp>>he cries, tears running down his eyes as he struggles, “you must let me go. Let me go to it!”<<else>>she cries, tears running down her eyes as she struggles, “you must let me go. Let me go to it!” I’m about to turn back to the others when she suddenly screeches, “no. Don’t let it get me.”<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “If I didn’t know better, I’d say we'd already lost Chris,” Syd remarks, grabbing her gun and checking it. Chris’s eyes widen, and he lets out a low roar, thrashing even more. <<else>>\ “I think we’re running out of time,” I remark, watching as Winfrey roars and thrashes. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <a data-passage="BB5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $afterhim>>\ I stay where I am when Sydero flies out of the bushes, past the barricade that BB had set up, and towards BB’s hulking frame. BB stands up to roar, leaving its midsection open for Sydero’s blade to easily cut the fur and flesh that rests there. BB looks to Chris, and I suppose in cryptid language, orders him to do something, because the next thing I know, Chris is rushing toward the pile of putrid hearts. “Oh no you don’t,” I shout, dashing for Chris. As soon as I’m near him, he turns and kicks me straight in the gut. I bend over, a lack of breath making it to my lungs as my body tries to figure out what had just happened. Before I can overthink it, Chris picks up a stick and swings it at my head. I jump back, and he approaches. [[Set fire to the hearts.]] [[Subdue Chris.]] [[Prompt Chris to chase you.]] <<else>>\ “This does prove our point about BB being a parent figure,” Bradley tells us, “obviously <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Winfrey<</if>> is feeling some kind of connection to it.” “Bradley, focus. What’s the plan here?” I question, tearing my eyes from <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>the girl<</if>> and back to BB, noticing that it’s prowling the outskirts of the parking lot. “Syd, you need to use –” Bradley’s eyes go from me to her, “an empathy spell. BB’s top motivation obviously has to do with <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Winfrey<</if>> so we might be able to figure out how to reverse whatever it is by figuring out what BB is trying to stop us from doing. $name, you need to help her with subduing BB.” “What’s the plan then?” Syd asks me, opening the door and facing off against BB, “it’s already injured. We just need to do enough to put it down but not kill it. Not until I can figure out what I need.” [[Wing it.]] <<if $cp>>\ <<if $sympathy >=50>>\ [[Ask Chris for help.][$chris +=5]] <</if>>\ <<if $sympathy <50 or $honesty <50>>\ [[Catch it unaware, using Chris.][$chris -=5]] <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $sympathy >=50>>\ [[Ask Winfrey for help.]] <</if>>\ <<if $sympathy <50 or $honesty <50>>\ [[Catch it unaware, using Winfrey.]] <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\

Destroy the hearts, and that might put a damper on whatever BB is hoping for. I don’t have a lighter, but there is a good chance that Sydero does. But for me to be able to ask her, I need some breathing room. I wait for him to approach, blocking his strikes and when I get an opening, I push him to the ground roughly. “Syd, lighter?” I shout, barely dodging Chris’s charging figure. I jump to the side, slipping on a puddle of slick blood. When I turn, Chris is right there. I get ready to dart, but he bears his weight down on me, pinning me to the ground and growling. [[Knee him in the groin.]] [[Head butt him.]] <<if $flirt_Chris>>\ [[Kiss him?][$CRomance +=1]] <</if>>\

Chris can’t do anything if he can’t move. I lead him around and around, dodging his strikes and the things that he throws at me. I’m less successful at avoiding the rocks that he picks up, especially when a sharp one hits the side of my face. I stumble backward, slipping on a puddle of slick blood. When I turn, Chris is right there. I get ready to dart, but he bears his weight down on me, pinning me to the ground and growling. [[Knee him in the groin.]] [[Head butt him.]] <<if $flirt_Chris>>\ [[Kiss him?][$CRomance +=1]] <</if>>\

He is more beast than human right now, and like most predators, they have a need to chase their prey. It isn’t a thought that I want to think too hard on, so I focus more on prompting him to pursue me. I throw some rocks his way, always running off and seeing if he follows. He does, but avoiding Sydero and the pit of hearts is harder than I planned. The clearing is only so big, and he gets too close for comfort many times. I feel his presence beside me, and he grabs my shirt. I dance out of his grasp but stumble backward, slipping on a puddle of slick blood. When I turn, Chris is right there. I get ready to dart, but he bears his weight down on me, pinning me to the ground and growling. [[Knee him in the groin.]] [[Head butt him.]] <<if $flirt_Chris>>\ [[Kiss him?][$CRomance +=1]] <</if>>\

<<if hasVisited("Set fire to the hearts.")>>\ I struggle under him, probably making it seem as if I’m trying to get free when I’m really just making room to better maneuver my knee. Once he moves his leg, I shoot my knee straight up towards Chris’s groin. His eyes bulge, and he instantly rolls off of me, howling in pain. He might be acting like a beast, but his anatomy is still human. “Roe!” I hear Syd shout and I look up, barely able to catch the lighter she throws my way. I get to my feet and grab some of the twigs and leaves, lighting them on fire before tossing it onto the pile of hearts. BB roars lightly, shaking from its current position. <<else>>\ I struggle under him, probably making it seem as if I’m trying to get free when I’m really just making room to better maneuver my knee. Once he moves his leg, I shoot my knee straight up towards Chris’s groin. His eyes bulge, and he instantly rolls off of me, howling in pain. He might be acting like a beast, but his anatomy is still human. I take the opportunity to bring him down, pinning his arms behind his back, while my other hand keeps weight on his face. <</if>>\ <<include "BB5_1">>

<<if hasVisited("Set fire to the hearts.")>>\ “This is going to hurt me, a lot more than it’ll hurt you,” I say, aiming my forehead towards the bridge of his nose. I feel it connect and I moan in agony at the headache that echoes across my head. Thankfully, I’m not the only one who feels pain. Chris rolls off of me, crawling away as he clutches his head in pain. “Roe!” I hear Syd shout and I look up, barely able to catch the lighter she throws my way. I get to my feet and grab some of the twigs and leaves, lighting them on fire before tossing it onto the pile of hearts. BB roars lightly, shaking from its current position. <<else>>\ “This is going to hurt me, a lot more than it’ll hurt you,” I say, aiming my forehead towards the bridge of his nose. I feel it connect and I moan in agony at the headache that echoes across my head. Thankfully, I’m not the only one who feels pain. Chris rolls off of me, crawling away as he clutches his head in pain. I take the opportunity to bring him down, pinning his arms behind his back, while my other hand keeps weight on his face. <</if>>\ <<include "BB5_1">>

He’s close, and I’ve seen it work on a ton of movies. The opponent always getting blindsided by the kiss and freezing. But they’re human, and no cryptid virus is actively swimming through their bloodstreams. Regardless, I go through with the plan, leaning up and placing my lips on top of Chris’s. It’s a simple kiss, one that makes me feel like some shy elementary school kid. But it also does what I intend for it to do. Chris freezes, his eyes staring into mine as I pull back. He blinks and cocks his head slightly. <<if hasVisited("Set fire to the hearts.")>>\ “$name?” Before I can react, his eyes roll to the back of his head, and he collapses onto me. Syd stands behind him, removing her hand from his neck as she tosses me the lighter and walks off. <<if $SRomance >=3>>\ I look from Chris’s prone body to Sydero, “did you do that because you’re -” “Just light the damn hearts on fire,” Sydero growls, refusing to face me. Despite the urgency of the situation, I manage to smirk. <</if>>\ I get to my feet and grab some of the twigs and leaves, lighting them on fire before tossing it onto the pile of hearts. BB roars lightly, shaking from its current position. <<else>>\ “$name?” Before I can react, his eyes roll to the back of his head, and he collapses onto me. Syd stands behind him, removing her hand from his neck as she walks off. “You can't keep shit rated PG to save your life, can you?” she asks incredulously, walking back towards the beast. I move to sit on Chris’s back, making sure to be ready in case he does come back from that knockout. <</if>>\ <<include "BB5_1">>

Sydero sends a text to Bradley, telling him to meet us here with the things she needs. I see her bite the inside of her cheek, looking down at the beast whose breathing is labored. I can see the blood dripping down onto the grass, creating a puddle on the soft cedar colored dirt. Her blade still nestled in the side of its neck, pulling it out would mean quickening its death. BB picks up its head and roars softly for Chris, even attempting to crawl towards him. “No,” Chris moans, trying to move and get to BB, “don’t do this,” he begs. Neither Sydero nor I say anything, blocking out the whimpering that both of them make until Bradley shows up. He comes rushing into the clearing, stopping short at the stick barricade. Dangling from his shoulder is Sydero’s bookbag and gripped tightly in his hand is his phone. <a data-passage="BB5_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $afterhim>>\ “Roe, hold Chris down,” Sydero commands, taking her bag from Bradley and rummaging through it. She hands Bradley a bowl, and he heads over towards BB. I’m aware of what those blue eyes are focused on. Not on Chris, but me. Its eyes stare straight at me, perhaps wanting me to look at where my choices have led. <<else>>\ “Roe, hold Chris down, I’ll be right back.” Sydero dashes inside, sending Bradley out to me with a bowl in his hands. He freezes when he sees Chris’s face, eyes red from crying so much. His eyes then go to BB’s body, its breathing highly labored as it takes its last breaths. I’m aware of what those blue eyes are focused on. Not on Chris, but me. Its eyes stare straight at me, perhaps wanting me to look at where my choices have led. <</if>>\ “It’s for Chris,” I hear Bradley murmur, grabbing his own knife and cutting into BB’s side. Blood pours out, and he catches some of it in the bowl, approaching me. He shivers slightly but steels himself, “I need some blood from Chris next.” I nod, watching as he gets the blood from the infected wound that BB had given him. Chris panics, but I manage to hold him still for both his and Bradley’s sake. Bradley sets the bowl down, and Sydero has in her hands that illuminating blue liquid that I had seen in her bag before. She pours half of the small bottle into the bowl and then mixes it with a spoon. “He has to drink this.” She hands the bowl to me, “quick, before BB is dead.” Bradley helps lift his head up, and I force the bowl’s contents into his mouth and force him to swallow. Chris’s body begins to convulse quickly when suddenly he stops. Growing entirely still. I reach forward, mostly to see if he’s still alive, when he suddenly rolls over onto his stomach, vomiting onto the ground. “You back with us, Chris?” I inquire. He breathes harshly, spitting before looking up at me, “what the hell happened?” <a data-passage="BB6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Honestly, I say we wing this. When have plans ever worked out like we hoped?” I question, much to Sydero’s pleasure. She smiles and nods, the two of us closing the motel door as we stare out at BB. It sniffs the air, grunting in anger as it comes closer. “I really don’t think BB likes us,” I point out, looking out at our surroundings for cover. The cars are off limits, lest I wish to mess up my own and so I have to keep in mind potted plants and a lamppost. “Yea? Well, I can’t say I like it much either,” Sydero snorts, holstering her gun and grabbing her blade, “no guns, it’ll attract too much attention.” Well, there goes any plan of staying at a distance. I mirror her, grabbing my blade as BB charges towards us. Though the sun is barely beginning to light up the sky, it produces enough light for me to see BB and its enormity. [[Throw my blade.|BBThrowBlade]] [[Tell Sydero to throw her blade.]]

<<if $blades >=10>>\ I get an idea, deciding to throw my blade towards BB’s incoming figure. I aim for its face and toss the knife watching as it plants itself into BB’s side. Not a bad throw but not what I was hoping for either. BB stops short, rearing up at the pain that is probably coursing through it. Sydero picks up her pace, ramming into BB’s side and bringing her pistol down onto its head multiple times. Its cries fade out but not before <<if $cp>>Chris’s<<else>>Winfrey’s<</if>> join in. I jerk my head toward the doorway of the motel, seeing <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Winfrey<</if>> stand there, and then sprinting towards us. <<else>>\ I get an idea, deciding to throw my blade towards BB’s incoming figure. I aim for its face and toss the knife, watching as it soars past it and lands harmlessly on the gravel road. “Nice idea, horrible execution,” Sydero shouts, throwing her blade instead. Hers lands in BB’s cheek, and it howls in pain. She picks up her pace, ramming into BB and bringing her pistol down onto its head constant times. Its cries fade out but not before Chris’s join in. I jerk my head toward the doorway of the motel, seeing Chris stand there, and then sprinting towards us. <</if>>\ <<include "BB5_3">>

“Syd!” I bark, getting an idea, “throw your knife at BB.” She nods and does as I ask, throwing her blade which lands in BB’s cheek. It howls in pain, desperately clawing at the blade to remove it. Sydero picks up her pace, ramming into BB and bringing her pistol down onto its head constant times. Its cries fade out but not before <<if $cp>>Chris’s<<else>>Winfrey’s<</if>> join in. I jerk my head toward the doorway of the motel, seeing <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Winfrey<</if>> stand there, and then sprinting towards us. <<include "BB5_3">>

“Keep <<if $cp>>him<<else>>her<</if>> back,” Sydero orders, giving BB one last knock upside the head before murmuring some words. I shoot towards <<if $cp>>Chris, colliding with him and bringing him to the ground.<<else>>Winfrey, colliding with her and bringing her to the ground.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “Get off me!” Chris yells, attempting to push me off of him, but failing. His cries don’t even remind me of someone who has lost someone in front of him, they sound different, as if something has taken him over and is using his voice. [[Calm him down.][$sympathy +=5]] [[Knock him out.|BBKO2][$sympathy -=5]] <<else>>\ “Get off me!” Winfrey yells, attempting to push me off of her. She reaches up in an attempt to grab something<<if $hairlength is "bald">>, and I suppose she forgets that I don’t have any hair to grab.<<elseif $hairlength is "short">>, lucky for me there’s not much hair to grab.<<elseif $hairlength is "medium">>. Her fingers trails across my hair but before can grab it, I yank my head back, out of reach.<<else>>, clutching onto my hair. She yanks my head down and I yelp as I involuntarily follow her hand, fighting with her to release my hair. “The hell, Roe? Stop playing games,” Syd growls. “Shut up, Syd! What kind of game is this?” I yell back, finally unlatching her hands from my hair.<</if>> [[Calm her down.][$sympathy +=5]] [[Knock her out.|BBKO2][$sympathy -=5]] <</if>>\

I go to Chris’s side, slowing down when he jumps at my approach, eyes wide in fright and anger. “I don’t know if you’re in there, Chris ... but I could really use my best friend right now. I know that you’re just ... confused and you don’t know what’s going on. But that’s what we’re here for. All of us out here, we’re trying to get you out, but we can’t do that without your help. We need to know how to subdue BB. How do we turn you back?” He blinks his eyes, staring at me expressionless. He gazes towards an impatient Sydero and a hopeful Bradley before looking back towards me. “$name?” he asks quietly, just loud enough for me to hear him. <<if $CRomance >=3>>\ “Yea, it’s me, Chris,” I smile, my eyes widening when he raises his hand and rests it on my cheek. He slowly trails it down my face, cupping my cheek. “Okay, Beauty, you got through to your Beast, now can we go kill -” Sydero starts. “Gaston?!” Bradley shouts, earning a look from all of us, he quiets back down. But, as if on cue, BB roars loudly. <<else>>\ “Yea it’s me, Chris,” I smile, happy to finally get through to him. <</if>>\ I help Chris to his feet as he mumbles something under his breath. “I know how to calm it down. When I give you the signal then come out and subdue it.” He clenches his head, “and do it quickly, I can’t fight this much longer.” We agree and send Chris out the door, waiting for his signal. He slowly approaches BB who calms down tremendously upon seeing him. <a data-passage="BB5_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I go to Winfrey’s side, slowing down when she jumps at my approach, eyes wide in fright and anger. “Winfrey, I know you don’t know me that well ... but we could really use your help right now. I know that you’re just confused, and you don’t know what’s going on. But that’s what we’re here for. We need to know how to subdue BB, how to turn you back.” She blinks her eyes, staring at me expressionless. She gazes towards an impatient Sydero and a hopeful Bradley before looking back towards me. “Oh, okay,” she asks quietly, just loud enough for me to hear her, “I know how to calm it down. When I give you the signal then come out and subdue it.” She clenches her head, “and do it quickly, I can’t fight this much longer.” We agree and send Winfrey out the door, waiting for her signal. She slowly approaches BB who calms down tremendously upon seeing her. <a data-passage="BB5_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“I’m here,” I hear <<if $cp>>him say, detecting a bit of happiness in his tone.<<else>>her say, detecting a bit of happiness in her tone.<</if>> I seem to not be the only one who hears it, Syd gazing over at me and raising a brow. I have faith in <<if $cp>>him. He squats down, and BB sniffs him over, before bringing him closer.<<else>>her. She squats down, and BB sniffs her over, before bringing her closer.<</if>> If it wasn’t such a weird picture, then it would almost be cute. As I stare at the two, I see <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Winfrey<</if>> motion for us to come. “You take the left,” Syd says, slipping out the room with me right behind her. She nods and we both dash forward, blades at the ready as we rush towards BB’s unaware figure. When BB finally notices us, it’s too late. Sydero rams into BB’s side and I grab <<if $cp>>Chris, yanking him<<else>>Winfrey, yanking her<</if>> backward across the concrete. It cries as Sydero slams her pistol down on its head constantly, its eyes on <<if $cp>>Chris’s<<else>>Winfrey’s<</if>> figure as the light begins to fade out. “No!” <<if $cp>>he<<else>>she<</if>> suddenly cries and lurches forward. “Keep <<if $cp>>him<<else>>her<</if>> back,” Sydero orders, giving BB one last knock upside the head before murmuring some words. I tighten my arms around <<if $cp>>Chris as he<<else>>Winfrey as she<</if>> struggles pathetically against me. <<if $cp>>\ “You’re hurting it!” Chris cries, turning to push me but I don’t budge. <<if $flirt_Chris>>\ [[Hug him tightly.][$CRomance +=1]] <</if>>\ [[Slam him to the ground.][$pacifist -=2]] [[Keep a tight grip on him.][$pacifist +=2]] <<else>>\ [[Slam her to the ground.]] [[Hug Winfrey.]] <</if>>\

I go to Chris’s side, bending over and yanking Chris up to his feet. “Alright, this is how this is going to go. We’re going to let you go back to BB.” I suppose he still has an ounce of humanity inside of him, seeing the distrust in his eyes. “We’re doing what?” Sydero asks, bewildered brow raised as she looks at Bradley who is the same amount of confused. “You heard me. If Chris wants to go so bad, then I say we let him go. I’m tired of fighting for someone who doesn’t want to fight for himself.” The real Chris would take this as a challenge, or at least take offense to it. But this one just seems joyful, which I suppose is still a good thing. The real Chris would’ve easily known that I was lying. “Get out of my face,” I sigh, releasing him. He immediately rushes to the door, checking to see if Bradley or Sydero will follow. They don’t move, staring at him as he practically sprints to BB. I stand in the doorway watching them when Sydero comes by my side, watching them as well. BB is angled so that most of its back is towards us. And luckily, its hulking figure blocks Chris’s view. <a data-passage="BB5_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I go to Winfrey’s side, bending over and yanking her to her feet. “Hey, easy there, $name,” Bradley says, taking a step towards me. I ignore him, “alright, this is how this is going to go. We’re going to let you go back to BB.” I suppose she still has an ounce of humanity inside of her, seeing her eyes light up in fear and revulsion. “Whoa, we’re doing what?” Sydero asks, bewildered and brow raised as she looks to Bradley who is the same amount of confused. “You heard me. If she wants to go so bad, then I say we let her go. I’m tired of fighting for someone who doesn’t want to fight for herself.” “Get out of my face,” I sigh, releasing her. She stays where she is, trying to prove me wrong but her instincts overwhelm her. She rushes to the door, checking to see if Bradley or Sydero will follow. They don’t move, staring at her as she practically sprints to BB. I stand in the doorway watching them when Sydero comes by my side, watching them as well. BB was angled so that most of its back was pointed towards us. And luckily, its hulking figure blocked Winfrey’s view. <a data-passage="BB5_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $combat >=10>>\ “Plant your dagger somewhere and get <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Winfrey<</if>> out of there, I’ll do the rest before the damn thing bleeds out,” Sydero directs, handing me my blade. I take it and gather up my speed, sprinting as quickly and quietly as I can towards BB’s great frame. I do exactly as she says once there, plunging my blade into BB’s neck and then grabbing <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Winfrey<</if>>. I hear BB roar behind me but turn just in time to see Sydero ram into BB’s side. It cries as Sydero slams her pistol down on its head constantly, its eyes on <<if $cp>>Chris’s<<else>>Winfrey’s<</if>> figure as the light begins to fade out. <<else>>\ “Let me take the lead, I’ll handle BB, just get <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Winfrey<</if>> out of there,” Sydero directs. I nod, giving her more room. She takes off in a blindingly fast sprint, and once upon BB, plunges her dagger into its neck. I do exactly as she says once I make it to <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Winfrey<</if>>, grabbing him and putting distance between us and the beast. It cries as Sydero slams her pistol down on its head constantly, its eyes on <<if $cp>>Chris’s<<else>>Winfrey’s<</if>> figure as the light begins to fade out. <</if>>\ “You liar!” <<if $cp>>he<<else>>she<</if>> screams, trying to fight me but putting up a weak fight. “Keep <<if $cp>>him<<else>>her<</if>> back,” Sydero orders, giving BB one last knock upside the head before murmuring some words. I tighten my arms around <<if $cp>>Chris as he<<else>>Winfrey as she<</if>> struggles pathetically against me. “You’re hurting it!” <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Winfrey<</if>> cries, turning to push me but I don’t budge. <<if $cp>>\ <<if $flirt_Chris>>\ [[Hug him tightly.][$CRomance +=1]] <</if>>\ [[Slam him to the ground.][$pacifist -=2]] [[Keep a tight grip on him.][$pacifist +=2]] <<else>>\ [[Slam her to the ground.][$pacifist -=2]] [[Hug Winfrey.][$pacifist +=2]] <</if>>\

I wrap my arms around him and hug him tightly, burrowing my face in the crook of his neck as he continues to cry out. “I’m sorry,” I tell him, hearing BB’s whimpering nearby, but I have a feeling that BB isn’t concerned with its own welfare, but another’s. I feel arms wrap around me and at first, I believe Chris is going to try something else. I only calm down when he turns in his spot, pressing his face into my chest as BB’s moans fade out. <<include "BB5_2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> I resituate myself and lean all of my weight onto Chris, somehow managing to slam him to the ground and then sit on him. His growls go from human to animalistic, clawing at the ground as he reaches his hand out towards BB. BB’s eyes slowly close, and its moans slowly fade out. <<include "BB5_2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> I tighten my grip as much as I can, keeping him in place as Sydero does whatever she needs to do. In a handful of seconds, she removes her hand and nods at me, bringing her pistol down over BB’s head for the final time. <<include "BB5_2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> “Chill out, Chris,” I yell, grabbing his shoulders and forcing them to the ground as hard as possible, “look at me. Come on, it’s me, Chris. This isn’t you, we’re just trying to help you.” He calms down slightly, still thrashing every now and then. <<include "BB5_2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ I knock him out with one well-placed punch. He was definitely going to give me hell when he wakes up later. As a precaution, I remain on top of Chris, fearing that he’ll wake up before Sydero can finish whatever the spell/ritual called for. <<include "BB5_2">> <<else>>\ I knock her out with one well-placed punch. As a precaution, I remain on top of her, fearing that she’ll wake up before Sydero can finish whatever the spell/ritual called for. <<include "BB5_6">> <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> I resituate myself and lean all of my weight onto Winfrey, somehow managing to slam her to the ground and then sit on her. Her growls go from human to animalistic, clawing at the ground as she reaches her hand out towards BB. BB’s eyes slowly close and its moans, slowly fade out. <<include "BB5_6">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> I tighten my grip as much as I can, keeping her from looking at what Sydero has to do to subdue BB. “I’m sorry, I know,” I say, hoping my voice calms her back down, “just don’t look.” She hugs me tightly. <<include "BB5_6">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> “Chill out, Winfrey,” I yell, grabbing her shoulders and forcing her to the ground as hard as possible, “we’re just trying to help you.” She calms down slightly, still thrashing every now and then. <<include "BB5_6">>

“Roe, hold her down, I’ll be right back.” Sydero dashes inside, sending Bradley out to me with a bowl in his hands. He freezes when he sees Winfrey’s figure underneath me, struggling and eyes red from crying so much. His eyes then go to BB’s body, its breathing highly labored as it takes its last breaths. I’m aware of what those blue eyes are focused on. Not on Winfrey, but me. Its eyes stare straight at me, perhaps wanting me to look at where my choices have led. “Do it to save a life,” I hear Bradley murmur, grabbing his own knife and cutting into BB’s side, blood pours out, and he catches some of it in the bowl, approaching me. He shivers slightly but steels himself, “I need some blood from Winfrey next.” I nod, watching as he gets the blood from the infected wound that BB had given her. He sets the bowl down and Sydero comes back out, in her hands is the illuminating blue liquid that I had seen in her bag before. She pours half of the small bottle into the bowl and then mixes it with a spoon. “She has to drink this.” She hands the bowl to me, “quick, before BB is dead.” Bradley helps lift her head up, and I force the bowl’s contents into her mouth and force her to swallow. Winfrey’s body begins to convulse quickly when suddenly she stops. Growing entirely still. I reach forward, mostly to see if she’s still alive, when she suddenly rolls over onto her stomach, vomiting onto the ground. “You back with us, Winfrey?” I inquire. She breathes harshly, spitting before looking up at me, “what happened?” <a data-passage="BB6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> <<if $cp>>\ I round the corner of my car, sitting beside Chris as he gulps down the water in his grasp. The park rests before us, not yet lively but filled with morning joggers and dog walkers. The dogs yip at their owners, looking a lot freer than they did yesterday. The area is in peace, and the only threat to that peace is our two companion’s bickering off to the side, still leaning on borrowed shovels from some random person’s shed. “How are you feeling?” I ask, looking him over. He glances down at the water in his hands. “I don’t remember anything. The last thing I recall is us coming here to talk to some folks about the beast. After that, everything gets hazy with random images flashing but not enough to piece them together.” <<if hasVisited("BB2_1Chris")>>So he wouldn’t remember what he said and did in the motel. I’m not surprised, nor should I be disappointed, but here I am.<</if>> “But it’s not what I remember. It’s what I feel.” “Which is?” “I feel horrible. I don’t remember what happened, but I can still feel the pain that the beast felt every time you guys struck it. I felt like I was watching my own parent die in front of me. I know it had to do with whatever it did to me, but, there’s still a piece of me that’s overwhelmingly sad about it being dead. It really feels like there’s a hole in my heart and I hate it. But I keep wondering, why me? It could’ve scratched anyone, why did it choose to scratch me?” [[“It’s over now, try and move on.”][$serious +=3; $chris -=5]] [[“It saw a dummy and took advantage.”][$serious -=3]] [[“Do you feel anything lingering?”]] <<else>>\ I nod to the nurse as I enter Winfrey’s room, her parents off to the side speaking to a police officer. I’ll have to make this quick. “How are you holding up?” I question. “Good, I think. I remember some of the stuff that happened, but there are some holes too.” “Probably due to when you were going feral and weren’t yourself.” “Yea, I can’t believe I was playing house with the thing that killed my dog. What was it you guys called it?” “A cryptid,” I glance over at her parents, “what did you tell them?” “That I went out trying to kill whatever killed Jessie and ended up being jumped by someone. Never saw their faces. I told them that Bradley and Sydero found me since you told me that you weren’t ‘there.’” She gives me a questioning look, but I ignore it. The less she knows, the better. “You know, the weirdest thing isn’t that I don’t remember much, only what I remember feeling.” “Which is?” “I can still feel the pain that the beast felt every time you guys struck it. I felt like I was watching my own parent die in front of me. I know it had to do with whatever it did to me, but, there’s still a piece of me that’s really sad about it being dead. I keep wondering, why me? It could’ve scratched anyone, why did it choose to scratch me?” [[“It’s over now, try and move on.”][$serious +=3]] [[“It saw an opportunity and took it.”]] [[“Do you feel anything lingering?”]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Serious ++<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “It’s over now. Just try and move on.” “Bullshit,” Chris groans, giving me a knowing look, “I was almost turned into some creature. I might’ve even died, and you want to just try and move on? We both know that this is going to stick with me for a long time.” “It won’t if you try to get over it.” “You get over a girlfriend dumping you, $name. You don’t just get over ... whatever this is.” The two of us fall silent, neither wanting to continue the conversation. <<else>>\ “It’s over now,” I tell her, resting a reassuring hand on her shoulder, “try and move on.” “That thing killed my best friend and almost had me, I don’t think it’s that easy to just move on.” She’s right, but there is little else I can say to help her feel better. I pat her shoulder and say my goodbyes, quickly leaving before the police take an interest in me. <</if>>\ <<include "BB6_1">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Comical ++<</if>> “Easy, it saw a dummy and took advantage. Guess it wasn’t prepared for the dummy to have intelligent friends,” I grin widely. “Just say Bradley. He’s the only intelligent friend I have,” Chris teases back, smirking but the smirk disappears a moment later. <<include "BB6_1">>

“It saw an opportunity and took it, that’s it.” I say the words with confidence that I don’t have. I have no idea why BB chose her. If it’s because she was the closest thing or if there’s something else. I doubt I will ever find out, and it doesn’t matter. She’s safe, and BB’s dead. I pat her shoulder and say my goodbyes, quickly turning to leave before the police take an interest in me. <<include "BB6_1">>

“Do you feel any lingering side effects? Besides feeling emotionally drained?” <<if $cp>>\ “No,” he answers, readjusting himself, “I feel emotionally and physically drained, like something zapped me or stole all my energy. But that’s it.” <<else>>\ “No,” she answers, readjusting herself, “I only feel emotionally and physically drained, like something zapped me or stole all my energy. But that’s it.” I pat her shoulder and say my goodbyes, quickly turning to leave before the police take an interest in me. <</if>>\ <<include "BB6_1">>

“So,” I start, “you don’t remember anything? Nothing that happened?” <<if hasVisited("BBKO") or hasVisited("BBKO2")>>\ <<if $cp>>\ “Naw. Like I said, there are some images but not much else. But ... I do remember getting knocked out a couple times ... did you knock me out, $name?” “What? Huh, I would never,” I chuckle, avoiding Chris’s stern gaze, “come on, we need to go, because you, my friend, need a shower.” “No, answer the question, $name. Did you knock me out?” Chris asks, getting up and going to the other side, Syd and Bradley coming over. “Syd did it.” “No she didn’t, because she’s not claiming it right now,” he tells me, and I shut my mouth with a smile. <<else>>\ “Hey, hold up,” Winfrey says, raising a curious and accusing brow, “I do remember getting knocked out ... did you knock me out?” “Sydero did it,” I say with a straight face and she nods her head in realization. <</if>>\ <<elseif $cp>>\ “Naw. Like I said, there are some images but not much else.” Before I can say anything more, Syd and Bradley join us. <<else>>\ I quicken my pace, remembering the last time I was in a hospital and the consequences of choosing such a path. Seems like an event that happened so long ago, let alone in the same month. I find Bradley and Sydero leaning on my car, speaking in low voices. Sydero is the first to notice me and perks up, ending whatever conversation she was having with the kid. “So, she’s okay?” I nod, “yea, from what I see she’s going to be fine. I doubt she’ll forget what happened, but it’s better than being dead or whatever BB was.” <</if>>\ “We should get back to the motel, and then head to the café. This one wants to say goodbye to Hillary,” Syd tells me, nudging Bradley. <<if $BradHill>>\ “Oh is that true?” I smirk, going towards the driver’s side of the car. “Can you both just get in the car,” he questions. Syd chuckles, “why? You got some place to be?” He lightly punches her and gets in. I get in as well, driving off. <<else>>\ I nod, getting in and waiting for everyone to get ready before driving off. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="BB6_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The café’s vibes are starkly different to the ones that I’ve felt since I left here the other day. Sitting in one place, after the night we had, just seems off. I half expect to hear a roar. Absentmindedly, I tap the side of my hip where my blade holster is, calming down when I feel it there. “Your beverage,” the barista states, sliding me my receipt and beverage. I thank her and turn to look at my surroundings. [[Take a seat next to Sydero.]] [[Check in on Bradley and Hillary.]] <<if $cp>>[[Join Chris in the other line.]]<</if>>

I sit across from Sydero, not surprised when I realize that the table she chose has a perfect view of the entire café and all of its customers. “Well, it’s finally over. We saved everyone, and we were able to end the reign of BB,” I tell her, holding my cup up for her to toast it. She looks at it and then at me, her mind obviously elsewhere. “That should make me feel better, but we still don’t have time to relax,” she tells me, “we haven’t heard from Raum in a while.” “Maybe because we’ve been hiding out. Isn’t that the whole point of hiding? Not being found?” She taps the table anxiously, “but we have heard nothing. I don’t like this. We have to watch our backs because of the cops, and also because of Raum. Who's to say that whoever hired Raum won’t hire more?” [[“You can’t always be ahead, Syd.”][$sydero -=3]] [[“We’ll learn, in time.”][$sydero -=3]] [[“You don’t know how to relax, do you?”][$sydero +=3]]

“Reality check, Syd. You can’t always be ahead,” I tell her. She sets her cup down, staring at me, unamused, “I’d be damned if I can’t. Either I’m ahead, or everyone else is, and that doesn’t fly with me.” “For someone who hates plans and thinking ahead, you sure do it a lot.” <<include "BB6_3">>

“We’ll learn,” I tell her and take a long sip of my drink, “in time.” “Oh thanks, Ol’ Wise One, for the useless words,” she snorts, “we either learn now, or we’re going to be horribly blindsided by them, and I don’t do blindsides ... unless I’m the one doing them.” I continue to sip my drink, silence setting in as we both gaze out at the busy café. <<include "BB6_3">>

“You don’t know how to relax, do you?” “What is this thing you call relaxing?” she asks in a joking manner, smirking. The smirk disappears, and she takes a long sip from the coffee in her hands. She growls in disgust but takes another sip. <<include "BB6_3">>

“I just don’t like how our odds are beginning to look,” she tells me impatiently. “What does that mean?” “A feeling is all.” It doesn’t take long for me to figure out that she’s leaving out information like always. She taps the table and motions for me to come on, I suppose she is ready to leave. I follow behind her, calling out to Bradley<<if $cp>> and Chris.<<else>>.<</if>> <a data-passage="BB7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I walk over to the teens that are sitting in front of their open laptops, uneaten bagels resting on the table, waiting to be devoured. “Wow, so it wasn’t werewolves at all but some cryptid beast?” Hillary asks, though it sounds more like a statement, “and you do stuff like this all the time?” Bradley clears his throat, sitting further up in his seat, “yea, I’m like a monster hunter. It’s a dangerous job, but someone has to do it.” [[“The most dangerous thing you face is fingers cramping up.”][$bradley -=5]] [[“Agreed, Bradley’s one of the best hunters I know.”][$bradley +=5]] [[Say nothing.|BBSayNothing2]]

I snort, sending bubbles over the surface of my drink. Both teens look up, finally noticing me, “seriously, Bradley? The most dangerous thing you face is your fingers cramping up from typing.” Hillary giggles while Bradley turns three shades of the brightest red I’ve ever seen. “Hacking is a lot of work too,” he squeaks out, clearing his throat and changing the conversation. <<include "BB6_4">>

“I couldn’t agree more, and this kid,” I say, pointing at Bradley, “is one of the best hunters I know.” I leave out the part that he’s the only one I know, seeing that Sydero is a specialist, but she doesn’t need to know that. Bradley gives me a thankful smile and beams at Hillary who gazes at him in admiration. <<include "BB6_4">>

I don’t say anything, just placing my drink on the table as Bradley tries to seem humble but boost himself up at the same time. <<include "BB6_4">>

“So, I guess you’ll be leaving soon?” Hillary questions, playing with her fingers. “Yea, I just want you to know that it was amazing to meet you. Like, you’re always the real MVP when we game and, I mean it’s an honor to finally meet the gamer behind the tag.” Bradley fights his blush, rubbing his arm as he stacks compliment after compliment. “Yea, well you’re the MVP in real life. Taking on things that no one even knows exist.” “Heading out,” Sydero sings, looking towards us <<if $cp>>since Chris is already at her side.<<else>>before she walks out of the café.<</if>> <<if $BradHill>>\ “I guess this is goodbye,” Bradley states, standing and offering his hand to Hillary. She leans in and places a cute, chaste kiss to his cheek, both of them blushing furiously. “Don’t you dare die out there. I need MasterRadBrad69 on my future squad missions.” Bradley nods his head, promising her as he leads us away from her table. “Aww, you guys are adorable, but I must ask. MasterRadBrad69?” I smirk. Bradley is still waving goodbye to Hillary when he turns to me, “what do you want me to say? I was twelve, on my own, and they don’t let you change your gamertag. You speak to no one about this.” <<else>>\ “I guess this is goodbye,” Bradley states, standing and offering his hand to Hillary. She takes and shakes it, “I guess it is. It was nice meeting you, MasterRadBrad69. See you on our next deployment?” “Of course,” Bradley waves her away as we head towards the door. “Seriously? MasterRadBrad69?” I smirk. Bradley sighs sadly as he turns away from Hillary and to me, “what do you want me to say? I was twelve, on my own, and they don’t let you change your gamertag. You speak to no one about this.” <</if>>\ <<if $serious >=50>>\ “Of course,” I chuckle, both of us walking out of the café and towards the car. <<else>>\ “Whatever you say, MasterRadBrad69,” I smirk, earning a punch from Bradley as he grumbles and leaves the café with me right behind him. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="BB7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

With my beverage in hand, I head to the second line and join Chris who is standing in the back. He nods at me, his eyes going back to the menu. “You have no idea how hungry I am,” he tells me. “I can imagine, you were going to eat a pile of hearts, so yea. I imagine you’re pretty hungry.” I see him stiffen, glancing over at me before putting on a ingenuine smile, “I think I’m going to order every pastry they have now.” I let out a chuckle that matches the tone of his smile, taking a long sip of my drink as we wait for the line to move forward. “By the way, how did you guys figure out what to do to change me back?” “Bradley came up with it really, telling Sydero to do some empathy spell so that she could learn what was motivating BB and what BB didn’t want us to do.” “And somehow BB was intelligent enough to give her the answer?” I didn’t have the answer he was looking for, especially since I didn’t really understand it myself. “I guess so. I just know it worked. But, she did use that weird glowing blue stuff to change you. Are you sure you don’t feel weird?” “Besides being hungry? Nope, I feel like I did yesterday morning.” I nod, turning when I hear Sydero call our names. She points to the car, Bradley, and Hillary leaving behind her. Chris orders and grabs his food before we leave. By the time we get to the car, Sydero and Bradley are both inside. <<if $afterhim is false>>\ “So, how’d you get BB’s body from the motel to the forest?” “Ugh, don’t ask,” I growl, especially since I had to sit in the back with the enormous corpse. “We were lucky it was so early, and no one was out. Otherwise, we would be getting swamped with questions.” <<if $car is "Ford F-150">>\ “Good thing you have a Ford, huh? That bed finally coming in handy.” I nod my head in agreement. Any other car, and I would’ve probably lost my mind. <<elseif $car is "Dodge Challenger">>\ “That thing fit in your Challenger?” “Can we not talk about it? I’m going to have nightmares for my car. It didn’t deserve that fate.” Chris laughs as we walk out. <<elseif $car is "Honda Civic">>\ “That thing fit in your Honda?” “Can we not talk about it? I’m going to have nightmares for my car. It didn’t deserve that fate.” Chris laughs as we walk out. <<else>>\ “How did your jeep do?” “You know my jeep, it can handle anything you throw at it, including some ridiculously huge corpse of a creature that shouldn’t exist.” <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <a data-passage="BB7"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“So, where to next?” I question, moving to the left when Bradley leans forward, propping himself up on the armrest console. “I got wind of another job,” he sings, unphased by the looks that we all give him. No one disagrees, mostly since none of us have a better idea, and I certainly don’t want to head back to the safehouse. “Alright, send me the coordinates,” I put my car in drive and peel out into the street, leaving the town of Bladenboro behind us. <<if $cp>>\ “Oh, one more thing,” Bradley begins, “I asked Hillary and she agreed with me, grapes would totally win in a fruit fight.” <</if>>\ <a data-passage="EP7NT"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/nexttime.png"> <img src="images/divider.png"> “Please tell me this is my bed,” I hear Sydero say, jerking in my spot to see her resting nearby, or who I think is her. Voice-wise, it’s her, no doubt. But appearance is another thing entirely. <img src="images/divider.png"> “You were right, we’re in my book. The one I was reading before all of this happened.” “I’m sure that should make me feel better, but it doesn’t,” Sydero sighs, “we know where we are but not why, how, or anything –” <img src="images/divider.png"> She shakes her head, “no. What I feel is not that. This spirit is not the same.” I take a deep breath in and out, for the first time ever, I wish for the Entity to speak. But of course, the one time I need it, they don’t. The Entity … wasn’t the Entity? <img src="images/divider.png"> “$name,” I hear the Entity speak, his voice on the edge of my consciousness, sounding uncharacteristically calm, “she has the power to kill you. Let me help.” The tendril holds me in place as she glares at me in the face, “you will pay.” The tendril squeezes. Though it is merely a tendril, I can feel it prickling my skin. “$name!” the Entity shouts, “just let me take control. Don’t let your pride kill you.” I’m slipping, I can feel that much, and staring into her eyes, I know that no sympathy rests within them. [[Episode Eight: For the Crown]]

<>\ <<set $nogroceries to false; $uncaring = false; $silence to 0>> <<unset $wrongname, $leftwork, $morgancuddle, $morgannight, $break>> <<playlist "ambience" loop play>> <> <img src="images/epsix.png"> <img src="images/actone.png"> The doors of the abandoned house are thrown open, the knob thudding up against the wall, causing the noise to echo through the entire house. It’s another safehouse of Syd’s, though I still have trouble believing it. The house in question is nestled in a large clearing in the woods. The white vertical boards making up the exterior part of the house aren’t completely clean, but I at least can tell that they are white. Some have minimum damage, and others look as if they’re still being maintained. The house sits upon a multicolored stone foundation, and the porch railings go around the majority of the house. I expect the inside to look worse but find myself pleasantly surprised. It isn’t the most attractive home, but it’s nothing like Sydero’s other safehouses. A few dirty furniture pieces decorate the rooms, and the walls show no sign of wear. The same can’t be said about the floor, and though I would never walk around bare-footed, I’d sit on the ground without fear. “This doesn’t look half bad,” <<if $cp>>Chris points out, trailing his hand down the wall and showing me his clean fingers.<<else>>I point out, trailing my hand down the wall and finding them clean save for a bit of dust.<</if>> “This is my main safehouse, that’s the only reason it doesn’t look like shit,” Sydero grumbles, heading towards a tipped over lamp and righting it. “Thoughts on the electricity, Bradley?” I look for the kid, finding him to the side, busy on his computer. “I can try to check the meter boxes. If not, I can try and see what I can do based on what’s in the area. If I can’t pull electricity in from somewhere else, we might be out of luck. It might take me a while too. I’ll have to get to it after finishing my current project.” I raise a brow, “what’s your current project?” “I’m trying to see if I can make your college debt disappear,” he smirks, fluttering his fingers in the air as he says it. <<if $cp>>\ “Bradley, have I ever told you how much I love you?” Chris questions, wiping away an imaginary tear. “No, but feel free to rain praise down upon me on a more daily basis.” <</if>>\ <a data-passage="ER1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I clear my throat, “so what do we do now?” “We stay off the radar until I can figure out how to solve our biggest issue, your warrant,” Sydero answers, picking up a throw pillow and hitting it against the wall violently. Dust immediately flees the pillow, escaping to the air. “Also, Raum keeps finding us, and I would like to know how.” “Not another cleansing,” I whimper, but she doesn’t answer. I doubt she even hears me, her eyes focused on the sofa in front of her. She stays like this for a while, suddenly perking up and placing her eyes back on us, “there are three rooms, pick one and get some sleep.” Abruptly, she throws the pillow at <<if $cp>>an unprepared Chris. It slaps him upside the head, and by the time he’s ready to hurl an insult at her, she’s already upstairs.<<else>>me. <<if $perception >=10>>Fully aware of the pillow heading towards me, I skillfully catch it, bowing playfully at Bradley’s clapping. I look back towards her but find only her retreating figure heading upstairs.<<else>>I’m unprepared for the pillow flying towards me, and it slaps me upside the face. By the time I’m ready to hurl an insult at her, she disappears upstairs.<</if>><</if>> “Is there an off button on her being an asshole or is that her permanent setting?” <<if $cp>>he questions. I snicker but Bradley’s frown is set in place.<<else>>I question, looking to see Bradley frowning.<</if>> At first, I think it’s only because he’s focused on his task, but I see his eyes darting from one corner of the room to the other. His eyes meet mine, feeling the weight of them I suppose. He clears his throat and goes back to typing. The sun is still out, and my curiosity is piqued in regards to this new place. [[Explore the house.]] [[Explore the surrounding area.]] [[Nevermind, I’m going to bed.|ER2]]

I decide to explore the house, especially since three rooms are waiting to be claimed. I want the cleanest one or whichever one has the best bed. I deserve it. I place choosing a room on the back burner for now, wandering into the kitchen. Sydero’s words concerning this being her main safehouse is starting to make sense. A small round table sits in the middle of the room with a dead flower sitting in a dirty vase. A house’s common appliances rest along the far wall, each covered with dust and dirt but otherwise seem fully functional. There’s no food in the refrigerator, and I’m shocked to find that the inside is relatively clean besides a few splotches of mold, nothing a simple spray of bleach wouldn’t clean up. There is food in the cabinets though, cans and jars of non-perishable items. I leave the kitchen and go to the first room I find on the bottom level. The room is large and barely decorated. It contains a table pushed up against the far wall and a bed on the wall closest to the door. There’re no sheets on the bed, just a stained mattress. Despite the appearance, the mattress is relatively soft. I had a blanket that I could cover it with and could use my bag or mounds of clothes as a pillow if need be. I venture to the other rooms, finding that the setup for each was pretty much the same. I claim the second room that I saw. It was the cleanest room out of the three. After declaring the room mine, I check out the bathroom, and then the spare room upstairs. It’s the most decorated room I’ve seen so far, but I couldn’t officially admire it due to Sydero. She sits near the window, appearing as if she was meditating. I’m about to walk into the room when the door suddenly closes, almost slamming me in the face. The message was loud and clear, and I turn to walk away. <a data-passage="ER2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I head out towards the woods, finding that I spend quite a lot of time in them. By the end of the year, I’ll be able to name the individual trees that I come across. The thought gets my mind off of the real issues at hand though, but that was the thing, there was always issues. For just once I wish to relax. And not for a couple of minutes, for much longer. To go to sleep and then wake up the next day knowing I had nothing to worry about. I walk further, keeping my eye on the direction of the house. Unlike the other two forests that have embedded themselves in my mind, this forest is lively. Deer graze ahead of me, unbothered by my presence. Squirrels dash across the forest ground, fighting for the acorn that one has and the other wishes to possess. Birds chirp from their nests, calling for their mate to return. This was perhaps the type of house where you sat on the porch and listened to grasshoppers as fireflies dance before you. Other than trees, plants, and bushes, I find a well behind the house along with three clothing lines. I also find Bradley typing away on his computer on the back porch. [[“I don’t think that’s what they mean when they say get some air.”][$bradley -=3]] [[“Needed a change in scenery?”][$bradley +=3]] [[“How’s the project going?”]]

“I don’t think that’s what they mean when they say get some air,” I tell Bradley upon approach, glancing down at the laptop. His eyes follow mine, and he pouts, causing him to look even younger than normal. “I didn’t come out here to take a break, I don’t take breaks,” he tells me matter-of-factly, he moves his laptop off of his lap and surveys the back of the house, going back to his laptop once he's done. <<include "ER1_1">>

“Needed a change in scenery I’m guessing,” I deduce, motioning to the view around us. “Kinda. I needed to see the back of the house.” As he tells me this, he moves his laptop off of his lap and surveys the back of the house, going back to his laptop once he's done. <<include "ER1_1">>

“So, how’s the project going?” I question. “I had to put it on pause, I hit a snag, and I have no idea how to fix it. I need a library. Seeing that that’s not going to happen anytime soon, I moved to a different project.” As he tells me this, he moves his laptop off of his lap and surveys the back of the house, going back to it before thirty seconds is even up. <<include "ER1_1">>

“What are you doing?” “Trying to figure out all the outs and ins of the house, it helps when figuring out how power is set up. Plus, I like knowing all of my exits.” I agree, and for a moment my mind flees to the face he had made before. [[Ask him.]] [[Keep it to yourself.]]

“Hey Bradley,” I start, clearing my throat. He looks up from typing for a second, his fingers hovering over the appropriate keys as he waits for me to finish. “That face you gave earlier, when <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>I<</if>> was talking about Sydero? Why’d you make it?” “Oh no, you’re not about to use me as the middleman,” he exclaims, attempting to hide behind his laptop. “I’m just curious.” “<<if $break>>There’s still some tension between the two of you.<<else>>You guys are still feuding.<</if>> I’m not saying anything.” He closes his laptop and heads back inside, unaware that not saying anything actually spoke volumes. He immediately thought the worst, when he could have easily said he didn’t know what I was talking about. There was a number of excuses he could’ve used, and he chose neither, immediately bringing up the feud. Something happened, or he knew something, and he was refusing to say. <<include "ER2">>

I decided to keep the question to myself, knowing Bradley wouldn’t answer. For all I know he was concentrating on something else, and that was the origins of the face. Regardless of the reasoning, I neither question nor attempt to decipher it further. I sit on the porch and listen to his fingers racing across the keyboard, the birds in the distance adding to the ambiance. <<include "ER2">>

A yawn escapes me. The perfect signal for me to go ahead and retire for the day. I grab my bags and <<if hasVisited("Explore the house.")>>head to the room that I had previously chosen.<<else>>pick a room, the cleanest room that I can find. The mattress is stained but otherwise quite nice, softer than even the motel’s mattress.<</if>> At first, I’m unable to sleep. A problem I was seeing more of with each passing night. I was starting to feel like a drifting spirit, watching myself from across the room and feeling some sort of pity for the restless figure. Most nights insomnia became my only companion, but this night was different. The walls seem to close in on me, and the darkness creeps forward. Feelings that I haven’t felt since I was a child cause me to glance from one side of the room to the other. Despite the heat, I shiver profusely. Movement in the corner catches my eye, and my eyes wander to the corner in question. I see a figure, but once my eyes have focused, nothing rests there. An uncomfortable pit opens in my mind, spitting out nightmarish ideas about what could exist in this house. The only reason such thoughts don’t keep me up is because exhaustion takes over, my body still trying to catch up on much-needed rest. My senses begin to dim, and I can no longer fight the struggle of keeping my eyes open. As everything slows, I swear I hear someone whisper goodnight to me. The next morning I’m woken up by the light streaming into my room, nothing else. Checking the time, I find that it’s eleven o’clock and – my phone is charging. My phone was charging! I jump out of bed and hit the lights, watching as one of the bulbs immediately blow out, but the other is on. Excitement at the possibilities come to mind. [[Go take a shower.]] [[Flip the light switch on and off.]] <<if $uncledead is false>>\ [[Call my uncle.]] <</if>>\ [[Go eat something.]]

I need a shower, something that I was able to take frequently and didn’t want to stop. The bathroom wasn’t attractive, in fact, it was downright disgusting which is why I refuse to get in barefoot. Perhaps there was a store nearby, we could go grab some items to improve living conditions here. I take a long warm shower, getting out and heading towards the kitchen, hoping to run into the others. <<include "ER3">>

I smirk as I flip the light switch off and then back on. I do this numerous times, behaving as a caveman would when they first discovered the wonders of fire. Perhaps I even mirrored their excitement, glancing from the light switch to the overhead light as if some sort of god. The action gets boring rather quickly, though my smile never wavers due to my childishness and the fact that we now had light. After growing bored, I head towards the kitchen, hoping to run into the others. <<include "ER3">>

I’ve meant to do so, and Bradley has said tons of times that he encrypted the phones to be almost non-traceable. Hopefully, my uncle would pick up, he never liked picking up calls from unknown numbers. "Hello?" my uncle asks in a skeptical tone. "Uncle Matheus!" I say, pure joy in my tone at the sound of his voice. "Well damn, $name, is that you?" "Yea, it's me. Make sure you save this number by the way." "Forget the number, how are you? I thought you were dead or something! Do you know that you're wanted by the cops? They came by to question me about where you're at. They have literally been stalking me. As if me saying no is just me really saying, 'yea, follow me around to see if ?he will magically appear.'" "Have you been threatened at all?" "No. I've been at home for a while. But who gives a crap? How are you? What's going on? What have you been up to?" <<if $uncleknows>>\ I go ahead and fill in my uncle as best as I can, recounting everything that comes to mind. It was a good thing that I had already told him about the supernatural, it made narrating that much easier. I didn't have to pause and hastily change part of the story. <<else>>\ I go ahead and fill in my uncle as best as I can, having to go slow since he didn't know about the supernatural. I change some things around and entirely leave out other parts, like the faeries. <</if>>\ Once I've told him everything, he changes the subject, speaking about other things before I have to say goodbye. Being on the phone with him too long is probably unwise anyway. I promise to text or call and say my farewell. Once I'm off the phone, I head downstairs and towards the kitchen. Hopefully, I would run into the others. <a data-passage="ER3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

After getting over that we now had electricity, I prepare myself and head towards the kitchen. Hopefully, I would run into the others. <<include "ER3">>

Sydero is leaning up against a wall, her attention on the fruit bar resting in her hands. Bradley, on the other hand, sits at the table with an untouched granola bar close by. His attention is on his laptop, and three open energy drinks rest nearby. “Two energy drinks already?” I question in shock; the kid could outdo some college students I know. “Naw, two were drunk last night. I have to drink smart, or I’ll run out quickly,” Bradley tells me, but I was stuck on his first group of words. He drank two of these last night. Sydero must have seen the look on my face because she clears her throat. “Bradley didn’t sleep last night.” “I never sleep. All-day Insomnia Squad!” he shouts, both fists shooting to the sky. “What were you doing then?” I ask, guessing the answer. “You’ve seen the electricity? All me, baby. I was up-all-night hacking into the power, and the meters of the nearest building, which thank god is a large building. I was able to redirect some of it here and so here we are. I introduced them to some malware that should be quiet enough to be overlooked, they’ll never know as long as we don’t try to throw some electricity party.” Well, I was impressed. <<if hasVisited("Go take a shower.")>>\ “Well, my body thanks you. That shower was the best thing to ever happen to me,” I say, nodding at him with a wide smile. “Our noses thank you as well,” Sydero jokes, grinning widely at the glare I send her. <</if>>\ I look over our food options, deciding on ... [[Peanut butter.|ER3_1]] [[Dry cereal.|ER3_1]] [[Granola bar.|ER3_1]] [[Fruit bar.|ER3_1]] [[Energy drink.|ER3_1]] [[Grab nothing.|ER3_1]]

<<if $cp>>\ <<if $jealouschris>>\ Chris enters a few minutes after, mumbling a good morning to me though he gives everyone else a warm and loud greeting. I watch him with a tinge of anger seeping in, Sydero walking up to me. “Did I miss something?” she asks, a wide smirk on her face. “He’s mad at me,” I mumble, trying not to look bothered by it. I know why he was upset, though I thought he would have let it go by now. Especially upon remembering the fate that Morgan was dealt. “You guys are just adorable,” she snorts, unimpressed, “once you’re done meet me outside. Let’s go smart guy.” Almost like a robot, Bradley stands with his laptop in his hands and follow behind Sydero. I realize far too late what Sydero had just done. I stare at Chris and he at his granola bar. I don’t know what to say, if there was even anything //to// say. I open my mouth numerous times to say something but nothing but wasted air comes out. I end up giving up, not seeing the point of continuing. I leave, going outside to meet up with Sydero, and then waiting for him to join. <<else>>\ Chris enters a few minutes after, greeting us all with a warm good morning. He goes over and grabs a granola bar. “Are you the one to thank for the power?” Chris asks, tousling Bradley’s hair. Bradley finally pauses what he’s doing, turning to try and punch Chris who is too fast, and prepared. Chris takes a wise step back and laughs, sitting across from him. “You’re going to respect me, old man,” Bradley growls. “I do. But I also think I’m going to continue teasing you,” he grins, a mouthful of granola. “You guys are just adorable,” Syd snorts, unimpressed, “once you’re done meet me outside. Let’s go smart guy.” Bradley gives Chris another warning glare before standing and grabbing his laptop. Chris and I make small conversation, both speaking on our excitement that we finally have electricity. After he finishes his granola, we both go outside to meet up with Sydero. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ “Once you’re done meet me outside. Let’s go, smart guy,” Sydero tells me, saying the last part to Bradley. Almost like a robot, Bradley stands with his laptop in his hands and follows behind Sydero. After a few more minutes of preparing myself, I go outside to meet up with Sydero. <</if>>\ Bradley sits on the front porch, hiding under one of the less damaged awnings to avoid the sun. Sydero stands a few feet away, stretching. As I walk towards her, I notice my knife, her blade, and some guns sitting on the ground. “Um, what’s about to happen?” I question in fear. “If you’re going to stick around then you need to know how to fight, I can’t keep saving you,” Sydero tells <<if $cp>>us, finishing the task of wrapping her knuckles. “That includes you, Chris.” She steps forward and hands him a blade, similar to my own.<<else>>me, finishing the task of wrapping her knuckles.<</if>> “Sure, because I’ve always wanted to be slapped across some backyard ring by a supernatural creature,” <<if $cp>>he murmurs, taking it.<<else>>I murmur.<</if>> “Bradley, how about you?” she shouts to the boy who seems to have melded into the darkness, looking five times more mysterious than usual. “Does it look like this wimpish body was made for fighting? I’m the smart one, I don’t do fights.” <<if $combat >=15>>\ “I know how to fight,” I tell her, and she bursts into laughter, calming down with a deep sigh. “Alright, show me.” “What do you mean show you?” Sydero shakes her fingers out and backs a few feet away, getting into a defensive stance, she motions for me to come forward. I do as she says, getting into a defensive position myself. [[Try to recall how Sydero fights.][$daring -=3]] [[Go on the offensive.][$daring +=3]] [[Wait for her to make a move.]] <<else>>\ [[“What type of fighting exactly?”]] [[“And the weapons are for?”][$pacifist +=3]] [[“About time.”][$pacifist -=3]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> Short and choppy images of Sydero fighting come to mind, but nothing concrete. A large percentage of the time, I’m trying not to die when Sydero is fighting so I never really was able to evaluate her. She was fast, that was one thing I recall, and she fights dirty. I suddenly see a blur on the edge of my vision, and I’m too slow to do anything, finding myself on my back and staring up at the clear sky. Sydero’s head comes into my view, and she cocks her head to the side. “What was that? Did you freeze up? Forget your training?” “I was trying to remember your style,” I growl, getting to my feet. “That would be great and all if you didn’t decide to do that in the middle of a fight.” <<include "ER3_1_1">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> I don’t waste any time, moving out of my defensive stance and to offensive. I rush towards her ready to throw a punch. My punch gets far but never connects as she throws her left arm up to block, and then sweep it away. As soon as she sweeps it away, her right fist meets my cheek and then her knee comes up and connects with my gut. I fall to the ground, the pain echoing before subsiding, obviously not Sydero’s top strength. “Nothing wrong with going on the offensive immediately, but only do it if you know you have the advantage.” <<include "ER3_1_1">>

I stay in my defensive stance, waiting for her to make some kind of move. Time passes, and it’s evident that both of us are too stubborn to try and attack first. I see her relax, straightening up as she peers at me. Her eyes are searching for something, but what I can’t answer. Suddenly, she runs towards me, and I prepare to throw my first punch, envisioning all possible moves. As she comes within range, she moves to the other side, forcing me to throw my punch with my non-dominant arm. The sudden blow is weak, and she easily dodges it and grabs my arm, pinning it behind my back as she forces me to my knees. “How’d you come up with that?” I question. As soon as my knee hits the ground, she backs away. “Most of everyone has a dominant side, the side they’re most comfortable with and the side they rely on. Exploit that by forcing them to use their weaker side, and you gain the upper hand.” <<include "ER3_1_1">>

“What type of fighting am I about to learn exactly?” “The type that doesn’t lead to you getting killed.” <<include "ER3_1_1">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> “And the weapons over there are for?” I ask, trailing off so she can complete the sentence. “Hand to hand combat is needed but is the last thing you ever want to advert to. Most of the creatures you’ll fight will have a strength and speed advantage over you. Fighting with weapons that can harm them will give you an edge. The gun alleviates close proximity altogether.” <<include "ER3_1_1">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> “It’s about time,” I huff, smiling and cracking my knuckles. I had it with these supernatural creatures throwing me around as if I weigh nothing. I need to come off as some sort of threat, not just their warmup. <<include "ER3_1_1">>

Sydero stands directly in front of me, “to start, I need you to punch me.” I freeze, cocking my head to the side in curiosity and confusion. “You need me to what?” “First instinct can say a lot about you and what your fighting style is. So, you get a free hit.” Sydero is really allowing me to get a free hit in. Anywhere I like and as hard as I wish for it to be. <<if $pacifist >=50>>\ [[“I’m not about to hit you.”][$fstyle to true]] <<else>>\ [[Immediately hit her.][$fstyle to true]] <</if>>\ [[“Seriously, just ... hit you?”][$fstyle to true]] [[“Whelp, okay.”][$fstyle to true]]

“I’m not about to hit you, Syd,” I tell her, rolling my eyes. She matches my irritable attitude, taking a couple of steps towards me. “Do you need an incentive?” she questions. Ideas of what her incentives will probably be, come to mind, and none of them are pretty. [[Punch her and push away.][$style to "Aikido"]] [[Just bring her to the ground.][$style to "Judo"]]

A free hit, I definitely wasn’t about to say no or even give her time to think about it more. The only question was where. [[Classic punch to the face.][$style to "Boxing"]] [[Strike twice in a circular path.][$style to "Kenpo"]] [[Why punch, when I can kick?][$style to "Taekwondo"]]

“Seriously, just ... hit you? That’s it?” “You’re making such a simple thing difficult, just punch me, $name!” <<if $pacifist >=50>>\ [[Punch her and push away.][$style to "Aikido"]] [[Just bring her to the ground.][$style to "Judo"]] <<else>>\ [[Classic punch to the face.][$style to "Boxing"]] [[Strike twice in a circular path.][$style to "Kenpo"]] [[Why punch, when I can kick?][$style to "Taekwondo"]] <</if>>\

“Whelp, okay. I mean I don’t really see why you want me to do this, but I guess –” “Just punch me, $name!” <<if $pacifist >=50>>\ [[Punch her and push away.][$style to "Aikido"]] [[Just bring her to the ground.][$style to "Judo"]] <<else>>\ [[Classic punch to the face.][$style to "Boxing"]] [[Strike twice in a circular path.][$style to "Kenpo"]] [[Why punch, when I can kick?][$style to "Taekwondo"]] <</if>>\

Keep it simple and something that can be done quickly, especially since I wasn’t a fan of violence. I approach and throw a quick but effective punch and then push her away. I don’t plan to, at first, but the shove is instinctual. I can see how it would open up more options for me, even if running were one such option. She stumbles backward due to the shove, and she massages her jaw. Other than these actions, I can’t tell what she is thinking, if she is impressed or if the punch actually was useful in any kind of way. “So?” I finally question, sick of waiting. And though I didn’t wish to say it aloud, I wanted to know what she thought about said punch. I had put all of my power behind it, and yet she stood before me as if I had only tapped the side of her face playfully. “Your punch isn’t impressive, but I’m more focused on that shove that came after,” she answers. “It kinda just happened.” “Hmm, you started with offense and then immediately performed a defensive move. That shove, especially if done right can buy you more time or even help to subdue if applied with the right moves. I’m going to focus on your reaction and speed.” “You learned all of that from what I just did?” “Yep.” <a data-passage="ER3_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I’m not much of a fighter, and I rather just get her to the ground as soon as possible. But she also wants me to hurt her, so I had to at least add some kind of offensive maneuver to it. Ugh, fighting shouldn’t require all of this thinking, should it? I decide to just go up to her and do a forward throw. I grab her arm, gripping her wrist and rotating it violently before pushing my back up against her, getting low, and then launching her over my shoulder. I shove her forward so that she skids against the ground and I finally let her go. I back away and wait for her to get up, but she doesn’t. She stares at the sky, reminding me of people who would just lay on the nice soft grass to cloud gaze. Only this sky didn’t currently hold clouds, and her thoughts seemed on anything but the sky. “So?” I finally question, sick of waiting. And though I didn’t wish to say it aloud, I wanted to know what she thought about the throw. I pulled it out of nowhere, but I thought it was effective at least. “Your strength isn’t really awe-inspiring, but the throw itself was amazing,” she compliments, still lying on the ground, “the move you used is typically for defense but the wrist rotating and the forward shove after you threw me, that gave it an offensive touch. Creative too. I’m going to focus on your strength and speed.” “You learned all of that from me throwing you?” “Yep.” <a data-passage="ER3_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Keep it simple and something that I can do easily. I approach her and throw a punch aimed at her cheek. True to her word she doesn’t retaliate. She stumbles backward, massaging her jaw and poking at her cheek. Other than these actions, I can’t tell what she is thinking, if she is impressed or if the punch actually was effective in any kind of way. “So?” I finally question, sick of waiting. And though I didn’t wish to say it aloud, I wanted to know what she thought about said punch. I had put all of my power behind it, and yet she stood before me as if I had only tapped the side of her face playfully. “You hit harder than I thought,” she snickers, still moving her jaw around, “efficient and a classic move, as well as the standard place to land a punch. Won’t say much for creativity but sometimes simple is nice. I’m going to focus on your strength, accuracy, speed, and punching power.” “You learned all of that from me punching you?” “Yep.” <a data-passage="ER3_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Strike fast, whatever gets her down the quickest. A move that doesn’t allow her to come up with a way to defend herself, even though she promised to just accept the hit. I get closer and deliver two quick strikes with my hand flat, a harsh one to the face and then one immediately after to the chest. The last hit has her staggering backward, probing her cheek softly. Other than this action, I can’t tell what she is thinking, if she is impressed or if the strikes actually were effective in any kind of way. “So?” I finally question, sick of waiting. And though I didn’t wish to say it aloud, I wanted to know what she thought about the strikes. I didn’t perform a traditional punch, but I assumed she had just wanted me to hit her based off of instinct. “You’re faster than what I would’ve given you credit for,” she snickers, still massaging her cheek, “effective and an efficient move. From your stance and how quick you moved in to deliver those strikes, I say you’re relying on speed above all. Can’t get hit if your target can’t catch you. Rarely see the style, but I like it. We’re going to work on your speed and accuracy.” “You learned all of that from that move?” “Yep.” <a data-passage="ER3_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

My kick range was better and most times, the leg could reach longer than the arm. I was also more confident with my legs than I was with my fists. I approach her quickly and with one foot grounded, I lift the other and aim it towards the outside of her leg, putting all of my strength behind the kick. She drops to her knee and chuckles softly, but that’s it. She doesn’t comment or even look at me as she remains on one knee. “So?” I finally question, sick of waiting. And though I didn’t wish to say it aloud, I wanted to know what she thought about the kick. I didn’t perform a traditional punch, but I assumed she had just wanted me to hit her based off of instinct. “You’re creative, I didn’t expect to get kicked,” she snickers, still on her knees, “unorthodox but quick. You definitely rely on your reach and having the advantage of it while your opponent suffers. You need to be quick on your feet, definitely will have to work on strength, balance, and flexibility.” “You learned all of that from that one move?” “Yep.” <a data-passage="ER3_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<>\<<set $combat +=10>><>\ <<if $cp>>\ <<if $chris >=50>>\ “Chris, your turn,” Sydero shouts. He groans but takes my spot near Sydero. “$name, stretch. I refuse to have you guys complaining about spraining something.” I do as she suggests while watching them. Chris goes with a simple punch that leaves Sydero laughing, highly unimpressed. “Seriously? You’re this big, athletic guy, and that’s your best punch?” she questions, he shrugs. “I’m not really a fan of–” “I swear, if you say you don’t like hitting girls.” “No, I was going to say a fan of fighting. Period.” “Well that’s obvious,” she mumbles. She asks him to throw one more punch, this time she approaches him threateningly. He doesn’t actually throw a punch, just sweeps her feet out and put distance between the two of them. She nods and delivers her synopsis, calling me back out there. <<else>>\ “Chris, your turn,” Sydero shouts. He groans but takes my spot near Sydero. “$name, stretch. I refuse to have you guys complaining about spraining something.” I do as she suggests while watching them. Chris goes with a simple yet powerful punch that leaves Sydero whistling, highly impressed. “So, little ol’ Chris actually does have some potential, huh? Been saving that one I’m guessing?” she questions, judging his current stance. “Pent up energy.” “Yea, sure it is. Might want to find yourself a hobby.” “One of these days,” he mumbles. She finishes her examination and delivers her synopsis, calling me back out there. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ For the next few hours we train, Sydero showing us multiple offensive and defensive moves and how to do them, as well as helping us to improve our own styles. When she finally allows us to have a break, I forget all about still having to start the weapons part of the training. She offers me either a gun or a knife. “You’ll train in both but always rely on the one you’re most comfortable with.” [[The gun.][$guns +=10; $ss_gunwielding = true; $ss_bladewielding = true]] [[The dagger.][$blades +=10; $ss_gunwielding = true; $ss_bladewielding = true]]

I grab the gun. I want as much space between me and the thing I was attacking, mainly since their speed was inhuman. “Get your ass over here Bradley, you’re going to learn how to use a gun at least,” Sydero barks to the boy who groans instantly. “My complexion and the sun don’t get along.” “Bring your pale vampiric ass over here now!” He reluctantly rises, grabbing a gun and joining us as Sydero sets up targets. “First, make sure your gun is off safety, the ammo is salt rounds so it’s not deadly, though it’ll hurt like hell,” Sydero begins, setting the last target up. “Next, get in a comfortable stance.” She takes us through the different stances and after trying all of them, continues on once we’re ready. “Now load the gun and get a good grip before lining the target up with your sight. The pistol in your hands comes with a front sight tip and rear sight aperture.” I line up the shot. “The more you do this, the better you become. One last thing before you fire, be ready for the recoil. Grip is important to control it, one wrong move and the gun will recoil to the side. Recoil differs based on the gun and the ammo you use, but each gun has it. Don’t fight it, you’ll regret it.” Sydero moves out of the way and motions for us to fire. I keep her words in mind and shoot. I can feel the vibration, and my hands shake, but I do as she says and not fight it. I allow the shake to occur moving only the trigger finger. It takes me a couple tries, but I hit all of my targets with less than ten rounds. <<if $cp>>Chris, who I knew had shot a gun before, gets his before mine. Bradley is the only one having issues, and as I focus on my own training, Chris and Sydero aid him.<<else>>Bradley, on the other hand, runs into issues, and as I focus on my own training, Sydero helps him.<</if>> <<include "ER3_2_1">>

I grab the dagger, my dagger. A long silver blade whose grip and weight I was becoming used to. “I’m going to just teach some simple moves, us fighting with these will probably lead to some missing limbs,” she smirks at that as if that idea was more appealing. <<if $cp>>Sydero bypasses me and teaches Chris how to hold the dagger correctly. After this, she shows us the basic movements and how to both use it to guard and attack.<<else>>Sydero teaches me the basic moves and how to both use it to defend and attack.<</if>> This goes on for some time before we finally finish. The fact that I actually learned a few things surprise me, more so because it meant Sydero was actually an effective teacher. Who knew?! <<include "ER3_2_1">>

“You’re free, I'll teach the other weapon later,” she states, waving us away using the edge of her shirt to wipe away the sweat that has collected on her forehead. <<if $cp>>Chris moves to the side and removes his shirt, stretching as he retreats closer towards the house. <</if>>Bradley doesn’t go inside, but he does hop back onto his laptop. [[Spar with Sydero.][$combat +=3; $sydero -=3]] <<if $cp>>[[Stretch with Chris.]]<</if>> [[Go underneath the awning with Bradley.][$bradley +=3]] [[Go inside.]]

I turn my attention back to Sydero, an idea popping into my head. “Hey Syd, how about a spar?” She regards me for a second before snorting in amusement. “You learn a few cute tricks and think you’re ready to spar against me?” “Cockiness is not a good look,” I remind but she shakes her head. <<if $sydero <50>>\ “Neither is your face, yet you don’t see me pointing it out that often.” "You actually do, because you’re just a rude and unhappy little girl," I say back. She snorts and nods her head, a gleam resting in her eyes. <<else>>\ “Not cockiness, I just know you’re not ready yet.” “How about we see then?” She rolls her eyes but shrugs, a gleam resting in her eyes. <</if>>\ “Go get prepared then.” I go to do exactly that, wiping away the sweat that rests on my forehead as I prepare myself. I take a considerate amount of water, not wishing for it to slow me down. I stretch and do a quick evaluation of my body, I wasn’t sore – yet. “What goes?” she questions from her side, rolling her neck from one side to the other. “Anything,” I answer, it was a dirty spar, I don’t see why rules had to be given. She nods and Bradley, reluctantly again, is the one to start us. Before doing so, he gives me a worried look, though it doesn’t seem like he was concerned about me. He was hoping I’d call this off, but I wasn’t sure why since I can only tell this from his expression. “Fight,” he mumbles lowly, but it’s enough to send both Sydero and I surging towards one another. <a data-passage="ER3_2_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $style is "Boxing">>\ I think about her tips from earlier and approach. I first throw a fake punch, knowing she would easily deflect it. Then throw another set, one aimed high and the other low. She dodges the first one but the second one lands. She takes the punch and turns to the side, her leg coming up and smacking me straight across the head. It does less damage only because I duck to avoid most of the impact. I immediately shoot backward, avoiding her knee. <<elseif $style is "Kempo">>\ I think about her tips from earlier and approach, I focus on my movement and strike out three times, each aiming for different locations. Each strike hits and causes her to pause before approaching again. I block one of her punches and strike again. This time, she’s ready. She grabs my wrist and twists it, pushing her back towards me and flipping me over her shoulder. She releases me and I back away immediately. <<elseif $style is "Taekwondo">>\ I think about her tips from earlier and approach. I wait till she gets close enough before sending out a short kick, one that I didn’t want to give away my reach. She shoots to the side to avoid it, and I quickly use my other leg to get her off guard. It does its job, and she just barely escapes it by ducking in time. I spin and kick out at her leg, reminding myself to stay balanced. Somehow, she expects this, hitting the ground and avoiding my kick, before shooting up and setting my balance off. I fall to my butt, quickly moving to get back up. <<elseif $style is "Aikido">>\ I wait for Sydero to approach and to throw a hit first. She throws out fake punches, and I block each one with ease. She throws another one, and I deflect her arm and palm strike at her chin, stepping forward with the action. She moves out of the way, smirking as she circles me like a starving predator. She suddenly rushes me with a punch, and I deflect her arm, ready to drill my elbow towards her throat. Before I can do this though, she hooks her left foot under my left leg and yanks, sending us both to the ground. Immediately she rolls on top of me, delivering three quick strikes to my stomach. I push her off and rush to my feet. <<else>>\ I wait for Sydero to approach and she throws her first punch. I immediately grab it and toss her over my shoulder, sending us both to the ground where I hook both legs around her to keep her there. What I don’t expect is for her to ram her head into my chin. I release her before she can do considerable damage and she shoots up, I follow. <</if>>\ I throw punch after punch, strike after strike, and she avoids each with quick, deft steps. I finally get the upper hand, landing a powerful strike to the side of her face and then an uppercut that causes her to stumble backward. I continue on, keeping her on her toes and striking with such speed that she doesn’t have time to think about what to do. Sydero’s movements are slowing, a trait that she tries her best to hide by behaving as if she’s just putting more thought behind her dodges. [[Land a kick to her throat.]] [[Flip her over my shoulder.]] [[Solid punch to the face.]]

I dart forward, stopping just in time to land a kick to her throat. She dodges the attack, leaning forward and landing a punch to the side of my face. I stagger, and she recovers, pressing forward. She throws multiple strikes, many of them being clever feigns. While I dodge her hands, her kicks continue to make impacts. Her movements far too fast for me to keep up with. <<include "ER3_2_3">>

I move forward, allowing her to punch out, and grab her arm, ready to throw her over my shoulder. She twists violently, elbowing me in the face. I stagger, and she recovers, pressing forward. She throws multiple strikes, many of them being clever feigns. While I dodge her hands, her kicks continue to make impacts. <<include "ER3_2_3">>

I move in to deliver a swift and solid punch to the face when she catches it easily and rotates my wrist and pins it behind my back. She lets go and kicks me in the butt, sending me staggering forward. She throws multiple strikes, many of them being clever feigns. While I dodge her hands, her kicks continue to make impact. <<include "ER3_2_3">>

The energy she displays now isn’t the same I saw a minute ago, and I realize too late that all of that was a feign. I do a poor job of defending myself as she adds more and more pressure, her attacks never losing strength or speed. She easily ducks a high spin kick and grabs the blade that sits within reach. She kicks my feet from under me and pins me to the ground. Her knees press both of my arms down while the blade is held uncomfortably close to my throat. <<if $SRomance >=3>>\ <>\<<set $sydeyeshift = true>><>\ Despite the danger, I’m aware of the close proximity her body is to mine. I fight and fail to cease the excitement that the closeness brings to me. //She has a knife to your neck, idiot, the last thing you should be doing is getting turned on//, I remind myself, but part of my mind simply waves the reminder away. Sydero leans forward, her body flattening so that any space between us disappears even more. Her eyes bore into mine, and I freeze when I see a color shift begin in them. It’s a subtle one, the edges of her eyes darkening and the amber seeming to give way to what I suppose is a crimson tone. I can feel her heartbeat pick up, beating even mine. Her face inches closer, and her eyes flicker down to the knife at my throat, before meeting my eyes. Her mouth curves upward, and she gives me an inquisitive look. She grows closer, cocking her head to the side to whisper in my ear, “does this turn you on?” The question itself and the tone of her voice causes short bolts of electricity to shoot down my spine. Her eyes meeting mine, waiting for an answer though we both know she already knows. I begin to croak out an answer when Bradley shouts for Syd to stop playing around and to move off of me. She complies. I stay where I am though, my heart beat refusing to calm as coldness replaces the air her body once occupied. It was hot, probably around the eighties but I suddenly felt very cold. I trace my finger along my neck, where the blade was, surprisingly there’s no mark, no blood. Bradley appears in my view, and a piece of me wishes to cuss him out for interrupting the moment. I keep my mouth closed, and he helps me to my feet. “Did you see her eyes change colors?” he questions. “What?” I ask, my mind going back to the subtle shift in her iris, “yea.” “Shit. Don’t do that anymore, alright. Just don’t.” He shakes his head and leaves without answering my question. <<else>>\ “May I ask where that blade is from?” I question, trying to alleviate the uncomfortable air, that and to steady my rapidly beating heart. A wide smirk appears on her face as she rises off of me, trailing her pointer finger and thumb down the blade. It’s reasonably sharp, seeing that her finger was now bleeding due to the action. I touch my throat to double check it, but I feel nothing there. “I won it off of someone who will forever hate me for it, their loss obviously.” She glances back down at me, “after you get more comfortable in your style, we need to do this again. It was ... interesting.” I neither agree nor disagree to her statement, watching her as she walks back towards the house. Bradley appears in my view, helping me to my feet. “Did you see her eyes change colors?” he questions. “What?” “Okay, good,” he nods and pats my shoulder, leaving my side. Changing colors? <</if>>\ <a data-passage="ER3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $chris >=50>>\ <<set $chris +=2>>\ <<else>>\ <<set $chris -=2>>\ <</if>>\ I follow behind Chris, sitting beside him and mimicking the stretches that he does. I’m not as flexible as I should be, but I’m sure I would become so as time goes on. Chris, on the other hand, is plenty flexible. He stretches down and grabs his feet, resting his forehead on the ground. <<if $CRomance >=3>>\ <<if settings.dialog>>[[“I like a flexible man.”]]<<else>>[[“I like a flexible man.”]]<</if>> <</if>>\ [[“How do you feel about our lesson today?”]] [[“Coping alright?”]]

“I like a flexible man,” I snicker, though I pout when I don’t see him react to my words in any kind of way. He finally leans back up and gives me a devious smirk. <<if $gender is "female">>\ <<if $jealouschris is false>>\ “You have a dirty mind, $name, get it out of the gutter,” he teases, but he doesn’t sound like he wants me to. “I can help you stretch,” I suggest, smirking mischievously. He gulps and seeks to hide his blush, “come on, $name, the kid’s out here.” “This kid has a name. And yes, he’s out here, so please keep your shit PG!” Bradley shouts at us, I’m surprised he even heard the conversation. I look from him to Chris who makes it a point not to meet my gaze. “But is that a no?” “$name!” Both he and Bradley shout and I laugh, raising my hands in surrender. I continue to stretch beside him, only messing with him through actions as to not draw Bradley’s indignation. <img src="images/divider.png"> $name gets up, and Chris suddenly feels a slight emptiness in his stomach. He fights with all his might not to reach out and grab ?him, pulling ?him back to the spot that ?he has previously occupied. ?His words rewind in his head, the flirtatious smile that decorated ?his features, the way those heavenly $eyes eyes sparkled, paired with words not actually spoken. He hangs his head, two seconds from thumping it against the ground. “You got it bad, my friend,” Sydero chuckles, approaching him and stretching as she watches $name walk away. <<if $chris >=50>>\ “I’m just confused. I don’t know if ?he likes me or if ?he’s just flirting in a more teasing way,” Chris admits, causing Sydero to chuckle and shake her head in disappointment. “Chris, we’re talking about Roe here. ?He definitely likes you. It’s you who’s being stupid and making yourself suffer.” “You don’t know that for sure.” Sydero shrugs with a good-natured smirk, “I have good observation skills. But remain scared if you want to.” <<else>>\ “First off, I’m not your friend,” he reminds, rolling his eyes when Sydero chuckles instead of finding offense in the statement. “Point there. But don’t try to change the subject off of you and your ‘?he likes me, ?he likes me not’ phase.” “It’s not a phase if I don’t really know if ?he likes me.” “What does ?he have to do, slap you across the face and scream it at you? ?He probably is thinking the exact same thing about you. The only difference is that ?he’s actually trying. Ugh, some of you guys make it seem like stupidity is a disease.” <</if>>\ <<if $SRomance >=3>>\ “Correct me if I’m wrong, but don’t you also like $name?” he questions. It’s hard to forget all of those flirtatious glances that $name sent her way. All those times Sydero stood a little too close for his liking. Sydero snorts and raises a curious brow, “jealous, are we?” <<if $chris >=50>>\ “Inquiring is more like it.” “I’m not interested in Roe like that. I think Roe knows that much, at least. So, go for it,” Sydero says and then begins to walk off, freezing and speaking over her shoulder, “before I change my mind.” Sydero leaves to go inside, Bradley soon following after her, and Chris next. <<else>>\ “Of you, hardly. More like inquiring, for her sake.” Sydero rolls her eyes before answering, “I’m not interested in Roe like that. I think Roe knows that much, at least. So, go for it.” Chris begins to stand when Sydero suddenly stops him, resting a hand on his chest. “But watch that attitude before I do decide to just snatch up that beautiful little crush of yours. I doubt you’re much of Roe’s type anyway.” She adds pressure, causing Chris to stagger back and, with one last look, leaves to go inside. Bradley soon follows after her and Chris next. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <img src="images/divider.png"> <<else>>\ “Is that what you said to Morgan?” Chris asks, raising a brow. It was a question that he didn’t want the answer to. As soon as he asks it, he grumbles something and goes back to stretching. “You’re still mad at me about that. Great. So, are we going to talk about it or are you just going to continue being jealous?” “I’m not jealous,” he corrects, seeming almost offended by the truth. “You’re not jealous, but you’ve been giving me the cold shoulder since you saw Morgan leave the hotel? I don’t really see why you’re jealous though. I said I’m sorry I left you at the restaurant.” “You think this is about you leaving me at the restaurant?” he questions in disbelief. “That’s the only thing that makes sense; otherwise you have no reason to be mad about who I spend time with.” He begins to say something but then stops, swallowing his words instead. He nods, standing and walking off. I had a feeling I knew what he was mad at, but Chris has never said anything on it. Therefore, I don’t see how he was angry at me about not being able to read his mind. I continue to stretch, attempting to forget about him and failing. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $jealouschris is false>>\ “Um, I don’t know how to respond to that? Are you just saying you like flexible men in general or ...” he questions, blushing once he says the ‘or’ part. “Just in general. A flexible man is an attractive man,” I answer, hoping I wasn’t coming on too strong. Or perhaps I shouldn’t even be coming on at all. Chris is straight, and I should respect that. “Can we just stretch?” he asks, giving me a blank and uncomfortable look. I immediately feel stupid and nod, trying to fight the embarrassment that screams to be shown. It gets so bad that I have to excuse myself, rushing towards the kitchen. <img src="images/divider.png"> $name shoots up, excusing ?himself and going into the house. Chris can do little but watch as ?he goes, suddenly feeling a nagging emptiness in his stomach. The remark replays itself in his head, and his head continues to tell him that the phrase is wrong. Chris isn’t in the wrong. It’s $name. Everything $name said was wrong. From the way ?he had smiled ... to the way those heavenly $eyes eyes of ?his sparkled, paired with ... No! This is precisely what he shouldn’t be thinking. His dad reminded him that liking anything but a woman is sinful, horrible, and disgusting. Yet every time $name is close, Chris never thinks those things. Moments with $name are blissful, serene, ... right. He hangs his head, two seconds from thumping it against the ground. “And if you look to your right, kids, we call this ‘questioning one’s sexual orientation,’” Sydero snickers, cocking her head to the side. “Not funny. And I’m not questioning.” “And there it goes,” she says and snaps her fingers, “the immediate denial. Chris, take it from someone hoping the two of you get together. Stop listening to all those voices saying it’s wrong. It’s 2018. Update yourself.” <<if $SRomance >=3>>\ “Wait, but don’t you have a thing for $name?” Chris questions. If $name likes Sydero, then it’s possible that Chris only imagined everything. Sydero snorts, “I like Roe as much as anyone else with a silver tongue, an attractive body, and hypnotizing eyes. Which is to say, that they’re eye candy and a fun teaser, but that’s about it.” <</if>>\ With her words spoken, she walks towards the house, Bradley following after her, and Chris soon joining them. <img src="images/divider.png"> <<else>>\ “Is that what you said to Morgan?” Chris asks, raising a brow. It was a question that he didn’t want the answer to. As soon as he asks it, he grumbles something and goes back to stretching. “You’re still mad at me about that. Great. So, are we going to talk about it or are you just going to continue being mad?” “I’m not mad,” he corrects, seeming almost offended by the truth. “You’re not mad, but you’ve been giving me the cold shoulder since you saw Morgan leave the hotel? I don’t really see why you’re mad though. I said I’m sorry I left you at the restaurant.” “You think this is about you leaving me at the restaurant?” he questions in disbelief. “That’s the only thing that makes sense; otherwise you have no reason to be mad about who I spend time with.” He begins to say something but then stops, swallowing his words instead. He nods, standing and walking off. There was only one other thing that he could be mad about, and though it shouldn’t, it gives me hope. It means that Chris has feelings for me, but that seems too hopeful. I continue to stretch, attempting to forget about him and failing. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <a data-passage="ER3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“How do you feel about our lesson today?” I ask Chris, reaching down to touch my toes. “I’m more surprised that Sydero didn’t cuss us out or say tons of insulting crap.” “Same. Didn’t think she would make a great teacher. Think you can do it?” “What? The whole fighting part? Eh, maybe. I’ve never been a fan of fighting, but these supernatural creatures don’t exactly care about us being pacifist now do they.” I chuckle and nod, switching my position to continue stretching. We stretch in silence, just looking out at the wooden landscape before us. <a data-passage="ER3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Coping alright?” I question, and Chris gives me a strange look before he understands what I mean. “Trying, I suppose. It just seems like something big always comes in and changes my mind, causes me to go back to the beginning of asking what the actual fuck. And I don’t know, it’s strange to think that maybe one day I’ll actually forget what this feels like. I’ll forget what it feels like to be freaked out by all of this and to be disbelieving. One day I’m going to walk out of some dusty warehouse, after just killing a werewolf and be like, that’s the fifteenth werewolf this week. What’s their problem?” We both chuckle, we shared that thought. The thought that one day this would all be natural and would one day be routine. <a data-passage="ER3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I head to the awning that now encompasses Bradley’s entire world. He seems at home there, in the darkness with nothing but the glow from his laptop. I wonder how pissed of he would be if we played a prank on him and hid it. He’d probably become the scariest person in the house. I sit on the bench beside him and relax, allowing myself to calm down after all the training that has taken place. “Bradley,” I begin, and he looks over at me, though he doesn’t seem happy with my presence. “Why don’t you want to learn how to defend yourself? Even if you can’t win the fight, you can at least give them something to think about.” “True. And it’s not that I’m against violence, I just don’t see the point. If something comes after me, if they really want me then I don’t think a gun, or some cute defensive moves are going to ward them off.” “Again, it’ll give them something to think about.” “Yes, cause my life is like a brain teaser, if they want me dead then I’m going to die.” “You seem oddly at peace with that.” “I’m not ready to die, no. But I accept it, I see the pros and cons of death. And sometimes,” he says and places his attention back on his screen, “the pros outweigh the cons.” <a data-passage="ER3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I head inside where I find a dusty fan. It just needed some cleaning, and it would be as good as new. A lot of the things here would be. A vacuum, disinfecting wipes, and trash bags could turn this abandoned home into an actual suitable safe house. But to do this, I would need to go into town, or at least send one of the others. I’ll bring it up later, probably at the sorry excuse for a dinner we would have. <a data-passage="ER3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ <<if $chris >=50>>\ Dinner arises, and we all sit in the kitchen, eating from the food that was there. The conversation is lighthearted and if viewed by a complete stranger, would think we were all close friends. Chris and Bradley had started it by talking about video games, namely shooting ones. They both rant and rave about their likes and dislikes, and soon, I join in too, all of us laughing as we relive some of the funniest things we’ve seen while playing. <<else>>\ Dinner arises, and we all sit in the kitchen, eating from the food that was there. The conversation is lighthearted but if viewed by a complete stranger, would think we were only associates, perhaps team members who were forced to be in the same room. Bradley talks about video games, namely shooting ones. At some intervals, Chris or I add in something about our likes and dislikes, but it stays relatively calm. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ Dinner arises, and we all sit in the kitchen, eating from the food that was there. The conversation is lighthearted and if viewed by a complete stranger, would think we were all close friends. Bradley had started it by talking about video games, namely shooting ones. He rants and raves about his likes and dislikes and soon, I join in too, the two of us laughing as we relieve some of the funniest things we’ve seen while playing. <</if>>\ The only one who doesn’t join in, of course, is Sydero. She sits beside me, but only her body is present, her mind clearly somewhere else. She’s been like this since we’ve got here. Keeping more to herself, hardly insulting me, or ranting about our predicament. Sydero is the first to get up and disappear, though she walks outside and not toward her room. I look to Bradley for help but he doesn’t say anything, he only watches her go with a small bit of worry on his face. <<if $cp>>\ “Anyone interested in going into town to pick up some things?” I question, “mostly stuff to clean this place up and to eat.” “I am,” Chris says, finishing the lightest dinner he’s probably ever had, “but are you sure you should go out there?” “Yea, if you want, Chris and I could just go?” Bradley suggests. I raise a brow at his words, they might have a point. //Trigger Warning: Not going to the store ''will'' trigger a scene with sensitive content that pertains to suicidal conversation with a minor. If you wish not to see it then choose to go to the store.// [[Let them go.|ER3NoGo][$daring -=2; $chris +=2]] [[Go with them.|ER3Go]] <<else>>\ “Interested in going into town to pick up some things?” I question, “mostly stuff to clean this place up and to eat.” “I am,” Bradley says, finishing up his food, “but are you sure you should go out there?” “Do you even have a license?” I question. “No, but I know how to drive. I won’t crash your beloved car,” he reassures me. //Trigger Warning: Not going to the store ''will'' trigger a scene with sensitive content that pertains to suicidal conversation with a minor. If you wish not to see it then choose to go to the store.// [[Let him go.|ER3NoGo][$daring -=2; $chris +=2]] [[Go with him.|ER3Go][$chris -=5; $bradley -=2; $daring +=2]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> <<if $cp>>“You two can go, I’ll write up a list and give it to you before you leave. That way we can actually brainstorm too.” They both nod and we say goodnight to each other, walking to our rooms.<<else>>“You can go, I’ll write up a list and give it to you before you leave. That way we can actually brainstorm too.” He nods, and we say goodnight to each other, walking to our rooms.<</if>> <<include "ER3_4">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> “Naw, I’ll be fine. I’m going.” <<if $cp>>He doesn’t<<else>>They don’t<</if>> look happy, but they don’t argue my words, which is the only thing that matters. We say goodnight to each other, walking to our rooms. <<include "ER3_4">>

I lay in my bed, staring up at the ceiling. Each time I blink it gets blurrier, only for it to come back into focus. There’s something wrong, something off that I can’t place. I lean forward, looking around waiting for whatever it was to jump out at me. Nothing does. I get out of bed, opening the door and looking down the short hallway. All of the other doors are closed, and besides the wind from outside, I hear nothing. <<if $darkburns>>\ I go back into my room, closing the door slowly. Abruptly I jump back as both hands begin to burn profusely. The burning runs up my hands, stopping at where my burn markings end. I grind my teeth together as the extreme pain takes me back to //that// day, the day or that dream. “I’m offended,” I hear a voice say and I freeze. A chill runs over my bones and the pain in my arms intensifies, but for the moment, I’m numb to it. I turn slowly, each small movement begging on hands and knees that it was all in my head, that voice wasn’t really here. <<elseif $darkcontrol>>\ I go back into my room, closing the door slowly. Abruptly I double over in pain, the skin on my chest burning as if the flesh was being pulled from it. It felt as if something was there adding overwhelming pressure on it. I grind my teeth together as the extreme pain takes me back to //that// day, the day or that dream. “I’m offended,” I hear a voice say, and I freeze. A chill runs over my bones, and the pain on my chest intensifies, but for the moment, I’m numb to it. I turn slowly, each small movement begging on hands and knees that it was all in my head, that voice wasn’t really here. <<else>>\ I go back into my room, closing the door slowly. Abruptly I flinch as the side of my face aches. It feels as if something was putting pressure on the long scar that rests there, trying to deepen it. I grind my teeth together as the extreme pain takes me back to //that// day, the day or that dream. “I’m offended,” I hear a voice say, and I freeze. A chill runs over my bones, and the pain in my cheek intensifies, but for the moment, I’m numb to it. I turn slowly, each small movement begging on hands and knees that it was all in my head, that voice wasn’t here. <</if>>\ It was. <a data-passage="EP6-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/acttwo.png"> “$name, you think I’m just part of some unfortunate dream?” the familiar figure asks, leaning against the far wall. If my memory serves correct, then this figure ... the Entity hasn’t changed one bit. Their entire being is still a basic black figure. Every couple of seconds their body glitches slightly, reminding me less of a black mass and more of a black sketch. Thin black wisps of smoke roll off their body, curling around them before evaporating. With every shift, the smoke is interrupted, but it shortly rights itself once again. “I spend all that time, all that work to traumatize you, and you write me off as a dream,” they continue on, resting a hand over what I can only assume is meant to be their heart. [[It doesn’t matter, attack them.]] [[Whatever, question them.]] [[I need to control myself.]]

I close my eyes, forcing my body to stop trembling. Deep breath after deep breath. I need to get ahold of myself. This isn’t real, this is all part of some dream. <<if $darkcontrol>>\ “Seriously? Again. You constantly try to calm yourself when,” they start, approaching me and grabbing me by my shirt. They yank me closer and repeatedly tap the scar on my chest, “it’s. Still. Thumping.” <<elseif $darkburns>>\ “Seriously? You’re still in denial?” they ask, approaching me and grabbing both of my arms. They both heat up and I feel like I have just stuck them both into a furnace. <<else>>\ “Seriously? You’re still in denial?” they ask, approaching me and grabbing my face with one hand. They squeeze, but only one cheek feels like it's being squished in. <</if>>\ They stop to lean forward, eye level with me now, “but this won’t end the same way it did last time. That, I guarantee.” They throw me across the room, and I slide down off the wall to the floor. “Because this time, you’re mine.” My eyes widen in fear when my door opens. Bradley stands there, yawning loudly, wiping the sleep from his eye as he glares over at me. “What’s wrong with you? Trying to see how fast you can wake everyone up?” I look to see the Entity gone. Of course, they are. But not only that, I’m not on the floor but in my bed. Sweat dribbles down the side of my face, and I clutch the blanket tightly to my body. <<if $darkburns>>The pain in my arms, gone.<<elseif $darkcontrol>>The pain in my chest, gone.<<else>>The pain in my cheek, gone.<</if>> <a data-passage="ER3_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I growl and charge towards them, anger I didn’t know I held rising up and pushing me forward. <<if $darkburns>>\ “Ah, this trick,” they sigh, grabbing me by both hands before my fist can collide into them, “you've already seen how this ends, right? Or is that just something else you lied to yourself about?” Both arms burn wildly, and I let out a loud whimper as they hold me in place. <<elseif $darkcontrol>>\ “And what did you think doing that would get you?” they sigh, grasping my shirt, and with their free hand, tapping my heart, “you know how this will end, right? Or is that just something else you lied to yourself about?” With every tap, my chest burns wildly. <<else>>\ “And what did you think doing that would get you?” they sigh, grabbing my face harshly with one hand, “you know how this will end, right? Or is that just something else you lied to yourself about?” I can feel them squeezing both sides of my cheek, but only one side burns wildly. <</if>>\ They stop to lean forward, eye level with me now, “but this won't end the same way it did last time. That, I guarantee.” They throw me across the room, and I slide down to the floor. “Because this time, you’re mine.” My eyes widen in fear when my door opens. Bradley stands there, yawning loudly, wiping the sleep from his eye as he glares over at me. “What the hell are you doing? Wrestling yourself?” I look to see the Entity gone. Of course, they are. But not only that, I’m not on the floor but in my bed. Sweat dribbles down the side of my face, and I clutch the blanket tightly to my body. <<if $darkburns>>The pain in my arms, gone.<<elseif $darkcontrol>>The pain in my chest, gone.<<else>>The pain in my cheek, gone.<</if>> <a data-passage="ER3_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Are you the same creature from my childhood? From my dreams?” I question, not knowing what to think. After so many years of multiple people telling me that this figure was nothing but my mind playing cruel tricks, I still couldn’t grasp the possibility. “Think about it, $name,” they begin, walking towards me with a purpose in their step, “if I was fake then your mind is one sadistic little bastard. It enjoys traumatizing you further.” It wasn't much of an answer. <<if $darktruth>>\ They grab my face with one hand, “but I would think you had learned your lesson about questioning your betters once already?” As they say this, a thick, almost solid tendril of theirs, presses into my scar. I claw at their figure to no avail, they weren’t stopping, and neither was the surmounting pain. <<elseif $darkcontrol>>\ They grab me by my shirt, their free hand tapping at my chest, “questions, questions.” I claw at the figure to no avail, they weren’t stopping, and neither was the surmounting pain. <<else>>\ They reach out and grab both of my arms, squeezing tightly, “questions, questions.” I try to escape the figure's grip to no avail, they weren’t letting go, and the surmounting pain wasn't letting up. <</if>>\ They stop to lean forward, eye level with me now, “but this won’t end the same way it did last time. That, I guarantee.” They throw me across the room, and I slide down to the floor. “Because this time, you’re mine.” My eyes widen in fear when my door opens. Bradley stands there, yawning loudly, wiping the sleep from his eye as he glares over at me. “What’s wrong with you? Trying to see how many different sounds you can make?” I look to see the Entity gone. Of course, they are. But not only that, I’m not on the floor but in my bed. Sweat dribbles down the side of my face, and I clutch the blanket tightly to my body. <<if $darkburns>>The pain in my arms, gone.<<elseif $darkcontrol>>The pain in my chest, gone.<<else>>The pain in my cheek, gone.<</if>> <a data-passage="ER3_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $bradley >=50>>\ “I ... I,” I try, but words don’t formulate into actual sentences. I sigh and apologize underneath my breath instead. Bradley lingers in the doorway, glancing around as if waiting for the room to give him inspiration or some sort of indication about what he should do next. “$name?” he starts, and though I say nothing, I look at him to continue. “It’ll be okay. I mean, I know it looks really grim, but there are far worse things.” He bites his tongue but continues, “I want to say sorry too. It’s fucked up when these things happen to us, especially when it’s more because of people suddenly coming into our lives and not because of something we did directly. I ... just sorry.” “Thanks, Bradley.” He nods and turns to go. Leaving me once again alone. <<else>>\ “I ... I,” I try, but words don’t formulate into actual sentences. I sigh and apologize underneath my breath instead. He rolls his eyes and leaves, perhaps too sleepy to question me further. I take another look around the room, the feeling that is once there is no longer. Usually, this would be a great sign that the Entity is gone and all is right. But this new feeling has the opposite effect on me. <</if>>\ Was I dreaming? Was the Entity truly real or was my brain back to giving me traumatic dreams? Or did it actually happen? Was I awake? An invisible force pounds against my head as I lay back down. The rest of the night is peaceful, the most chaotic thing being my thoughts. <a data-passage="ER4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The next morning, I add to the list ibuprofen and something with either high sugar or caffeine. After jotting down these things, I stare at the list. It was much longer than I originally planned, but once I started, I found it impossible to stop. Despite its length, it was actually a great list. Only food items that wouldn’t go bad fast or would immediately be consumed reside there. Other than food and drink, I had included some cleaning items to whip this place up. <<if $cp>>\ <<if $jealouschris>>\ Chris is the first to come in, and similar to yesterday, one look at me seems to ruin his morning. He sighs and walks further into the kitchen, grabbing a water bottle and taking a seat on the dusty counter. If it wasn’t for the night I had, I might be keener on saying something to him. <<else>>\ Chris is the first to come in, giving me a cheerful but tired good morning. He grabs a water bottle and takes a seat next to me, peering at the list. <</if>>\ Bradley comes in next, clapping loudly as soon as he enters. I don’t question his actions. Instead, I focus on the list that I’m sure is complete. <<if $bradley >=50>>“Feeling better after last night?” Bradley asks.<<else>>“Had fun last night, $name?” Bradley asks, his tone making me think he's actually curious.<</if>> “Not really.” <<else>>\ <<if $bradley >=50>>“Feeling better after last night?” Bradley asks.<<else>> “What happened last night?” Bradley questions as he enters, “sounded like you were up all night having a ‘me party.’” I wouldn’t have put it in such a way, but I suppose it was better than saying I had a malevolent imaginary friend attacking me.<</if>> <</if>>\ Sydero is the last to show up, her appearance disheveled. “Long night too?” Bradley asks. She nods, rubbing her temples but pauses, “what do you mean by ‘too’?” “$name was, well do you want to explain yourself?” Bradley asks, the table looking at me now. [[“I just couldn’t sleep.”][$honesty -=3; $zillah +=3]] [[“I was visited by an old friend.”][$honesty +=3; $zillah -=5]] [[Sit silently.|ER4Silence][$zillah +=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Deceit ++<</if>> “It was nothing, I just couldn’t sleep, and because of that I got Bradley’s attention.” I suppose my explanation was boring enough for them, as they continue to discuss other things. I didn’t want to, nor know how to tell them what had really taken place. I wasn’t even sure of what had taken place. <<include "ER4_0">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Honesty ++<</if>> “I was visited by an old friend,” I say to them. <<if $cp>>They all look towards Chris as if he will have the answers. He shakes his head and shoots his hands up in surrender.<<else>>They wait for me to continue but I don’t.<</if>> Bradley doesn’t seem to care much about who I’m referring to, but Sydero does. Her gaze lingers on me, and her face scrunches up as she thinks. Finally, she moves her attention to the current conversation. <<include "ER4_0">>

I say nothing, refusing to answer or admit that something had gone on. With my silence comes an exasperated sigh from Bradley who tells <<if $cp>>them<<else>>her<</if>> what he knew about last night. And it doesn’t take long for the conversation to shift to other things though. <<include "ER4_0">>

“So, here’s the list,” I state, pushing the list to the middle of the table for all to see. Bradley leans in curiously while Sydero makes it a point to move away from it, wishing to show how much she doesn’t care. <<if hasVisited("ER3Go")>>\ “I still think it’s idiotic for you to go to the store,” Sydero says, her words directed at me. “I’ll be careful. Plus, I doubt anyone will recognize me.” Syd raises a doubtful brow, “and why is that?” “I’ll be wearing some glasses and a hat from <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Bradley<</if>>.” “The perfect disguise,” she tells me in mock astonishment. I ignore her, the earlier we head out, the less likely anyone will be there to recognize me anyway. I grab the list and then my keys, motioning for <<if $cp>>both guys<<else>>Bradley<</if>> to come along. <a data-passage="ER5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ “Great, we’ll try to get everything on the list,” Bradley tells me. He snatches up the list and <<if $cp>>Chris stands to follow him out, telling me farewell as he goes.<<else>>shouts a goodbye to Sydero and I as he goes.<</if>> I watch as <<if $cp>>they drive<<else>>he drives<</if>> off down the dirt path, the tree blocking the rest of my view as <<if $cp>>they go<<else>>he goes<</if>>. Sighing, I lean on the house’s railing, wondering if the amount of pressure I’m putting on it will cause it to break. When it doesn’t, I add all of my weight and let my mind wander. It doesn’t wander far, stopping perhaps two steps away from my current location. The reminder of the cops being after me arises but is dwarfed by my visitor last night. The thought persists, are they real? <a data-passage="ER6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

The store isn’t that far away, less than a mile from the main road that goes by the safehouse. Like I surmised earlier, getting there early was wise, only ten other cars sit in the parking lot. Inside, I can only see a handful of people walking around, most of them being employees. It’s a humble store, large enough to satisfy many needs but it is also small and quaint. The type of store one can walk into and remember the majority of everyone’s name and learn the layout after two visits. <<if $cp>>\ "Everyone ready?" I question. “Yep, how about you, shrimp?” Chris asks Bradley, who turns a bright red. “I’m not that short!” Bradley screams, attracting attention. In embarrassment, I mouth an apology before turning my ire on Bradley. “Can you control yourself?” “Control Christopher,” he growls, staring daggers at the man. <<else>>\ “Ready, Bradley?” I question. “Yea, let’s get this over with before someone recognizes you,” he replies, and we both walk forward to start. <</if>>\ [[Split up.]] [[Stay together.]]

After we get off the first aisle, I suggest splitting up. It’ll speed this up and allow us to get out of here faster. <<if $cp>>\ I rip the paper into three pieces, favoring how I had written the list. We each have different areas: Chris with food, me with cleaning supplies, and Bradley having ingredients that Syd needs for her spells. <<else>>\ I rip the paper into two pieces. I have cleaning supplies and some food, while Bradley has food and ingredients that Syd needs. <</if>>\ I head to the cleaning aisle, perusing it nonchalantly with my grocery cart. For a minute, I snicker at my actions. This is almost //too// domestic, and I feel like I’m back living my everyday life. Normal life, the further I go into this life, the more the line blurs. One day this will be my norm. [[That thought scares me.|ER5_1]] [[About time I get some excitement.|ER5_1]]

I mentally decide to stay together. The speed at which we finish will be slow, but at least we’ll know where the other is in case anything takes a turn for the worse. We decide to go get the cleaning supplies first since everything should be on the same aisle anyway. Once there, I peruse the aisle nonchalantly with my grocery cart. For a minute, I snicker at my actions. This is almost //too// domestic, and I feel like I’m back living my everyday life. Normal life, the further I go into this life, the more the line blurs. One day this will be my norm. [[That thought scares me.|ER5_1]] [[About time I get some excitement.|ER5_1]]

How long have I been doing this? I want to estimate that it’s been three or four weeks but I’m not exactly sure. Days feel like hours and weeks feel like months. If I was truly being accurate, I was probably working on my second week. <<if hasVisited("Split up.")>>\ I’m pulled from my thoughts when I realize a man is walking toward me. “You look really familiar,” he begins, taking out his phone. And that is the signal for me to go. I gaze around, trying to figure out the best course of action. [[Scream for help.]] [[Confuse him.]] [[Ram the cart into him and run.]] <<else>>\ “What are you laughing at?” Bradley asks, grabbing a broom to compare it with another. “Just how domestic this feels,” I say. <<if $cp>>\ <<if $CRomance >=3>>\ “Yea, the two parents and their son,” Bradley jokes, smirking at Chris. His words are meant to get a rise out of him, and he succeedes. “I’m the uncle,” Chris grumbles, glancing over at me before picking up a spray bottle and acting interested in it. “Sure, you are,” Bradley sneers, but it disappears a second later. We all gaze down the aisle to see a man approaching us. <<else>>\ “Isn’t that the feeling everyone gets when shopping?” Bradley questions. “I’m now envisioning a serial killer walking around the store thinking how domestic their life feels,” Chris jokes with him and the two share a laugh, one that dies as a man approaches us. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ “Isn’t that the feeling everyone gets when shopping?” Bradley questions. I don’t have time to answer or comment though as a man begins walking towards us. <</if>>\ “You look really familiar,” he begins, taking out his phone. And that was the signal for me to go. I gaze around, trying to figure out what the best course of action was. [[Act like I’m famous.]] [[Ram the cart into him and run.]] <</if>>\

“Of course, you know me,” I blurt out, appearing shocked, “how could you not recognize me?” <<if $cp>>\ “Duh, this is $fname McGee, youngest Grammy winner ever? ?He literally held Billboard’s number one spot for five straight months,” Bradley tells the man. “Uncultured swine,” Chris mumbles. “And you’re interrupting my picture,” Bradley scoots closer to me and raises his phone, trying to figure out what pose to do. Chris comes over, and we pose for the picture, hoping to sell it to the guy. He fumbles with his words, when his eyes flicker to his screen, his eyes widening. That is definitely my cue to run. <<else>>\ “Duh, this is $fname McGee, youngest Grammy winner ever? ?He literally held Billboard’s number one spot for five straight months,” Bradley tells the man. “and you’re interrupting my picture.” Bradley scoots closer to me and raises his phone, trying to figure out what pose to do. We pose for the picture, hoping to sell it to the guy. He fumbles with his words, when his eyes flicker to his screen, his eyes then widen. That is definitely my cue to run. <</if>>\ <<include "ER5_2">>

I glance back and forth, then into my cart. It was pretty barren still, only a few spray bottles, some disinfectant wipes, and a broom. No love lost. I ram it into the man before he even knows what had just taken place. <<include "ER5_2">>

“Help!” I scream out, “stranger danger!” The man’s eyes practically pop out of their sockets. He is only lucky that the store has just opened and not that many people are around, though I had screamed loud enough for the majority of the store to hear me. He prepares to say something when his eyes flicker to his screen, and they widen. That is definitely my cue to run. <<include "ER5_2">>

“How much wood could a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?” I ask, glaring at him in an uncomfortable manner. He lowers his phone, staring at me as if I had just cussed. “What? Why that riddle?” “Answer the question, sir, it’s of grave importance,” I continue, wishing I knew where <<if $cp>>Chris and Bradley were<<else>>Bradley was<</if>>. He stammers, and his eyes flicker to his screen before widening. That was definitely my cue to run. <<include "ER5_2">>

I take off running, going three aisles over and trying to figure out what I’m going to do. The store is big, but it isn’t ideal to play hide-and-go-seek. The smartest thing to do is run for the car and call <<if $cp>>the others<<else>>Bradley<</if>> once I’m safe. “Get back here, fugitive!” the man shouts. Crap! I take off running again, my evasion turning into a game of store tag. I can practically hear the goofy chase music in the background. <a data-passage="ER5_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I turn the corner and collide into someone’s basket, <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Bradley<</if>>! “We gotta go,” I tell him<<if hasVisited("Split up.")>>and thankfully he doesn’t question. The<<else>>right as the<</if>> intercom buzzes to life. “Shoppers, not to alarm anyone but the store is going on lockdown, a dangerous fugitive is inside.” Randomly placed shouts and screams ring out. <<if $cp is false>> I jump when Bradley screams as well.<</if>> <<if $cp>>“Yes, say you don’t mean to alarm anyone right before saying something really alarming,” Chris scoffs.<<else>>“Sorry, keeping up appearances is all.”<</if>> “There,” the man from earlier shouts at the end of the aisle, alongside him is a security guard and another employee. <<if $optimistic >=50>>“Oh, come on, give me a break please!” I shout, turning to run again.<<else>>“Have I ever told you how much I hate my life?” I ask him, “because I hate it.”<</if>> The tag game ensues as I try to figure out what to do. They had probably called the cops already, and the store was locked down. We need an out, and we need it now. [[Break a window or door.]] [[Try to get out the back way.]] <<if $pacifist <50>>\ [[Take Bradley hostage.]] <</if>>\

I fail to think of any way out besides breaking the front of the store’s window or door. This life is making me desperate, just something else I suppose I can scratch off the bucket list. I head down the garden aisle and grab a shovel, here goes nothing. I sprint to the front of the store, ignoring the screaming and shouting people there. I zone them out and focus on destroying the glass door. Three well-placed hits and the door comes down. “Freedom!” I scream, throwing the shovel towards the man who is still chasing after me. I take off towards the car, getting in and driving off immediately. I know I’m leaving <<if $cp>>Chris and <</if>>Bradley behind. But once I’m safe, I’ll call <<if $cp>>them<<else>>him<</if>>. At the moment, I need it to seem as if I disappeared. <<include "ER5_4">>

Attempting to be sneaky, I sneak to the back of the store and search for the door that leads to the employee break room. I come across it, shocked when I find it unlocked. I suppose it is early in the morning, and the town is small enough to where they don’t fear others walking in and out. I’m sure my presence is the most exciting thing to happen this week. I run through the break room and then find the door that says supply. There should be a loading dock or at least an entrance to wheel the supplies in. I find it after what feels like forever. I know I’m leaving <<if $cp>>Chris and <</if>>Bradley behind. But once I’m safe, I’ll call and tell <<if $cp>>them<<else>>him<</if>> where to meet me. At the moment, I need it to get out of here. I burst out of the building and take off into the woods like a mad$man. I’ll hide out in the woods until everything has calmed down, then I’ll call for the cavalry. <<include "ER5_4">>

I freeze as the thought comes to mind. Taking Bradley hostage could work, and I did have my knife with me. “Bradley,” I call out, trying to find the boy that I just saw. He comes running down an aisle, and I motion him to me. “Work with me, alright?” I tell him, and he nods though it’s clear he has no idea what I’m about to do. I grab him and go to the front of the store where the majority of the employees are. “Open the doors,” I yell at them, grabbing my knife and placing it to Bradley’s neck. His eyes widen in shock, I guess it’s a good thing I didn’t tell him what I planned to do. Everyone begins to scream at me to let him go, some of the women now crying. “Please, don’t let ?him kill me,” Bradley cries out in desperation, “Momma!” He fights my hold, giving up. <<if $sympathy >=50>>\ I had to give the kid props, he’s even pulling at my heartstrings. <</if>>\ “Let the child go, and you can go,” one of the women tells me and I roll my eyes, pointing to the door with my blade. “Tell them to open it, now!” She glances from Bradley to me, to her walkie-talkie. She isn’t going to do it, she thinks I’m bluffing. I snort and hover the blade over Bradley’s collarbone, //sorry about this buddy//. I make a slice, delicately, one not too deep. Bradley shouts. “Fuck! You cut me. ?He cut me! Holy-freakin’ Jesus!” I now didn’t know if he is simply just acting anymore. I place the knife back up to his neck and shrug my shoulders. “You want his life on your hands? I’ll kill him and just grab another hostage.” “Open the doors,” she tells the men and the light over the doors turn on. I immediately yank Bradley behind me, heading towards the car. I push him in and immediately start it up, driving off down the wrong way. <<if $cp>>\ “Wait, what about Chris?” Bradley asks, looking back towards the store. “I’m going to contact him later, he knows I had to get out of there.” “Oh, okay.” Suddenly Bradley slaps me on the back of the neck, almost causing me to swerve off the road. <<else>>\ Suddenly Bradley slaps me on the back of the neck, almost causing me to swerve off the road. <</if>>\ “Seriously?” I yell at him, but he doesn’t seem to care. “Don’t you cut me again! Or at least warn me first, for fucks sake.” I apologize, driving off the road and into the woods. I’ll wait here until everything calms down. <a data-passage="ER5_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if hasVisited("Break a window or door.")>>\ I spend the majority of the time gazing up at the sky from the top of my car. I just vandalized that store in front of people who thought me some crazed felon. Despite my situation and all of the things I’ve seen, I snicker. <<elseif hasVisited("Try to get out the back way.")>>\ I spend the majority of time gazing up at the sky from the tree that I chose to climb up. I just barely managed to escape that store full of people who thought me some crazed felon. Despite my situation and all of the things I’ve seen, I snicker. <<else>>\ I spend the majority of time gazing up at the sky from the top of my car. I had just kidnapped and threatened a young kid in front of people who thought me some crazed felon. I snicker, my actions today kinda just proved them right. I gaze over at my young hostage, picking grass lazily as we both listen to the sirens in the distance. <</if>>\ “Ever think you would end up doing all this, Past Me?” I question aloud, to myself but not to myself. I wonder what Past Me would think about what we’ve become. Waiting here for the heat on me to go down because I was lucky enough to be recognized at some insignificant store. Yep, definitely the life I pictured for myself. In the distance, I can hear the sound of sirens going off, though I’m not worried. My current hiding place was buried deep in the woods, and I hadn’t taken any trails to get here. Getting back was probably going to be the worst part about this entire journey. <<if hasVisited("Take Bradley hostage.")>>\ “Talking to yourself now?” Bradley asks me, squinting as he throws some grass to the side. “How does it feel to be kidnapped?” I question. “Boring. I thought there would be more threats and tears.” “Bradley, you do realize that I didn’t really kidnap you, right?” “And there lies the problem, your acting was subpar, I barely bought it. The only reason you get even some points is because you cut me.” He sends me a heated glare at the last part, but I roll my eyes, tuning back into the distant sirens. They get farther away, in a while it’ll be safe for us to move. Until then, we wait. It’s a couple minutes later when Bradley gets to his feet, clapping his hands. <<else>>\ I’m pulled out of my thoughts by the vibration in my pocket, taking it out to see that the coast is clear. I stare up at the sky one last time before heading towards the location I’m sent. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="ER5_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if hasVisited("Break a window or door.") or hasVisited("Try to get out the back way.")>>\ <<if hasVisited("Break a window or door.")>>\ I pick up my <<if $cp>>two stragglers much further down the road. Chris somehow was able to keep the shopping cart with all of the items on the list, and fit Bradley in there as well. He sits on top of a few groceries, eating a bag of gummy bears.<<else>>straggler. Bradley somehow was able to keep the shopping cart with all of the items on the list there. At this moment he sits inside the cart, eating a bag of gummy bears.<</if>> <<else>>\ I'm picked up by my <<if $cp>>two companions<<else>>companion<</if>> further down the road. Somehow <<if $cp>>they were<<else>>he was<</if>> able to gather all of the items on the list. <</if>>\ “Had fun playing fugitive?” Bradley asks with a sneer. “Yea, almost as much fun as you <<if $cp>>guys had <</if>>it would seem.” <<if hasVisited("Break a window or door.")>>\ “After you broke that door, all hell broke loose. We were able to grab everything and then get out without paying for it,” <<if $cp>>Chris tells me, smiling shyly.<<else>>Bradley tells me with a large grin.<</if>> “Can I just say though,” Bradley starts, “watching you break that door was the highlight of my week, maybe even month. I just want to thank you for that.” I roll my eyes, ushering <<if $cp>>them<<else>>him<</if>> to hurry up so that we can get out of here quicker. <<else>>\ “We didn’t know where you went, but everyone was panicking about how they couldn’t find you. <<if $cp>>We<<else>>I<</if>> used all that hysteria to get out.” <<if $cp>>Chris tells me, smiling shyly.<<else>>Bradley tells me with a large grin.<</if>> “And guess what the best part is,” Bradley sighs happily, “not one cent was spent on any of this shit.” He jabs his thumb towards the back of the car where I guess the groceries are. I roll my eyes, getting in so that we can go. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $cp>>“Well, let’s go pick up the lost man, I’m sure the heat has gone down enough to drive around without fear.” He was right, faster we get back to the house the better anyway. I call Chris to learn where he is, and we drive towards him. Thankfully, Chris was able to grab everything from the list, plus the shopping cart. “This town hates you by the way,” he tells me, loading the items into the vehicle, “mothers especially.” Bradley grins wide at this, pleased to know so many care about his wellbeing I assume. He could be proud all he wanted to, but this only meant that a manhunt was probably out looking for me. This thought causes me to quicken my pace, and I usher everyone into the car so that we can go.<<else>><><<set $nogroceries to true>><>“Well, let’s go before the police move their search here.” He was right, faster we get back to the house the better anyway. We would be going back emptyhanded but I’d rather that than be sitting in a jail cell.<</if>> <</if>>\ <a data-passage="ER5_6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $nogroceries>>\ We arrive back at the house without any further trouble. Sydero is nowhere to be seen, and I don’t know if I want to hear her mouth upon finding her. Bradley and I take a moment to eat some of the food that we still have, conversating in low voices about the day’s events, and before long we separate to go to bed. It’s been a long day. <<else>>\ We arrive back at the house without any further trouble. Sydero is nowhere to be seen, and I don’t know if I want to hear her mouth just yet. <<if $cp>>Bradley, Chris, and I<<else>>Bradley and I<</if>> put the groceries away before taking a moment to eat some of the food that we were able to grab, conversating in low voices about the day’s events. We all agree on starting the cleaning process tomorrow since today had been long and mentally exhausting. Before long we separate to go to bed. <</if>>\ I lay in my bed, sinking into the mattress when I feel a nearby presence. I fight the whimper, but it comes out regardless. Turning, I find the Entity on the edge of the bed, staring at me with that large cartoonish grin. For some reason, no matter how many times they appear, I fail to use my words. They form but the act of getting them out of that premature stage never happens, they die in my throat, and I’m left with a foul taste residing in my mouth. <<if hasVisited("Take Bradley hostage.")>>\ “Look at you, $name, taking little boys hostage and cutting them up. What kind of sick twisted mind do you have? Do you get off on that?” “That little boy is a friend, and that was all a ploy to get out of a tight situation.” “Cute, I may have to use that same wording next time I'm fulfilling my dark fantasies.” “Shut up!” I growl, and the Entity lets out a long deep chuckle, a chuckle that causes my blood to boil. “You’re not real,” I remind both them and me, taking multiple breaths, when I open them, they're gone. Did that really work? Did I really make them go away? I don’t calm down for several minutes, thinking that as soon as I do, they'll return. But when I drift off, and they don't plague my dreams, my doubts grow. <<elseif hasVisited("Try to get out the back way.")>>\ “Look at you, $name, off playing felon and running away from what you measly insects call justice.” “You would know nothing of justice,” I growl, feeling disgusting even talking to the creature at the edge of my bed, “you’re not even real.” The last part was more for my own personal sanity. I glance away, closing my eyes and taking numerous breaths in. When I open them, they're gone. Did that really work? Did I really make them go away? I don’t calm down for several minutes, thinking that as soon as I do, they'll return. But when I drift off, and they don't plague my dreams, my doubts grow. <<else>>\ “Look at you, $name, off playing felon and breaking doors. I didn’t think you had it in you, but I suppose I should stop underestimating you and your levels of insanity.” “Can you go crawl under a rock or something?” I growl, feeling disgusted even talking to the creature at the edge of my bed. They chuckle. “I’m sure you wish you had that shovel still, perhaps you could imagine yourself finally getting that revenge of yours.” Though I know it was impossible, the thought itself did make me wonder and wish I hadn’t thrown it away. “I would love to, but you’re not even real.” The last part was more for my own personal sanity. I glance away, closing my eyes and taking numerous breaths in. When I open them, they're gone. Did that really work? Did I really make them go away? I don’t calm down for several minutes, thinking that as soon as I do, they'll return. But when I drift off, and they don't plague my dreams, my doubts grow. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="EP6-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

My view moves to Sydero, who focuses on a can in front of her. I watch in interest as she raises her hand slowly and the can obeys, rising higher and higher. Suddenly she shoots her hand down, and though the can drops, she doesn’t look happy about it. [[Approach Syd.][$combat +=5; $guns +=3]] [[Go back in the house.][$supernatural +=5]]

I approach Syd, curious about what she was up to, and because I’m just bored. “Whatcha doing?” I question once I get close enough, she looks at me but says nothing, turning back around. “Practicing,” she finally replies, squeezing her hand into a fist and causing the can to explode, “poorly anyway.” “Your powers.” “Is that what it looks like? Then that’s what it is. Instead of questioning me, why don’t you go practice? You’ve never shot a moving can before,” she tells me, nodding over at the cans that are just sitting there. [[Practice alone.]] [[Ask Syd to practice with me.][$sydero +=3]]

I grumble as I walk away, but I do as she suggests, it isn’t like she doesn’t have a point. I don’t necessarily practice hitting a moving target, but I do improve my shooting ability. The more I shoot, the better I get. My accuracy improves, and so does my timing. I practice from closer and greater distances, finally stopping since some of the cans would probably explode if I shot them again. I’ve worked up quite the sweat, and if I stay outside any longer, the sun will cook me. So, I decide to take a break, get some water and go somewhere where the sun’s assault won’t be able to reach me. <a data-passage="ER6_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I grumble as I walk away, stopping when I get an idea. “What are you practicing?” I ask her again, “we may be able to help each other.” “I’m trying to condition myself to throw these cans using only my mind, using my hands is too much of a giveaway, plus a hindrance at times.” “Okay, so how about this. You practice your part by throwing the cans in the air, moving them and all that and I try to shoot them. That way you can practice, and I can hit moving targets.” Sydero gives me an impressed smile, nodding to say that she was in. For the next thirty minutes or so, we practice. Sydero’s failure to use her mind doesn’t impede on my training, and my training only helps her since it presented a distraction noise. If she couldn’t zone me out, then her training would be for naught. Both of us improve the longer we go. My last two shots hit the target square on, and Sydero is able to move them using only her mind. All in all, a successful day. <a data-passage="ER6_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I go back into the house and look around, grabbing the //Book of the Damned//. I haven’t picked this book up much because I am still trying to learn about the individual supernatural creatures, but I was curious to see what this book had to offer. I turn to a legend regarding a cryptid named the Wendigo. It is mainly part of the Algonquian and Native American lore, and its name literally translates to “an evil spirit who eats humans.” Which, to be fair, can be labeled upon the majority of supernatural creatures that I’ve come across. But, I continue to read, finding the lore around this particular beast interesting. There are a handful of legends about what the Wendigo is and how it comes to be. But all of them say that the Wendigo is once a human. When the individual reverts to cannibalism, they turn into a cannibalistic beast. The book talks about one such legend that many believe to be the first Wendigo. One cold winter, a tribe, to survive, was forced to eat their dead. Though many of them did not shift, one individual’s thirst for his own grew until he ate one still living. His greed and taste for blood were not sated, and he continued until he had decimated his entire tribe. That winter, he lived, and he shifted. He shifted into a horrendous, slender beast whose ribs were visible. His nails had grown into long talons, and his eyes glowed in the dark. He was fast, senses enhanced, and he mimicked human voices, hoping to lure more humans in so he could continue his eternal feast. The book continues to explain more about them: where they’re from, how to protect oneself, what they look like, and how to know if one is being hunted. Once I’m done, I leave the table, hoping to never come across one. <a data-passage="ER6_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I’m sitting, chewing on a granola bar, in the kitchen when Sydero rushes in, grabbing me and yanking me from the seat. “Use your words woman,” I growl, trying to shake her free. She stops, drawing the curtains back enough for me to peek outside. “We have a visitor.” I look to see a girl walking towards us, her arms wrapped around herself. “Crap, what do we do?” “Do you really want me to answer that?” Sydero questions, a glimmer in her eyes. She’s right, I didn’t. Knowing her, she could think of no other idea but to kill her, which would bring more people here in search for her. “I know one thing,” Sydero says, glancing out the window at her, “we don’t have a lot of time to come up with something.” I glance outside the window to see the girl is practically at the door. We exchange looks and rush to the door right as its thrown open. We stare at the girl, and she at us. Now that she’s closer, I can see that her cheeks are wet, and eyes glazed over and red. “Who are you?” she questions, “this building is supposed to be abandoned.” [[“Home designers.”]] [[“Contractors.”]] [[“Paranormal investigators.”]]

“We’re contractors, sent by the state,” I clear my throat and look over at Sydero who looks downright shocked at my words. “You guys don’t look like contractors,” the girl points out. “And you don’t look like a high school dropout but you’re here and not at school. We don’t judge,” Sydero answers, “and you’re also trespassing.” The girl sniffles as she gazes up at Sydero, and before any of us can say anything more, she bursts into tears. <<include "ER6_2">>

“We’re paranormal investigators,” I say with great confidence, “potential buyers and contractors will call us sometimes to make sure these buildings don’t hold any unsavory characters.” I glance over at Sydero who pokes out her bottom lip in thought, shrugging her shoulders. “The real question is what are you doing here? You’re trespassing.” The girl sniffles as she gazes up at Sydero, and before any of us can say anything more, she bursts into tears. <<include "ER6_2">>

“We’re home designers, we take decrepit and abandoned houses and do something,” I dramatically clap my hands, “and turn them into something extraordinary.” Out of the corner of my eye, I see Sydero sigh, shaking her head before taking a step closer to the woman. “The real question is what are you doing here? You’re trespassing.” The girl sniffles as she gazes up at Sydero, and before any of us can say anything more, she bursts into tears. <<include "ER6_2">>

<<if $sympathy <50>>\ I look at Sydero, and she looks at me, both of us uncomfortable and unsure of what to do. “What do we do?” I whisper to her. “What makes you think I know? <<if $uncledead>>Do you remember how I reacted to you when your uncle died?” She has a point.<<else>>I guess hoping she would have an answer was a bit of a stretch.<</if>> I glance back at the hysterical girl, her body shaking as she tries to stop crying and to speak to us. The only thing I can think of is to guide her to the kitchen and sit her in the seat. I steal the seat beside her and sit, wondering what I should do next. I just don’t know how to react when people behave like this, I could barely handle myself when I was hysterical. Sydero passes the girl a bottle of water and takes a seat in the other free chair. <<else>>\ I immediately go to the girl’s side, resting a friendly hand on her back. I bring her close to me and walk her towards the kitchen, placing her in an open seat as I grab her a bottle of water. “Sydero, go get me some tissue.” Much to my amazement, she doesn’t question or even give me a disapproving look, she just goes to do as I say. She comes back a few seconds later with an extremely large wad of tissue paper. It was excessive, but I guess this was better than nothing. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="ER6_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

It takes a while, but the girl finally calms down enough to speak. “I’m running away,” she tells us, clearing her throat, “I was going to run here until I made up my mind more, but I see that I can’t.” “Why are you running?” I ask her, and she shakes her head, gulping down some of the water. She begins to peel at some of the paint on the table. I wait for her to answer but she doesn’t. I know how stressful high school is, especially with everything that I went through during my time there. I knew the stress and the want to just quit. “She’s not running away,” Sydero finally says, leaning towards the girl, “are you?” The girl gulps but doesn’t say anything. Sydero’s attention moves to me. “She has nothing with her. If she were running, then she would have a pack, a phone, a wallet, something to help her out. She didn’t come here to figure out what to do, she came here to end it.” My eyes widen as I look from her to the guilty sitting girl. “That’s right,” she whispers, “I can’t take it anymore.” [[Well this is no longer my area of expertise.]] [[Well ... damn.]] [[Deep breaths, I got this.]] <<if $cmajor is "Psychology">>\ [[Alright, I trained for this.]] <</if>>\

<<if $suicidal>>\ I’m out of my field here. I didn’t know how to behave around people with suicidal tendencies. Though I guess I could use my own experience. But that is still such a messy area, not everyone goes through the same thing and they surely don’t recover all the same. Mindsets differ and plans and coping mechanisms aren’t universal. I try and focus on the simpler, more shared aspects. Remembering how dark it was, how dreary and gray the world had become. It was more of my uncle than me who helped me out of that world, he colored the world for me and taught me how to see the vibrant colors once again. <<else>>\ I was out of my field here, I didn’t know how to behave around people with suicidal tendencies. None of my friends ever showed signs, definitely not Chris who has a knack for always wearing the brightest of smiles. I didn’t really even hear about others since no one talked about it, I can’t even recall others attempting or achieving it in college. <</if>>\ <<include "ER6_4">>

I stare at the girl, who stares at the table. I look over at Sydero who is looking over the girl with a cool expression. <<if $optimistic >= 50>>I can’t really see Sydero being a big help either, her outlook on things wasn’t the most cheerful, they were downright cynical.<<else>>Damn, how did we get ourselves into this? Though our pessimism itself didn’t exactly lie on the same level, we both didn’t see the world in fun, bright colors. And therefore, trying to get another to see this wasn’t really the easiest thing.<</if>> <<include "ER6_4">>

I can do this. Just take it slow and think through everything I say and make sure to remain considerate. No pushing. The first step is learning why exactly she sees no other way. <<include "ER6_4">>

I was trained in suicidal intervention methods in one of my classes, and during my internship actually saw some of them put into practice. I go through all the methods and models that I remember learning, but all of them are for naught if I don’t know why she is going down this path. <<include "ER6_4">>

“Why?” I ask, the girl’s eyes raising to meet mine. I couldn’t help but wonder if I was one of the only people to actually ask her that question. “I’ve tried so hard,” she starts, “but no matter how hard I try everything continues to come falling down.” She begins to choke up on her words. It was the type of cry that I’m familiar with. [[I cried like this at my parent’s funeral.]] [[I heard Uncle Matheus cry like this.]] <<if $uncledead>>\ [[This is how I felt when Uncle Matheus died.]] <</if>>\

I vividly remember being in an emotional state, an out of body experience almost. I saw this scared little ?boy, on ?his knees as ?he begged for ?his parents to be returned to ?him. It wasn’t fair, I remember hearing others say to ?him. All of their words bounced off of the kid’s body, never penetrating that emotional and devastating shield that had surrounded ?him. <<include "ER6_5">>

I never cried like this before, but that was only because my emotions manifested in different ways. But I had heard Uncle Matheus cry like this. It was many years ago, early high school years. The only reason I remember it was because it was a particularly hard time for me, and it was the anniversary of his wife and child leaving him. I remember the raw sobs coming from him. He tried to keep quiet, as if not to wake me, but it wasn’t possible. <<include "ER6_5">>

For something that happened only a mere few weeks ago, it feels like it’s been so long. Perhaps that’s because of everything that has happened since then. Death seems to be a lingering scent in the air, an element that is impossible to escape. <<include "ER6_5">>

“My parents think I’m a waste of air! I’ll never be like my older brother or sister,” she continues to explain, “they’re smart and have all these skills. They got full rides into college but me, I’m going to have to pull loan after loan out and, it weighs on them. I can see it in their eyes, they can’t help me, and I hear it when they speak to me. My grades are slipping, senior year is so hard, and I’m stressed out with the tests. My friends don’t understand, they don’t even care. They never cared about me, no one does. And I hate myself!” she growls this part, looking at her hands. “I’m just a mistake, and everything I do is bad. I can’t do shit right! I’m a pest, and I have nothing but problems and can’t even help myself. I just ... I just hate it. And I know it doesn’t make sense, but it’s so bad, and I’m just so tired.” Her tears dry up, and she begins to embody someone who is genuinely just tired. Her shoulders droop, and it seems like she doesn’t even have the strength to pick up her gaze. There’s more she’s not saying, the longer I look at her, the more I see that. There’re bruises on her skin and cuts on her arms. At first, I thought the bruises meant she was being abused. But after seeing the cuts, and the placement of the bruises, they could very well be self-inflicted. “I don’t know why I’m telling you both this. I guess telling complete strangers that will never think about me again helps. I never told anyone how I feel, I just keep smiling and trying to be optimistic. I’m so tired of acting strong just so others don’t worry.” <a data-passage="ER6_6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I gaze at Sydero who is still staring at the girl, but this time her thoughts seem to be elsewhere. “Thank you for listening, even if it won’t really change anything,” she tells us, giving both of us the broadest grin she can muster. The smile is bright, but up against her tear stained cheeks and somber eyes, it just proves how much it has been hiding things all these years. <<if $cmajor is "Psychology">>There is a significant difference between learning about how to treat suicidal people, and actually trying to save a life. All the methods and models and steps that I’ve learned seem to be for not, because my mind is blank. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I know what it is but why to use it evades me. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, what does it even have to do with?<</if>> Despite her words, she doesn’t move from her seat, she seems almost frozen in place. The only things that move are her eyes, glancing back and forth between Sydero and me. If I was going to say anything, anything at all, then now was the time. [[“This is your life, it’s okay to sometimes feel like giving up.”][$sydero +=2; $optimistic +=3]] [[“Life isn’t without challenge. Keep fighting.”][$sydero -=5; $optimistic +=5]] <<if $suicidal>>\ [[“I know the feeling.”][$sydero +=5]] <</if>>\ [[“Life isn’t really worth it.”][$optimistic -=5; $uncaring to true]] [[“Don’t make too much of a mess then.”][$optimistic -=10; $uncaring to true]] [[“Are you sure?”]] [[Don’t comment.][$sydero +=10; $silence +=1; $uncaring to true]]

“Hey,” I begin, scooting my chair closer to her, “this is your life, it’s okay to sometimes feel like giving up. That’s a legitimate feeling, and I’m glad you chose to tell us about it, even if we’re strangers. Is there anything else that’s making you feel like death is the only option?” She leans closer towards me and shakes her head, but at the same time, she shrugs. I don’t push her, that’s not what she needs right now. <<include "ER6_7">>

“Life isn’t without challenge,” I begin, “I’m not trying to put myself in your shoes, but I do want you to know that you’re not the only one who just sees everything falling apart. You have to fight for this life, and I know it sounds stupid. You didn’t ask for this life, you didn’t ask for the pain and the struggle, that’s just one of the messed-up parts about life. We have to fight in order to hope that further on down that path, there’s something worth fighting for there.” The young teen’s eyes drift to the table as she takes in my words. I hope I got through to her or at least gave her something to think about. I gaze over at Sydero who hasn’t yet said anything today, though I guess I shouldn’t be surprised by that. <<include "ER6_7">>

“You know,” I begin, biting my cheek as I wonder if I want to speak about that dark time, “I’ve had the same thoughts.” Her eyes widen, and I wonder if this is the first time she has spoken to someone who has been in a similar spot to hers. “Yea, I was in a place that I don’t like thinking back on. I felt like there was no point to life and that living was just a waste of time. I seriously failed to see the point, nothing but bad things were happening. I had dreams plague me every night, and I was traumatized.” “What made you not go through with it?” I think hard, and a small smile comes onto my face. “I had a good support system, my uncle knew and understood what I was feeling, and so he was always there. But that was just a piece of it, I had to want to live and look forward to the future.” She hums, and I gaze over at Sydero who gives me what can almost be the beginning of a smile, a genuine one at that. <<include "ER6_7">>

I snort and lean back in my seat, “well, life isn’t really worth it anyway. Think about it. We didn’t ask for this, and yet here we are, having to go through it. There’s so much pain in this world. The future, for all we know, just gets darker and more depressing.” My words weren’t meant to make her feel better, they were more of a personal rant. The young teen nods in understanding. I look over at Sydero who’s still staring at the girl, she hasn’t said anything yet, though I suppose I didn’t expect her too. <<include "ER6_7">>

“Well, if you choose death, just don’t make too much of a mess then.” The girl’s eyes widen in shock and horror, probably believing that I was going to try and talk her out of it. I wasn’t her therapist or parent, I hardly knew the girl, so my words meant nothing. I look over at Sydero, right as she looks away from me. I could’ve sworn I saw disappointment in her eyes though. <<include "ER6_7">>

“Are you sure?” I ask leaning towards her. She bites the side of her cheek, unable to answer. Of course, she wasn’t sure, I doubt she would’ve trekked all the way out here if she was. <<include "ER6_7">>

I refuse to say anything, to dissuade or aid her current actions. I don’t like holding that kind of power or knowing that my words influenced someone to finally end their life. Or that only because I said something, a stranger, someone decided to continue living. I just didn’t want to say anything at all, it was her life, not mine. <<include "ER6_7">>

Sydero scratches her chin and grabs something out of her back pocket. I stare with widened eyes as she slides a gun towards the young girl. The house is quiet, even the world outside the building. We all stare at the gun, Sydero staring at the girl. “At the end of the day, it’s your choice. None of us can influence you. Your loved ones can give you all the support you need, you can see the top therapists and doctors in the world, and that still might not be enough. If you don’t think your life is worth it, then that’s all that matters in the end. No one can make you want to live. So, grab the gun or don’t grab the gun. It’s your choice.” The girl glances from me to Sydero, her eyes resting on the gun. <<if $uncaring is false>>\ [[Condemn Sydero.][$sydero -=10]] <</if>>\ <<if $uncaring>>\ [[Agree with her.][$sydero +=10]] <</if>>\ [[Snatch the gun.][$sydero -=10]] [[Say nothing.][$silence +=1]]

“Wait, are you serious, Sydero? She’s a teenager,” I growl and move my attention from Syd to the girl. “As humans, we hardly can see past the day we live in. Do you know what your future can hold? How rich it can be? Talk to your parents and friends, tell them how you feel. See a therapist and get your fears out there.” “Completely irrelevant,” Sydero snorts, “you’re basing your words off of speculation. Guessing that maybe her future will be better if she fights. And if it’s not? If every day is just failure after failure, pushing her further into depression?” “And if it is brighter? If tomorrow begins a new path for her. Making her look back on this day and see how happy she is that she fought for it?” “Again, speculation. It doesn’t matter what the future holds. The world could end tomorrow, she could die tomorrow, she could meet the love of her life tomorrow, she could find everything she’s ever wanted. The keyword is could. All of it is what if. It only matters what you feel right now. She could have a great life and still hate herself, still despise who she is. That’s no way to live.” Sydero rises and looks down at the girl. “It’s your choice, don’t let others take that away from you.” She sends me a glare before leaving the room, the gun still resting in front of the girl. “Listen,” I sigh, “fighting is hard. And yes, there’s no guarantee that it will get better, but there’s no guarantee that it won’t. Fight for yourself.” I hold my breath as I watch her. Tears stream down her eyes as her hand inches towards the gun. She trails her hand along it. I can practically imagine what she’s feeling, the cold hard metal of the gun. I gulp. Withdrawing her hand back, she slides her chair back. “I need to think about what you guys said, but I’m glad that my ... path, led me here. I need to think about what I want, and ... just thank you. Can you thank your co-worker too?” I nod, taking my eyes off of the gun and placing them onto the young woman. I see her out, watching as she takes her time to leave the way she came. I shiver as I watch her go, despite the warm air and the almost non-existent summer heat. I don’t know what she’s thinking and what she’ll decide, but I hope she chooses life, and that she finds things worth living for. <a data-passage="ER6_8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Syd does have a point,” I say, biting the inside of my lip, “if you’re not happy, then no amount of outside help will ever make you better. You have to want it for yourself, others can’t want it for you and that be all. All we can say is that it’s your choice and only yours.” I feel Syd’s eyes on me, before moving to the girl. We don’t rush her, we don’t pressure her, we just sit in silence and watch her. Tears stream down her eyes as her hand inches towards the gun. She trails her hand along it. I can practically imagine what she’s feeling, the cold hard metal of the gun. I gulp. Withdrawing her hand back, she slides her chair back. “I need to think about what you guys said, but I’m glad that my ... path, led me here. I need to think about what I want, and ... just thank you.” Sydero nods and reaches over to grab the gun, pocketing it again. We see her out, watching as she takes her time to leave the way she came. “You were just going to let her shoot her brains out at the kitchen table?” I question with a grimace and a raised brow. “The gun isn’t loaded,” she tells me, her eyes on the distant figure of the girl, “the point was to give her a choice. If she pulled the trigger, then she would’ve made her choice.” “What if she was too scared to try a second time?” “Then her choice would’ve changed. If she really wanted out, she would find a way, regardless of an unloaded gun.” “So, does this sort of thing happen a lot with you? You save or push people closer to that cliff?” “Don’t word it like that,” Sydero growls, her attention still on the path the girl had taken. “Tell me, $name,” she turns to me, a rare serious expression on her face, “do you believe in fate?” [[“I do.”]] [[“I believe in free will.”]] [[“I don’t know ...”]]

My eyes widen, and in a panic, I reach forward and grab the gun, glaring over at Syd. “What are you doing?” “Giving her a choice,” she says, pointing at the gun, “one that you just snatched from the table.” “Syd, this is not the way to go about it.” “And yet here we are. Roe, don’t argue with me about this.” I ignore her, turning my attention to the young woman, my heart bleeding for her, “there are better ways. Get help, talk to someone, fight for yourself. Okay? This,” I say and hold up the gun before throwing another look at Syd, “is not the answer.” Thankfully Syd stands quietly, raising a brow at my words but saying nothing more. “I need to think about what you guys said, but I’m glad that my ... path, led me here. I need to think about what I want, and ... just thank you.” Sydero nods and snatches the gun from me, pocketing it again. We see her out, watching as she takes her time to leave the way she came. “You were just going to let her shoot her brains out at the kitchen table?” I question with a grimace and a raised brow. “The gun wasn’t loaded,” she tells me, her eyes on the distant figure of the girl, “for your infomration, the point was to give her a choice. If she pulled the trigger, then she would’ve made her choice.” “What if she was too scared to try a second time?” “Then her choice would've changed. If she really wanted out, she would find a way, regardless of an unloaded gun.” “So, does this sort of thing happen a lot with you? You save or push people closer to that cliff?” “Don’t word it like that,” Sydero growls, her attention still on the path the girl had taken, “but kinda. You meet a lot of people in this job, some because they become clients or you’re helping them. Others because they just stumble onto your path. You never know what will happen really. Tell me $name,” she turns to me, a rare serious expression on her face, “do you believe in fate?” [[“I do.”]] [[“I believe in free will.”]] [[“I don’t know ...”]]

I don’t say anything regarding Syd’s words, my eyes still on the girl and the choice she was about to make. We don’t rush her, we don’t pressure her, we just sit in silence and watch her. Tears stream down her eyes as her hand inches towards the gun. She trails her hand along it. I can practically imagine what she’s feeling, the cold hard metal of the gun. I gulp. Withdrawing her hand back, she slides her chair back. “I need to think about what you guys said, but I’m glad that my ... path, led me here. I need to think about what I want, and ... just thank you.” Sydero nods and reaches over to grab the gun, pocketing it again. We see her out, watching as she takes her time to leave the way she came. “You were just going to let her shoot her brains out at the kitchen table?” I question with a grimace and a raised brow. “The gun isn’t loaded,” she tells me, her eyes on the distant figure of the girl, “the point was to give her a choice. If she pulled the trigger, then she would’ve made her choice.” “What if she was too scared to try a second time?” “Then her choice would’ve changed. If she really wanted out, she would find a way, regardless of an unloaded gun.” <<if $silence is 2>>\ Sydero turns to me in curiosity, “you didn’t say anything?” I shrug and go back inside with her following. “It isn’t my place. I have no right telling someone what to do with their life.” “Would you feel something based off of her decision. Whether it was to live or die?” [[“No.”|ER6No]] [[“Yea.”]] [[“Sort of.”]] <<else>>\ “So, does this sort of thing happen a lot with you? You save or push people closer to that cliff?” “Don’t word it like that,” Sydero growls, her attention still on the path the girl had taken. “Tell me, $name,” she turns to me, a rare serious expression on her face, “do you believe in fate?” [[“I do.”]] [[“I believe in free will.”]] [[“I don’t know ...”]] <</if>>\

“No. I was just a stranger who heard her story before she died or decided to change her life around. Maybe that’s all she needed, maybe not.” Sydero regards me again with that calculating stare of hers. She opens her mouth to say something, but nothing comes out. She sighs and walks in the direction of her room. <<include "ER6_8">>

“Yea, I think I would. I don’t want her to die, even though I don’t know her. I just hope that she finds something worth living for. Killing yourself isn’t a solution to me, but who was I to say that regarding another’s life?” Sydero regards me again with that calculating stare of hers. She opens her mouth to say something, but nothing comes out. She sighs and walks in the direction of her room. <<include "ER6_8">>

“Sort of. I mean, she was a complete stranger to me, and I doubt I’ll ever hear about her again. But then, on the other hand, I don’t want her to die. I just want her to find something worth living for, no matter how big or how small, and fight because of that.” Sydero regards me again with that calculating stare of hers. She opens her mouth to say something, but nothing comes out. She sighs and walks in the direction of her room. <<include "ER6_8">>

“Yea, I do. Fate, destiny, predetermined future, whatever you want to call it. I think we all like to walk around thinking we have control, but realistically, none of us do. Every path we take, we’re supposed to take, no matter how rebellious we think we are. Rebelling against fate? It’s stupid, fate already planned for you to do it.” Sydero nods her head, cocking her head to the side as she continues to look at me. There is a sadness in her eye, as if my words had simply confirmed something for her. In a way, I feel that she believes me but wished that my opinion differed. Before I can question her, she walks into the house, leaving me with my thoughts. <<include "ER6_8">>

“I believe in free will. I think we are each responsible for our own actions and that nothing is written in stone. I don’t know why but I just can’t picture my fate being spelled out for me, that fate knew I was going to maybe take this step to the left or that my dreams will never come true because of some random coincidence.” Sydero nods her head, cocking her head to the side as she continues to look at me. There is a confusion in her eye, as if my words had simply confirmed something for her. In a way, I feel that she is joyful about my opinion, but there is oddly placed doubt there as well. Before I can question her, she walks into the house, leaving me with my thoughts. <<include "ER6_8">>

“I don’t know, I think I believe in both, if that makes sense. I believe that our destinies, or fates, are written out. But being humans and living in such a chaotic place, I feel like our fates are loosely written. That a random act can rewrite fate, give a story that already has an ending a new one.” “That’s different,” Sydero replies but she seems almost impressed by what I say. A sense of hope seems to filter in her eyes. Before I can question her, she walks into the house, leaving me with my thoughts. <<include "ER6_8">>

<<if $cp>>Bradley and Chris arrive<<else>>Bradley arrives<</if>> ten minutes after our guest has left. <<if $cp>>I help them with groceries, telling them both about the visitor and inquiring about their trip. At least on their end, everything went smoothly. We pack the food away and do some minor cleaning, all of us too tired to actually get into it.<<else>>I help him with groceries, telling him about the visitor and inquiring about his trip. At least on his end, everything went smoothly. We pack the food away and do some minor cleaning, both of us too tired to actually get into it.<</if>> And with that, I retire to my room. I lay in my bed, sinking into the mattress when I feel a nearby presence. I fight the whimper, but it comes out regardless, I turn to see the Entity on the edge of the bed, staring at me with that large cartoonish grin. For some reason, no matter how many times they appear, I fail to use my words. They form but the act of getting them out of that premature stage never happens, they die in my throat, and I’m left with a foul taste residing in my mouth. <<if $uncaring>>\ “Look at you, $name, sending little girls to their deaths. I’m struggling to see whose worst between you and me.” “I didn’t send her to her death, whatever she decides is her choice,” I correct, and they laugh menacingly. <<else>>\ “Look at you, $name, saving little girls and playing the hero. You must feel all warm inside, huh? You finally did something right in your miserable little life.” “Shut up,” I shout, sneering, “you resort to empty insults because you have nothing else to say. I helped that girl, and you’re trying to think of ways to twist that.” <</if>>\ “That girl is going to kill herself, and it’s going to be your fault.” Regardless if I care or not, a chill crawls down my spine. If my heart could freeze over, then it was doing it right now. “You’re not real,” I tell myself, taking multiple breaths with my eyes closed. When I open them, they're gone. Did that really work? Did I really make them go away? I don’t calm down for several minutes, thinking that as soon as I do, they’ll return. But when I drift off, and they don’t plague them, my doubts grow. <a data-passage="EP6-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/actthree.png"> “Again,” Sydero commands, rotating her wrist around lazily, “and for the last time, fix your stance.” She taps the thick stick to the insides of both of my legs, forcing me to spread them farther apart like they were meant to be. After correcting my stance, I raise the stick in my hands once again, ready to redo the set of moves that Sydero had shown me. <<if $cp>>\ Chris lunges forward like she had taught him. In response, I take a step back and counter his attack. My mind is on two different things at once, trying to actually complete the simple move as well as trying not to get hit by Chris’s stick. There was also me trying to keep my stance perfect, and I was busy trying to find an opening. One finally shows itself when Chris reaches out too far. [[Do a complicated move.][$sydero +=2; $chris -=3]] [[Simply tap him.][$chris +=3; $sydero -=3]] [[Add some pizzazz to it.][$bradley +=3; $chris -=3; $sydero -=3]] <<else>>\ I take the step forward, mainly working on my stance and making sure I could keep my balance despite whatever was coming at me. I nod at Sydero, and she raises her hands, pushing me back lightly with her powers. I focus all of my attention on my stance and feet, the feeling of becoming unbalanced slowly taking over. She increases the pressure just as I get resituated. This time I feel my feet leave the ground as I’m sent back. I wasn’t that far up, but I was far enough up to where if I land incorrectly, it would be horrible for my ankles. “What should you always have with you, Roe?” Sydero asks, yawning as she watches me. [[“Seriously, now?”][$sydero -=3; $bradley +=3]] [[“My sanity.”][$bradley +=3]] [[“My knife.”][$sydero +=3]] <</if>>\

I picture me hitting him with a simple move, and then thinking up all of the things that I could do to make sure he stays down. Of course, I wasn’t trying to permanently take Chris down, but the mindset was a healthy one to develop. I do two quick taps to Chris’s midsection and then kick his feet out from under him before he can react. As soon as his back hits the ground, I put a knee to his chest and the stick to his neck. “Even I have to admit that that was a pretty good takedown. Not too flashy but highly sufficient,” Sydero compliments, shocking both Chris and me. I clear my throat <<if $chris >=50>>as I help Chris to his feet, “when did you start giving out compliments?”<<else>>and put space between Chris and me, leaving him on the ground to get himself up. “When did you start giving out compliments?”<</if>> “I give praise where praise is due.” <<include "ER7">>

I wait for the right moment, and then move in for the strike. A simple attack was all that was needed. Seeing that Chris was just a scrimmage party, and not to mention my brother, there was no reason for me to do anything more. “Simple enough,” Sydero states, “in a real fight you’re going to have to put in more effort, but I can’t complain.” “Well, I’m thankful,” Chris tells me. <<include "ER7">>

I picture me hitting him with a simple move, and then thinking up all of the things that I could do to make sure he stays down. I can’t help but want to add some kind of extraordinary move to it, maybe could even start developing some sort of signature move. I do two quick taps to Chris’s midsection, and with my free hand, I go to grab the stick he has. As I do this, I kick his knee and grab the stick, putting both sticks to his neck as I grin down at him. “Dead,” I sneer. He pushes me away from him roughly, pushing himself back up to his feet. “Cute,” Sydero starts, “you started off great, and then you started being you.” “I thought it looked rad,” Bradley shouts from the porch. I set down both branches as I smirk at the other two, each rolling their eyes in annoyance. <<include "ER7">>

I stare at the ground that was fast approaching, my mind on two different things now. “Seriously, now, Syd?” I yell, just as I land. I was going to fall on my back, so I make sure I move just enough for my feet to go first. As soon as my feet touch ground I bend my knees and drop into a rough roll. “I wish I had one of those annoyingly loud alarms to sound whenever you’re wrong. Granted, I’d be sounding it almost every second but still,” Sydero tells me. Before I can either say anything or shoot a comeback her way, the sound she had described blares out. I jerk around to face Bradley who throws up a thumbs up. “Found it for you,” he shouts. <<include "ER7">>

“Maybe my sanity?” I growl, my attention on the fast approaching ground. My mind on two different things now. I was going to land on my back, so I make sure I move just enough for my feet to go first. As soon as my feet touch ground I bend my knees and drop into a rough roll. “I wish I had one of those annoyingly loud alarms to sound whenever you’re wrong. Granted I’d be sounding it almost every second but still,” Sydero tells me. Before I can either say anything or shoot a comeback her way, the sound she had described blares out. I jerk around to face Bradley who throws up a thumbs up. “Found it for you,” he shouts. <<include "ER7">>

“My knife,” I immediately yell out as I refocus on my landing. I was going to land on my back, so I make sure I move just enough for my feet to go first. As soon as my feet touch ground I bend my knees and drop into a rough roll. “Nice, you’re thinking on your toes,” Sydero sneers. Bradley laughs at her ridiculous pun while I just send her what I hope is my ‘never again’ face. Her grin only grows though. <<include "ER7">>

“So, break, right? I can actually get off my feet right now?” I give her no time to answer, immediately taking a seat on the first step my butt touches. “You’re going to die out there,” I hear that eerie familiar voice say, their voice so close to my ear that it tickles. Instinctually, I jump, landing on the harsh ground. When I look back towards my previous seat, nothing but air resides there. I’m fully aware of the confused looks that I receive, Bradley being the one to immediately speak up. “What, a fly was trying to whisper in your ear?” <<if $cp>>That gets Chris laughing, and the two of them snicker over Bradley’s words together.<<else>>Bradley laughs at his own joke, not caring that neither Sydero nor I find it very funny.<</if>> “They don’t take you seriously, huh? You’re just here for the giggles,” the Entity says to me. When I jerk around this time, the figure is sitting casually on the ground. The grass near them withers violently before dying. “Get away from me,” I tell them, looking to the others, hoping they see them too. The confusion on their face tells me that they don’t though. “Who are you talking to?” <<if $cp>>Chris asks, approaching me nervously.<<else>>Syd asks, cocking her head to the side.<</if>> “You’re telling me you don’t see them?” I ask them each, pointing to the dead grass, “you don’t see that?” “The grass?” <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Bradley<</if>> questions. I reach towards the grass, stopping as I stare down at the healthy vibrant kiwi green blades that rest in my hand, the same turf that I saw wilt and die before my eyes. “You’re losing it, $name,” the Entity chuckles cruelly. Their words only add fuel to the fire, as all three of them continue to look at me with worried or curious eyes, “imagining things that aren't even there.” “Guess the sun’s starting to get to you, huh?” Sydero finally says, picking up the sticks and throwing them towards the woods. She nods to the house and <<if $cp>>the other two<<else>> Bradley stands to<</if>> head towards it, passing me one last look before disappearing inside. <a data-passage="ER7_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<>\<<set $TheEntity = true>><>\ I get up and head towards the door when a black fog emerges. It shoots towards my nostrils, and I inhale every ounce of it, panicking at the lack of knowledge of what was now inside me. My vision begins to blur, and the world grows darker, everything in a dismal grayscale. I scream out for help and instead hear my voice miles away in an unknown direction. <<if $nerve >=40>>\ I tell myself to calm down, to take numerous breaths and not to let this congested air get to me. Panicking won’t help me. I center myself, though it’s much harder to do since every piece of me feels off balanced. It takes more time than usual, but I finally feel my heart steady, and I can think clearly. <<else>>\ My breathing speeds up and comes in rapid bursts. I feel a shiver run down my body, feeling hot yet cold all at the same time. Suddenly, I feel off balanced, as if teetering on the edge of a cliff. My ears pick up nothing but my thumping heart, each beat rings through my ears. <</if>>\ “You’re not real,” I hear the Entity mimic, their voice all around me, above and below me. I hear their voice in my own mind, and outside of it. It echoes through me. “Where the hell am I?” I shout, again my voice not coming out of my mouth, but in the distance, I can barely hear it. “I don’t answer to you, pet,” they growl, the feeling of claws painfully sinking into my back with their words. I try to move but only feel the same drunken feeling I did before, feeling profoundly off balance and woozy. “You just follow the rules, and we’ll have no problems. Understand?” [[Let them have it.][$zillah -=10]] [[Ask about the rules.][$zillah +=5]] [[Name correct them.][$zillah -=5]] [[Continue trying to get out of ... whatever this is.]]

“Okay, fuck you, first of all. I thought I got rid of your ugliness years ago, but obviously, I didn’t. What is your obsession with me, huh? If you wanted to possess me, then you would’ve already done it, the same thing with killing me, so it’s obvious you need me alive. So, tell –” I feel a sharp sting in my stomach, enough to make me fall to my knees and want to throw up my lungs. “Watch your mouth,” they hiss. “I obviously struck a chord,” I chuckle. I couldn’t stop what they were doing to me, but I could continue to piss them off every step of the way. Like I had previously said, they obviously didn’t want me dead. I struggle to remember what they had said when I was a child, perhaps there would be some sort of clue there. My mind comes up blank, I would have to think about this later, when I was not in some twisted version of my own mind. “Let’s go over the rules, shall we?” “First off, stop trying to warn your friends. They can’t help you and if they try, it’s only going to harm you, because it definitely won’t hurt me. Next, stop trying to fight me every step of the way, another thing that will harm you, not me. Unless you like headaches, I suggest you just let me do whatever I want.” <<include "ER7_2">>

“And exactly what do these rules consist of?” “There we go, pet,” they purr in my ear. “First off, stop trying to warn your friends. They can’t help you and if they try, it’s only going to harm you, because it definitely won’t hurt me. Next, stop trying to fight me every step of the way, another thing that will harm you, not me. Unless you like headaches, I suggest you just let me do whatever I want.” <<include "ER7_2">>

“My name is $name, monster, get it right or get out of my mind. On second thought, get out of my mind, period.” I feel a sharp sting in the right side of my head, as if someone had taken an item and hit me there. “I know what I said, pet. Do the smart thing for once and just shut up.” “Let’s go over the rules, shall we?” “First off, stop trying to warn your friends. They can’t help you and if they try, it’s only going to harm you, because it definitely won’t hurt me. Next, stop trying to fight me every step of the way, another thing that will harm you, not me. Unless you like headaches, I suggest you just let me do whatever I want.” <<include "ER7_2">>

I ignore them and continue focusing on getting out of this world, or whatever this was. The world caused me to feel horrible migraines and each time my eyes moved to another area of the room, I grew dazed and lightheaded. I was still standing in the doorway of the safehouse, but nothing looked the same. I couldn’t hear or see the others, I could barely even feel myself. So, how do I get out of it? That was the question. It seems nearly impossible. Each movement came with a horrible headache and the need to throw up. “Let’s go over the rules, shall we?” “First off, stop trying to warn your friends. They can’t help you and if they try, it’s only going to harm you, because it definitely won’t hurt me. Next, stop trying to fight me every step of the way, another thing that will harm you, not me. Unless you like headaches, I suggest you just let me do whatever I want.” <<include "ER7_2">>

I open my mouth to say something but find that I’m without air. I was learning that even if in the real world I was unaffected, this wasn’t the real world and they could do whatever they wanted here. “Interrupting me is rude. Next, when the time comes, well just let it come. You remember the feeling, do you not? The feeling of falling into something much grander than your puny little mortal life?” “What was supposed to happen that day?” I question. “And lastly, don’t question me,” they state. I growl, and I prepare to ask them another question when the despair from this world suddenly seeps away. I fall to my knees, taking in numerous deep breaths as I try to get my bearings back. “$name?” Bradley calls out, rushing to my side and right behind him <<if $cp>>are Chris and Sydero<<else>>is Sydero<</if>>, “what happened? Are you okay?” [[Tell them.|ER7Truth][$zillah -=3; $honesty +=3]] [[Make up a lie.|ER7Lie][$zillah +=3; $honesty -=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Honesty ++<</if>> “It was that entity I kept seeing, that I was telling you about outside.” I begin to trail off when I see them exchange glances. “Are you sure this isn't all in your head?” “It’s not!” I yell, my temper reaching unsurmountable peaks. “Told you it would only make you look worse, can’t even follow the first rule. Being here with you, pet, will be most interesting.” I look at those surrounding me and begin to believe those words. <<include "ER7_3">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Deceit ++<</if>> “Yea, I just started to think about something, and at the same time I got a bit woozy. I’m fine.” They each continue to stare at me, probably not believing my lie since a few minutes ago I was screaming about something that they couldn’t see. But there was little else to do, and so they go back into the kitchen. “So, you can follow directions, good,” the Entity hums before going quiet. <<include "ER7_3">>

A prisoner of my own mind. I think of a few things that could possibly upset the Entity. When they don’t react, and I don’t feel like some mystic force has covered me, I feel better. My thoughts were still my own, if they weren’t then they would be all too eager to prove me wrong. [[This was going to be hell.|ER7_4][$optimistic -=3]] [[I would make it through this.|ER7_4][$optimistic +=3]] [[I just want answers.|ER7_4]]

I glimpse outside, my eyes roaming over the scenery and the calmness that it reflects. In the far distance, I can see the rain clouds. The charcoal clouds are sprawled out, crawling along the sky closer to our destination. The brighter part of the sky shrinks away in fear, being overwhelmed by the doom to come. Here the sun still streams down onto the land, unaware or uncaring of what was moving in. Besides eyeing the sky, I knew the signs of rain because of the wind. It had picked up and was heavy with the scent of what could be the last rainfall of spring. I close the door, though my worries and thoughts reside on the other side, ready to meet the rain. <a data-passage="EP6NT"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/nexttime.png"> <img src="images/divider.png"> “What were some of the signs that your friend brought up?” I question after Sydero had asked about Bradley’s friend, he wasn’t able to give us much information pertaining to the kid besides that he was a gamer and pretty cool. “Animal killings, mostly dogs. Some of those who talked to the cops said it looked like a large animal. And all the pets were torn apart, almost shredded with hearts gone ... among other things.” <img src="images/divider.png"> Sydero is unable to finish as a scream pierces the once cheerful and relaxed air surrounding the park. Dogs bark, children whimper and cry, and parents rush to their kids as they try to figure out what’s happening. We both set off in a sprint, rushing to the source of the piercing scream that has now turned into loud shouts. <img src="images/divider.png"> The beast is upon me, swiping his paw towards me and I swing my blade. My blade skids across his paw, creating a deep gash that the creature doesn’t appreciate. It whimpers, its eyes blazing with new hatred for me. It charges again, this time barreling towards me, shoulder first. I time my jump, jumping out of the way and sliding my blade down its flank as I go. He turns around, and I narrowly avoid its claws. <img src="images/divider.png"> In the middle sits the bodies of all the dead animals that we had heard about. The decomposing bodies are surrounded by flying insects, enjoying the buffet. “Well, I think we found the animals,” Sydero whispers harshly, looking around for something else. [[Episode Seven: Bladenboro Beast]]

<> <<set $answer1 to "food"; $scry = false; $injuries = false; $fail to 0; $langstonFree = false>> <<playlist "ambience" loop play>> <>\ <img src="images/epten.png"> <img src="images/actone.png"> I stand in silence. I wouldn’t have believed her if it wasn’t for her current appearance. She still looks like Sydero. Skin tone, hair color, clothing; all of that is still her. But what isn’t Sydero is the pair of garnet colored demonic wings that stick out of her back. The wing’s thumb is a wicked sharp claw that drips blood onto Sydero’s shoulder. On her head, her black curly locks hiding their origins, are two medium-sized horns that curl up at the last minute into a rounded point. And lastly, there is a crimson mist that almost seems to leak off of her in smoky wisps. I place my hand on the station’s lobby desk, trying to balance myself and calm my trembling. <<if $nerve <40>>\ I inhale deeply and immediately regret it, feeling myself choke on the air. I cough as my heart speeds up and my breathing picks up rapidly. I fall to the ground, placing my back up against the desk as my world seems to drift. “Get a hold of yourself, Roe,” I hear Sydero say, and see her walk by, stepping right onto the body resting in front of me. I hear the soft squishing and see the blood spatter. I am definitely going to throw up. <<else>>\ I take a deep breath and tell myself to calm down, to gather myself even though I am literally standing in front of a full-fledged demon. I wonder if Raum actually has a different appearance as well, one that shows his true demonic form. I steady myself and look at Sydero whose attention is on the building. She runs her hands down one side, before putting her focus on the other. <</if>>\ “Sydero?” I say again, breathless. She doesn’t say anything, continuing to go from one area to the next. [[“Explain yourself, now!”]] [[“I don’t even know where to begin.”]] <<if $pacifist <50>>\ [[Attack her.]] <</if>>\

“Explain yourself,” I say, shaking, “now!” Sydero spares me a look, and she almost looks bored with my existence. She rolls her eyes and goes back to peering around the station. <<include "TS0">>

“I don’t even know where to begin,” I say, pacing up and down the room, but stopping after realizing that I was just tracking blood everywhere. <<include "TS0">>

The anger in me swells to levels that I didn’t even know exist. It controls me, leading me closer to her. With all my might and most of the energy that I have left, I send my fist right at her. At the last minute she catches it, and furthering the disrespect is that she’s not even looking at me. She smirks and without even a blink, releases me by slinging me to the other side of the room. <<include "TS0">>

The smell of death is beginning to do so something to me, something that I’m not comfortable with. I know what death is supposed to smell like, but at that moment, there is almost a sweetness to it. An intoxicating perfume that attempts to pull me towards it. I take another seat, this time on a nearby chair that is further away from the carnage. I am dealing with enough. Adding why I possibly am attracted to this smell is not something I wish to think about on top of everything else. “Bradley’s outside. Go with him,” Sydero commands, still not looking at me as she disappears down a hallway. “What are you doing?” I ask, about to go after her when I spot a bright light nearby. I turn and see the fire spreading, enveloping everything along with it. I search for Sydero but only see the fire as it eats away at the prison, determined to see it fall. I don’t know what’s going on anymore. I shake my head and flee outside, tearing my eyes from the other bodies that rest out here. I search, but I don’t see Langston’s or Petri’s body, possibly meaning that they got away. They were smarter than the other officers. Like Sydero said, I see my car pull up, and Bradley rushes out, throwing his arms around me. <<if $cp>>Chris is behind him, hugging me tightly after Bradley releases me.<</if>> “We thought you were a goner,” he tells me. “Where the hell were you<<if $cp>> guys?<<else>>?<</if>>” I point at the police station that is slowly going up in flames with a trembling finger, “Sydero’s a damn demon!” <<if $cp>>Chris cocks his head in confusion, but I see the color drain from Bradley’s face.<<else>>The color drains from Bradley’s face at my words.<</if>> “What do you mean?” he asks nervously. “I mean she’s a demon! Wings, horns, the full shebang!” Before I can stop him, Bradley shoots towards the station, disappearing inside. <<if $cp>>\ “What’s going on!?” Chris screams, racing after Bradley. <</if>>\ [[Go after him.]] [[Head to the car.]]

<<if $cp>>\ I sigh and mustering up the rest of my energy, I follow them back into the building I’ve been trying to escape. I follow Chris, who follows Bradley, who seeks out a woman lost among the smoke. “Sydero!” I hear Bradley call out and I grab onto Chris, letting him lead me. “Bradley, we can’t stay here, it’s too much smoke,” Chris tells him, lunging forward to grab the boy but he skirts out of his reach. “Sydero!” Bradley screams louder this time. Chris tries again to grab him, but Bradley avoids him, consequently not seeing the falling beam until it is too late. Chris and I both surge forward at once, too late as Bradley screams out in pain. Panic surfaces inside me, but I can feel that this adrenaline rush is going to be short-lived. Between the smoke and my waning energy, I don’t have much time. “Hold on, Bradley,” I hear Chris say and he begins to kick the beam, to no avail. I hear the sounds of wings and feel the ground shake, looking to see Sydero’s figure walking towards us out of the fire. I move back, and after yelping in both surprise and shock, Chris rushes to my side. I watch as Sydero grabs and flings the beam to the side, seizing Bradley. Before my eyes, I watch as her horns begin to shrink and her wings fold in and then disappear into her back. Everything but her eyes shift. “Don’t just stand there, you dimwits, let’s go,” she growls, surging towards the exit with Bradley. Chris grabs and helps me out and back into the car. I have so many questions, so many things I want answers to, but my body screams at me to sleep, and I do. <<else>>\ I sigh and mustering up the rest of my energy, I follow him back into the building I’ve been trying to escape. “Sydero!” I hear Bradley call out and I try to grab onto him, but he skirts out of my reach. “Bradley, we can’t stay here, it’s too much smoke,” I tell him, coughing uncontrollably. “Sydero!” Bradley screams louder this time. I try again to grab Bradley, but the boy avoids me, consequently not seeing the falling beam until it was too late. I surge forward, too late as Bradley screams out in pain. Panic surfaces inside me, but I can feel that this adrenaline rush is going to be short-lived. Between the smoke and my waning energy, I don’t have much time. “Hold on Bradley,” I say and begin to kick the beam, to no avail. I hear the sounds of wings and feel the ground shake, looking to see Sydero’s figure walking towards us out of the fire. I watch as Sydero grabs and flings the beam to the side, grabbing Bradley. Before my eyes I watch as her horns begin to shrink and her wings fold in and then disappear into her back. Everything but her eyes shift. “Don’t just stand there, you dimwit, let’s go,” she growls, surging towards the exit with Bradley. I follow as best as I can, feeling the pain increase. I have so many questions, so many things I want answers to, but my body screams at me to sleep, and I do. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="Back at the safehouse ..."><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I was five seconds away from blacking out, my vision still swimming in murky waters. I unsteadily go to the car, getting in and practically melting into the seat as I’m surrounded by familiar smells. The image of Sydero appears in my mind, causing me to shiver as I push myself deeper into the seat. I need to center myself, otherwise I’m going to be feeling this way all day. I then remember the lack of energy in my body and the fact that I probably just had an adrenaline rush. I’m going to faint sometime soon probably, and who knows, maybe when I wake up, I will find that none of this happened. It is all just one big misunderstanding and the Entity is just making me see things. I’m unable to think more about that when my vision officially goes out and everything feels miles away. <a data-passage="Back at the safehouse ..."><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I awake later, realizing that I’m in my bed back at the main safehouse. I look outside and see that it’s still day, but for all I know, it can be the next day. My headache is still very much present, and my body feels completely numb. I attempt to get to my feet, but immediately my legs begin to shake, forcing me to sit back down. I stretch and get my mind together, definitely considering taking up yoga or meditation later. But that is a decision that can be put on hold, I want answers. I leave the room and head towards the kitchen, hearing Sydero’s and Bradley’s voice. [[Eavesdrop on the conversation.]] [[Go right in.]]

“... it’s just sooner, rather than later now,” I hear Sydero say, finishing off her sentence. There’s a short pause before Bradley asks, “how are you feeling though?” “Like shit, honestly. My body hurts. That transformation was practically forced. It’s been so long that I don’t even know what to do now. I need to go burn some of this energy away. Do something to calm down.” Bradley already knew, of friggin course. <<include "Go right in.">>

I go forward, standing in the doorway and catching both of their attention. Bradley looks much better, seeing that there is actually color in his face. And though Sydero is looking at me, she seems ready to look away. [[Demand answers.|TSAnswers]] [[Punch her.]]

Seeing that I didn’t get the chance last time, I walk up to her and swing my fist right at her cheek. Unlike last time, she allows the punch, staggering backward due to the impact. She says nothing, gathering up a wad of blood and spitting it out into the sink, and then massages her jaw. Good, it hurt at least. Otherwise, my knuckles are in pain for no reason. <<include "TS0_1">>

“Answers, now,” I practically shout, done with this waiting game. <<include "TS0_1">>

“Eat,” Bradley tells me, and I shake my head, pointing an accusing finger at Sydero. “I want answers.” <<if $cp>>\ “And you’ll get em when Chris gets up. I’m not repeating myself,” she says matter-of-factly. “You will if you need to,” I warn her, “if I ask the same question twenty times, you better answer it twenty times.” Sydero closes her eyes, and I see that mist rolling off of her as her body shakes. <<else>>\ “And you’ll get em after you eat,” she says matter-of-factly. “Don’t tell me what to do,” I shout at her. Sydero closes her eyes, and I see that mist rolling off of her as her body shakes. <</if>>\ “Calm down, $name,” Bradley tells me, “she’s still fighting the demonic side.” “What does that even mean?!” “Eat,” he orders again, pushing a bowl of oatmeal in front of me and taking on a sharper tone. I grumble but does as he says, mostly because my stomach is preparing to wage war. <a data-passage="TS1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ I devour the oatmeal, proving that I was as hungry as they thought I was. The good thing is that as soon as I finish, Chris enters, taking a seat and staring straight at a silent Sydero. She stands in the corner, refusing to look at any of us, finding odd interest in the peeling wallpaper beside her. “To start,” Bradley begins, looking from Syd to Chris and me, “I knew she what she was.” “You knew she was a demon?” Chris asks and before Bradley can answer, Sydero pipes up. <<else>>\ I devour the oatmeal, proving that I was as hungry as they thought I was. When I finish, I look towards Sydero. She stands in the corner, refusing to look our way, finding odd interest with the peeling wallpaper beside her. “To start,” Bradley begins, looking from Syd to me, “I knew she what she was.” “I figured that much out. You didn't seem exactly shocked at the demon part.” I state and before Bradley can answer, Sydero pipes up. <</if>>\ “I’m not a demon. I’m a special little mutt.” “She’s a cambion,” Bradley further explains after rolling his eyes, “half human, half demon.” <<if $cp>>\ “It’s still a fucking demon!” Chris shouts, getting up and pacing around the small kitchen area. <</if>>\ “Why didn’t you tell us to begin with?” I question, and with a <<if $cp>>straight face, Sydero points at Chris who looks ready to have an aneurysm. Okay, so she had a point there, we probably were going to panic,<<else>>raised brow, Sydero simply stares at me. Okay, so maybe I would've panicked,<</if>> especially since she told me she was a witch on the first day. Would I even have agreed to travel with her if I had known what she really was? <<if hasVisited("q1")>>“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”<<else>>[[“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”|q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q2")>>“How powerful are you really?”<<else>>[[“How powerful are you really?”|q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q3")>>“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”<<else>>[[“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”|q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q4")>>“Why claim witch?”<<else>>[[“Why claim witch?”|q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q5")>>“Why did you need the faeries?”<<else>>[[“Why did you need the faeries?”|q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q6")>>“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”<<else>>[[“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”|q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q7")>>“Have you been to hell?”<<else>>[[“Have you been to hell?”|q7]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q8")>>“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”<<else>>[[“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”|q8]]<</if>>

“What did Bradley mean earlier about your demonic side?” I ask. “Cambions are divided into three groups: mortal, balanced, and demonic. If I was more mortal, then I couldn’t use my powers, but it means I’m in tune with my human side. Demonic is what you saw in the station, I’m the most powerful, but I can’t really control my actions, or shall I say I’m not the nicest person when I’m that way. Balanced is what you’ve been seeing but I was still fighting myself, which is why I never wanted to use my powers. More I use them, more I shift. But if I don’t use them at all, then I run the risk of going to the mortal side.” “Seems like a horrible balancing game,” I point out and she nods her head. <<if hasVisited("q2")>>“How powerful are you really?”<<else>>[[“How powerful are you really?”|q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q3")>>“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”<<else>>[[“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”|q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q4")>>“Why claim witch?”<<else>>[[“Why claim witch?”|q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q5")>>“Why did you need the faeries?”<<else>>[[“Why did you need the faeries?”|q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q6")>>“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”<<else>>[[“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”|q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q7")>>“Have you been to hell?”<<else>>[[“Have you been to hell?”|q7]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q8")>>“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”<<else>>[[“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”|q8]]<</if>> [[No more questions.|TS1_1]]

“How powerful are you then? Have we seen the full extent of your powers?” Sydero shakes her head, “what you saw was child’s play. If everything lined up perfectly then I could bring this world to its knees.” <<if $cp>>\ “Then why the hell is Raum and his gang still alive? And didn’t you almost get your ass handed to you by a werewolf?” Chris asks, and I can see that Sydero is fighting everything within her not to grab him by the throat. “Well, smartass, there’s limits and rules, I did say if everything lined up perfectly. I go full demon and you’ll find yourself dead right along with everyone else.” <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("q1")>>“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”<<else>>[[“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”|q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q3")>>“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”<<else>>[[“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”|q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q4")>>“Why claim witch?”<<else>>[[“Why claim witch?”|q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q5")>>“Why did you need the faeries?”<<else>>[[“Why did you need the faeries?”|q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q6")>>“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”<<else>>[[“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”|q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q7")>>“Have you been to hell?”<<else>>[[“Have you been to hell?”|q7]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q8")>>“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”<<else>>[[“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”|q8]]<</if>> [[No more questions.|TS1_1]]

“So?” I ask, thinking about all the movies that had information regarding the Antichrist, “you’re like the Antichrist?” “I’m not like, I am,” she says plainly, causing <<if $cp>>both Chris and me<<else>>me<</if>> to stare at her wide-eyed. “The Antichrist isn’t what Hollywood makes it seem like,” Bradley quickly adds, “Antichrist is pretty much another name for cambions, and it’s not a child conceived by Lucifer and a human, it’s any demon and human.” “We’re rare, sure, but any other cambion could be called the Antichrist as well,” Sydero reiterates. <<if hasVisited("q1")>>“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”<<else>>[[“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”|q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q2")>>“How powerful are you really?”<<else>>[[“How powerful are you really?”|q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q4")>>“Why claim witch?”<<else>>[[“Why claim witch?”|q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q5")>>“Why did you need the faeries?”<<else>>[[“Why did you need the faeries?”|q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q6")>>“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”<<else>>[[“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”|q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q7")>>“Have you been to hell?”<<else>>[[“Have you been to hell?”|q7]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q8")>>“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”<<else>>[[“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”|q8]]<</if>> [[No more questions.|TS1_1]]

“Why claim witch out of all things?” “Faye’s idea,” Bradley mumbles. “Yea, but it’s also the best thing to claim if you have any abilities and if you know spells at all. That, and my mom was a witch, so I am part witch.” I give her a look, and it’s the first time she smirks, shrugging her shoulders. <<if hasVisited("q1")>>“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”<<else>>[[“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”|q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q2")>>“How powerful are you really?”<<else>>[[“How powerful are you really?”|q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q3")>>“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”<<else>>[[“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”|q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q5")>>“Why did you need the faeries?”<<else>>[[“Why did you need the faeries?”|q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q6")>>“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”<<else>>[[“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”|q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q7")>>“Have you been to hell?”<<else>>[[“Have you been to hell?”|q7]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q8")>>“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”<<else>>[[“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”|q8]]<</if>> [[No more questions.|TS1_1]]

“Why did you need the faeries?” “I needed their essence, it gives anyone with abilities a boost.” “Their essence?” <<if $cp>>Chris questions<<else>>I question<</if>>. “I really don’t think you want to know what she does to them,” Bradley warns<<if $cp>> him, grimacing as he thinks about it himself. Chris takes his advice and doesn’t ask any more questions.<<else>>, grimacing as he thinks about it himself.<</if>> “Since I wasn’t trying to use my powers and I wasn’t trying to go mortal, I needed a new ... let’s call it an energy pool, to use.” <<if hasVisited("q1")>>“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”<<else>>[[“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”|q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q2")>>“How powerful are you really?”<<else>>[[“How powerful are you really?”|q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q3")>>“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”<<else>>[[“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”|q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q4")>>“Why claim witch?”<<else>>[[“Why claim witch?”|q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q6")>>“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”<<else>>[[“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”|q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q7")>>“Have you been to hell?”<<else>>[[“Have you been to hell?”|q7]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q8")>>“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”<<else>>[[“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”|q8]]<</if>> [[No more questions.|TS1_1]]

“If you’re half-demon, why didn’t the holy water in the restaurant affect you like it did the others?” I ask. “All thanks to my half-human side, it gives us mutts certain advantages over regular demons. And even then, higher up demons aren’t really affected by those things anyway. Most of the things you might use against a demon won’t do anything but slow me down or injure me. Or nothing at all.” <<if hasVisited("q1")>>“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”<<else>>[[“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”|q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q2")>>“How powerful are you really?”<<else>>[[“How powerful are you really?”|q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q3")>>“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”<<else>>[[“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”|q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q4")>>“Why claim witch?”<<else>>[[“Why claim witch?”|q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q5")>>“Why did you need the faeries?”<<else>>[[“Why did you need the faeries?”|q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q7")>>“Have you been to hell?”<<else>>[[“Have you been to hell?”|q7]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q8")>>“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”<<else>>[[“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”|q8]]<</if>> [[No more questions.|TS1_1]]

I lean in, “have you been to hell?” The air in the room seems to disappear, leaving a claustrophobic and almost suffocating atmosphere behind. Even Bradley looks to Sydero, curious of what she says. She stares off into the distance but doesn’t answer. When she remembers where she is, she turns to me and simply asks for the next question. <<if hasVisited("q1")>>“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”<<else>>[[“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”|q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q2")>>“How powerful are you really?”<<else>>[[“How powerful are you really?”|q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q3")>>“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”<<else>>[[“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”|q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q4")>>“Why claim witch?”<<else>>[[“Why claim witch?”|q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q5")>>“Why did you need the faeries?”<<else>>[[“Why did you need the faeries?”|q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q6")>>“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”<<else>>[[“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”|q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q8")>>“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”<<else>>[[“So, did Hollywood get anything right with demons?”|q8]]<</if>> [[No more questions.|TS1_1]]

“So, did Hollywood get anything right when it comes to demons?” She sighs and shakes her head in irritation, “let’s get this out of the way now. Demons can possess you but how Hollywood makes them seem is ridiculous. Demons, yes, we are naturally evil, but that doesn’t mean everything we do is. What I mean is that demons act differently, some just want to mess around, some want to ruin your life, and some just want to embody the sins. If you ask me, most demons aren’t any worse than humans.” “What about possession, do they really just fling the body they’re in everywhere?” <<if $cp>>Chris questions and earn<<else>>I question and earn<</if>> a genuine laugh out of Sydero. “Those that do are just assholes looking to scare the shit out of stupid priests. Most times you’ll never know that a body is possessed.” “Do exorcisms actually work?” I ask. “Yep, and from what I hear, they hurt like hell and just piss the demon off. I’ve never been through it, for obvious reasons, but they say it feels like something is clawing your flesh away, dragging you into an inferno. A demon would rather just be killed.” <<if $cp>>\ “So, is Raum your father?” Chris asks. Bradley laughs, but Sydero stares at him as if he’s going to be her next victim. “Ask another stupid question, Chris, I dare you.” Sydero rolls her eyes as we all sit and soak up her words. <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("q1")>>“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”<<else>>[[“What did Bradley mean earlier about demonic side?”|q1]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q2")>>“How powerful are you really?”<<else>>[[“How powerful are you really?”|q2]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q3")>>“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”<<else>>[[“So, you’re like the Antichrist?”|q3]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q4")>>“Why claim witch?”<<else>>[[“Why claim witch?”|q4]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q5")>>“Why did you need the faeries?”<<else>>[[“Why did you need the faeries?”|q5]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q6")>>“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”<<else>>[[“But the holy water didn’t affect you.”|q6]]<</if>> <<if hasVisited("q7")>>“Have you been to hell?”<<else>>[[“Have you been to hell?”|q7]]<</if>> [[No more questions.|TS1_1]]

<<if $sydero <50>>\ “Any other secrets?” I ask, and she shrugs. “Who would I be if I didn’t have any?” <<else>>\ “Any other secrets?” I ask, and she looks over at me, her gaze lingering before she looks away. “Of course, so go ahead and prepare to get pissed off at me again in the future.” “Or you can just tell me them now.” She shrugs, “where’s the fun in that?” <</if>>\ [[I’m pissed off with her, she lied to me this entire time.][$sydero -=5]] [[I’m terrified right now, she was a demon!][$sydero -=3]] [[I’m confused at best, I don’t know how to feel.]] [[This is kinda cool, we have a cambion on our side.][$sydero +=5]] <<if $SRomance >=5>>\ [[After everything, I no longer trusted her.][$SRomance -=3]] <<if settings.dialog>>[[What did this mean for us?][$SRomance +=1]]<<else>>[[What did this mean for us?][$SRomance +=1]]<</if>> <</if>>\

I bite the inside of my lip, trying not to look as mad as I was and failing. I wasn’t stupid. I knew something was wrong, but I hadn’t guessed this. But now that she said it, a lot of stuff begins to make sense. Faye’s warnings, why Sydero never really seemed much like a witch, and even more why Raum was after her. It takes everything within me to stay in my seat and not to just punch the crap out of her again and again. <<include "TS1_1_1">>

I avoid eye contact with her as I think about her words. I’ve been traveling with a demon, cambion, whatever! Either way, part of her is a demon, and she thought it better not to tell anyone. I saw how she was, how she acted back in the station. What if it happens again, but this time, we can’t change her back? <<include "TS1_1_1">>

She told us the truth, but I still feel like I know nothing. This is so much information and whose to say she could be trusted now? I want to trust Syd, but I know that doing so is stupid. She said it herself. I don’t know what to think or how to feel, I need time. <<include "TS1_1_1">>

Before, we only had a witch on our side. A powerful witch but a witch can only do so much. And now since we all know her secret, we can talk about it and figure out how she can be powerful yet still balanced. This could work. <<include "TS1_1_1">>

My gaze falls to the floor as I feel a piece of my heart break off. It was like having a crush and then seeing them with another or hearing them say that they’ll never date you. Sydero and I will never work. I can’t be with someone I don’t trust. Though, I suppose this is my fault, she had warned me. Her warnings now make more sense. I should’ve just stopped. <<if $cp>>“I’m going to go for a walk now,” Chris says, getting up and immediately leaving, a minute later we hear the door open and close. Bradley rises next, giving both of us a small smile, though the look he gives Sydero seems more pained.<<else>>Bradley rises first, giving both of us a small smile, though the look he gives Sydero seems more pained.<</if>> I leave next, giving Sydero one last look before going back to the room. I need more time to think, and truthfully, I want to fall back asleep. <<include "TS2">>

The revelation is something, but I’m far more worried about what this will mean for the two of us. Is this what she was warning me against? Now that I know, will that only cement her not wanting to be with me or did that erase the problem? <<if $cp>>“I’m going to go for a walk now,” Chris says, getting up and immediately leaving, a minute later we hear the door open and close. Bradley rises next, giving both of us a small smile, though the look he gives Sydero seems more pained.<<else>>Bradley rises first, giving both of us a small smile, though the look he gives Sydero seems more pained.<</if>> “Roe, a minute,” Sydero says, sighing heavily. Though standing, I don’t go anywhere, waiting for her to say whatever she needs to say. “There is one more piece of this that you need to know about, more to do with ... our case.” So, her and me. “I know you’ve noticed the whole eye thing, correct?” she asks, and I nod, “and have you noticed the way you feel when we’re close to one another?” Of course. The speeding heartbeat, the feeling of being surrounded by a warming yet blazing fire, the profound depths that my mind seems to explore. A pit of desire that swallows me whole, enticing every part of my body and soul. “I’m a succubus cambion,” she tells me, and for the first time, she doesn’t need to explain. I’ve seen enough movies to know what a succubus is, to know what they do, and the control they have over mortals. “So, this has all been a lie?” I ask, trying to wrap my mind around this new info. She snorts, rolling her eyes, “no. I can’t make someone feel desire that isn’t there. And I have enough control over my powers, typically. Though, I’m not going to sit here and say that you haven’t experienced them. It's always been by mistake though.” She looks away, playing with the edge of the table as she says the next part, “I’m not always able to control myself when I’m around you is all. But that’s why I keep telling you to leave it alone.” She says this as if putting the blame on me, though I can see in her eyes that she doesn’t believe it. I say nothing more, nodding and going my own way. <img src="images/divider.png"> Sydero watches Roe go silently, and for the first time, she didn’t know how she felt about it. On the one hand, she was relieved to get that off her chest. Maybe now Roe will finally take her suggestions and leave her alone. But thinking that had half of her whimper. She didn’t need to act when no one was around to see, right? She shrinks in her seat, glaring at the opposing wall. Her insides war with one another, and she was not used to the feeling. Why did she care? Roe was nothing but a plaything, in the past she messed with ?him merely to get a rise. So, where did that change? <img src="images/divider.png"> <a data-passage="TS2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>“I’m going to go for a walk now,” Chris says, getting up and immediately leaving, a minute later we hear the door open and close. Bradley rises next, giving both of us a small smile, though the look he gives Sydero seems more pained.<<else>>Bradley rises first, giving both of us a small smile, though the look he gives Sydero seems more pained.<</if>> <<if $SRomance >=5>>\ “Roe, a minute,” Sydero says, sighing heavily. Though standing, I don’t go anywhere, waiting for her to say whatever she needs to say. “There is one more piece of this that you need to know about, more to do with ... our case.” So, her and me. “I know you’ve noticed the whole eye thing, correct?” she asks, and I nod, “and have you noticed the way you feel when we’re close to one another?” Of course. The speeding heartbeat, the feeling of being surrounded by a warming yet blazing fire, the profound depths that my mind seems to explore. A pit of desire that swallows me whole, enticing every part of my body and soul. “I’m a succubus cambion,” she tells me, and for the first time, she doesn’t need to explain. I’ve seen enough movies to know what a succubus is, to know what they do, and the control they have over mortals. “So, this has all been a lie?” I ask, trying to wrap my mind around this new info. She snorts, rolling her eyes, “no. I can’t make someone feel desire that isn’t there. And I have enough control over my powers, typically. Though, I’m not going to sit here and say that you haven’t experienced them. It's always been by mistake though.” She looks away, playing with the edge of the table as she says the next part, “I’m not always able to control myself when I’m around you is all. But that’s why I keep telling you to leave it alone.” She says this as if putting the blame on me, though I can see in her eyes that she doesn’t believe it. I say nothing more, nodding and going my own way. <img src="images/divider.png"> Sydero watches Roe go silently, and for the first time, she didn’t know how she felt about it. On the one hand, she was relieved to get that off her chest. Maybe now Roe will finally take her suggestions and leave her alone. But thinking that had half of her whimper. She didn’t need to act when no one was around to see, right? She shrinks in her seat, glaring at the opposing wall. Her insides war with one another, and she was not used to the feeling. Why did she care? Roe was nothing but a plaything, in the past she messed with ?him merely to get a rise. So, where did that change? <img src="images/divider.png"> <a data-passage="TS2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ I leave next, giving Sydero one last look before going back to the room. I need more time to think, and truthfully, I want to fall back asleep. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The next few days are spent mostly on my own. I’m lucky if I even catch a glimpse of the others. The first day, I believe that it’s purposeful, everyone needs time to themselves. The second, I hypothesize that everyone still might need some time, but I did begin to feel that it was odd. But then the third and fourth day happened, and here we are. The most I said to anyone in the last five days was ‘what’s in this’ and that was to Bradley who had just made some mystery soup. I spent the day recovering, thinking, and ... [[Working on my car, giving it the love it deserves.|TS2_1][$engineering +=5]] [[Working out, jogging around and clearing my head.|TS2_1][$combat +=5]] [[Practicing with my blade.|TS2_1][$blades +=5]] [[Practicing my aim with my gun.|TS2_1][$guns +=5]] [[Something creative, needed to take my mind off of everything.|TS2_1][$creativity +=5]] [[Learning how to tend to wounds.|TS2_1][$medical +=5]] [[Reading up more on the supernatural.|TS2_1][$supernatural +=5]]

I decide to take a break, to stretch my legs and get some of that great southern sunshine. I grab my blade and check my gun, wondering if I would see anyone – if I wanted to see anyone. Once outside, I notice how beautiful a day it really is. The sun immediately wraps itself around me, encasing me in it’s warmth. And just before one can get too hot, the wind would rush by, cooling them down before promising its return. The colors of nature compliment each other perfectly, from the sky to the trees, to the plants. A beautiful warm palette that is perfect for a temperate summer day. I glance upwards, watching as two dark grey and white birds fly by, flitting around one another playfully before diving towards the tree line. I follow them, mindlessly walking through the woods, actually enjoying it. <<if $cp>>\ As I walk, I hear the sounds of someone grunting and make my way in that direction, curious to see what is going on. There I find Chris, high up in a tree and attempting to go even higher. At the base of the tree sits his discarded shirt – of course, it does. I approach, staring up and watching as he jumps from branch to branch. I surmise that his purpose is to improve his balance and strength, but then I suddenly see him fall purposely. He does an impressive roll upon touching the ground, and when he pops back up, there’s a gun in his hands, and he shoots a target on a far tree. “What was all that?” I question, trying to guess what he’s doing. “Oh, $name,” Chris says in surprise, giving me a small smile and then looking at the target shyly. “I was just trying to practice my aim under duress.” “Any reason for that?” He grabs his shirt and wipes his sweaty forehead off, sighing as he sits down, staring off. “I’m the weak link here,” he states plainly. [[“Well, duh.”]] [[“I think you forgot Bradley.”]] [[“Not really.”]] <<else>>\ The walk goes through most of the forest, taking me around a barely visible trail that I probably made on my own. I go past a sizeable pond, growing with each rainfall, yet diminishing on the hottest of days. I spot the deer family that lives in the area, no longer concerned over my presence. And then I even see the Blue Jay that Bradley has named Boo. She flies from her tree and hops across the ground, searching for nuts or acorns. It seems that this forest is the only forest that isn’t actively trying to kill me; hopefully I didn’t just jinx everything. As I think this, I hear a branch snap and immediately regret everything until I see Bradley appear. In his hands is a bowl and as he approaches, I find that it’s eggs. “What are those for?” I question, and he points to Boo who is watching us now, or she’s actually just watching Bradley. A few seconds tick by before she flies to the bowl that Bradley holds, eating the egg there. “She loves eggs,” he tells me, softly petting her. “How many times have you done this?” I knew of Boo but had no idea that Bradley had made friends with her. “A couple times actually. It took a long time, but I think she trusts me now. It’s kinda cool.” His face lights up as he looks over at me but then it immediately dies, and he sighs as he slowly puts the bowl on the ground. “I know, I know, I should’ve told you about Syd a long time ago. And I’m sorry, but I’m not sorry, it wasn’t my place.” [[“How long have you known?”]] [[“And you never once thought to tell me?”]] [[“Is that what the warnings were for?”]] <</if>>\

“Well duh,” I laugh, but then try to reign in my amusement due to the look he gives me, “what I mean is, yea.” There isn’t really any good way to agree with his statement without making it sound rude. <<include "TS2_1_1">>

“Well, I think you forgot about Bradley. I’m pretty sure that kid is the weakest link.” “Yea, Bradley can’t fight. But he makes up with it by being smart and knowing how to hack. He’s still more helpful than me. If I had to put a team together, then I definitely wouldn’t choose myself.” <<include "TS2_1_1">>

“Not really. Sure, you’re not the strongest, but it’s hard to be the strongest when you got a damn cambion on your team.” “It’s not about being the strongest, I just want to be helpful.” <<include "TS2_1_1">>

“When I first got out of that museum, I was ambushed by demons. Now I know three demons is a lot, but I couldn’t do anything but run. They could’ve killed me, just like that,” he says and snaps his fingers. “I’m sure the reason they didn’t was that they didn’t think I was worth the effort or energy.” “So you want to be worth killing?” I ask, and Chris rolls his eyes. “No, I want to be able to defend myself and not immediately wish I had Sydero or $name by my side. I want to stand around the two of you and actually feel I have something to add.” He grows quiet, wiping his face again. <<if $chris >=50>>\ [[“Then keep training.”]] <<else>>\ [[“Stop complaining and show me what you got.”]] <</if>>\ <<if $CRomance >=5>>\ [[“I’d pick you for my team.”][$CRomance +=1]] <</if>>\

I pat Chris’s shoulder and nod to the targets and then at his gun. “Well, the only way that’s going to happen is if you get better. Shoot clear and know your stuff.” “So, keep training and read that damn book?” Chris asks, checking his gun and I nod. “The Lore is a //really// big book,” I laugh, and Chris joins in, “but I guess I see why we need it, especially if Bradley and Sydero aren’t there. Speaking of Sydero,” I say. Chris sighs, nodding at what is about to come next, “how do you feel about what she told us?” [[“Not surprised.”]] [[“I still don’t know.”]] [[“Feeling pretty betrayed.”]]

I shove Chris’s shoulder softly, enough to get his attention. “For once, will you stop this whole ‘woe is me’ routine. Stop complaining about not being able to do anything and actually do something about it!” I pick up his gun and hand it to him, pointing at the targets he set up. “Get up and show me what you got.” With my words spoken, Chris gets to his feet, determination fueling his every move. He’s about to shoot the target when he pauses, turning to me. “Hey, I wanna show you something, let me see your gun.” “Uh,” I start. “Trust me, let me show you.” I sigh heavily and hand it over, watching as he checks my gun and then begins to shoot both of them. Impressively, he successfully aims at multiple targets and hits them, reminding me of some gunslinger superhero. “Impressive,” I say, clapping slowly, “when you learn that?” “Surprisingly, it was with Sydero. By the way, don’t show that woman you’re advanced unless you want her to hound you. I was training, and I guess she was trying to push me to do better by shouting at me and telling me how basic I am. I was supposed to try and shoot her, but she was using her powers to divert the rubber bullets each time. I ended up getting so pissed off and next thing I know I was shooting at her with two guns. Should’ve seen her dancing,” Chris chuckles, handing me my gun back. “Speaking of Sydero,” I say. Chris sighs, nodding at what is about to come next, “how do you feel about what she told us?” [[“Not surprised.”]] [[“I still don’t know.”]] [[“Feeling pretty betrayed.”]]

I place a light hand on Chris’s shoulder and offer him a small, but genuine, smile, “I’d pick you for my team.” “To make you a Bellini?” <<if $bartending >=10>>\ I chuckle and shake my head, “no, sorry. I’m still the better bartender between you and me.” “In your dreams,” he laughs, but the whole purpose of that is to get him smiling again. <<else>>\ I chuckle and shrug my shoulders, “your Bellini’s are subpar, I was thinking of a Martini.” “What! You’re crazy, my Bellini’s are amazing,” he laughs, but the whole purpose of that is to get him smiling again. <</if>>\ <<if $jealouschris>>\ “$name, I think ... no, I need to apologize about my behavior and how I reacted to you doing whatever you wanted to. You’re grown, and I mean, you were right, I was getting upset about things that you’re free to do. I’m sorry, I know I never really apologized for my behavior.” “It’s fine, Chris,” I say, trailing off. The apology isn’t what bothers me, how does one bring up their feelings now, after that? ‘Oh and Chris, I like you a lot, and I’m sorry, but I want you.’ That will immediately bring up my actions, and why I did them and knowing my luck, it will just lead to another fight. The realization unsettles me, but I hide it as best I can. I give Chris a fake smile and tell him that I’m going to go back to walking. He says his farewells and lets me go. <a data-passage="TS2_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ <<if $gender is "female">>\ Chris rests a hand atop of mine, and I raise my gaze to look at him. As soon as our eyes meet, he blushes and removes it. “Thanks, $name, it means a lot.” “I always say nice things to you,” I laugh, aching for him to put his hand back. These moments are a dime a dozen now, always ending the same. And yet, I still have the same wish for each of them. I still believe that they’ll end differently. “Well, I think I’m going to get back to training,” Chris tells me, nudging my shoulder in a friendly manner before getting up. He walks away before pausing. “Actually, $name, I –” The forest becomes silent as if even it is holding its breath. I can feel my heart pounding, my eyes never straying from Chris’s. “I’m glad you’re okay.” A bird chirps angrily as it takes flight, drawing my eye as it breaks through the tree line and then out of sight. “Thanks,” I say, sighing and then getting up. I go slowly, thinking he’ll stop me again, thinking that this is it. But my feet keep going, and my hope keeps dwindling. <a data-passage="TS2_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ Chris smiles but it soon turns into a frown. He drops my gaze and looks forward, biting the inside of his cheek as he seems to want to so say something. “Can you humor me for a minute, $name?” he asks, and I shrug, “when did you know that you weren’t straight? That you liked guys?” I raise a brow, and he raises his hands, “humor me. It’s to uh ... fill the silence.” Yes, because I am that stupid to believe that. [[“As soon as I got interested in people I knew.”]] [[“At first I wasn’t, and then it happened.”]] <</if>>\ <</if>>\

“I mean, I guess it’s the same way you knew you liked girls when you first started on the dating scene. I looked at guys and always thought that they were attractive, and as I just got older and did more, I knew. There’s nothing deep to it.” Chris chuckles at that, “yea, I guess I’m thinking there was some deep revelation or something.” “Why?” I ask, feeling my heart speed up. “Oh, like I said, just filling silence.” Chris obviously isn’t about to lay his heart out in front of me and I don’t know why I act surprised. “I’m going to practice more. I’ll see you later?” I nod, especially since we were living in the same house. With that, I continue my walk. <a data-passage="TS2_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“I’ll admit, at first I wasn’t interested in guys. I blame society,” I laugh and Chris chuckles softly from nearby, “I always thought it was wrong, that I would be immediately damned or something. But ... I couldn’t help it. I couldn’t sit and lie to myself and keep telling myself that I wasn’t attracted to guys. One thing led to another, and here I am, confident in who I am and who I’m attracted to.” “Your uncle never had something to say about it?” he asks, and I snort. “My uncle was eating popcorn when I told him, as soon as I said that I was interested in guys he stared at me, threw a popcorn kernel at me, asked if I found Hugh Jackman attractive, and then we had a full conversation about our man crushes. So yea, he had a lot to say about it.” Chris seems impressed by that and thanks me, but also leaves it at that. “I’m going to practice more. I’ll see you later?” I nod, especially since we were living in the same house. With that, I continue my walk. <a data-passage="TS2_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Honestly, I’m not surprised. I was having doubts about the witch story, just some of the things she did didn’t really match. I didn’t expect the demon thing but, it actually makes a lot more sense than the witch story. So I guess that though I’m not happy about her lying, I’m not surprised either.” <<include "TS2_1_2">>

“I actually don’t know how to feel. Part of me wants to be pissed off and see this as some sort of betrayal, but then the other side of me isn’t really surprised. It knew something was up and that side is actually okay with it, it’s not like I can do anything about it. And I rather know now than later.” <<include "TS2_1_2">>

“I’m feeling pretty betrayed still,” I start, shaking my head as I stare at one specific patch of grass, “I knew she was keeping stuff from us, but I would think that she got comfortable, enough to trust us and tell us her true origins. We still wouldn’t know if she hadn’t come and saved me. So what else is there?” <<include "TS2_1_2">>

<<if $chris >=50>>\ Chris nods his head in understanding, “after we all got up from the table and left, I kept telling myself to think of Sydero as that thing I saw back at the police station. But every time I thought of Syd, I thought of that sarcastic woman that never wanted us to travel with her. The woman that had all of these opportunities to turn and run, to leave us for dead, but didn’t. The woman who doesn’t want to know people only because she knows she’ll end up caring about them. Weird enough, I wanted to hate her for lying but I can’t. I still just see her, even worse, as family still.” I chuckle and sigh, both of us listening to the sounds of nature. <<else>>\ Chris nods his head in understanding, “after we all got up from the table and left, I kept telling myself to think of Sydero as that thing I saw back at the police station. But every time I thought of Syd, I thought of that sarcastic asshole that never wanted us to travel with her. The woman that had all of these opportunities to turn and run, to leave us for dead, but didn’t. Weird enough, I wanted to hate her for lying but I can’t. I still just see //her//. Annoying her.” I chuckle and sigh, both of us listening to the sounds of nature. <</if>>\ “I’m going to keep walking, keep practicing your aim, you almost missed one,” I joke, and he snorts but sends me on my way. <a data-passage="TS2_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The walk goes through most of the forest, taking me around a barely visible trail that I probably made on my own. I go past a sizeable pond, growing with each rainfall, yet diminishing on the hottest of days. I spot the deer family that lives in the area, no longer concerned over my presence. And then I even see the Blue Jay that Bradley has named Boo. She flies from her tree and hops across the ground, searching for nuts or acorns. It seems that this forest is the only forest that isn’t actively trying to kill me; hopefully I didn’t just jinx everything. As I think this, I hear a branch snap and immediately regret everything until I see Bradley appear. In his hands is a bowl and as he approaches, I find that it’s eggs. “What are those for?” I question, and he points to Boo who is watching us now, or she’s actually just watching Bradley. A few seconds tick by before she flies to the bowl that Bradley holds, eating the egg there. “She loves eggs,” he tells me, softly petting her. “How many times have you done this?” I knew of Boo but had no idea that Bradley had made friends with her. “A couple times actually. It took a long time, but I think she trusts me now. It’s kinda cool.” His face lights up as he looks over at me but then it immediately dies, and he sighs as he slowly puts the bowl on the ground. “I know, I know, I should’ve told you about Syd a long time ago. And I’m sorry, but I’m not sorry, it wasn’t my place.” [[“How long have you known?”]] [[“And you never once thought to tell me?”]] [[“Is that what the warnings were for?”]]

“How long have you known what she was?” “A very long time,” he sighs, “when the werewolves came and killed my parents and tried to kill me, it happened. There were so many werewolves, and she couldn’t beat them all herself, and so she let the other side come out. The werewolves had no chance after that, it would’ve been smarter if they just killed themselves. After, I was terrified. She didn’t even try to reassure me, but I think that’s because she was still more demonic. She’s an incredible asshole when she’s tipping the scales closer to demonic. But yea, she told me, and I did my own research and, I guess I accepted it.” <<include "TS2_2_1">>

I think on it, “and you never once thought to tell me? Never?” “I did, trust me, I really did. But like I said, it wasn’t my place and I never really knew how to. ‘Hey there, $name. You know Syd? Guess what, she’s half-demon. Why am I telling you this? Because why the hell not!’” He gives me a knowing look, and though I roll my eyes, I nod at the underlying message he’s trying to get across. <<include "TS2_2_1">>

“Is that what some of those warnings were for? And all those lost in thought looks?” <<if $sympathy <50>>“Yea, though some of them were because the two of you are both assholes and I didn’t feel like hearing the arguments that were bound to pop up.” I chuckle and nod.<<else>>“Yea, it was. That and Sydero can be an unbearable asshole, so I thought to save you from that at points.” I chuckle and nod.<</if>> <<include "TS2_2_1">>

It gets silent, but Bradley waves it away before it can get awkward, pulling out his phone. “I need to show you something anyway. I’ve been watching the news to see what they would say about that fire and came across this.” He plays the video that he brings up and a newswoman appears. “The fire that destroyed the Ayden Sherriff Department has been ruled an arson. The authorities concluded that someone deliberately set the fire at the police department on Wednesday, May 30th in Ayden, North Carolina. Eleven officers that had been inside at the time of the arson are dead, along with a fugitive, $name Roe. The authorities believe that the arson was a vengeful fire that was targeted at Roe. Roe was being held at the police department temporarily as ?he was being prepared to be sent to Virginia to answer for <<if $cp>>bank robbery and <</if>>murder crimes. The attack is still being investigated.” <<if $freejeff is false>>\ Huh, they hadn’t said anything about Jeff’s body, unless they just didn’t care about the old drunken fool. So, either he got out, or he was going to just be forgotten. <</if>>\ The video comes to an end, and Bradley slaps my back with a broad smile, “congratulations, you’re officially dead.” “How is that a good thing?” I question. “Well, first of all, you won’t be getting followed by the cops anymore. And now you can go back to actually living your weird hunter life. In fact, you can live even more like a hunter. Most try to off themselves to the public before beginning.” [[“Guess this is kinda cool.”]] <<if $medical >=20 or $cmajor is "Nursing">>\ [[“But they didn’t find bones or a body.”]] <</if>>\ <<if $uncledead is false>>\ [[“Oh crap, I gotta call my uncle.”]] <</if>>\ [[“I can’t believe this.”]]

“Guess this is kinda cool, I mean, I’m dead. How many people can claim that? Can I have a funeral for myself?” “Sure, we can buy you a tombstone and put it right out here. Every time you die, we’ll just add one. See who gets the most.” I chuckle, leave it to Bradley to make something as serious as dying into a joke. <<include "TS2_2_2">>

“But it was just a fire, if we died, they should’ve found our bodies. Depending on the fire, bones at least. You can’t burn bones.” Bradley holds up a finger, “correction, a human can’t burn bones. Sydero told me that the flame was hellfire. It’s the same fire that burns throughout hell.” “Yea, I gathered that.” Bradley nods. <<include "TS2_2_2">>

“Freak! I gotta call my uncle. If he’s seen the news, then he’s freaking the hell out.” “Yea, that would be smart. Faye already called me, screaming and asking me what happened. Yesterday was pretty much me telling her that you weren’t dead, Sydero was outed, and that the kids are alright.” I roll my eyes at the reference but nod as I plan when I should call my uncle. <<include "TS2_2_2">>

I shake my head, the only good part about this that I can see is that I am no longer a fugitive. “I can’t believe this,” I state sadly. Bradley doesn’t say anything, but he does look sad, letting me have this moment. <<include "TS2_2_2">>

Boo chirps as she finishes off the egg, looking around for more. “Nope, no more for you. Fat bird,” Bradley grumbles, grabbing the bowl and then watching as she flaps back up to her nest, stomach full. “I’m going to head back to the house, I’ll see you later.” And with that, Bradley waves me away and begins his march back. I watch him leave, deciding to walk a little bit more before heading back myself. I walk the rest of the trail, coming up on the back of the house when I see Sydero standing off to the side, her attention on the bowl. [[Head towards her.]] [[Go straight inside.]]

I decide to head towards her, stopping only when she raises her hand. “Might not want to get too close,” she says, and I notice the unemotional tone in which she says it, her eyes still on the bowl, “hellfire isn’t known for its tameness.” Before I can ask her what fire she’s talking about, the bowl erupts into dancing flames. I immediately see what she means as the fire rages more every second. The bowl disappears behind the curtain of flame that refuses to be contained. It’s wrath whips through the air, striking what looks to be nothing but capturing the oxygen to strengthen itself. Even though the fire is nowhere near me, I can feel it upon my skin, considering whether I should be its next victim. “What are you doing?” I question. “Cleansing the bowl. Only fire that can actually clean the damn thing is hellfire.” “The same fire that you lit at the station?” “Yea, though that flame was more controlled, all due to the,” she gestures to herself, “demonic side. This fire can only be controlled by a demon, I wouldn’t even be able to make it right now if I was balanced.” [[Ask her how she feels.]] [[Learn more about the scale.]] [[Ask about Raum, Petri, and Langston.]] [[Say nothing.|TSNothing]]

I eye her but then decide on going straight inside. She says nothing to me, and I to her. I head straight to my room and lie down, losing track of time as I spend most of it trying to clear my head up. I only leave when I hear Bradley shout hours later, calling everyone to the living room. <<include "TS3">>

“Now that you mention that, how do you feel?” She raises a brow as her eyes swivel over to me for a second, before quickly moving back to the fire. I notice that she’s controlling it to a degree, which is why her attention has been on it mostly. “Well, I no longer feel weak,” she says, “but I’m woozy. Like after taking five energy drinks and using up every bit of energy you have from it. It’s slowly going away, but that’s the worst part about this, being careful or risk going too far right, or too far left.” “Seems like a lot,” I mention and though she doesn’t acknowledge me verbally, she nods. <<include "TS2_2_3">>

“So, I know you already talked about this scale, but I’m having a hard time picturing it.” “Think about a scale numbered from zero to ten, zero is mortal, five is perfectly balanced, and ten being demonic. When we were traveling together, I was a five, sometimes a four or three. When I shifted, I was maybe an eight. And now I’m a seven.” “So you’re still leaning more towards demonic right now, as long as you’re six through ten.” She nods, “so have you ever been at zero or a ten?” “I’ve never been at zero. I’ve never been anything less than maybe a three. And I've been a eight or nine.” Her eyes grow darker as she seems to think about something else. Suddenly the flame rages, threatening to grab hold of the nearby trees. Sydero comes back, and the fire calms only so much, growling at the idea of being controlled. <<include "TS2_2_3">>

“What happened to Raum, Petri, and Langston? Before I ran into you, I heard them, but I don’t remember their bodies being part of those dead. And I was told Raum was going after you the entire time.” “Ugh, don’t remind me. That man was ready, which wasn’t so much of a surprise but how ready he was, was. He came after me with charms and tricks that I hadn’t seen in forever. Tricks only those from the 16th century knew about, some really dark and really scary stuff. As for Langston and Petri, both of them got out, immediately high-tailed and ran when I landed. I was too busy fending off bullets though to worry about them. That and they weren’t my main concern.” <<include "TS2_2_3">>

I say nothing and neither does she, both of us standing there watching the flames as they caress the bowl. <<include "TS2_2_3">>

Sydero balls up her fist and the flames, though resilient against the command, begin to fizzle out and die. The bowl looks starkly different than the last time I saw it. All along the inside is writing, scripted and flowing from one line to the other, circling the entire bowl. “It couldn’t have been that dirty, right? I mean that bowl was brown and now it’s practically white,” I point out. “I put a spell on it a long time ago. For every hand that touches it that’s not mine, it becomes more and more unrecognizable. I did it to protect the writing in it. If even a small fraction of it is scratched, then the bowl’s usefulness disappears.” I catch sight of Sydero flexing her hand, and I notice the burnt skin there. She catches my eye, and for the first time, she looks embarrassed, slowly closing her fist back up. “I need to remember how to use this power.” “That’s what happens when you don’t know?” I question. She nods, and to my surprise, she opens it up again, “I have scars worse than this. Each one with a lesson attached.” I point to her newly acquired one, “what lesson did this one teach?” “Control it or get burned as a consequence.” She walks over to the bowl and picks it up, turning it from one side to the other. She says nothing else as she heads back inside, and I follow close behind. I head straight to my room and lie down, losing track of time as I spend most of it trying to clear my head up. I only leave when I hear Bradley shout hours later, calling everyone to come to the living room. <a data-passage="TS3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Now that everything has calmed down, we need to figure out what our next move is,” Bradley tells us. <<if $cp>>\ “We can’t just stay below the radar? Last time was way too close a call,” Chris points out. [[Agree with Chris.|TSAC][$chris +=3]] [[Agree with Bradley.|TSAB][$bradley +=3]] <<else>>\ “We don’t know where Raum is or what he’s planning,” Sydero reminds us. “Did he let anything slip when he was attacking you?” I ask, and she shakes her head. “All he said was that he was done playing games and that all of this was about to end.” “So he’s making his move soon,” I sigh, “but that’s all we got. We don’t know where he is or what he’s planning.” <<include "TS3_0_1">> <</if>>\

“I’m with Chris. Sydero was that close to getting captured by Raum, and I was about to become acquaintances with America’s justice system. I think the best thing we can do now is to just lay low.” Chris gives me a nod of gratitude before we both look at Bradley. “Laying low would be fine if it wasn’t for the fact that Raum could attack at any moment.” “Bradley, he doesn’t even know where we are, calm down,” I tell him and though I’m sure he’s not happy about being told to calm down, he does quiet down. “We don’t know where Raum is or what he’s planning,” Sydero reminds us. “Did he let anything slip when he was attacking you?” I ask, and she shakes her head. “All he said was that he was done playing games and that all of this was about to end.” “So he’s making his move soon,” Chris sighs, “but that’s all we got. We don’t know where he is, what he’s planning, or anything.” <<include "TS3_0_1">>

“I gotta agree with Bradley on this one,” I tell Chris, “I don’t think Raum is just going to let us lay low and after how close his plan was to succeeding, I think it’s wise to make a plan of our own.” Sydero snorts from her spot where she has been unusually quiet, “yea, because this group and plans always end up going well. We don’t know where Raum is or what he’s planning.” “Did he let anything slip when he was attacking you?” I ask, and she shakes her head. “All he said was that he was done playing games and that all of this was about to end.” “So he’s making his move soon,” Chris sighs, “but that’s all we got. We don’t know where he is, what he’s planning, or anything.” <<include "TS3_0_1">>

“There might be a way,” Sydero says, standing and going into the kitchen. She comes back out with her bowl and sets it down on the coffee table. Bradley’s eyes widen as he leaps forward, grabbing the bowl as he holds it up to the light. “No way! Is this really an incantation bowl? How the hell did you get your hands on one of these?” Sydero rolls her eyes as she levitates the pot out of his hands and then puts it back on the table, giving him a reprimanding look. “Don’t touch, or you’re going to make me have to put it through another cleansing. And this is the bowl we’ve been after, it’s just cleaned now.” “You were saying, Syd? About there being a way?” I question, and she nods, pointing to the bowl that Bradley still ogles. “That bowl can allow me to do many things, one of those things is scrying. I can do a ritual that will allow me to find and project Raum’s thoughts, in a way.” [[“In a way?”]] [[“Back up, what is that bowl?”]] [[“What if his thoughts are on lunch?”]]

“In a way? What do you mean in a way?” I question, taking a seat as I listen to her explanation. “It’s hard to put it into words, just know that I can do it.” Vague. But vague is what Sydero is good at. <<include "TS3_0_2">>

“Great, all nice things, but can we back up? Bradley called that an incantation bowl, what is that?” “It’s a bowl that dates back to the Babylonian days,” the kid instantly answers, all too excited to tell me, “they made the bowls, and by hand they wrote the text inside to ward off demons. The Babylonians would put the bowl somewhere in the house, and it would keep demons away, but it could also bind demons and trap them. And I can’t believe I’m staring at one right now. Do you know how many of these still exist?” I open my mouth to answer, however sarcastic my answer would be, but he beats me to it, “less than twenty! And in peak condition like this? Less than five!” I’m worried he would start drooling, and it would seem that Sydero was as well. She moves the bowl further away from Bradley, shaking her head. <<include "TS3_0_2">>

“Cool, but what if you do this scrying thing and his thoughts are on lunch?” It was mostly a joke, <<if $cp>>but the only one who finds it even remotely funny is Chris. And when he notices that no one else is chuckling with him, he stops.<<else>>but no one finds it even remotely funny.<</if>> “Seriously though,” I say, moving on from the awkward silence. “It’s a possibility, but someone like Raum will always be working on his plan,” Bradley answers, “also demons don’t eat.” “That is also why you make your intentions clear before doing something,” Sydero follows up, “I can influence this with my own.” <<include "TS3_0_2">>

“It might just be me, but I feel like there’s a catch,” I say, and Syd smirks as she gives us each a look. “I need a black candle, water, and blood.” Of course. What ritual doesn’t need blood? <<if $blood_fear>>\ “Well, I’m automatically out,” I immediately say, backing up as I say it, “I already told you that I’m terrified of blood. In fact, I don’t even want to be here when you do it.” “You’re afraid of blood?” Bradley asks, “but we’re around it all the time.” “Yep, now you can imagine why I’m always so sick after most hunts.” <<if $cp>>\ “Bradley? Chris?” Sydero asks the two guys, raising a brow to see if one of them would volunteer. “Yea, it’s going to be a no from me,” Chris answers, and Bradley looks just as nervous about offering his own blood. “Seriously?” Syd questions, gazing at both guys, “both of you are scared?” “I just like my blood to stay inside me,” Chris answers. “Well, I guess there goes the scrying idea,” Sydero acknowledges. She stands up and grabs her bowl, “we’ll just have to be ready for whatever Raum might come up with. We’ll do what Chris said and lay low for a few more days.” With that, Sydero leaves and soon the rest of us disperse. <<else>>\ “Bradley?” Sydero asks the young man, raising a brow to see if he would volunteer but Bradley looks just as nervous about offering his own blood. “Seriously?” Syd questions, gazing at him, “you’re scared?” “I just like my blood to stay inside me,” Bradley answers. “Well, I guess there goes the scrying idea,” Sydero acknowledges. She stands up and grabs her bowl, “we’ll just have to be ready for whatever Raum might come up with. We’ll just lay low for a few more days.” With that, Sydero leaves and soon the rest of us disperse. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS3_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ <<if $cp>>\ “Any of you willing?” Sydero asks the three of us. “Yea, it’s going to be a no from me,” Chris answers, and Bradley looks just as nervous about offering his own blood. “Seriously?” Syd questions, gazing at both guys, “both of you are scared?” “I just like my blood to stay inside me,” Chris answers. Sydero looks towards me, and so do Bradley and Chris. <<else>>\ “You two willing?” Sydero asks us. “No thanks,” Bradley answers, and Bradley looks just as nervous about offering his own blood. “Seriously?” Syd questions, gazing at him. “I just like my blood to stay inside me,” Bradley answers. Sydero looks towards me, and so does Bradley. <</if>>\ [[“Sure, why not.”][$scry = true]] [[“How much blood we talking?”]] [[“Nope.”|TSNope]] <</if>>\

“That depends, how much blood we talking?” I question. “Not much, I’m going to slice your lower arm and squeeze enough to coat the top of the water.” I think over her words and try to imagine the pain that would cause and how much blood that would actually be. The bowl wasn’t wide, if she were just going to top the water, then that wouldn’t be too much, right? [[“Sure, why not.”][$scry = true]] [[“Nope.”|TSNope]]

“Sure,” I say, throwing a scowl at <<if $cp>>Chris and <</if>>Bradley, “why not? I’m the only brave one here anyway, so why wouldn’t it be me?” I roll up my sleeve and go and sit right beside Sydero. “I’m sorry,” Bradley squeaks, darting out of the room and then coming back in later with a large wad of bandages. Sydero rolls her eyes but takes them from him, carefully grabbing my arm. She sends <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Bradley<</if>> to go get some water and the black candle from her room. “Are you ready?” she asks me, and I chuckle nervously. <<if $SRomance >=6>>\ “Not really, but I trust you,” I tell her. I watch as another look comes across her face. Surprise? Doubt? Confusion? I can’t really say, but I can feel her grip on my arm relax. With one smooth move, she brings the blade across my lower arm, and I stiffen, awaiting a sense of pain that never hits. Instead, I feel as if nothing has happened whatsoever, yet when I look at my arm, blood flows freely from it. Sydero rotates it and holds it over the bowl, squeezing so that the blood will come out faster. “I’m supposed to feel something, right?” I question, ignoring the looks that <<if $cp>>the other two give me.<<else>>Bradley gives me.<</if>> “It’s empathy,” Sydero whispers. Finally, something I know about. Which actually makes sense and only gives me more insight into the comprehensive list of abilities that she has. She was manipulating my emotions so much that the usual feeling of pain isn’t being registered. Once done, she grabs the bandage and wraps my arm up. She looks up at me but doesn’t say anything, putting her attention on the bowl. As soon as she lets me go, my rightful emotions come through. A mix of pain and the aftershock of terror hit me immediately. But it only lasts for a short while as the pressure of the bandage does its job. <<else>>\ “Is it even possible to be ready for this?” I ask, and she shrugs. She flattens my hand out and, with one smooth move, brings the blade across my lower arm. I stiffen at the pain, clenching my teeth as she rotates it and holds it over the bowl, squeezing so that the blood comes out faster. Once done, she grabs the bandage and wraps my arm up and puts her attention on the bowl. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS3_1_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Well, I guess there goes the scrying idea,” Sydero acknowledges. She stands up and grabs her bowl, “we’ll just have to be ready for whatever Raum might come up with. We’ll <<if $cp>>do what Chris said and lay low<<else>>just lay low<</if>> for a few more days.” With that Sydero leaves, and soon the rest of us disperses. <<include "TS3_1">>

<><<set $answer1 to "food">><> She says something in what I think is Latin, and grabs the burning candle and lets the wax drip into the bowl. I watch as it begins to bubble, first big ones but the more she speaks, the smaller the bubbles become and begin to rapidly appear. She dips her finger in as she speaks, stirring the ingredients. She stops and places her palm inside the bowl, and it disappears underneath a thick dark red liquid. I notice Sydero’s eyes have shifted into her demonic eyes and she stares at the wall directly in front of her, frozen. “Petri, any news?” she asks, and though it is her talking, the voice that comes out is Raum’s. We all move in, curious. “Well, tell me when they arrive, as soon as they do, we head to South Carolina to find them. You still have Roe’s location, correct?” There is a pause as I guess Petri responds. “Good. Langston and I will be grabbing the items needed for the portal, we have two days to do this. Anything goes wrong, and I will personally see the end to each of you.” Suddenly Sydero jumps, shaking her head as her eyes are once again amber orbs. She rubs at her eyes and looks over at me. “They’re tracking us through you somehow, any clue?” I shake my head as I think it through, not being able to think of anything. “Think, $name, come on. When they captured you, do you remember anything that must’ve happened or something they did or pushed you to do?” Bradley asks. I close my eyes as I try to think harder. //It was the ...// <<textbox "$answer1" "">> <a data-passage="TS3_1_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $answer1.toLowerCase().includes("food")>>\ <><<set $bradley +=3; $sydero +=3; $chris +=3>><> “The food! Crap how could I forget,” I blurt, “when I first got there, they forced me to eat that disgusting breakfast. Petri even threatened me if I didn’t. But they didn’t care about anything else.” “That was almost a week ago, shouldn’t you have pooped that out by now?” <<if $cp>>Chris<<else>>Bradley<</if>> questions. “Not if it was a potion mixed in with the food. It could last for a while especially if made for a werewolf to track,” Sydero answers, rubbing her chin in thought. <<else>>\ “Yea, I got nothing. I can’t remember, and I don’t recall them forcing me to do anything.” “It doesn’t matter. They know where we are, and running won’t help because they can track you. Seems like we have to make a stand,” Sydero states, the rest of us growing silent at what her words meant. “Good thing we did that scry. Thanks for that by the way, $name,” Bradley says, but I only hear so much, my mind swarming around what is to soon happen. <</if>>\ <<include "TS3_1">>

<<if $scry>>\ The rest of the day goes by in a busy blur. Between runs to the local store and prepping the house, everything seems to just rush by. Sydero puts up wards and makes what she calls devil traps at the entrance of the house and in other random areas. Bradley is tasked with creating buckets upon buckets of holy water. He even buys some sprinklers to place randomly around the house to spray such water. <<if $cp>>Chris and <</if>>I pour salt around every entrance and windowsill, a tiresome and busy job to say the least. <<else>>\ The rest of the day goes by in a blur, mostly because it’s filled with Sydero and Bradley arguing about what Raum could be planning. They make no headway and end up only frustrated with one another. In order to not get pulled into their wrath, I stay to myself. <</if>>\ When I retire to my bed, I’m surprised that the Entity has nothing to say this entire time, but I was becoming used to them bugging me before disappearing for days on end. <<if $entityBet>>Though, for the first time, I wished for them to surface, if only to make good on our bet. My group did come to get me, and succeeded.<</if>> I bring the covers around my body, drifting off to sleep and wondering when exactly their next mental attack will be. <<if $CRomance >=5 and $jealouschris is false and $gender is "female">>\ <<include "TS3_2">> <<else>>\ <a data-passage="EP10-Act Two"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

I’m teetering on sleep when I hear a soft knock at my door. I guess my day isn’t quite done yet. I head over and open it, spotting Chris standing there. “Hey, I just wanted to check in on you, it’s been a rough couple of days.” I nod in agreement, “I’m fine. It feels good to just be able to lay down though, despite the impending doom.” “Yea,” he says, looking around my room as he seems to want to say more, “$name ... how do I ... I don’t ... what I mean to say is ...” He continues on, stuttering and tripping over every other word. I can imagine him thinking up his words, only for them to trip on his tongue and come stumbling out of his mouth. He groans and huffs in irritation. “You’re blowing it, man!” Bradley shouts from his room, “it ain’t that hard.” “Shut up and mind your business, Bradley.” “Your screw up is loud enough for all of us to hear; therefore it is our business,” I hear Sydero shout from upstairs. “Look, I just want to sleep so can this wait till morning?” I ask, taking a step back, prepared to close the door. “No, no, no,” Chris states urgently, grabbing my hand and then blushing a minute later, “if I don’t say this now, then I’ll never say it.” “Preach!” both Sydero and Bradley say in unison. Chris deadpans the door, closing his eyes before focusing on me once again. <a data-passage="TS3_2_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“$name,” and I again see the words skip out of his mouth, skydiving and leaving him tongue-tied, “fuck! Why can’t I say these words! Why is it that every time I’m ready to say it, I get fuckin speechless and I can’t even remember what words are?” He shouts, pacing back and forth between the hallway and the entrance to my room. He points his finger at me, “this is your fault.” “My fault?” I ask, completely confused now. <<if $hairlength is "bald">>I just want to go to sleep. I know I look as tired as I felt.<<else>>My hair is probably a mess from squishing my face in the pillow, and I know I looked as tired as I felt.<</if>> “Yes, your fault. I can talk to any other girl, in fact, most girls would call me a flirt. Me, the tongue-tied, I don’t know what I’m saying as I pace back and forth, guy.” “Can’t see it,” Bradley shouts. “What kind of Helen Keller women do you talk to?” Sydero screams from upstairs. Chris turns around and begins to mumble to the wall, causing me to doubt that I’m really up. It would be just my luck that this is all a realistic dream, in a way it almost makes me feel better. “I’m just going to say it. $name, I like your face!” The entire house is silent, and it takes Chris a while to realize what he said, “I mean not just your face. I also like the stuff on it .... and what’s attached to it, and what’s in it? And ... just you ... I like you. A lot.” He sighs, and with a subtle brush, he scurries away from my door, leaving me standing there. [[Stand there and figure out what just happened.]] [[Close the door and go back to bed.][$CRomance -=5]]

I stand there, confused and trying to figure out what happened. I was pretty sure Chris, in the weirdest way he could possibly muster, confessed. It would be cute if he hadn’t run away right after. I’m busy figuring it out when Chris appears again, but this time he doesn’t just stand there. With one look, he closes the distance between us and kisses me deeply. One of his arms snake around my waist as he guides me backward and into the wall. The other hand cups my cheek gently, holding me there in that moment. When we part, my gaze is blurry, my mind racing to catch up. And even when it catches up, it decides to lazily wander through the kiss, giggling as it relives every second of it. “I’m sorry,” Chris chuckles lowly, “I really don’t know what I’m doing anymore.” He drops his gaze to the ground, blushing when he notices his stance and how close he is, as if he hadn’t just kissed me. “I’m a mess.” [[“Tis is true, but you can do that again.” Let him kiss you.]] [[“Um, maybe we should call it a night?”][$CRomance -=5]]

I place my hands on his chest and smile, “tis is true, you are a mess.” He blushes once again, the subtle hint of pink on his cheeks causing those gray-blue eyes to seem even softer. “But you can do that again,” I whisper into his ear. His head lifts as he looks me in the eye, his eyes softening as he finally realizes what I said. He cups my cheek and places a chaste kiss on my lips, and then another, and another. Until finally he’s done playing, his lips capturing mine. I can feel the nervousness there, but I can also feel the excitement. The excitement of a first kiss shared with someone that you have longed for. <<if $hairlength is "bald">>\ He runs his hands over my head, grabbing the back of my neck gently as he pulls me closer. He explores my mouth for the first time, though hopefully not the last. I press up closer to him, happy to have finally reached this moment, tugging on the front of his shirt to keep him close. I can’t help but smile, and he pulls back. <<else>>\ He runs his hands through my $hairlength hair, playing with my hair as he explores my mouth for the first time, though hopefully not the last. I press up closer to him, happy to have finally reached this moment, tugging on the front of his shirt to keep him close. I can’t help but smile, and he pulls back. <</if>>\ “What’s that for?” he questions, his voice so soft and soothing. “Took you forever,” I smirk, and he blushes in response. “I would say better late than never, but this was killing me.” His finger traces my jawline, stopping at my chin, “you can’t imagine the sleepless nights I had, all because I was unable to tell you.” “Hmm, I can imagine,” I say and give him one last kiss, “we should probably talk more about this tomorrow.” “Yea, cos some of us tryna sleep!” Bradley shouts, and I hear a low grunt in the distance, probably belonging to Sydero. Chris nods and leans in for one more kiss. I can feel the restraint within him, trying to stop but not wishing to. When he finally moves, he whispers to me goodnight and heads back to his room. I close the door slowly, caring not about the smile that lights up my features. <a data-passage="EP10-Act Two"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I narrow my eyes and close the door, shaking my head as I try to forget the last five minutes, or ten. All I know is that there is a bed beside me that is calling my name. A small piece of me knows exactly what happened and what closing the door probably means. But, maybe that was what I actually wanted. They always say crushes go just as quickly as they come. I close my eyes and let sleep overtake me for the night. <a data-passage="EP10-Act Two"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I separate from him and make sure there’s enough space between us. “It’s fine,” I lie, but that was the only thing I could think of to not make this even more awkward. “But maybe we should just go back to bed, you know? Call it a night?” He nods his head, not even trying to hide the utter disappointment and sadness in his gaze. His entire body screamed embarrassed and with nothing else said, he leaves my room with his tail tucked between his legs. I close the door and go back to bed, thinking about the kiss and what me sending him away meant. They always said crushes go just as quickly as they come, especially when you’re finally faced with what you thought you always wanted. I close my eyes and let sleep overtake me for the night. <a data-passage="EP10-Act Two"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/acttwo.png"> <<if hasVisited("“Tis is true, but you can do that again.” Let him kiss you.")>>\ “I like your face,” I hear Bradley tease as I enter the kitchen, making kissing noises towards a cheerful looking Chris. Sydero stands to the side, eating cereal and trying to fight the smile on her face. The others notice me, and Bradley immediately stops, giving me a lopsided grin as he pats the chair between him and Chris. “Saved you a seat, $name,” Bradley grins. “I just want breakfast,” I laugh but after pouring myself some cereal, take the seat, smiling brightly as Chris plants a soft good morning kiss to my cheek. “Should we lay out some ground rules for the kids?” Bradley asks Sydero who doesn’t answer, “like maybe we should get two motel rooms now?” “Alright, that’s enough out of you, Mr. Virgin,” Sydero scolds with a smirk. “I’m not a virgin, stop telling people that,” he responds, rolling his eyes and grumbling something. <<include "TS4">> <<elseif hasVisited("“Um, maybe we should call it a night?”")>>\ “I like your face,” I hear Bradley tease as I enter the kitchen, looking from Chris to a silently eating Sydero in confusion. “Where did that even come from? You had an arsenal of things to say, and you said that?” “Hey, how about you shut up?” Chris suggests, annoyed and certainly not in the mood. The others notice me, and Bradley immediately stops, going back to eating as awkwardness fills the room. And this is precisely why they tell you not to date your teammates, co-workers, or anything similar. I go over to the cereal and pour myself a bowl, deciding to just sit on the counter so that there is still distance between all of us. <<include "TS4">> <<else>>\ <<if $cp>>\ “Bourbon? You think bourbon is the best kind of whiskey? You maniac!” I hear Bradley say as I enter the kitchen, his attention on Chris. “Who makes bourbon their go-to drink? Sydero, what’s yours?” Sydero stands in the corner, eating her cereal and seeming to be irritated at being brought into the debate. “Bradley, you’re not even old enough to know what alcohol should taste like,” she reminds. “Yea, yea whatever. Let’s not act like I’m some normal sixteen-year-old, thank you. Back to the question, what is it?” “Tennessee whiskey,” she answers, and he doesn’t seem anymore happy at that. “No! The best –” he stops, his attention landing on me. “$name, your go-to whiskey?” [[“I don’t drink.”]] [[“I’m with Chris, bourbon.”|TSBourbon][$chris +=3]] [[“I’m with Syd, Tennessee whiskey is the best.”][$sydero +=3]] [[“Hmm, I gotta say Canadian whiskey.”][$bradley +=3]] [[“My go-to is Japanese whiskey actually.”]] <<else>>\ “Tennessee whiskey? You think that whiskey is the best kind of whiskey? You maniac!” I hear Bradley say as I enter the kitchen, his attention on Sydero who seems less than pleased. “Who makes //that// their go-to drink?” “Obviously me. Now stop screaming, it’s way too early to hear your mouth right now.” “Don’t talk to me, you disgusting cambion.” “Bradley, you’re not even old enough to know what alcohol should taste like,” she reminds. “Yea, yea whatever. Let’s not act like I’m some normal sixteen-year-old, thank you. The best –,” he stops, his attention landing on me. “$name, your go-to whiskey?” [[“I don’t drink.”]] [[“Gotta say bourbon.”|TSBourbon]] [[“I’m with Syd, Tennessee whiskey is the best.”][$sydero +=3]] [[“Hmm, I gotta say Canadian whiskey.”][$bradley +=3]] [[“My go-to is Japanese whiskey actually.”]] <</if>>\ <</if>>\

“I don’t drink,” I remind him, and he sighs. “Canadian whiskey, people! That’s the best whiskey out there.” Sydero groans in disgust as <<if $cp>>Chris chuckles uncontrollably, almost spilling his oatmeal.<<else>>I do my best to ignore him, reaching for a bowl to get some cereal.<</if>> “Oh no. I at least thought you were going to say Malt or Irish whiskey, but no, you said Canadian,” Sydero says. <<if $cp>>\ “Um yea, Crown Royal? That thing is the bomb.” “Bourbon tastes way better than that,” Chris adds in, extending the argument as Bradley names all the reasons why Canadian whiskey is better. <<else>>\ “Um yea, Crown Royal? That thing is the bomb.” Bradley then goes into a rant about all the reasons why it was better. <</if>>\ <<include "TS4">>

<<if $cp>>“I’m going to agree with Chris and say bourbon.”<<else>>“I’m going to say bourbon.”<</if>> “Canadian whiskey, people! That’s the best whiskey out there.” Sydero groans in disgust as <<if $cp>>Chris chuckles uncontrollably, almost spilling his oatmeal.<<else>>I do my best to ignore him, reaching for a bowl to get some cereal.<</if>> “Oh no. I at least thought you were going to say Malt or Irish whiskey, but no, you said Canadian,” Sydero says. <<if $cp>>\ “Um yea, Crown Royal? That thing is the bomb.” “Bourbon tastes way better than that,” Chris adds in, extending the argument as Bradley names all the reasons why Canadian whiskey is better. <<else>>\ “Um yea, Crown Royal? That thing is the bomb.” Bradley then goes into a rant about all the reasons why it was better. <</if>>\ <<include "TS4">>

“From what I tasted, Syd is right. Tennessee whiskey is the best.” “Canadian whiskey, people! That’s the best whiskey out there.” Sydero groans in disgust as <<if $cp>>Chris chuckles uncontrollably, almost spilling his oatmeal.<<else>>I do my best to ignore him, reaching for a bowl to get some cereal.<</if>> “Oh no. I at least thought you were going to say Malt or Irish whiskey, but no, you said Canadian,” Sydero says. <<if $cp>>\ “Um yea, Crown Royal? That thing is the bomb.” “Bourbon tastes way better than that,” Chris adds in, extending the argument as Bradley names all the reasons why Canadian whiskey is better. <<else>>\ “Um yea, Crown Royal? That thing is the bomb.” Bradley then goes into a rant about all the reasons why it was better. <</if>>\ <<include "TS4">>

“Hmm,” I say, grabbing a bowl of oatmeal, “I gotta say Canadian whiskey.” <<if $cp>>\ “Thank you,” Bradley claps, “someone with taste! That’s the best whiskey out there.” Sydero groans in disgust as Chris chuckles uncontrollably, almost spilling his oatmeal. <<else>>\ “Thank you,” Bradley claps, “someone with taste! That’s the best whiskey out there.” Sydero groans in disgust as I do my best to ignore him, reaching for a bowl to get some cereal, “oh no. I at least thought you were going to say Malt or Irish whiskey, but no, you said Canadian, “Sydero grimaces. <</if>>\ “Um yea, Crown Royal? That thing is the bomb.” “Bourbon tastes way better than that,” Chris adds in, extending the argument as Bradley names all the reasons why Canadian whiskey was better. <<include "TS4">>

“My go-to is Japanese whiskey actually,” I say, getting looks from all three of them, though they each differ. Bradley looks disappointed<<if $cp>>, Syd seems impressed, and Chris looks like he’s trying to figure out when I ever had the chance to taste such whiskey.<<else>> and Syd seems impressed.<</if>> “Canadian whiskey, people! That’s the best whiskey out there.” Sydero groans in disgust as <<if $cp>>Chris chuckles uncontrollably, almost spilling his oatmeal.<<else>>I do my best to ignore him, reaching for a bowl to get some cereal.<</if>> “Oh no. I at least thought you were going to say Malt or Irish whiskey, but no, you said Canadian,” Sydero says. <<if $cp>>\ “Um yea, Crown Royal? That thing is the bomb.” “Bourbon tastes way better than that,” Chris adds in, extending the argument as Bradley names all the reasons why Canadian whiskey is better. <<else>>\ “Um yea, Crown Royal? That thing is the bomb.” Bradley then goes into a rant about all the reasons why it was better. <</if>>\ <<include "TS4">>

“What’s on the schedule today? More prep?” I ask as I eat, looking to Sydero for the answer. “Training, mostly. You guys need to know how to take out a demon. The good thing is, we have a demon you can practice on.” She points to herself, and I raise a brow. “You don’t think this might be dangerous for you?” She snorts, “holy water doesn’t hurt me, neither does salt, and you can’t exorcise me.” “How about iron or silver?” <<if $cp>>Chris questions, brandishing his<<else>>I question, brandishing my<</if>> knife. “Sure, but you gotta gut me like anyone else,” she says with a smirk, “now, hurry up and finish, sooner we get started the better.” <a data-passage="TS4_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I finish my cereal and get dressed, grabbing my gun and blade before making my way outside. I sit on the porch, catching sight of one of the devil traps that Sydero had done. It’s painted on the underside of the awning that shields the door and part of the porch from the sun, clever. “Here, take these, they’ll keep you from getting possessed,” Bradley tells <<if $cp>>us<<else>>me<</if>>, handing <<if $cp>>both Chris and <</if>>me a unique appearing charm. “What about you?” <<if $cp>>Chris asks<<else>>I ask<</if>>, and Bradley shakes his head. “I have an anti-possession tattoo, so I’m fine.” “Where?” I ask, never having seen a tattoo on him before. In his defense, I’ve never seen the kid without a shirt, so it’s likely that it’s somewhere either on his back or chest. I’m content with that thought until Bradley gives me a grin that matches that of the Cheshire cat. “Do you really wanna know?” he asks, raising both brows with the question. I peer over at Sydero who shakes her head slowly, and I shake mine as well. Sydero stands in front of us like any proper instructor. “First off, if we’re in for a fight, then this is not the same type of supernatural creatures you’re used to going up against. Everyone you guys been up against so far have been fighting off of instinct.” <<if $combat <30>>\ I raise a hand, realize what I’m doing and then shake my head and put my hand down, “isn’t that a good thing? Instinct is how you should fight, right?” “No. Instinct isn’t bad, but it’s worse to go up against someone trained.” <</if>>\ “Those werewolves in the forest, instinct. Those faeries, instinct. And that beast, definitely instinct. It should tell you something that we were able to beat them, but every time Raum and his little crew pops up, the only reason we get out of it is that we’re lucky. These guys are trained, they know how to fight, and even worse, they have abilities.” <<if $cp>>\ “This has got to be the direst lesson I’ve ever heard,” Chris whispers from beside me. “Good, keep listening,” Sydero tells him, tapping his forehead as she continues to pace back and forth in front of us. <<else>>\ “Well dang, Sydero, mind minimizing the whole doom and gloom part?” “No! This is serious,” Sydero tells me, pacing back and forth as she continues. <</if>>\ “Now, there are a few things that you can learn but doing too much won’t be wise. You won’t learn anything that way.” Syd points to Bradley who somehow finds himself back on his laptop. I really shouldn’t be surprised. “Bradley can teach you how to exorcise a demon. While I can help teach you how to fight a demon who’s using their abilities to stop you. You also should practice either using your gun or blade and even on top of that, maybe learning more about demons so that you know more about them. Knowledge is just as powerful as training.” With that said, <<if hasVisited("fight")>>Sydero heads closer to the trees<<else>>[[Sydero heads closer to the trees|fight][$combat +=5]]<</if>>, pulling out her blade.<<if $cp>> Chris, after thinking through everything, decides to take up Sydero and her offer, heading towards her. <</if>><<if hasVisited("exorcise")>>Bradley takes shelter<<else>>[[Bradley takes shelter|exorcise][$exorcise to true]]<</if>> under the awning, fiddling with his computer. And then, of course, I could just go <<if hasVisited("pb")>>practice with my blade<<else>>[[practice with my blade|pb][$blades +=5]]<</if>> or <<if hasVisited("pg")>>practice with my gun<<else>>[[practice with my gun|pg][$guns +=5]]<</if>>. Or go inside and <<if hasVisited("read")>>read up<<else>>[[read up|read][$supernatural +=5]]<</if>> on demons.

<<if $cp>>I head over to Sydero with Chris and get her attention. She seems almost shocked that both of us wanted to practice with her, but she says nothing about it.<<else>>I head over to Sydero and get her attention.<</if>> “Alright, we’re going to do this with guns because if you get too close to a demon, then, well ...” she doesn’t finish her sentence, but I don’t think she has to, <<if $cp>>both of us<<else>>I<</if>> got the picture. <<if $cp>>Chris and I back up, a couple of feet separating us<<else>>I back up, a couple of feet now separating me<</if>> from Sydero. “First things first, these demons are under Raum. They’re going to be lower-tier which means that, in a way, they’re just glorified shapeshifters.” “That’s a good thing, right?” I ask. Sydero lightly shrugs her shoulders, “depends on how you look at it. Like I said before, shapeshifters fight off instinct. Most of them like to punch the shit out of you and then run like hell. These demons are getting orders from Raum to probably kill. They won’t waste a second in trying to tear you apart.” <<if $cp>>\ “And the dire lessons continue,” Chris mumbles. I shriek as Chris’s body is suddenly thrown in the air, jumping away from him and then looking at a smirking Sydero. Her gaze moves to me. “Lesson starts now.” <</if>>\ I dash out of the way before she can even think about <<if $cp>>throwing me up<<else>>her first move<</if>>, pulling out my gun but then watching as it goes flying to the side. I leap after it, just as I feel my body go skidding across the ground, stopping right before I hit the porch. “Use your words, Sydero,” I shout. <<if $cp>>\ “I really don’t see how we’re supposed to win this,” Chris points out, crawling towards his gun but every time he almost gets there, his gun is moved just a bit more. <</if>>\ “Firstly, lower-tier demons don’t have this ability, so me flinging you around is just for fun,” she tells <<if $cp>>us<<else>>me<</if>>, shrugging her shoulders. <<if $cp>>We both<<else>>I<</if>> give her an incredulous look, and she raises her hands in surrender, motioning for <<if $cp>>us<<else>>me<</if>> to come at her. <<if $cp>>\ <<if $chris >=50>>I grab my blade as Chris uses his gun to try and get a good shot. As Chris lines up a shot, I get in close, not trying to cut her but trying to make her at least move. I notice that the only time she does move is when she dodges me. She sways from side to side, and I notice her eyes are only on my upper half, watching which way I’m about to attack.<<else>>I grab my blade as Chris grabs his gun and then mine, darting to the other side and firing precisely towards Syd. With half her attention on him, and the other half on me, it’s quite easy to overpower her and get her to the ground. Once there, she sits and stares at the ground before suddenly beginning to laugh.<</if>> <<else>>\ I grab my blade and attempt to get in close, not trying to cut her but trying to make her at least move. I notice that the only time she does move is when she dodges me. She sways from side to side, and I notice her eyes are only on my upper half, watching which way I’m about to attack. <</if>>\ I smirk, finally. I continue to do what I’m doing and then once I see a good opening, I trip her. She goes down instantly but still manages to land on her feet. She stands up straighter, looking at me before laughing. “Well, damn. That was good. I’m impressed. Of course, I’m not dead, but normal demons aren’t on my level. Wow, did that sound conceited.” She shrugs and nods her head. That practice seems done. <<if hasVisited("TS4_2")>>\ <a data-passage="TS5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ <a data-passage="TS4_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

I head over to Bradley, getting his attention. “Syd said you can teach someone how to exorcise. Can you really?” I ask, sitting beside him. <<if $cp>>\ “There’s a joke somewhere in there. I’m just happy Chris isn’t here to act on it,” he sighs. <</if>>\ I think he’s going to teach me from his seat, the last thing I predicted was for him to get up and stand in front of me like some college professor. He straightens his back and tries to deepen his voice. “In fact, I do, my pupil. But exorcising is more than just saying some words. You have to know what level of demon you’re messing with, have to make sure you can’t be possessed next, know if you’re doing a reverse exorcism or the one everyone typically thinks when hearing the word exorcism.” “Seriously, all that is needed to just get a demon out of a body?” I ask, and Bradley leans in, uncomfortably close. “Tell me, how do you exorcise a wraith?” [[“With dedication?”]] [[“What’s a wraith?”]] [[“Silver. Or iron ...”]]

I sit quietly, thinking his words over, “with dedication?” “Commitment and perseverance? This ain’t no motivational speech, this is life!” Bradley shouts, and with one hand I move him back a few more steps, at least until he’s again at the railing. <<include "exorcise1">>

I open my mouth to answer his question but then close it a minute later, “what’s a wraith?” “Exactly. You don’t even know what it is. You could be muttering a bunch of powerful words that won’t even have an effect on the creature you’re trying to get. Or even better, you might try to exorcise something you think is a demon, but isn’t.” “Alright, I get it, Bradley,” I sigh, rolling my eyes at his dramatics. <<include "exorcise1">>

“Silver ... or iron ... siron? Silon?” I ask, saying the last part more to myself as I try to combine the two into a name that felt more natural. “I would laugh if this weren’t a serious question,” Bradley tells me, staring at me with not even so much as a mouth corner curl. He continues to stare at me until he suddenly laughs, grabbing his stomach as he tries to calm down. “Okay, but that was actually a good one. May I throw in the running, silron?” I chuckle. <<include "exorcise1">>

“But honestly, yes, all of this is important. Let’s say you didn’t have an anti-possessing charm or something like that, then the demon might just jump to you. Demons are crafty bastards, just imagine an army of them that act like Sydero but even more uncaring.” That was a horrible thing to picture. “I’ve heard of some demons acting like the exorcism worked, only at the last minute to either possess the person or kill them.” “I understand, so what then?” Bradley types something into his computer and turns it towards me. “Now, you probably won’t memorize this in time for whatever is going to happen, but you can start. That, and you can probably scare some of the demons with it. Just saying the first three words will have some demons running for cover. But not all.” The two of us begin, Bradley helping me to understand how to pronounce the words and what they mean. When I don’t question him, he lectures about which demons can be exorcised easily, and which ones will have to be trapped or just can’t be at all. He talks about how not all creatures from hell can be exorcised and how wraiths are one of those creatures. By the time we’re done, I feel like I have at least the first quarter memorized enough, though that will have to be tested against me fearing for my life. <<if hasVisited("TS4_2")>>\ <a data-passage="TS5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ <a data-passage="TS4_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

I go into the clearing that has some do it yourself targets set up. They range from short to long distance. The targets were mostly for shooting, but one could also practice throwing their blade as well. I do that at first, warming up my arms before doing some practice throws. Once I’m ready, I throw the knife at the intended targets, hoping to get a bullseye. At first, my goal seems unattainable. Each time I throw the blade it either lands in the grass with a soft plop, or it hits the outer rings of the target, falling out soon after. The more I throw it though, the closer I get until I keep hitting the bullseye. After becoming familiar with how to throw, I begin to add movement, adding quick stops and turning quickly right before throwing it. Again, I’m left disappointed. But still, the more I practice, the better I get. I stop when my arm begins to get sore, telling myself that it would be smarter to just take a break since only so much can be accomplished in a day. <<if hasVisited("TS4_2")>>\ <a data-passage="TS5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ <a data-passage="TS4_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

I head to the clearing with the targets and prep them for some target practice. I put them in a variety of places. This way I would be able to run and search and immediately aim, working on multiple things. I check my gun and the ammo, making sure the ammo is only rock salt. I do some practice shots, hitting almost every shot that I take, though some don’t hit at all. After feeling like I was adequately warmed up, I begin the actual exercise I had planned for myself. The first three targets are easy to hit, they were lined up right alongside one another, and I only needed to hit each one consecutively, as fast as I can. After that, two are higher up on trees, and I shoot them, though my aim is off on the second shot. I continue. The third and fourth require me to climb a tree and balance myself to hit both. I do this and then jump down, as I go down, I tag the fifth. The last three are hidden in bushes, and after feeling like I was in some cliché action movie, I find them and shoot them quickly. Two of the bullets don’t hit, and so I redo the move over, this time getting them. Surprisingly, I was sweating, and I decide to end that training for the day, I would need these bullets, best not to waste them. <<if hasVisited("TS4_2")>>\ <a data-passage="TS5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ <a data-passage="TS4_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

I go inside and grab the book, cranking it open and looking through the table of contents for the demon section. What I find is a heading and underneath that, sub-headings with specific types of demons. I decided to just go for the general idea of a demon. //Demons are malevolent spirits that originate from Hell. There are various types of demons, making it hard to truly speak for all of them. All demons are immortal beings and even the low-level demons have impressive power. Your typical demon cannot be born, only created by extensively torturing a once pure soul and sending them to Hell. There, the souls become corrupted and come back as demons with no past knowledge of who they were before. The majority of demons who walk on Earth must possess a body in order to do so, meaning that they can be exorcised. The lowest level of demons, mostly known as either “low-tier demons” or “lesser demons” make up the majority of the demon population. These demons are the weakest and have the basic powers that all demons possess including enhanced senses, invulnerability, and immortality. These demons have mild forms that only include a change in eye color to black, and they possess no skin, symbolizing their time in hell.// I continue reading, going deeper and deeper and learning about mid-tier and higher-tier demons. When I’m done, I close the book and put it back where I found it. <<if hasVisited("TS4_2")>>\ <a data-passage="TS5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ <a data-passage="TS4_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

After a few hours, Bradley decides to call a break. Mostly for him, but a break nevertheless. I keep most of my thoughts to myself though when I see Bradley bring out a plate stacked high with sandwiches. “Sorry that they’re not that diverse, we only have so many ingredients.” <<if $cp>>\ “A sandwich, my dear Bradley, is a sandwich,” Chris says, taking one and then thanking him. I go over next and grab a sandwich, taking a seat on the porch where I had last put my water bottle. <<else>>\ “Thanks anyway, I was hoping for some kind of snack,” I tell Bradley with a smile and then take one. I grab a seat on the porch, right next to my half-empty water bottle. <</if>>\ As we eat, Sydero continues to practice, doing an assortment of things from teleporting to actually using her telekinetic powers. The last thing she does is create a ball of dark energy, black mist surrounding her as she does it. But as soon as she starts, she stops, dropping to one knee. <<if $cp>>“Out of juice?” Chris questions, reaching for another sandwich.<<else>>“What’s her problem? Tired?” I ask, finishing up the sandwich in my hands.<</if>> “No, she’s just trying to stay relatively balanced,” Bradley answers, “it ... it feels good to be able to talk about this with you <<if $cp>>guys <</if>>now. I know you’re not completely happy about not being told sooner but ...” Bradley shrugs and takes another bite of his sandwich, sitting comfortably as he finishes whatever he was going to say in his head. <<if $uncledead is false>>\ As I eat, I feel something vibrating in my pocket, reaching in and seeing that the caller is my uncle. “Hello?” I ask and immediately move the phone away from my ear, still being able to hear him scream at me loud and clear. Bradley raises a brow but doesn’t ask any questions, continuing to eat. “Just stop screaming at me,” I tell him, sighing. “I thought you were dead!” he screams again, “I turn on the tv and boom, there goes your face, yet again, on the news. Only this time it’s because you’re no longer a threat. I’ve had so many Carol’s and Beatrice’s call me to say that they’re sorry, but you were a bad apple anyway.” “Yea, well, Syd just decided to start that fire and make me seem dead. Sorry about not calling you. I was planning to do it.” <<if $uncleknows>>\ “Is it the folks that are after you?” he asks me, and I confirm his thoughts. Since he already knew about the supernatural and everything that had happened, I catch him up as best as I can. I’m sure I leave some parts out, but it matters little. By the time I’m done, my uncle sounds ready to hit up the bar, and I can’t blame him. Before hanging up, I let him know that I’ll probably go ghost again, seeing that we are about to go after Raum. I hang up later, ready to start practicing again. <<else>>\ “Is it the mafia? You never really told me,” he points out, and I’m happy he did, knowing me I would’ve blabbed about everything that had happened, forgetting that he didn’t know. I catch him up as best as I can, going slow to think through some things and then leaving some parts out. Before hanging up, I let him know that I’ll probably go ghost again, just to make sure that I was truly in the clear. I hang up later, ready to start practicing again. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ After we all finish eating, we go back to practice. <<if hasVisited("fight")>>Sydero is still near the trees<<else>>[[Sydero is still near the trees|fight][$combat +=5]]<</if>>. <<if hasVisited("exorcise")>>Bradley stays on the porch<<else>>[[Bradley stays on the porch|exorcise][$exorcise to true]]<</if>>, under the awning, fiddling with his computer. I could just go <<if hasVisited("pb")>>practice with my blade<<else>>[[practice with my blade|pb][$blades +=5]]<</if>> or <<if hasVisited("pg")>>practice with my gun<<else>>[[practice with my gun|pg][$guns +=5]]<</if>>. Or go inside and <<if hasVisited("read")>>read up<<else>>[[read up|read][$supernatural +=5]]<</if>> on demons.

I’m about to continue practicing when a sullen wind rolls in, and with it a putrid aroma. I spot a dark mist on the horizon, getting closer and closer to our current location. “What’s that?” I ask Bradley who just happens to be standing beside me. He gazes up from his laptop, not knowing what I’m talking about until he actually sees it for himself. He moves his computer from his lap and stares at the darkening sky. Suddenly, the mist dives down, disappearing from the sky and leaving the two of us confused. “Inside, now!” Sydero shouts, grabbing weapons with haste. “Wait, what? What was that? Do you know?” I question when she approaches. “Demons, a lot of them. Let’s go now!” With an urgent push, she herds us back into the house, running around grabbing things and trying to find weapons. <<if $scry>>\ “They’re earlier than what I suspected but at least we’re prepared for them,” Sydero tells us, sending us to check the salt and to add some in front of the front door. After that’s complete, we join Sydero in the kitchen, filling the weapons up with ammo, grabbing holy water, and checking ourselves for our blades. The house was ready, and so were we, there was little we could do that we hadn’t already done. I sit by the windows, careful not to mess up the salt that we had laid in front of it, watching for any sign of people coming. <<else>>\ “Damn, we don’t have time to demon proof this house. We can’t even proof it if we wanted to,” Sydero tells us, rushing back and forth as she gathers things and plops them on the table. “Hey, Syd,” Bradley tries, but she continues to rush around, naturally in her own little world. Bradley tries again, still to no avail. He finally grabs her by her shoulders, getting her attention before asking what the rest of us can do. <<if $nerve <30>>\ My fingers shake as I check everything, trying to calm down and finding it impossible. I slam the gun in my hands down on the table, running my hands unsteadily over my face as I take in multiple deep breaths. “You okay?” Bradley asks, inching a step closer to me. “Just, you never know how nervous you are until it comes down to it.” “Just remember that these suckers hate holy water and it gives you plenty of time to run after sloshing them with it.” I nod, though his words do little to calm my trembling hands. <<else>>\ I take in a deep breath as I place the ammo in my gun, doing so with practiced ease. I check it and put it on safety before grabbing some holy water and checking my blade. “You seem to be taking this well,” Bradley says, sliding up beside me as he places his laptop in his bag, then grab some holy water. “I know I haven’t really gone up against demons, but after fighting werewolves and cryptids, this doesn’t seem all that different. Especially since we have a cambion on our side.” “Special mutt,” Sydero chimes in, walking by the door. “Yea, that,” I say with a smile and a shrug, going back to preparing. <</if>>\ The house isn’t prepared, but we are, and that is the best that we can hope for at the moment. For crying out loud, we’re going up against demons, there is only so much we can actually do. I take a seat by the windows, glancing outside, waiting for any sign of people coming. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS5_0"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

About thirty minutes later is when I see a mass of figures appearing. They don’t bother to hide, stepping into the open as they approach at their own pace. At the head, I can make out the familiar faces of Langston and Petri, but all those surrounding them are faces I have never seen. “Is that the grocer from the store?” Bradley questions, appearing at my side. “They probably possessed half the town,” Sydero informs<<if $cp>> as she enters with Chris at her side.<<else>>, being the last of us to enter.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “And what happens when we’re done here? They just leave the citizens to wonder where their night went?” Chris ponders, and Sydero raises an eyebrow as she spares him a glance. “Bold of you to assume that they’ll actually survive this ordeal. Most demons end up killing their host before moving on.” “Hold up,” Chris interjects, seeming to forget the demon army that’s just hanging outside the house, “you’re telling me demons will just possess an entire town, kill them all, and then call it a day?” “They’re demons, not saints. What do you think happened in Roanoke?” This actually causes all of us to stop and look at Sydero, obviously wanting to hear more. “Look sharp,” she commands, nodding to the window just as Petri begins to shout. <<else>>\ “And we get to fight them all, great. So what do we do with the bodies just laying around here tomorrow?” I question, looking over at a chuckling Bradley. “That’s cute,” he starts, nudging me as if I had just told a joke, “you think we’re gonna survive long enough to see tomorrow.” He does a pig-like snort, only stopping when we hear Petri start to shout something. <</if>>\ “How about we just skip the bloodshed part of tonight and skip right to you surrendering,” he begins. [[Stay silent.|TS_Silent]] [[“Sure, you first though.”]] [[“How about we skip the monologue too?”]] <<if $pacifist <50>>\ [[“I’m kind of a fan of the blood part.”]] <</if>>\

I say nothing, and neither do the others, each of us quietly crouched near the window as we await their next move. “So be it,” Petri sings. I peak out the window and see the demon militia approaching, at their own pace, but they would be at the door any minute. <<include "TS5_0_1">>

“Sure,” I shout back, “you first though.” I can slightly hear Petri, and someone else, chuckle, probably Langston. “Roe. Do you really think you’re ready for this? How about a deal? You give us Sydero, and we give you a week to run off. You can get yourself cleansed and go off the grid. By then, that poison inside of you should’ve worn off.” <<if $scry>>I roll my eyes at their words, at least they told me the effects of the food will wear off.<<else>>My eyes widen at their words, so they did poison me. The food I ate back at the prison. Crap!<</if>> “Stop entertaining them,” Sydero growls in a reprimanding tone. “So be it,” Petri sings. I peak out the window and see the demon militia approaching, at their own pace, but they would be at the door any minute. <<include "TS5_0_1">>

“I’m kind of a fan of the blood part, so, no deal,” I shout back with a sneer. “So are we. So it should say something that we’re extending this chance at surrender to you. How about a deal? You give us Sydero, and we give you a week to run off. You can get yourself cleansed and go off the grid. By then, that poison inside of you should’ve worn off.” <<if $scry>>I roll my eyes at their words, at least they told me the effects of the food will wear off.<<else>>My eyes widen at their words, so they did poison me. The food I ate back at the prison. Crap!<</if>> “Stop entertaining them,” Sydero growls in a reprimanding tone. “So be it,” Petri sings. I peak out the window and see the demon militia approaching, at their own pace, but they would be at the door any minute. <<include "TS5_0_1">>

“Hey!” I shout in annoyance, “how about we skip the monologue too?” Bradley snickers from beside me and I see Sydero try to fight a forming smirk. I can’t see him, nor can I hear him but I’m sure Petri is grinding his teeth together in annoyance. “So be it,” Petri sings. I peak out the window and see the demon militia approaching, at their own pace, but they would be at the door any minute. <<include "TS5_0_1">>

<<if $scry>>\ “I really hope all that stuff was worth it,” I tell Sydero after ducking back down, and she grins, looking over at Bradley. I look to see him on his phone, some minutes later glancing up and smiling widely. “I need you to say it, Syd.” “I’m not saying it,” she growls in response. Bradley moans childishly, “come on, when do I ever ask you for things like this?” “All the time!” “Please, Syd?!” <<if $serious >=50>>“Um guys, demon army outside, getting closer by the second,” I remind.<<else>>“Yea Syd, please,” I beg along with him, though I have no clue what I’m asking for.<</if>> Sydero growls and utters something inaudible before sighing, “make it rain, Bradley!” “Hell yea!” I see him hit something and peer out of the window to see the sprinklers cut on, each demon shouting in pain, “holy water bitches!” I watch as the majority of them try and fight to pass the sprinklers that surround the house, but they fail. Though the damage couldn’t be seen due to the human skins they wear, a large amount of smoke rising towards the sky is an indicator. But of course, having a werewolf and shapeshifter on your side gives you benefits. The two make quick work of the sprinklers, destroying them and then commanding for the still recovering demons to charge the house. They do just that, but the salt keeps them out. I can hear Langston and Petri shout at them for their incompetence. Just when I think we’re actually doing something, I see a figure approaching and next thing I know, the window is breaking as the figure busts in, interrupting the salt line and starting the battle. <<else>>\ “Well, I guess this is it,” I tell Sydero after ducking back down, and she nods her head solemnly. “There was nothing we could do but prepare ourselves, we’re going to have to make it work.” We all get away from the window and behind the furniture that we had overturned to act more like barriers. Sydero had drawn some devil traps on the ceiling over the doors, and some windows before the marker died. Hopefully that would do something; otherwise, it was a clean shot straight to us. I check my gun once again, right as something comes hurtling through the window, and the door of the house is busted down, starting the battle. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS5_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I leap away from Petri and some of the demons that are the first to charge in. Acutely aware of the nearby sound of the door being busted down by who I’m guessing is Langston. The two of them are free to walk around, but the demons that come pouring into the area immediately find themselves stuck by the devil traps. “Nice touch,” I tell Sydero who sends me a cocky smirk. “Keep Langston and Petri busy for a second, I can only handle so much while doing this.” I do as she says, shooting at Petri and then at Langston, almost hitting both as their attention is on the now hindered demons. With their anger focused on me, Sydero’s eyes turn demonic, and she faces the stuck demons. At the last minute, I leap over a couch, acting as if I was going to presume shooting them. They approach but stop when they hear the demons yell in unison. We all look to see dark smoke seeping out of the bodies and towards the floor, each human throwing up what seems to be black ash as a wailing sound fills the room. And then it’s over, the smoke disappears, and the bodies fall to the ground in what I hope is a state of unconsciousness. “Damn, your army falls quick,” I joke, and instead of turning their ire to me, they surge towards the devil traps, disrupting them and allowing the demons not affected, to come in. <<if $cp>>“You can do that again? Right?” Chris asks Syd, backing into the wall as the demons surge towards us. Sydero flings a few of the quicker ones back, clenching her teeth as she fights for her eyes to stay amber.<<else>>“You can do that again? Right?” I ask Syd, backing into the wall as the demons surge towards us. Sydero flings a few of the quicker ones back, clenching her teeth as she fights for her eyes to stay amber.<</if>> “Yea but it’s going to be a while, that and I need to focus long enough to actually summon the energy and the power.” “In other words, that ability is in cooldown,” Bradley shouts shrieking as he rushes up the stairs and away from a demon who almost grabs him. I grab the demon and with all my strength, throw him away from Bradley. In a rage, the demon turns to me and charges. [[Wait for him.]] [[Trip him up.]] [[Throw holy water on him.]]

I prepare myself, getting into a stance that is ready to intercept him. I bide my time, albeit nervously, but I stay put regardless. He gets closer, and at the last minute, I dive out of the way, allowing him to run right into the wall. <<if $style is "Aikido">>\ He turns around, but I’m ready for him, grabbing his forearm and then jamming my elbow towards his chin, pushing him back until he falls over. His fall doesn’t last long, and he lunges, straight at me, but he doesn’t realize the gap. I swoop under the arm he doesn’t use and then grab his shoulder, slinging him to the ground. This time, I put more distance between the two of us, backing up as he pounds the ground in anger and then comes at me. He feints to the side, successfully gaining the upper hand as he punches my side and then trips me. I grab onto his shirt and yank as hard as I can, readjusting myself until I can catch his wrist, and then flip him easily. “Are you just going to keep flipping me?” he asks, darting towards me. I flip him again, but this time he grabs me, and I go down with him. I stomp my foot into his stomach as I try to separate myself from him. <<elseif $style is "Judo">>\ I let him turn around, preparing myself as he gets closer. He collides into me just as I planned and with a steady breath, I prepare myself. As soon as I can get my arms around his midsection, I hook my foot and trip him, leaning my weight so that I would end up falling on him. I quickly get back to my feet, finding him to be faster than me in that aspect. He throws his first punch, and then his second. I back away, continuing to dodge him as I go. Biding my time and searching for an opening. One presents itself, and as soon as he attempts to punch me again, I block the punch with my arm and move in. With the other arm, I sling it around his neck and back into him, tossing him to the ground. “I’ll rip you apart,” he screams, kicking my knee. I grit my teeth in pain, not being fast enough to avoid the punch that he lands to my cheek. I stumble backward, pushing away the pain. He lunges forward and grabs the side of my shoulder. I instantly put up my defenses before again putting my arm around him. I instinctively sweep his feet out, and with my arm still grasping his neck, I deliver punch after punch. It is only after about six of them that I decide to put space in between us, gathering myself as he groans on the ground from the assault. <<elseif $style is "Boxing">>\ He turns and charges towards me and with swift feet, I duck out of the way, giving him an extra push towards the wall. He groans as he collides but doesn’t let it slow him down, turning towards me and throwing his first punch. I keep my defenses up, paying attention to how he fights and any apparent weaknesses. Sydero had been truthful when she said that these enemies were trained. This demon, in particular, kept a decent stance and threw punches as if this wasn’t his first time. I don’t get far, trying to find an opening and failing. Instead, I just keep backing up and trying to block any punch that he sends my way, highly annoyed by my lack of offense. Finally, I see an opening. It’s a small one, and if it weren’t for my instincts, then I would have missed it entirely. I swing towards his ribcage, and he doubles over in pain. I take the time to deliver a swift yet classic haymaker, watching as he falls to the ground. <<elseif $style is "Taekwondo">>\ He jerks around, and as soon as he does, I send a kick to the side of his face. He immediately falls to the ground, groaning from the pain before his groan turns into a growl. He comes towards me and right as I’m about to kick him, he catches my foot, landing a punch to my stomach and then cheek. With my leg still in his hand, he pushes me away, and I hit the floor harshly. He huffs happily before coming forward. I lightly jump back and forth on my toes, waiting for an opening to present itself. The first kick I deliver is to his knee. And, like I imagined, he drops by instinct and as soon as he does, I swing the other across his face. <<else>>\ He charges towards me and I prepare, blocking most of the punches that he throws at me. Before I can move back, he grabs my shirt and flings me into the nearby wall. I’m unable to move as he keeps me pinned, posed for another punch. Combining what Sydero had showed me and instinct, I quickly deflect the hit and then strike at his chin and kick the knee furthest from me. His attention is off of me and his grip loosened, I push him away and get some much-needed space. “Fancy. Won’t help you much though,” he tells me angrily. I growl and decide to go on the offensive. With my palm, I strike him in the throat and then turn and deliver a back kick to whatever my foot hits first. I hear a grunt and a thud. It was time to end this. <</if>>\ <<include "TS5_2">>

I would have to do this swiftly and without being too obvious. He charges towards me, as if ready to tackle me. At the last moment, I drop to the ground and trip him, sending him tumbling to the ground. I hop back up, turning to him and preparing myself for whatever he would do next. <<if $style is "Aikido">>\ He gets to his feet in a hurry, but I’m ready for him, grabbing his forearm and then jamming my elbow towards his chin, pushing him back until he falls over. His fall doesn’t last long, and he lunges, straight at me, but he doesn’t realize the gap. I swoop under the arm he doesn’t use and then grab his shoulder, slinging him to the ground. This time, I put more distance between the two of us, backing up as he pounds the ground in anger and then comes at me. He feints to the side, successfully gaining the upper hand as he punches my side and then trips me. I grab onto his shirt and yank as hard as I can, readjusting myself until I can catch his wrist, and then flip him easily. “Are you just going to keep flipping me?” he asks, darting towards me. I flip him again, but this time he grabs me, and I go down with him. I stomp my foot into his stomach as I try to separate myself from him. <<elseif $style is "Judo">>\ He gets to his feet and jerks around, preparing myself as he gets closer. He collides into me just as I plan and with a steady breath, I prepare myself. As soon as I can get my arms around his midsection, I hook my foot and trip him, leaning my weight so that I would end up falling on him. I quickly get back to my feet, finding him to be faster than me in that aspect. He throws his first punch, and then his second. I back away, continuing to dodge him as I go. Biding my time and searching for an opening. One presents itself, and as soon as he attempts to punch me again, I block the punch with my arm and move in, with the other arm, I sling it around his neck and back into him, tossing him to the ground. “I’ll rip you apart,” he screams, kicking my knee. I grit my teeth in pain, not being fast enough to avoid the punch that he lands to my cheek. I stumble backward, pushing away the pain. He lunges forward and grabs the side of my shoulder. I instantly put up my defenses before again putting my arm around him. I instinctively sweep his feet out, and with my arm still grasping his neck, I deliver punch after punch. It is only after about six of them that I decide to put space in between us, gathering myself as he groans on the ground from the assault. <<elseif $style is "Boxing">>\ He turns gets to his feet and charges towards me. With swiftness, I duck out of the way, giving him an extra push towards the wall. He groans as he collides but doesn’t let it slow him down, turning towards me and throwing his first punch. I keep my defenses up, paying attention to how he fights and any apparent weaknesses. Sydero had been truthful when she said that these enemies were trained. This demon, in particular, kept a decent stance and threw punches as if this wasn’t his first time. I don’t get far, trying to find an opening and failing. Instead, I just keep backing up and trying to block any punch that he sends my way, highly annoyed by my lack of offense. Finally, I see an opening. It’s a small one, and if it weren’t for my instincts, then I would have missed it entirely. I swing towards his ribcage, and he doubles over in pain. I take the time to deliver a swift yet classic haymaker, watching as he falls to the ground. <<elseif $style is "Taekwondo">>\ He gets up and jerks around, and as soon as he does, I send a kick to the side of his face. He immediately falls to the ground, groaning from the pain before his groan turns into a growl. He comes towards me and right as I’m about to kick him, he catches my foot, landing a punch to my stomach and then cheek. With my leg still in his hand, he pushes me away, and I hit the floor harshly. He huffs happily. And though trained, he is obviously unwise to let his guard down, even if he thinks he has the upper-hand. He comes forward, and as I lightly jump back and forth on my toes, I wait for an opening to present itself. The first kick I deliver to his knee. Like I imagined, he drops by instinct and as soon as he does, I swing the other across his face. <<else>>\ He charges towards me and I prepare, blocking most of the punches that he throws at me. Before I can move back, he grabs my shirt and flings me into the nearby wall. I’m unable to move as he keeps me pinned, posed for another punch. Combining what Sydero had showed me and instinct, I quickly deflect the hit and then strike at his chin and kick the knee furthest from me. His attention is off of me and his grip loosened, I push him away and get some much-needed space. “Fancy. Won’t help you much though,” he tells me angrily. I growl and decide to go on the offensive. With my palm, I strike him in the throat and then turn and deliver a back kick to whatever my foot hits first. I hear a grunt and a thud. It was time to end this. <</if>>\ <<include "TS5_2">>

I dart to the water bottle that I had kept nearby, quickly screwing off the top and then turning to him, splashing him with the contents. I do this countless times, ignoring his groans and whimpers as he tries to get away. These sounds only stopping when I run out of the water to throw. <<if $style is "Aikido">>\ He recovers, but I’m already ready for him. I grab his forearm and then jam my elbow towards his chin, pushing him back until he falls over. His fall doesn’t last long, and he lunges, straight at me, but he doesn’t realize the gap. I swoop under the arm he doesn’t use and then grab his shoulder, slinging him to the ground. This time, I put more distance between the two of us, backing up as he pounds the ground in anger and then comes at me. He feints to the side, successfully gaining the upper hand as he punches my side and then trips me. I grab onto his shirt and yank as hard as I can, readjusting myself until I can catch his wrist, and then flip him easily. “Are you just going to keep flipping me?” he asks, darting towards me. I flip him again, but this time he grabs me, and I go down with him. I stomp my foot into his stomach as I try to separate myself from him. <<elseif $style is "Judo">>\ I let him recover, preparing myself as he gets closer. He collides into me just as I plan and with a steady breath, I prepare myself. As soon as I can get my arms around his midsection, I hook my foot and trip him, leaning my weight so that I would end up falling on him. I quickly get back to my feet, finding him to be faster than me in that aspect. He throws his first punch, and then his second. I back away, continuing to dodge him as I go. Biding my time and searching for an opening. One presents itself, and as soon as he attempts to punch me again, I block the punch with my arm and move in, with the other arm, I sling it around his neck and back into him, tossing him to the ground. “I’ll rip you apart,” he screams, kicking my knee. I grit my teeth in pain, not being fast enough to avoid the punch that he lands to my cheek. I stumble backward, pushing away the pain. He lunges forward and grabs the side of my shoulder. I instantly put up my defenses before again putting my arm around him. I instinctively sweep his feet out, and with my arm still grasping his neck, I deliver punch after punch. It is only after about six of them that I decide to put space in between us, gathering myself as he groans on the ground from the assault. <<elseif $style is "Boxing">>\ He recovers and then turns and charges towards me. With swift feet, I duck out of the way, giving him an extra push towards the wall. He groans as he collides but doesn’t let it slow him down, turning towards me and throwing his first punch. I keep my defenses up, paying attention to how he fights and any apparent weaknesses. Sydero had been truthful when she said that these enemies were trained. This demon, in particular, kept a decent stance and threw punches as if this wasn’t his first time. I don’t get far, trying to find an opening and failing. Instead, I just keep backing up and trying to block any punch that he sends my way, highly annoyed by my lack of offense. Finally, I see an opening. It’s a small one, and if it weren’t for my instincts, then I would have missed it entirely. I swing towards his ribcage, and he doubles over in pain. I take the time to deliver a swift yet classic haymaker, watching as he falls to the ground. <<elseif $style is "Taekwondo">>\ He jerks around after recovering, and as soon as he does, I send a kick to the side of his face. He immediately falls to the ground, groaning from the pain before his groan turns into a growl. He comes towards me and right as I’m about to kick him, he catches my foot, landing a punch to my stomach and then cheek. With my leg still in his hand, he pushes me away, and I hit the floor harshly. He huffs happily. And though trained, he is obviously unwise to let his guard down, even if he thinks he has the upper-hand. He comes forward, and as I lightly jump back and forth on my toes, I wait for an opening to present itself. The first kick I deliver to his knee. Like I imagined, he drops by instinct and as soon as he does, I swing the other across his face. <<else>>\ He recovers and then charges towards me and I prepare, blocking most of the punches that he throws at me. Before I can move back, he grabs my shirt and flings me into the nearby wall. I’m unable to move as he keeps me pinned, posed for another punch. Combining what Sydero had showed me and instinct, I quickly deflect the hit and then strike at his chin and kick the knee furthest from me. His attention is off of me and his grip loosened, I push him away and get some much-needed space. “Fancy. Won’t help you much though,” he tells me angrily. I growl and decide to go on the offensive. With my palm, I strike him in the throat and then turn and deliver a back kick to whatever my foot hits first. I hear a grunt and a thud. It was time to end this. <</if>>\ <<include "TS5_2">>

<<if $exorcise>>\ I steady myself and turn to the demon, doing my best to recall the exact words for the exorcism. I begin, finding a small bit of comfort in the shock that spreads across the demon’s face. His eyes widen, and he twitches slowly, a short trail of dark grey smoke seeping off of his body. I can already tell that I won’t be able to end this exorcism, forgetting the other half of it. I remember Bradley’s words about not attempting this if I’m not confident in the entire thing, as it will only piss the demon off more. I stop but as soon as I do, another voice chimes in to finish it. I look to see Bradley at my side as he ends exorcising the demon. “Seriously?” he questions, and I shrug nervously. “I almost had it,” I say, and he just rolls his eyes and goes back to the fight. <<else>>\ I steady myself and turn to the demon. He rolls his neck around and then leaps towards me. “Syd, let me borrow that blade of yours,” I shout, but instead of giving it to me, she moves into my view, throwing one of her blades at the demon’s forehead. The demon looks to have a seizure before falling to the ground, dead. “Oh, because letting me hold it was just out of the question, huh?” “If anyone but me touch these blades, then they just turn into normal knives, so yea,” she tells me and then immediately goes back to join the fight. Well, now the question was where could I get a blade or two like those. <</if>>\ I look to catch my breath and see where I’m needed most when a hand closes around my throat and throws me across the room and into the kitchen. I skid across the floor, stopping only when my back violently hits the cabinet. I groan in protest, looking to see a woman approach, murder clear in those pupil-less black eyes of hers. <a data-passage="EP10-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/actthree.png"> “Hey, I //want// a demon killing blade,” I shout as I stagger to my feet, ignoring the pain shooting through my back. “Why’s that?” Sydero asks, coming into view, dodging something before disappearing behind a wall, “tryna kill me, Roe?” “Maybe,” I mumble, focusing back on the demon who doesn’t seem happy about me not taking our fight seriously. She rushes forward in rage, colliding with me and sending us both sliding across the less than smooth ceramic floor. I groan as I constantly slam my elbow into her back and the back of her neck, finally being able to breath when her grip loosens. I kick her and scramble away, touching my pockets and realizing that my weapons rested where I had initially been hit. I glance around to assess my predicament. One of the openings out of the kitchen was nearby, but I would just end up running into a room full of angry supernatural creatures. Behind me were cabinets and I was pretty sure some of them had pans in them. And there was always me trying to get past her to get back to my weapons. [[Shout for help.]] [[Grab a pan.]] [[Get back to my weapons.]]

I wasn’t about to run into a room full of angry supernatural creatures, but I was going to scream for help. [[Scream for Bradley.]] [[Scream for Sydero.]] [[Ask the Entity for help.][$entitytakeover = true]] <<if $cp>>[[Scream for Chris.]]<</if>>

<<if $bradley >=50>>\ “Bradley, a little assistance!” I shout, barely dodging the woman as she tries to grab and punch me. She catches my shirt and slings me into the refrigerator, holding me up by the throat as she tightens her grip. My vision begins to dance and blur at the edges as I continue to fight for air, clawing her hands, and having her ignore me. “Guess what?!” I hear Bradley shout and then hear the woman scream in agony, releasing me immediately. I gasp for air, trying to figure out where I am when I hear Bradley sing, “holy water, bitch!” “Is that your new line or something?” “Hell yea. Epic, isn’t it?” Bradley asks, helping me to my feet. “your throat doesn’t look too bad, but you might want to avoid getting choked again.” <<if $serious >=50>>I nod my thanks and send Bradley back out, shouting for him to be careful.<<else>>I nod sarcastically, in fact, I wanted to go up to another demon and tell them to choke me. Because it was such a fun experience the first time. Bradley slaps my back before heading back out, disappearing in the direction of the staircase.<</if>> His help is appreciated, but this woman isn’t down. With a groan from both of us, she recovers from her holy bath, and I turn to face her. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $injuries = true>><>\ “Bradley, I need you,” I shout, barely dodging the woman as she tries to grab and punch me. She catches my shirt and slings me into the refrigerator, holding me up by the throat as she tightens her grip. My vision begins to dance and blur at the edges as I continue to fight for air, clawing her hands, and having her ignore me. I expect for Bradley to show up, but he doesn’t, and the grip only gets tighter. My body goes into a state of emergency, every limb thrashing to escape the hold that was killing me. “Fight all you want,” she growls, her claws digging into my throat, feeling as if they were puncturing flesh. I scream in pain and kick wildly. I just need a tiny pinch of luck, only a tiny. That luck comes with a lucky placed kick to the woman’s stomach that has her grip falter, enough for me to separate myself from her. I blindly push her back and stumble backward. I painfully try to catch my breath and regain a vision that swims about chaotically. I touch my throat and feel a warm liquid coat the tip of my fingers. When I’m finally able to get back to my feet, I have only a split second to react as the woman is once again upon me. I dive out of the way, ignoring the sharp pain in my arm as it scrapes against something. I unsteadily get to my feet and face the woman. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $sydero >=50>>\ “Sydero, could use you right now!” I shout and barely dodge the woman as she tries to grab and punch me. She catches my shirt and slings me into the refrigerator, holding me up by the throat as she tightens her grip. My vision begins to dance and blur at the edges as I continue to fight for air, clawing her hands, and having her ignore me. Suddenly, the woman’s grip disappears, and I hear her scream as I fall to the ground. I gasp for air, trying to figure out where I am. When I finally get my bearings back, I spot Sydero approaching me, the woman on the other side of the kitchen, a decently sized hole in the wall where I believe she hit. “Why didn’t you just knife her?” I question, coughing. “Both of my blades are preoccupied right now,” she growls and looks behind her, “you can take her, right?” I get to my feet and look over at the woman. <<if $optimistic >=50>>“Yea, definitely,” I say, trying to sound as hopeful as possible.<<else>>“Let’s be honest here, probably not.”<</if>> Sydero simply nods before turning and walking back out to probably retriever her blade from whatever corpse it was in. I gaze back at the woman, sighing as she staggers to her feet and set her gaze back on me. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $injuries = true>><>\ “Sydero, I need you,” I shout, barely dodging the woman as she tries to grab and punch me. She catches my shirt and slings me into the refrigerator, holding me up by the throat as she tightens her grip. My vision begins to dance and blur at the edges as I continue to fight for air, clawing her hands, and having her ignore me. I expect Sydero to show up, but she doesn’t, and the grip only gets tighter. My body goes into a state of emergency, every limb thrashing to escape the hold that was killing me. “Fight all you want,” she growls, her claws digging into my throat, feeling as if they were puncturing flesh. I scream in pain and kick wildly. I just need a tiny pinch of luck, only a tiny. That luck comes with a lucky placed kick to the woman’s stomach that has her grip falter, enough for me to separate myself from her. I blindly push her back and stumble backward. I painfully try to catch my breath and regain a vision that swims about chaotically. I touch my throat and feel a warm liquid coat the tip of my fingers. When I’m finally able to get back to my feet, I have only a split second to react as the woman is once again upon me. I dive out of the way, ignoring the sharp pain in my arm as it scrapes against something. I unsteadily get to my feet and face the woman. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $chris >50>>\ <>\<<set $injuries = true>><>\ “Chris, I need you,” I shout, barely dodging the woman as she tries to grab and punch me. She catches my shirt and slings me into the refrigerator, holding me up by the throat as she tightens her grip. My vision begins to dance and blur at the edges as I continue to fight for air, clawing her hands, and having her ignore me. I expect Chris to show up, but he doesn’t, and the grip only gets tighter. My body goes into a state of emergency, every limb thrashing to escape the hold that was killing me. “Fight all you want,” she growls, her claws digging into my throat, feeling as if they were puncturing flesh. I scream in pain and kick wildly. I just need a tiny pinch of luck, only a tiny. That luck comes with a lucky placed kick to the woman’s stomach that has her grip falter, enough for me to separate myself from her. I blindly push her back and stumble backward. I painfully try to catch my breath and regain a vision that swims about chaotically. I touch my throat and feel a warm liquid coat the tip of my fingers. When I’m finally able to get back to my feet, I have only a split second to react as the woman is once again upon me. I dive out of the way, ignoring the sharp pain in my arm as it scrapes against something. I unsteadily get to my feet and face the woman. <<else>>\ “Chris!” I shout, “help!” I barely dodge the woman as she tries to grab and punch me. She catches my shirt and slings me into the refrigerator, holding me up by the throat as she tightens her grip. My vision begins to dance and blur at the edges as I continue to fight for air, clawing her hands, and having her ignore me. Suddenly, the woman screams in pain, her grip loosening as she drops to her knees. I gasp for air, trying to figure out where I am when I hear three more gunshots go off, and the woman screeches in pain. “Hey, you good?” Chris asks, helping me to my feet. <<if $serious >=50>>\ “I’ll live, thanks for the assist.” “Anytime,” he starts as two demons rush into the kitchen, their gaze on Chris. “I gotta go, you might want to keep an eye on her, these bullets won’t keep her down for long.” <<else>>\ “Yea, I’m fine. I’ve always wanted to be overpowered by a freakishly, strong possessed woman.” Chris chuckles as two demons rush into the kitchen, their gaze on Chris. “I gotta go, you might want to keep an eye on her, these bullets won’t keep her down for long.” <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("“Tis is true, but you can do that again.” Let him kiss you.")>>“Oh and,” Chris begins, placing a light kiss on my cheek, “be careful, for my sake.” He runs off before the demons can grab him.<<else>>He runs off screaming, “Sydero, I need you to knife two of these punks!”<</if>> My attention goes back to the woman as she shouts in fury, getting to her feet and turning back to me. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Entity!” I telepathically shout and barely dodge the woman as she tries to grab and punch me. She catches my shirt and slings me into the refrigerator, holding me up by the throat as she tightens her grip. My vision begins to dance and blur at the edges as I continue to fight for air, clawing her hands, and having her ignore me. “Please,” I manage to think. Right when I think they’re going to leave me to face this alone, I see a dark tendril escape from my body. It swats the woman as if she didn’t weigh anything. I fall to the ground, and I watch as the woman hits the wall and then falls to the ground with a loud moan. “About time you show up,” I sigh, and the smoky tendril turns as if it’s looking at me. “Only because you said please. I think I quite like hearing you beg,” they chuckle, and the tendril disappears. The woman staggers to her feet and glares at me in fury. <a data-passage="TS6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I throw the right counter open and grab the first pan that my hand grabs. Thankfully, it was a skillet and not a pot or some small aluminum pan. I whip around, and she laughs as she closes in, my weapon looking more like a toy to her. <<if $creativity >=10>>\ True, a skillet had only so many uses, but that’s where one’s creativity had to come in at. If I learned one thing from watching movies, anything could be made into a weapon. The woman charges forward, and I dive, quickly pivoting and slamming the skillet’s edge into the back of her knee. She growls and reaches down to grab me, but I’m already out of the way. I shoot up, slamming her chin in with the bottom of the pan. And then quickly flipping it to the side and slapping her in the cheek with it. I back away, hopping from one foot to the other, energized. I was beating her with a skillet, a skillet! I get another idea, smirking as I race over to one of the cabinets and grab some cake ingredients. I fight to open it right as she lunges for me, turning and throwing the open packet into her face. She screams as it gets into her eyes and mirroring every baseball player I’ve ever seen, I picture the skillet as my bat and her face as the ball. I slam it as hard as I can into her face, and she falls backward, groaning as blood spills from a broken nose. “I’m making Devil’s Food Cake in here,” I scream as I smile. I was ready for her to get back up, and my pan was ready to be retired. <<elseif $combat >=10>>\ True, a skillet had only so many uses, but if I learned one thing from watching movies, anything could be made into a weapon. The woman charges forward, and I dive, quickly pivoting and slamming the skillet’s edge into the back of her knee. She growls and reaches down to grab me, but I’m already out of the way. I shoot up, slamming her chin in with the bottom of the pan. And then quickly flipping it to the side and slapping her in the cheek with it. I back away, hopping from one foot to the other, energized. I was beating her with a skillet, a skillet! She seems to try and think her next moves through, and this time tries to kick me. I leap out of the way and then bring the pan down onto her knee. Before changing my path and slamming it harshly into her face. She puts some space between us as she tries to cater to her broken nose. I was ready for her to get back up, and my pan was ready to be retired. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $injuries = true>><>\ She continues toward me, and I swing the skillet, successfully hitting her, but she grabs my wrist. She snatches the skillet out of my hands and throws it away, her now free hand finding purchase against my neck. She slings me into the refrigerator, holding me up by the throat as she tightens her grip. My vision begins to dance and blur at the edges as I continue to fight for air, clawing her hands, and having her ignore me. My body goes into a state of emergency, every limb thrashing to escape the grip that was killing me. “Fight all you want,” she growls, her claws digging into my throat, feeling as if they were puncturing flesh. I scream in pain and kick wildly. I just need a tiny pinch of luck, only a tiny. That luck comes with a lucky placed kick to the woman’s stomach that has her grip falter, enough for me to separate myself from her. I blindly push her back and stumble backward. I painfully try to catch my breath and regain a vision that swims about chaotically. I touch my throat and feel a warm liquid coat the tip of my fingers. When I’m finally able to get back to my feet, I have only a split second to react as the woman is once again upon me. I dive out of the way, ignoring the sharp pain in my arm as it scrapes against something. I unsteadily get to my feet and face the woman. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I would have to swiftly dodge her to get to the other side of the kitchen where my weapons lay. That shouldn’t be too hard, right? My blade was closer to the second kitchen exit, giving me enough space to not worry that the woman would grab me. While my gun was near the cabinet, a very tight fit. I wouldn’t be able to get both, I would have to choose. And that decision was now. [[Go for my blade.]] [[Go for my gun.]]

<<if $blades >=10>>\ I make up my mind to go for my blade, a safer bet than the gun anyway. I wait until she’s almost upon me before sliding across the ground and then scrambling towards the knife that sits on the floor. My hands close around the hilt, and I immediately turn and slash whatever was precisely in front of me. Thanks to me leaning forward with the slash, I get her right across the chest. The tables were turned, and I was now on the offensive. I stalk towards her as she backs away, slashing her every chance I got. The pain was short-lived thanks to her demonic nature, but as long as there was pain, then I was okay. I dodge her countless times, continuing to get closer and swipe at her before retreating again. She was getting tired, and her clothes were becoming stained with blood. Whereas I was just getting started. I go in for another swipe, and she lands a lucky grab, catching my wrist and wrestling the knife from my hold and pushing me away. I stop and tackle her, causing the blade to skid across the ground, out of both of our reach. With the blade again out of play, I back up. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $injuries = true>><>\ I make up my mind to go for my blade, a safer bet than the gun anyway. I wait until she’s almost upon me before sliding across the ground and then scrambling towards the knife that sits on the floor. My hands close around the hilt, and I immediately turn and slash whatever was precisely in front of me. I miss her, and she uses this time to grab my wrist and snatch the blade away from me. She turns it on me, slashing me across the forearm. Before she can cut me again, I grab her, and we wrestle with the blade. The struggle results in the knife skidding across the ground, out of both of our reach. But that doesn’t faze her. She grabs ahold of my shirt and slings me into the refrigerator, holding me up by the throat as she tightens her grip. My vision begins to dance and blur at the edges as I continue to fight for air, clawing her hands, and having her ignore me. My body goes into a state of emergency, every limb thrashing to escape the grip that was killing me. “Fight all you want,” she growls, her claws digging into my throat, feeling as if they were puncturing flesh. I scream in pain and kick wildly. I just need a tiny pinch of luck, only a tiny. That luck comes with a lucky placed kick to the woman’s stomach that has her grip falter, enough for me to separate myself from her. I blindly push her back and stumble backward. I painfully try to catch my breath and regain a vision that swims about chaotically. I touch my throat and feel a warm liquid coat the tip of my fingers. When I’m finally able to get back to my feet, I have only a split second to react as the woman is once again upon me. I dive out of the way, ignoring the sharp pain in my arm as it scrapes against something. I unsteadily get to my feet and face the woman. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $guns >=10>>\ I make up my mind to go for my gun, not the safest bet but one that will pay off more in the end. She punches, and I duck, scrambling across the ground and towards my gun. Just as she grabs my foot, my hand grabs onto the handle, and I twist in her grip to shoot her. I take a spare moment to line up my sights and with confidence on my side, aim. The shot hits her right in the chest, and with a small whimper, she backs away. If she were pure human, she would be taken care of. Now that I was free, I get to my feet, and I shoot round after round into her, not stopping until my clip was done and I place my gun to the side. It wasn’t going to help me out anymore. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $injuries = true>><>\ I make up my mind to go for my gun, not the safest bet but one that will pay off more in the end. She punches, and I duck, scrambling across the ground and towards my gun. Just as she grabs my foot, my hand grabs onto the handle, and I twist in her grip to shoot her. I shoot, but my aim is terrible, and I give the woman the upper-hand again. She slaps the gun out of my hands before grabbing ahold of my shirt. She slings me into the refrigerator, holding me up by the throat as she tightens her grip. My vision begins to dance and blur at the edges as I continue to fight for air, clawing her hands, and having her ignore me. My body goes into a state of emergency, every limb thrashing to escape the grip that was killing me. “Fight all you want,” she growls, her claws digging into my throat, feeling as if they were puncturing flesh. I scream in pain and kick wildly. I just need a tiny pinch of luck, only a tiny. That luck comes with a lucky placed kick to the woman’s stomach that has her grip falter, enough for me to separate myself from her. I blindly push her back and stumble backward. I painfully try to catch my breath and regain a vision that swims about chaotically. I touch my throat and feel a warm liquid coat the tip of my fingers. When I’m finally able to get back to my feet, I have only a split second to react as the woman is once again upon me. I dive out of the way, ignoring the sharp pain in my arm as it scrapes against something. I unsteadily get to my feet and face the woman. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I dive towards her, tackling her to the ground as she lands two punches to my ribcage. I roll off of her and then trip her when she tries to stand, grabbing the knocked over broom and hitting her across the face. She ignores the second hit and grabs a chair, launching it towards me. I dive out of the way, gasping as I almost hit the wall. Fighting in the kitchen was unwise. “You are insignificant,” she growls, grabbing my leg and pulling me towards her. [[Grab the leg of the broken chair.]] [[Kick her in the face.]]

I frantically look for something to use when I see the leg of a broken chair nearby. I reach for it and hit her arm. She yelps in pain, and then I plunge it through her heart, digging it deeper and deeper as if she was a vampire. Her shirt grows red, but she only laughs as blood rushes out of her mouth. “Think this will kill me?” I glance everywhere as she continues to laugh, reaching forward and grabbing a water bottle half filled with water that was hopefully purified. I shove the water in her mouth, and she screams as her body twitches. I let go of the chair leg and cover her mouth with both hands, forcing her to swallow the water. Steam rises from her as she continues to jolt violently. Finally, her convulsions stop and her body sinks to the ground, unmoving. <<include "TS6_0_1">>

I frantically jerk in her grasp, deciding to just kick her numerous of times. I do this, hearing her grunt but realizing that her grip never wavers. I do it more urgently, trying to place it in better spots when I clip her nose just as she tries to punch me again. She lets my leg go, and I shove both of them into her stomach, pushing her into the sink. “What’s your plan now, you pest?” I glance everywhere as she continues to laugh, reaching forward and grabbing a water bottle half filled with water that was hopefully purified. I shove the water in her mouth, and she screams as her body twitches. I cover her mouth with both hands, forcing her to swallow the water. Steam rises from her as she continues to jolt violently. Finally, her convulsions stop and her body sinks to the ground, unmoving. <<include "TS6_0_1">>

Lesson learned: demons who ingest holy water can die. Nice to know. <<if $injuries>>I whimper as my injuries remind me that they’re there. Reminding me that I’m losing blood every second that I leave them untended. My body shakes, and at first, I think I’m going into shock, but I find my eyes constantly drifting to the dead body of the woman. The hair on my arm raises as I feel a euphoric feeling settle on my shoulders. It warms me, and for a minute, I forget I have injuries. Forget that I’m still in the middle of a battle zone.<<else>>My body shakes, and at first, I think I’m going into shock, but I find my eyes constantly drifting to the dead body of the woman. The hair on my arm raises as I feel a euphoric feeling settle on my shoulders. It warms me, and for a minute, I forget I have minor injuries to tend to. Forget that I’m still in the middle of a battle zone.<</if>> Langston’s voice reminds me though. “Look how much you’ve grown,” Langston begins, sounding like a proud father. He motions to the dead woman and whistles, “to think, a month ago you didn’t even know supernatural beings existed. And now, you’re killing them like a pro.” [[“You’re next.”]] [[“Yea, it’s been a long month.”]] [[Watch him wearily.]]

“Thanks, because you’re next,” I growl, wishing I could move out of the kitchen but finding it nigh impossible now. “I suppose I saw that coming. Though you’re not that much of a pro just yet. Still got a while to go.” “Why are you speaking like you’re not about to try and kill me?” “I don’t have orders to kill you. Subdue you, maybe. But the boss doesn’t want you dead, yet.” <<if $supernatural >=20>>\ Shapeshifter. Shapeshifter. Nothing extraordinary about them besides being able to transform into someone else. They were stronger than humans, faster as well. But they could be harmed by silver, and it was even easier to kill them this way when they were in their original form. I had no idea why Langston always decides to masquerade as himself, seeing that it made him weaker. But don’t look a gift horse in the mouth, many would say. [[Grab my blade.|TS_Blade]] [[Run for my gun.]] <<else>>\ Shapeshifter. Shapeshifter. I can’t think of much pertaining to shapeshifters. I remember flipping to the page once and then only reading a few lines before moving on. Terrific. Langston doesn’t give me any time to continue thinking when he lunges forward, his fist poised to strike. <<if $perception >=15>>\ Right before he hits me, I notice that all his weight is balanced on his left foot when he’s about to strike. I’m to slow to dodge this punch, but the next one, I avoid and again see that he favors his left foot. I smirk as I wait for him to try and hit me again. As soon as he does, I duck and kick at his left knee. He immediately goes down, and hard. His chin hitting the trashed and bloody floor hard. My heart skips a beat as I grab his hair in my hand and shove his head into the tiles, hearing something crack. But I don’t have time to do anything else as he grabs my wrist, flipping me over him, and then throwing me to the side. I try to regain focus, though Langston isn’t a significant threat just yet. He’s still trying to get over having his face bashed into the floor. <<elseif $combat >=15>>\ I already see all the signs of him about to hit me, and with practiced ease, move out of the way. This continues on for some time, the two of us engaged in hand to hand combat, with the odds in his favor since he was supernatural. Mostly, I’m on defense. Blocking his punches and acting as if they didn’t hurt, even while I blocked them. I realize that I could just have him hit the wall, seeing that he was focused entirely on me. Keeping a straight face, I back into the wall, my eyes widening in shock as he grins, and he winds up for the next punch. At the last moment, I move, his fist making a massive impact with the wall. He groans in pain, but I’m not able to escape him. He grabs me and throws me across the kitchen. I try to regain focus, though Langston isn’t a significant threat just yet. He’s still trying to get over his aching fist. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $fail +=1>><>\ I’m too slow to avoid him, and he quickly lands a punch and then another. I can barely put up a suitable defense as I trip over something, landing hard just as he kicks me. I groan, grabbing his foot and yanking him down, but he simply spins and lands another kick to my face. I spit out the blood that gathers in my mouth, feeling his hand grab me before launching me across the kitchen. I try to regain focus before Langston can make his way to me. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS6_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

“Yea, well, it’s been a long month,” I say and roll my eyes as he creeps closer. I just wanted to move this fight into the living room, especially since it sounded like fewer people were there. Wonder how many dead bodies littered that room now. “Indeed,” he stops, and we turn towards one another. This was about to happen it would seem. <<if $supernatural >=20>>\ Shapeshifter. Shapeshifter. Nothing extraordinary about them besides being able to transform into someone else. They were stronger than humans, faster as well. But they could be harmed by silver, and it was even easier to kill them this way when they were in their original form. I had no idea why Langston always decides to masquerade as himself, seeing that it made him weaker. But don’t look a gift horse in the mouth, many would say. [[Grab my blade.|TS_Blade]] [[Run for my gun.]] <<else>>\ Shapeshifter. Shapeshifter. I can’t think of much pertaining to shapeshifters. I remember flipping to the page once and then only reading a few lines before moving on. Terrific. Langston doesn’t give me any time to continue thinking when he lunges forward, his fist poised to strike. <<if $perception >=15>>\ Right before he hits me, I notice that all his weight is balanced on his left foot when he’s about to strike. I’m to slow to dodge this punch, but the next one, I avoid and again see that he favors his left foot. I smirk as I wait for him to try and hit me again. As soon as he does, I duck and kick at his left knee. He immediately goes down, and hard. His chin hitting the trashed and bloody floor hard. My heart skips a beat as I grab his hair in my hand and shove his head into the tiles, hearing something crack. But I don’t have time to do anything else as he grabs my wrist, flipping me over him, and then throwing me to the side. I try to regain focus, though Langston isn’t a significant threat just yet. He’s still trying to get over having his face bashed into the floor. <<elseif $combat >=15>>\ I already see all the signs of him about to hit me, and with practiced ease, move out of the way. This continues on for some time, the two of us engaged in hand to hand combat, with the odds in his favor since he was supernatural. Mostly, I’m on defense. Blocking his punches and acting as if they didn’t hurt, even while I blocked them. I realize that I could just have him hit the wall, seeing that he was focused entirely on me. Keeping a straight face, I back into the wall, my eyes widening in shock as he grins, and he winds up for the next punch. At the last moment, I move, his fist making a massive impact with the wall. He groans in pain, but I’m not able to escape him. He grabs me and throws me across the kitchen. I try to regain focus, though Langston isn’t a significant threat just yet. He’s still trying to get over his aching fist. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $fail +=1>><>\ I’m too slow to avoid him, and he quickly lands a punch and then another. I can barely put up a suitable defense as I trip over something, landing hard just as he kicks me. I groan, grabbing his foot and yanking him down, but he simply spins and lands another kick to my face. I spit out the blood that gathers in my mouth, feeling his hand grab me before launching me across the kitchen. I try to regain focus before Langston can make his way to me. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS6_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

I don’t reply, deciding to just watch him out of the side of my eye. I could try and escape through the other kitchen exit, but Langston was positioned perfectly to intercept me regardless of whichever way I go. I wasn’t with a weapon, and unlike demons, shoving holy water in his mouth wouldn’t kill him. <<if $supernatural >=20>>\ Shapeshifter. Shapeshifter. Nothing extraordinary about them besides being able to transform into someone else. They were stronger than humans, faster as well. But they could be harmed by silver, and it was even easier to kill them this way when they were in their original form. I had no idea why Langston always decides to masquerade as himself, seeing that it made him weaker. But don’t look a gift horse in the mouth, many would say. [[Grab my blade.|TS_Blade]] [[Run for my gun.]] <<else>>\ Shapeshifter. Shapeshifter. I can’t think of much pertaining to shapeshifters. I remember flipping to the page once and then only reading a few lines before moving on. Terrific. Langston doesn’t give me any time to continue thinking when he lunges forward, his fist poised to strike. <<if $perception >=15>>\ Right before he hits me, I notice that all his weight is balanced on his left foot when he’s about to strike. I’m to slow to dodge this punch, but the next one, I avoid and again see that he favors his left foot. I smirk as I wait for him to try and hit me again. As soon as he does, I duck and kick at his left knee. He immediately goes down, and hard. His chin hitting the trashed and bloody floor hard. My heart skips a beat as I grab his hair in my hand and shove his head into the tiles, hearing something crack. But I don’t have time to do anything else as he grabs my wrist, flipping me over him, and then throwing me to the side. I try to regain focus, though Langston isn’t a significant threat just yet. He’s still trying to get over having his face bashed into the floor. <<elseif $combat >=15>>\ I already see all the signs of him about to hit me, and with practiced ease, move out of the way. This continues on for some time, the two of us engaged in hand to hand combat, with the odds in his favor since he was supernatural. Mostly, I’m on defense. Blocking his punches and acting as if they didn’t hurt, even while I blocked them. I realize that I could just have him hit the wall, seeing that he was focused entirely on me. Keeping a straight face, I back into the wall, my eyes widening in shock as he grins, and he winds up for the next punch. At the last moment, I move, his fist making a massive impact with the wall. He groans in pain, but I’m not able to escape him. He grabs me and throws me across the kitchen. I try to regain focus, though Langston isn’t a significant threat just yet. He’s still trying to get over his aching fist. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $fail +=1>><>\ I’m too slow to avoid him, and he quickly lands a punch and then another. I can barely put up a suitable defense as I trip over something, landing hard just as he kicks me. I groan, grabbing his foot and yanking him down, but he simply spins and lands another kick to my face. I spit out the blood that gathers in my mouth, feeling his hand grab me before launching me across the kitchen. I try to regain focus before Langston can make his way to me. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS6_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

I spot my gun, a more than useful weapon in a fight like this. Even better, it was filled with silver bullets. I just needed to get it. I back into a wall as Langston comes closer, grinning like a hyena would upon seeing injured prey. I tap my foot and at the last minute, lunge towards where my gun sits. I skid across the floor to reach it, grabbing it and hoping that skill does the rest. <<if $guns >=10>>\ I hadn’t cocked the gun yet, and so with that knowledge, I pull the trigger, tricking him into thinking I fired. He ducks immediately and with a lightning quick movement, cock the gun and actually fire into Langston’s leg. I’m about to fire again when Langston punches me, knocking the gun out of my hands. Before I can do anything else, he grabs my shirt and launches me across the kitchen. I try to regain focus, though Langston isn’t a major threat just yet. He’s still trying to get over being shot. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $fail +=1>><>\ I fire the gun, cursing myself when I realize that the chamber was currently empty, and I had yet to cock the gun. He laughs as he lands a lazy punch on the left side of my face and knocks the gun out of my hands. With inhuman strength, he throws me to the other side of the kitchen. I try to regain focus before Langston can make his way to me. “Gotta do better than that,” he laughs. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS6_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I spot my blade, a more than useful weapon in a fight like this. I just needed to get it. I back into a wall as Langston comes closer, grinning like a hyena would upon seeing injured prey. I tap my foot and at the last minute, lunge towards where my blade sits. I skid across the floor to reach it, clasping it and hoping that skill does the rest. <<if $blades >=10>>\ I swing prematurely, ignoring Langston’s laugh, it was he who was about to figure out that he had messed up. He goes to the left where I had intentionally left my side open, quickly flipping the blade in my grasp, I drive it back towards Langston. Strike. He growls in pain, grabbing my wrist before he can yank the blade out and yanking me towards him. He lands a punch on the left side of my face and pushes me away with inhuman strength. I hit the other side of the kitchen, trying to regain focus, though Langston isn’t a major threat just yet. He’s still trying to get over being stabbed. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $fail +=1>><>\ I swing prematurely, and Langston laughs as he dodges the blade and then catches my wrist and yanks me towards him. He lands a punch on the left side of my face and pushes me away with inhuman strength. I hit the other side of the kitchen, trying to regain focus before Langston can make his way to me. “Gotta do better than that,” he laughs. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS6_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

For a minute, it feels like all the adrenaline has been drained from my body. My fight or flight instincts have been cut off, and my body simply wants to sleep. Not just that, I still feel euphoric, as if I had just finished smoking the best drugs known to man. The feeling is all over me, causing me to feel a tingling sensation in my toes and fingertips. It almost makes the pain hurt that much less. I have to focus though … but I can’t. I know that much as my eyes drift up and my head lolls to the side. //No, not with Langston right there. Not with him so close.// <<if $nerve <40>>\ <>\<<set $fail +=1>><>\ I whimper, but I don’t even think I can do that much. My body shivers at the mysterious feeling that has overtaken me. Before, I could at least ignore it. But now, now the feeling overwhelmed all of my senses. I feel someone grab me, my brain lazily coming up with the distorted figure of Langston. “Oh, seems like someone’s out of it,” he chuckles, and something strikes me over and over. The pain registers for a minute before the feeling blocks it out again. This was going to be how I died, that was all I could manage to think as I felt my body slump against the floor. <<else>>\ I whimper but then mentally curse myself for even letting this overtake me. I growl and with all my power, push myself up to my feet. I fight myself in every possible way, focusing on specific things, tiny things before making out larger things. I take baby steps and they prove to get me back to almost aware. I can at least see again, feel and sense the world around me. Just in time, I see Langston approaching and I lunge for him, catching him unaware due to my previous lethargic actions. I bring my fist against his face again and again, taking out every bit of anger I had on his face, blocking out the sounds of the others fighting, others screaming, everything. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS6_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $fail is 0 and $injuries is false>>\ Looking at Langston now, it was almost hard to actually identify him. His face was covered in blood and sweat, so much hate resided in those blue eyes, blue eyes that usually were paired with a smirk or easy smile. A part of me was delighted that I was the one that wiped that smile off his face. I stagger towards him, yelling as I struck him again. The first punch was for my uncle, the next was for Chris, the third for him even daring to wear my skin, the fourth for committing crimes and making me wanted, the fifth for making me fake my own death, the sixth for Morgan, and the seventh, well the seventh was purely for him existing. Langston raised his hands in surrender, blood poured from his nose and mouth, and it stained almost all of his face. One eye was swollen, and the other was almost there. [[Grab my gun and end this.][$langstonfate to "kill"]] [[Grab my blade and end it.][$langstonfate to "kill"]] [[Choke him.][$langstonfate to "kill"]] [[Let him go.]] <<else>>\ Looking at Langston now, it was like I had barely injured the man. I could barely see him with one of my eyes swollen, this feeling overtaking me, and all of my other injuries. “You’re pathetic,” he tells me, and I tremble as he approaches, appearing dissatisfied with his day. “Why Raum doesn’t just kill your pestering ass, I will never know.” He grabs my shirt and brings me close, “if I can’t kill you then I’m going to sure as hell make you pay.” <<if $entitytakeover>>\ <>\<<set $langstonfate to "kill">><>\ “Like hell,” I hear the Entity roar, and though my vision doesn’t falter, I’m suddenly aware that I’m not in control of my own body. Langston’s eyes widen in terror, and I look down, barely seeing the black misty tendril that is going through him. “Funny,” the Entity chuckles, Langston’s eyes grew even wider when he realizes that it’s not me as well. “I was thinking the same thing about you.” The Entity pulls the tendril out of Langston, and he immediately falls to the ground. He tries to cover up the hole now in his body, shrieking softly at suddenly being face to face with death. And, before I can even say anything, the Entity relinquishes control back to me. The feeling from earlier overtakes me again, and I realize, Langston is now dead. He was gone. I stumble backward. I was exhausted, but I didn’t know what was going on out there, seeing that I had been stuck inside this kitchen for so long. I take numerous deep breaths and stagger towards the others. Only then noting the quiet that came over the house. <<else>>\ And he does just that, he slams me into the wall, my eyes rolling to the top of my head as he does the action again and again. I moan in pain as he punches me, the assault not stopping no matter how much I wish it would. And then suddenly, I’m no longer conscious. When I come back to the now, Langston is no longer there, and I’m unaware of just how long I’ve been out of it. I push myself to my feet, aware of how quiet the house is, and seek out the others. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS6_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

I look around and stand to go and grab my gun. When I get back over to him, I check it and point it straight at his chest. He didn’t have the energy to move, but he did look at me as if hoping that the look in his eyes would change my mind. It did the opposite. Tears rushed down my face as everything I had to endure because of this man came to mind. He opened his mouth to plead for his life, but before he could even mutter a syllable, I pulled the trigger, again and again. His body jumped at the impact of the bullet hitting his heart, and as he chokes on his own blood, I realize that I had killed him. The gun drops to the floor as I stare on. The feeling of him dying at my own deeds felt like cold water washing over me on the hottest day on record, bathing me in relief. The tears disappeared, and I suddenly felt nothing but power. I glanced down at the still body … I killed Langston. “Pro my ass,” I manage to say as I rise up, stumbling backward. I was exhausted, but I didn’t know what was going on out there, seeing that I had been stuck inside this kitchen for so long. I take numerous deep breaths and stagger towards the others. Only then noting the quiet that came over the house. <a data-passage="TS6_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I look and move to grab my blade that was thankfully nearby, tears rushed down my face as everything I had to endure because of this man came to mind. Realizing what I was about to do, he quickly reached out and grabbed my wrists, but before he could find purchase, I headbutt him, not even feeling the pain afterward due to the furor that runs through my veins. The excitement of finally being able to kill him, make him pay, have him realize that some pointless, insignificant human is what ended his life. I plunge the knife down with a yell, pushing it into his heart with all of my might, ignoring the sound of him choking on his own blood. Not stopping until he had died, his eyes wide open as he stared up at the ceiling. The feeling of him dying at my own deeds felt like cold water washing over me on the hottest day on record, bathing me in relief. The tears disappeared, and I suddenly felt nothing but power. I glanced down at the still body … I killed Langston. “Pro my ass,” I manage to say as I rise up, stumbling backward. I was exhausted, but I didn’t know what was going on out there, seeing that I had been stuck inside this kitchen for so long. I take numerous deep breaths and stagger towards the others. Only then noting the quiet that came over the house. <a data-passage="TS6_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Tears rushed down my face as everything that he had done to me came to mind, everything he had a hand in. He tried to fight me, but he was too weak. He attempted to push me off him, even attempted to grab my own neck, but nothing worked. My hands grew tighter and tighter around his neck, and soon, I found I was choking a dead corpse. The feeling of him dying at my own fingertips felt like cold water washing over me on the hottest day on record, bathing me in relief. The tears disappeared, and I suddenly felt nothing but power. I glanced down at the still body … I killed Langston. “Pro my ass,” I manage to say as I rise up, stumbling backward. I was exhausted, but I didn’t know what was going on out there, seeing that I had been stuck inside this kitchen for so long. I take numerous deep breaths and stagger towards the others. Only then noting the quiet that came over the house. <a data-passage="TS6_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $entitytakeover>>\ <>\<<set $langstonfate to "kill">><>\ “Like hell,” I hear the Entity roar, and though my vision doesn’t falter, I’m suddenly aware that I’m not in control of my own body. Langston’s eyes widen in terror, and I look down, barely seeing the black misty tendril that is going through him. “Funny,” the Entity chuckles, Langston’s eyes grew even wider when he realizes that it’s not me as well. “I was thinking the same thing about you.” The Entity pulls the tendril out of Langston, and he immediately falls to the ground. He tries to cover up the hole now in his body, shrieking softly at suddenly being face to face with death. And, before I can even say anything, the Entity relinquishes control back to me. The feeling from earlier overtakes me again, and I realize, Langston is now dead. He was gone. I stumble backward. I was exhausted, but I didn’t know what was going on out there, seeing that I had been stuck inside this kitchen for so long. I take numerous deep breaths and stagger towards the others. Only then noting the quiet that came over the house. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $langstonFree = true>><>\ I can feel that feeling creeping up, the insatiable feeling poking my side, pushing me to commit to what I was thinking. No, I wouldn’t. I was no murderer. I wasn’t him. I wouldn’t feed whatever beast that was. I push myself away from Langston’s body, feeling even dizzier now that I was sitting. I don’t know what Langston will do, but when I open my eyes, I find him gone. His blood is the only indication that he had ever been there. I was exhausted, but I didn’t know what was going on out there, seeing that I had been stuck inside this kitchen for so long. I take numerous deep breaths and stagger towards the others. Only then noting the quiet that came over the house. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="TS6_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ I stumble into the living room, tripping over two bodies on my way. When I regain my footing, I first see Chris. He’s sitting on a table, breathing heavily with blood all over his face and perhaps even more injuries that I just couldn’t see. He looks up at me and rushes to my side, whimpering as he forgets his own injuries for that one second, he’s concerned about me <<if hasVisited("“Tis is true, but you can do that again.” Let him kiss you.")>>>>\ <<if $langstonfate is "kill">>\ “Are you okay?” he questions, grabbing me gently and looking me over. “I killed Langston,” I tell him breathlessly and his eyes widen, but he doesn’t move. He pulls me close, planting light kisses on the top of my head as he hugs me close. “How did things go out here?” “It went,” he chuckled, rubbing my back. I don’t pull away, wondering if this was more for him than me. “I’m just so happy you’re still alive.” I hug him back, letting myself relax in his arms. <<else>>\ “Are you okay?” he questions, grabbing my head gently and looking me over and then wincing at how I probably looked. “I feel and look like shit,” I say, trying to laugh and failing. “Come here,” he says, whispering as he pulls me closer and hugs me as if I was a fragile doll. I probably was at the moment. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $langstonfate is "kill">>\ “Are you okay?” he questions. “I killed Langston,” I tell him breathlessly and his eyes widen. “You’re kidding, seriously?” I nod, not seeing why I would joke at a time like this. I was too tired. “Come over here and sit down.” <<else>>\ “Are you okay?” he questions, “because you look like shit.” “Thanks, Chris, you’re always appreciated,” I murmur sarcastically. “Yea, sorry. Come over here and sit down.” <</if>>\ <</if>>\ Chris guides me to a seat, and I collapse, trying to regain my senses. “Where’s Sydero?” “Right here,” she replies, walking into the house, twirling her blades rapidly, allowing the blood to splatter from it to the wall and floor. I watch as she places one blade on top of the other, and a bright light shines right as they meld into one. She looks over at me, taking in my appearance before looking away, not saying anything. <<else>>\ I stumble into the living room, tripping over two bodies on my way. When I regain my footing, I see no one. Great, perfect time to take a breather. I sit on the ruined sofa, my head rolling to the side as I try and focus on everything that had just happened. I jump, my eyes shooting to the noise near the door, calming down when I see Sydero standing there. She looks at me, looking me over with a critical eye before putting her attention on her blades. She first twirls her blades rapidly, allowing the blood to splatter from it to the wall and floor. I watch as she places one blade on top of the other, and a bright light shines right as they meld into one. “Did we get them all?” I ask, and she nods. <<if $langstonfate is "kill">>\ “I think so, though I can’t find Langston and Petri anywhere. I’m guessing they ran as soon as possible.” “Petri ran,” I tell her, pointing to the kitchen, “Langston’s still here and never leaving.” Her eyes widen as she goes to the kitchen. I hear her laughter and see her coming out with a wide smile. “Well, I’d be damned, Roe, look who went and became a badass.” I manage a small smile, but that’s it, still too weak. <<elseif $langstonFree>>\ “I think so, though I can’t find Langston and Petri anywhere. I’m guessing they ran as soon as possible.” “Langston is somewhere in the wind, I let him go.” “You what?” she asks in pure confusion. “I’m not a murderer,” I tell her and she bursts out laughing, ready to say more, but I stop her with my own question, my head ached too much to put up with her right now. <<else>>\ “I think so, though I can’t find Langston and Petri anywhere. I’m guessing they ran as soon as possible.” “They probably ran off after Langston whooped my ass,” I growl, motioning to my face. She nods, promising to give me that healing rag later. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ “Where’s Bradley?” I ask, and Sydero looks around, rolling her eyes annoyed. “Bradley, you can come out of hiding.” Silence. “Bradley,” she shouts, wandering upstairs, deftly jumping past the bodies that lie dead there. I silently wait to hear the young boy chuckling or Sydero going off on him. I hear neither. Instead, I hear her rush down the stairs. “Bradley?” Sydero repeats, this time in more haste. We all race around, trying to find the boy and hoping that he was just hiding somewhere. As I’m leaving the kitchen, I trip over something solid and turn to see the culprit was Bradley’s bookbag. I tremble as I open it, knowing that if a particular item is in here, then it would answer all the questions. And there it was, his laptop sitting, waiting to be brought back to life. “Syd,” I whisper and turn to her, showing her the laptop in my hands. She says nothing, she doesn’t even move to come closer. She just stares at the computer dangling in my one hand, not blinking, only trembling. <a data-passage="TS6_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>“You don’t think?” Chris asks, his eyes darting from one dead body to the other. Sydero whirls on him, ready to add him to the body count when the sound of a phone goes off. The ringtone unmistakably Bradley’s as it plays a recording of Chris’s scream put to a dubstep beat. I roll my eyes on instinct, my stomach churning as I think about Bradley’s fate and whereabouts.<<else>>We both jump at the sound of a phone going off, the ringtone unmistakably Bradley’s as it plays a recording of a fast pace dubstep.<</if>> Sydero picks up the phone, puts it on speaker, and then growls into the receiver, “whoever this is, I will kill you if you lay one hand on his head.” “Oh, I almost shivered just then, Sydero,” Raum chuckles, each of us closing our eyes and taking a deep breath. We both had our own reasons to want to see Raum pay, and now we had a unified second reason. “How’d you know it was me?” Raum asks, it almost sounded like he was pouting. “You’re not as crafty as you think you are,” she responds, attempting to get her temper back under control, “you forced Bradley to give you his number. Not hard to figure out. Now, what I can’t figure out is why you didn’t waltz in here yourself if you were so close. Scared of something, Raum?” He chuckles deeply, sighing thoughtfully for a second. “I’m not as much as an idiot as you might’ve thought. And if you haven’t figured out what’s going to happen by now, then shame on you.” [[“Can you just demand already.”]] [[“Blah blah.”]] [[“Let us talk to Bradley.”]]

“Can you just demand something already so we can get on with this. Don’t forget to tell us where to meet you for the obvious trap.” There’s silence on the other end, and though I don’t know why, I hope it’s due to me pissing him off. “Meet us in Ayden, every hour you’re not here, the boy gets closer to death.” And just like any villain, he hangs up. The only difference between Raum and movie villains is that Raum is earnest. He isn’t above harming an innocent teenager. Even more so, I wouldn’t put it past Raum to actually kill the kid. That thought causes me to pause, and after looking at <<if $cp>>the others<<else>>Sydero<</if>>, I realize that we were <<if $cp>>all<<else>>both<</if>> thinking the same thing. For all we know ... Bradley is already dead. <a data-passage="EP10NT"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Blah blah threat, blah blah ransom. I swear you remind me of any cliché villain.” There’s silence, and hopefully, it’s due to Raum being ticked off at my words and not because he was doing something. “How’s this for cliché villain. Meet us in Ayden, and then every hour you’re not here, the boy gets closer to death. And I’m going to make sure he feels each and every bit of it. And make sure to remind him each time, exactly who he can thank for this.” And just like any villain, he hangs up. The only difference between Raum and movie villains is that Raum is earnest. He isn’t above harming an innocent teenager. Even more so, I wouldn’t put it past Raum to actually kill the kid. That thought causes me to pause, and after looking at <<if $cp>>the others<<else>>Sydero<</if>>, I realize that we were <<if $cp>>all<<else>>both<</if>> thinking the same thing. For all we know ... Bradley is already dead. <a data-passage="EP10NT"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“How about you shut up and let us talk to Bradley; otherwise you can forget everything.” I don’t hear Bradley say words, but I do listen to him scream, sounding as if someone had their hands around his throat and were applying pressure steadily. “Does that sate your curiosity, $name? Or do you want to talk to him some more.” I keep quiet. “Meet us in Ayden, every hour you’re not here, the boy gets closer to death.” And just like any villain, he hangs up. The only difference between Raum and movie villains is that Raum is earnest. He isn’t above harming an innocent teenager. Even more so, I wouldn’t put it past Raum to actually kill the kid. That thought causes me to pause, and after looking at <<if $cp>>the others<<else>>Sydero<</if>>, I realize that we were <<if $cp>>all<<else>>both<</if>> thinking the same thing. For all we know ... Bradley is already dead. <a data-passage="EP10NT"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/nexttime.png"> <img src="images/divider.png"> “First off, what do we know?” I ask, and we all begin to answer. This was a trap, they knew Sydero was weak, Raum wanted Sydero, so that was his primary goal. We quietly sit and think about all of the things we pointed out, none of us successfully being able to come up with a plan that might work. In the end, we realize one thing. We hardly knew shit. <img src="images/divider.png"> “So you actually have a name?” “No,” he laughs and rolls his eyes as he begins to disappear, “I was just created to be called silly things by silly little creatures such as yourself.” <img src="images/divider.png"> “Ready?” I ask, turning to face her as I stand near the door, my pack slung over my shoulder. “Hell yea,” Sydero mumbles, zipping up Bradley’s duffle bag and then sliding past me and towards the car, “let’s go get our geek back.” <img src="images/divider.png"> “I said I’m done playing games,” Raum shouts and just like that, he lets Bradley go. [[Episode Eleven: Highway to Hell]]

<> <<set $justcoffee = false; $bedsharing_Sydero = false; $bedsharing_Chris = false; $bedmoment = false; $sofa = false>> <<unset $ride, $candychipsoda, $syderolist, $chrismotel, $ropecut>> <<playlist "ambience" loop play>> <> <img src="images/epthree.png"> <img src="images/actone.png"> <<if $cp>>\ //Two Years Ago,// I reside on the edge of my bed, flipping through pages of my textbook as I try to figure out what’s important, and what isn’t. It would be my luck to have gotten a professor whose distaste for technology rivals that of her disfavor for millennials. “You kids are slaves to the devices in your hand,” I mimic her most treasured line in class as I search for the answer to the discussion post. “Knock knock,” I hear Chris’s voice, and give him permission to enter. I raise a brow at his sprightly attitude and wonder if he finally got the courage to ask that one girl out. “Guess what, $name!” Part of me didn’t wish to entertain him, he would tell me either way so what did it matter? [[“What?”]] [[Silently stare.]] [[Guess.]] <<else>>\ //One Year Ago,// “What the hell is the matter with you?” I hear a commanding voice ask. His voice carries well into my room, each word reverberating off the walls. If there is a response, I can’t hear it. “I paid for your ass to come here, and this is what you do? You don’t even know what you’re studying! I didn’t send you here to waste my money on fraternity bullshit and bartending.” Seeing that my desk was close to the door, it was tempting to open it up more, if only to hear the responses. And so I do just that. “This is my life. I’d be damned if I don’t spend it the way I want,” I hear Chris reply, and following it is the all too familiar sound of flesh hitting flesh. “Stop it, please,” I hear his mother plead. Silence sets in after that, but after a few seconds, I barely make out the voice of who I suspect to be Chris’s father. “Listen here, boy, you’re way too smart to be spending your time doing stupid things. You’re going to graduate and get a good job. Enough of this childish shit. You hear me?” “Get out,” I hear Chris growl. “What did you just say to me?” “Get out! Before I call campus police,” he shouts. His shout causes me to jump, unprepared for the ferocity behind it. I peer into the living area of our suite to see his father grumbling, stalking towards the door and out. “You know better than to talk to your father like that. What has gotten into you?” his mother asks next, following the same path as her husband. She sees me eavesdropping and gives me a sorrowful look, quickly scurrying out. Chris is the next to appear in my view, locking the door before resting his head on its cool surface. [[“That sounded like it went well.”]] [[“Your dad sounds fun.”]] [[“What was that all about?”]] <</if>>\

“Alright, what?” I say, playing along. He brandishes the paper that was hidden behind his back, but his constant shaking made it utterly impossible to even see what it meant. I snatch the paper from his hands, quietly looking it over as he continues to hop from foot to foot. Unless I was missing something, this paper was filled with nothing but a jumble of letters and numbers. <<include "C0_1">>

I say nothing, waiting for him to say what it was. But he doesn’t even do that, he instead unveils a piece of paper that was behind him. I attempt to read it, but his constant shaking makes it utterly impossible. I snatch the paper from his hands, quietly looking it over as he continues to hop from foot to foot. Unless I was missing something, this paper was filled with nothing but a jumble of letters and numbers. <<include "C0_1">>

“Uh, you finally asked Raven out?” He deflates, but only for a minute. He shakes his head and continues to dance around. It takes another minute for him to finally pull out the paper that he’s been hiding. I snatch the paper from his hands, quietly looking it over as he continues to hop from foot to foot. Unless I was missing something, this paper was filled with nothing but a jumble of letters and numbers. <<include "C0_1">>

“Should I know what this is?” I question, handing it back to him. “No one but a //pledge// who has been chosen to undergo the initiation would know what it means.” It takes me a while to figure out what he means by this, but when it finally does, I’m almost more excited than he is. “Congrats, Chris! I know you went through hell for this.” Literally. Chris had gone MIA for an entire week due to Hell Week. He didn’t show up to classes, I’m not sure if he missed tennis practice, and I know damn well he didn’t contact me for that entire time. It got so bad that even his mom texted me to see if everything was okay. He collapses onto my bed, his limbs sprawled out and narrowly missing me. “I’m finally here though. After everything,” he sits up, “do you know how many times I wanted to quit? To just drop out?” “Yes, Chris. Before you disappeared you constantly brought it up,” I chuckle, flipping the page and peering back at the first discussion question. Would missing this discussion hurt my grade? They were only fifteen points apiece. “Well, did I tell you that you were a big reason why I didn’t?” I freeze, staring from my open book to Chris who continues to stare at the ceiling, a pleasant smile on his face. “You’re kidding?” He glances over at me, shaking his head without breaking eye contact. “Remember when I told you I wanted to rush? Do you remember what you said to me?” [[“You’re an idiot?”]] [[“That fraternities were a waste of time?”]] [[“Go for it, you can do anything?”]] [[“That they’d be lucky to have you?”]]

“Um, you’re an idiot?” I question, remembering that I did call him an idiot somewhere along the way. Chris bursts out laughing, “yes, that. But you also told me that you would support me either way. That you knew I could do it.” <<include "C1_2">>

“I remember saying fraternities were a waste of time.” “And that’s true, you said that. But you also told me that you would support me either way. That you knew I could do it.” <<include "C1_2">>

“I said go for it, that you can do anything.” Chris offers me a thankful smile, “you did.” <<include "C1_2">>

“Um, I said that they’d be lucky to have you, didn’t I?” Chris offers me a thankful smile, “you did.” <<include "C1_2">>

He takes a deep, satisfied breath and stretches out before sitting up, “all the times I felt like I couldn’t, I don’t know, I thought about you and all the shit we’ve been through.” “We’ve known each other for less than a year,” I remind him, though I did understand where he was coming from. Ever since we introduced ourselves in freshman seminar and found out we lived on the same dorm floor, well, we’ve been inseparable. “And yet you are literally my closest friend. I had friends in high school, but besides one other person I never felt this connection with someone else.” He leans up, looking the most content that I’ve ever seen him. “I don’t know. I just feel like everything is working out and I have such a good life. My dreams are coming true, my future is starting to unfold, and I have a friendship that others only wish they could have.” <<if $flirt_Chris and $gender is "male" or $gender is "nonbinary">>\ <<if settings.dialog>>[[If only he saw me as more ...][$CRomance +=1]]<<else>>[[If only he saw me as more ...][$CRomance +=1]]<</if>> <</if>>\ <<if $flirt_Chris and $gender is "female">>\ <<if settings.dialog>>[[Place my hand on his.][$CRomance +=1]]<<else>>[[Place my hand on his.][$CRomance +=1]]<</if>> <</if>>\ [[“Eh, I wouldn’t go that far.”]] [[“Thanks, Chris.”][$chris +=2]]

I swallow the lump in my throat, running my tongue over my dry lips. My heart aches every second I look back at him. I was thankful he was looking at me. Or was I? Did I want him to see the pain I was in, the pain that only he could make better? Chris was straight. I knew this to be a fact, but that did little to cure my want for him. “Alright, that’s enough,” he chuckles, picking himself off of my bed and clapping his hands, “let’s go celebrate or something. On me.” I nod, noticing my throat was dry. //Straighten up, $name//, I scold myself, my eyes landing on Chris as he heads towards the door, allowing me to get ready. //You’ll never have him.// <a data-passage="C1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I offer him a gentle smile and place my hand atop of his. He looks over at me, our eyes meeting. I forget about the words that I had planned to say, too busy getting lost in those eyes of his. Somehow we end up leaning towards one another, a magnetic force drawing us closer. But suddenly the main door to my suite slams closed. We both jump apart, and I remove my hand, biting my cheeks to hide the blush. “Let’s go celebrate or something. On me.” I nod, and Chris claps happily before leaving my room, allowing me to get ready. <a data-passage="C1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Eh, now you’re going a little too far,” I joke. “Oh, for real?” Chris laughs, and I can’t help but do so as well, it was a contagious laugh that was nothing but good-natured. It was rare for Chris to ever get sappy, he wasn’t the type. He pats my leg and gets to his feet, “let’s go celebrate or something, on me.” I nod, and Chris claps happily before leaving my room, allowing me to get ready. <a data-passage="C1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I sit quietly for a minute before finally saying, “thanks, Chris.” He nods before clearing his throat. “Alright, enough of that. Let’s go celebrate or something, on me.” I nod, and Chris claps happily before leaving my room, allowing me to get ready. <a data-passage="C1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"Well, I don't know about you," I say, rising and joining him in the main sitting area, I flop down on the arm of the nearby sofa, "but that sounded like it went well." "Depends on the purpose," Chris sighs, turning to me. He looks utterly tired, as if that argument took twenty years off of his life. "Did you get your point across?" "Not like how I wanted to. I don't know why I keep trying to please that man." He joins me by the sofa and collapses, rubbing his temples. <<include "C1_3">>

"Wow, I gotta say, your dad sounds like loads of fun. My kind of guy," I joke rising and joining him in the sitting area. I take a seat on the arm of the nearby sofa. "Oh yea, loads of fun. He can name stats from his favorite baseball and football teams but has an issue with calling minorities by their name. The best person to take to a party." Chris snorts and slumps into the cushion on the other side of the sofa, covering his face with his tricep. <<include "C1_3">>

"Hope I'm not being nosy or out of line, but what was that all about?" I ask, coming into the main sitting area and taking a seat on the arm of the nearby sofa. "No, you're fine. You live here and heard all of that so whether or not I liked it, it's your business. My dad's already upset that I'm not here on a baseball or football scholarship, but tennis. And he's not exactly happy about my lack of drive." "Seriously? You're one of the most determined people I know," I point out. "Tell that to the man whose mind is still in the 1950's." He takes the opposite side of the couch and sinks into the cushion, sighing deeply. <<include "C1_3">>

I've known Chris for a handful of months, enough to have formed an idea about him, and enough to have heard stories of his family. Mostly he talked about his grandfather and mother, being close to the two of them. I met her a couple of times as well, a sweet yet timid lady. Now that I see who she's married to, I'm not surprised. "You never really told me much about your dad," I point out and he motions to the door with his thumb. "I'm sure you see why. He's an embarrassment. A reminder of how some folks still have that toxic close-minded mindset about everything. My mom at least keeps her unpopular opinions to herself. Ugh, I'm on scholarship, but if he refuses to help me, then I'm going to be shit out of luck come spring." [[Persuade him to go to the mall with me.]] [[Ask him if he wants to talk about it.]] [[Leave it alone and play video games.]]

I know everyone isn't the same, but I haven't really been put in this situation with Chris yet, so I don't know what cheers him up. Judging by his socialness and his love for doing things, I would say going out, even if to the mall, would help. "Mind coming with me to the mall? I've been wanting to check out that new store that just opened up." He perks up and nods his head. Before I can say anything more, he dashes into his room, and I hear his keys jingling and him fuss over the placement of his wallet. I smirk and go retrieve my things as well. The mall wasn't that far away, and it was a beautiful day, we would walk. Chris comes back up looking like his old self, that giant smile on his face, brightening up what were once cloudy eyes. "Hey," he begins, gently touching my arm, "I just want to say thanks, $name. I know what you're doing, and the fact that you want to help is enough. It really means a lot, and I appreciate it." "Of course," I smile, punching him playfully before opening the door. <a data-passage="C1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

We sit in silence for quite some time. My mind going over everything he just told me and what he told me in the past. I knew his family was traditional, I even remember him telling me that he didn't have any minority groups in most of his middle school classes. But saying that one's family is traditional or conservative could mean a lot, it wasn't exactly a bad thing, and Chris never went deep into it. "Do you want to talk about it?" I finally ask, not knowing what else to suggest or say. I was a good listener, that much I knew. "No, I'd rather not sit here and think about it, especially since I can't change shit. I'll be fine, I'm just going to go do homework and listen to music." I nod slowly, wondering if I had said the wrong thing when Chris gently touches my arm, pulling me from my thoughts. "I just want to say thanks $name. I know you just to help, and the fact that you want to is enough. It really means a lot, and I appreciate it." "Of course," I smile, squeezing his arm before heading back to my room. <a data-passage="C1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I wasn't good in these kinds of situations. I never said the right thing, in fact, I feel like I always make the matter worse. I also wasn't a fan of telling the person that everything will be okay, those were empty words that could turn sour very quickly. The only thing I can think of to do is to get his mind off of it entirely as if nothing had happened at all. "Hey, I still need to kick your butt in that racing game," I point out, getting up and walking to the TV, cutting on the console and grabbing both remote controls. I hold out his, and he stares at it before sneering, taking it and sending me a cocky smile. "You mean you want to redeem yourself since I beat you last time?" "You cheated." "You can't even cheat in this game," he shouts, his words cut off by his own laughing. "You definitely can since that's what you did." I load up the game, smiling as I go through the motions. I'm not exactly sure if I hear him right, but I swear I hear him thank me. <a data-passage="C1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> I feel someone lightly shake me awake and look around to see that the car was parked in a mostly empty store parking lot. This perhaps is due to the late hour. “I’ll be back, I have to grab something before we reach our location,” Sydero states, opening the door and getting out before I reach out and stop her. “Which you still haven’t told me.” She ignores me, to the point where for a second, I doubt if I had said the words loud enough. She walks towards the store, leaving me in the quiet car, in the horribly lit parking lot. <<if $cp>>\ The only positive to this was that I wasn’t the only one in the car, a loud yawn from behind me reminds me of that. “Good ... night?” I ask in confusion, not knowing exactly what to say. Most of the ride Chris has either been knocked out or asking questions. I answered most of them since Sydero refused to speak. But the longer the ride went on, the more she talked and responded to questions that both of us came up with. She was still upset, her ignoring me just minutes ago was proof of that. But she wasn’t as upset as she was before. “Where are we? What are we doing?” “You know, everything that comes out of your mouth now is a question,” I point out, and he sighs. “I noticed that too ... shit, this is all for real, isn’t it? And I thought my life was fucked up before. Vampires, werewolves, werecats, the fuck is a werecat,” he questions, and I laugh. “Yea. It took me a few minutes to get used to it too, and there’s stuff I still don’t know. You should read those books back there, they answer a lot of questions. It helps to know what we might run into.” “I don’t want to know, is that bad?” [[“Yea, you need to be prepared.”][$chris -=3]] [[“I understand, but you should either way.”]] [[“No, it’s not.”][$chris +=3]] <<else>>\ <<if $chrissafe>>\ I rest my head on the seat’s headrest, unable to think of anything else but Chris. The only thing that keeps me from cursing myself out is that I know he’s safe. Or at least the last time I saw him he was. How long that would be, I could only guess. <<if $optimistic >= 50>>\ He would be okay, Chris wasn’t stupid, and I think he understood the trouble he could possibly get in if he doesn’t heed the warnings both I and Sydero gave him. <<else>>\ Knowing Chris, he wouldn’t survive long. He would overthink everything and believe that it was safe to go home. There, he would meet his end, all because he didn’t listen. I take a shaky breath, it was wrong to think such thoughts, but it was impossible for me not too. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I rest my head on the seat’s headrest, unable to think of anything else but Chris. My brain decides to conjure up the image of him dying, the look in his eyes when his throat was slit. That was my best friend, and I got him killed. <</if>>\ I need to think about something else ... [[My brain decides to remind me of what I once had.]] [[I think about my future.]] [[I can’t help it, I think of Chris.]] <</if>>\

“Yea, Chris, I know this is new and scary to you, but you need to be prepared now. One thing I learned is that anything can happen at any time.” With that in mind, we also need to get him a silver blade. I wonder if Sydero just had a bag of them and was planning to give one to him anyway. Chris nods in understanding, but he fails to look happy about it. <<include "C1_1">>

“I know what you mean. When I first got into this and was learning everything, I didn’t want to. It felt like the more I learned, the more real all this got, and I was in denial. But it helps. I rather be alive than be dead because I couldn’t get over my own fear.” Chris nods in understanding, thanking me. <<include "C1_1">>

“It’s not. This is all new and weird and strange. Ignorance is bliss, doesn’t mean it’s good though.” Chris offers me a smile. <<include "C1_1">>

“So, Sydero? What’s her deal?” “That’s a question that I can’t answer because I’m still trying to figure it out. She’s a witch with a really short temper, sarcasm is her first language, and heartless is first nature to her.” “Can’t be too heartless, she came for you. Plus, she let me stay. I mean, she had a big problem with it but if she really didn’t care, wouldn’t she had just dropped me off somewhere by now? You too?” I shrug, catching sight of her coming towards the car, a bag in her hands. <a data-passage="C2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

An uncle, a home, friends, I once had a decent life. The most I had to worry about was my grades and the shadows that lurk on the fringes of my dreams. But even they weren’t frequent visitors. It’s a few minutes later that Sydero comes back, a bag in her hands. <<include "C2">>

If there was one thing I knew, it was that this road wasn’t a nice one. There was no telling if I would survive to see next week or the week after that, everything was a mystery now. I had no control over my fate, if I ever did in the first place. That was the funny thing about life. We think we have control, but then something happens, something like this, that reminds us we’re all just pawns. It’s a few minutes later that Sydero comes back, a bag in her hands. <<include "C2">>

<<if $CRomance >=1>>\ It was cliché, but there were things I never told Chris that I would never be able to now. I wouldn’t be able to tell him that he was a valuable friend, that I had feelings for him that would elevate him above mere friendship. The idea that Chris would never know how I felt about him, how my heart did a small jump of joy each time I saw him, it was weird. A story in a book that would never find its ending. <<else>>\ It was cliché, but there were things I never told Chris that I would never be able to now. I wouldn’t be able to tell him that he was a valuable friend, that his acceptance for me meant so much. Even when I told him about my dreams and my past, not one inch of him judged me. He celebrated my differences and swore to always be there if I needed someone to vent to or just talk. We had our arguments, of course, but he tried to be the best friend he could be and that itself was something. <</if>>\ It’s a few minutes later that Sydero comes back, a bag in her hands. <<include "C2">>

The car is silent as Sydero drives back into the night, driving the roads as if she knew them. The landscape begins to change, trees disappear, and houses replace them. We were in the suburbs. I look around curiously, these weren’t abandoned houses. These were actually inhabitable houses whose homeowners cared about appearances. Hopefully, we weren’t just driving through. She turns into an empty driveway, cutting the car off. “Another safehouse?” “No.” <<if $cp>>\ “Whose house is this?” Chris questions. Sydero gets out without answering, walking towards the house with purpose and determination. We exchange wary looks before getting out as well. She raps on the door, taking a few steps back as she waits for whoever owned the house to answer. I soon hear mumbling on the other side, and soon enough an older woman opens it. Her black hair sits frazzled on top of her head in what looks like a ponytail but could be just a wild bun. She had sweet but tired green eyes, green eyes that were scanning each of us in confusion. Her eyes land on Sydero, and recognition crosses her features. She ushers us inside quickly before closing the door behind us. <<else>>\ “Whose house is this?” I ask. Sydero gets out without answering, walking towards the house with purpose and determination. I sigh deeply, wondering when this silent treatment would stop, before following. She raps on the door, taking a few steps back as she waits for whoever owned the house to answer. I soon hear mumbling on the other side, and soon enough an older woman opens it. Her black hair sits frazzled on top of her head in what looks like a ponytail but could be just a wild bun. She had sweet but tired green eyes, green eyes that scan me in confusion. Her eyes land on Sydero, and recognition crosses her features. She ushers us inside quickly before closing the door behind us. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="C2_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ "Faye, meet $name and Chris. You guys, meet Faye," Sydero groans. She was obviously tired, and it was past her bedtime, not to mention her attitude was just naturally atrocious. "Wow, Syd, not just one new traveling buddy, but two." <<else>>\ "Faye, meet $name. $name, meet Faye," Sydero groans. She was obviously tired, and it was past her bedtime, not to mention her attitude was just naturally atrocious. "Wow, Syd, a new traveling buddy, this is different." <</if>>\ “Let’s not dwell on it, I know I try not to.” Faye chuckles lightly at Sydero's words, offering her hand for us to shake, “So, what brings you here of all places?” “A number of things, but it’s late. Do you mind if we stay here for a few days?” Sydero asks. Her question sounding sincere enough. Faye bites the inside of her cheek, visibly unsure about agreeing to her request. <<if $cp>>\ Her eyes move to Chris and I. I don’t know what she sees but whatever it is causes her features to soften. She nods and guides us deeper into her home. <<else>>\ Her eyes move to me. I don’t know what she sees but whatever it is causes her features to soften. She nods and guides us deeper into her home. <</if>>\ Her house is quaint and has a nice homey feel to it. It was the type of home someone could live the rest of their days in. The walls were a soft chocolate cream, standing out against the glossed over dark wooden floors. The furniture was all cream colored with splashes of orange. I notice that she has no family photos, no photos whatsoever. She has one abstract painting hanging on a wall, one that looks like a jumbled-up mess that serves absolutely no purpose. Now that I actually noticed the single painting, the rest of her house actually seems even less decorated than I realized before. <a data-passage="C2_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ “Alright,” Faye begins, coming back holding a pillow and blanket, “I have a guest room with a bed, but that’s about it. So, two of you could sleep in the bed and one on the sofa. Work it out how you want. My room is down that hall, and the bathroom is right beside it. Upstairs, the first door to your right, is the other bathroom. Please, take showers, some of you don’t smell so good.” I sigh, ignoring Chris’s soft chuckle and Sydero’s nonchalant whistling. <<else>>\ “Alright,” Faye begins, coming back holding a pillow and blanket, “I have a guest room with a bed, but that’s about it. So, one of you could sleep in the bed and one on the sofa, or maybe you can share the bed. Work it out how you want. My room is down that hall, and the bathroom is right beside it. Upstairs, the first door to your right, is other the bathroom. Please, take showers, one of you don’t smell so good.” I sigh, ignoring Sydero’s nonchalant whistling. <</if>>\ Faye disappears down the hallway after telling us goodnight, and I turn to discuss sleeping plans. <<if $cp>>\ “So, two in the bed and one on the sofa? Does anyone want to volunteer for the sofa?” Chris questions. [[Volunteer for the sofa.][$sofa = true]] [[Take the bed.]] <<else>>\ “So, how do you want to do this?” Sydero questions, not just claiming what she wants and walking off. [[Take the sofa.|Volunteer for the sofa.][$sofa = true]] [[Take the bed.]] [[Share the bed.][$bedsharing_Sydero = true]] <</if>>\

<<if $cp>>\ “Yea, I’ll grab the sofa,” I volunteer. Sydero and Chris both gaze at one another, sizing each other up since they were about to have to sleep in the same bed. “You better not snore,” Sydero growls, pushing past Chris and heading towards the stairs. Chris whimpers before telling me goodnight. I watch them go, heading towards the shower. After freshening up I prepare for bed, wondering how the two of them were doing. I wouldn’t be surprised if one didn’t end up showing up tomorrow morning. <<if $unclepicture>>\ Even though I end up on a sofa, it's five-times better than anything I've been forced to sleep on, it even rivals my own car. I reach into my bag and bring out the photo that I had taken from my uncle's place. I stare at it, training my brain to be able to look at the picture but to leave the memories where they belong, it was still too early. I wouldn't want to wake the entire house because I couldn't keep my sobs down. I put it away before the dam can break. Sinking into the comfort, it doesn’t take long for me to fall asleep. <<else>>\ Even though I end up on a sofa, it's five-times better than anything I've been forced to sleep on, it even rivals my own car. Sinking into the comfort, it doesn’t take long for me to fall asleep. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ “I’ll grab the sofa,” I volunteer. Sydero nods before heading towards the stairs. I watch her go, heading towards the shower. <<if $unclepicture>>\ After freshening up, I prepare for bed. Even though I end up on a sofa, it's five-times better than anything I've been forced to sleep on, it even rivals my own car. I reach into my bag and bring out the photo that I had taken from my uncle's place. I stare at it, training my brain to be able to look at the picture but to leave the memories where they belong, it was still too early. I wouldn't want to wake the entire house because I couldn't keep my sobs down. I put it away before the dam can break. Sinking into the comfort, it doesn’t take long for me to fall asleep. <<else>>\ After freshening up, I prepare for bed. Even though I end up on a sofa, it's five-times better than anything I've been forced to sleep on, it even rivals my own car. Sinking into the comfort, it doesn’t take long for me to fall asleep. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <a data-passage="C3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp>>\ “I want the bed,” I say. Chris and Sydero gaze at one another, all that was left was to figure out who would get the bed with me. [[Encourage Sydero to share the bed.][$bedsharing_Sydero = true]] [[Encourage Chris to share the bed.][$bedsharing_Chris = true]] <<else>>\ “I want the bed if you’re good with the sofa.” “I don’t care, I just want sleep.” The two of us separate after that, me to go upstairs and take a shower, while she takes the one downstairs. After freshening up I prepare for bed, it doesn’t take long for me to fall asleep. <a data-passage="C3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

“You might as well take the bed too, Sydero,” I start, “not every day you get to actually sleep in one.” To my surprise, she smirks, “won’t see me arguing.” <<if $CRomance >=2>>\ Before Sydero and I head up, I happen to see a look cross Chris's face. It was hard to name, seeing that I rarely ever see such an expression. But I swear it was envy, his eyes narrowing on Sydero as she makes her way up the stairs. Our eyes meet and a light blush appears before quickly fading, further pushing me to believe he was somewhat jealous of Sydero, but why? I crinkle my nose in confusion but question nothing, heading up the stairs. <</if>>\ <<include "C2Syd1">>

“I’m okay with sharing the bed with you, not like we both don’t deserve a good night’s sleep in a comfortable bed.” At first, Sydero doesn’t seem comfortable with the idea, but little time goes by before she agrees. <<include "C2Syd1">>

I get out of the shower before Sydero does, walking into the room that we were going to share. The guest bedroom is sparsely decorated. There aren’t any decorations on the wall, and besides a queen-sized bed and a dresser, nothing else is there. I suppose I shouldn’t have expected this room to be tremendously decorated, it was for guests, and something told me that Faye rarely had visitors. The door reopens and in walks Sydero, carrying four large pillows. I open my mouth to question her, but no words escape, I just continue to stare at her. She throws them down on the bed, crossing her arms and narrowing her eyes towards me. “What’s this?” “This, is Don’t,” she picks up a pillow and places it at the head of the bed, “this is Fuck. And this is With. And finally, my favorite one, Me.” “Don’t,” I start putting all the names she said together until coming to the obvious conclusion, “ahh, okay yea, you’re cute.” She goes to her side of the bed and begins to aggressively make a pillow wall. <a data-passage="C2Syd2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Is this really needed?” “Yes. Because I don’t want you anywhere near me.” “This bed is just barely big enough to fit two people, not two people and your vulgar fluff wall.” “My vulgar fluff wall isn’t going anywhere.” She finishes setting up the wall when I attempt to grab one, seeing the idiotic nature of all of this. Before my hands are fully rested upon the pillow, Sydero has me backing into a wall. “If I wake up and that pillow wall is tampered with, in any kind of way, you will pay.” [[Roll my eyes.][$stubborn -=5]] [[Oh, I’m definitely touching that wall now.][$stubborn +=5; $sydero -=3]] <<if $flirt_Syd>>\ <<if settings.dialog>>[[Flirtatiously tease her.][$SRomance +=1; $sydero +=3]]<<else>>[[Flirtatiously tease her.][$SRomance +=1; $sydero +=3]]<</if>> <<if settings.dialog>>[[Meet her gaze.][$SRomance +=1; $sydero -=3]]<<else>>[[Meet her gaze.][$SRomance +=1; $sydero -=3]]<</if>> <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Reasonable ++<</if>> I roll my eyes at her threat, and she narrows her eyes even more, daring me to do what she had warned me against. “Are you done, or was there something else you wanted to threaten me about?” She snarls but backs away, walking to her side of the bed. I do the same, both of us putting our backs on the pillow wall as we let the night take us. The next morning, the pillow wall is still up, and Sydero is gone. <a data-passage="C3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++<</if>> I smirk at the sound of her threat, and she narrows her eyes even more, daring me to do what she had warned me against. “This all sounds more like a challenge than a threat.” She snarls but backs away, walking to her side of the bed. I do the same, both of us putting our backs on the pillow wall as we let the night take us. The next morning, the pillow wall is still up, and Sydero is gone. <a data-passage="C3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Oh, sounds kinky,” I joke. Her glare falters for a second, a smile slipping past her defenses. But it vanishes soon after, replaced with her scowl from earlier. “Don’t touch my wall,” is all she says before she moves back and heads over to her side of the bed. I awake in the middle of the night due to something hitting me roughly. I groggily awake, finding a dark figure staring at me. “What?” I growl, noticing the lack of a pillow wall, “oh look, your pillow wall is gone.” I yawn and turn my back to her, about to drift back to sleep. “Oh no you don’t. Roe, your snoring is keeping the entire neighborhood awake.” “I’m sleepy, I can’t help that,” I answer, shaking her hand off my back as I bury my face deeper into the softness of the pillow. “Roe,” Sydero growls again. I give in to her yanking, rolling over to look at her. “Make me stop,” I grin devilishly. It’s dark, and I can see nothing but her figure, but I can feel her heated gaze. At first, I believe it’s due to anger, but small things become clear to me, and I think differently. Her body is closer to mine, and her face is close enough to where my eyes can slowly make out distinct features. She leans in close and whispers, “don’t test me.” As fast as she was there, she’s back on her side. But it’s too late. I’m fully awake now and the heat rising off my body isn’t necessarily due to how hot the room has gotten. The next morning, the pillow wall is up again, and Sydero is gone. <a data-passage="C3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I meet her gaze, refusing to drop eye contact despite the shiver that runs down my spine. It feels like forever goes by before she takes a step back, giving me one last look before going towards her side of the bed. I awake in the middle of the night, up against something that feels nothing like a pillow. I manage to lazily open one eye, and the realization hits me, I was up against Sydero. I freeze, scared that breathing would wake her. My right-hand rests delicately on her hip, and my head was nestled up against her backside. I slowly remove my hand, and back away. I remake the pillow wall and put great space between me and it. I would be lucky if Sydero was a deep sleeper and realized nothing happened. The next morning, the pillow wall is still up, and Sydero is gone. <a data-passage="C3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“You’ve had a trying day, almost being killed and all. I think you should take the bed too.” Chris nods in obvious agreement. Out of the corner of my eye, I look at Sydero, to see if she would disagree. She doesn’t seem to care one way or another. After both of us take our showers, we meet up in the room. Chris and I stare at the bed, both wondering how this was going to work out. Despite knowing the man for years, we’ve never been faced with this sort of dilemma. We meet each other’s gazes at the same time, and Chris clears his throat. “Any rules I should know about? Or quirks, you know, like snoring?” “No, I’m pretty sure I don’t snore, but I wouldn’t really know. I guess Sydero would’ve said something. Actually, I’m positive Sydero would’ve said something.” He nods, the two of us still standing on opposing sides of the bed awkwardly. “You?” “Oh no, I don’t snore. I mean, unless I’m really tired or sick, then I guess I do.” “Cool, cool.” My voice trails off, and I rock back and forth, both of us waiting for the other one to make the first move. “Well, I’m going to go ahead and go to sleep, kinda tired,” Chris informs me, and I nod. Why were we being so awkward? Sure, we’ve never had to share a bed, but there’s been plenty of times where we’ve shared a room. I get into bed, stretching out and relaxing, sighing happily at the plush mattress resting under me. I find Chris preparing to take off his shirt. [[Give him his privacy.]] <<if $flirt_Chris>>\ [[Check him out.][$CRomance +=1; $chris +=3]] <</if>>\

I get comfortable and turn my back to him. Seconds later I feel his side of the bed dip and settle, the room growing deathly quiet. “We’re being stupidly awkward, aren’t we?” I hear him ask and my shoulders relax as I laugh. “Yea, we are. We’re best friends, this shouldn’t be awkward or anything.” “Exactly. And we might as well get used to this, who knows what will happen in the future.” “Count yourself lucky,” I tell him, resituating myself so that I’m staring up at the ceiling, out of the corner of my eye I see him doing the same. “I was sleeping in abandoned houses before this.” “Wait, seriously?” “Yea, a mouse was this close to my face,” I show the space that had rested between my face and the mouse, and he laughs. We continue talking into the night, though it was mostly me who was doing the talking. I was in no way an expert on all things supernatural, if Sydero were here, she’d probably get a kick out of listening to my attempts at answering his questions. But seeing that Chris was terrified of Sydero, he relied on me for answers, and I had no problem giving them. I answer his questions and tell him everything that has happened since I’ve been here, and anything we missed during the car ride. The next morning, I awake to find the bed empty. <a data-passage="C3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I stare at him as he does his nightly routine, allowing my eyes to take in his physique. I knew he liked to work out, especially since he would sometimes try to get me to come with him. But I rarely was ever able to bask in the view he was giving me now. His muscles weren’t overdone, like what some would expect the typical athlete to be. His muscles were sculpted just enough to make it evident that he spent time each day tending to them. His stomach flat but his abs not defined. A small amount of hair rests on both his chest and around his stomach, the same color as his hair. His eyes meet mine, and I quickly look away, yawning and acting like I hadn’t just been caught staring at him. He gets into bed a moment later. “Well, goodnight, $name,” he states, and I say it back, both of our backs to one another. <<if $uncledead>>That night, my dreams turn dark, darker than I typically fight with. A mix of the shadow dreams blends in with the death of my uncle.<<else>>That night, my dreams turn dark, darker than I typically fight with. A mix of the shadow dreams blends in with my uncle's surviving. A dark figure hunting him down and making him suffer, torturing him to please its own sick will.<</if>> I can feel myself shivering, and my own whimpering begins to wake me. Something else wakes me as well, a warm hand, and a soothing voice. It anchors me, reminding me of the difference between dream and reality. I feel my body calm. <<if $CRomance <1 or $gender is "male" or $gender is "nonbinary">>\ “Thanks, Chris,” I say. I hear him chuckle and he moves his hand away from my shoulder. “Sorry, I didn’t know what else to do without totally slapping you awake.” “It’s fine. I’m better now.” <<if $uncledead>>“Was it your uncle?” I huff in reply.<<else>>“My uncle,” I huff in reply.<</if>> Chris takes this as an indication that I don’t wish to continue talking about it, which isn’t exactly a lie. I fall back asleep a moment later, this time my dreams surround less controversial topics and I sleep into the next morning. When I do wake up, Chris is nowhere to be seen. <<else>>\ <><<set $bedmoment = true>><> “Sorry,” I say, shivering at the realization that my dreams had woken us both up. Chris instinctually moves in closer before freezing, as if asking for permission. I grant it by moving closer, his body heat warming me up better than any blanket. “Are you okay? I woke up to you whimpering, and I didn’t know how to calm you down.” <<if $uncledead>>“Just another bad dream featuring my uncle,”<<else>>“Just another bad dream, though this time it featured my uncle,”<</if>> I whisper. “I’m sorry,” he says giving me a short tight hug, “I’m here for you. Try to go back to sleep, okay?” I nod my head and try, though such thing wasn’t hard to actually do. Chris doesn’t let me go even after he succeeds in calming me down. He instead traces circles across my back in such a way that sleep was inevitable. I fall asleep in his arms but wake up to find him nowhere to be seen. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="C3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I let the aroma of food carry me towards the kitchen, where everyone is. Faye stands at the oven, singing along to the electronic jazz song that’s currently playing. When she sees me, she winks, motioning to the food. “You eat meat or strictly fruit?” [[“I live for my bacon.”|C3_1][$sydero +=2]] [[“I eat both, but I rather get fruit.”|C3_1][$chris +=2]] [[“Strictly fruit please.”|C3_1]] [[“I’m not usually a breakfast person. Got coffee?”|C3_1][$justcoffee = true]]

A gracious host, I feel like it’s been decades since I’ve had any kind of nice food. <<if $cp>>Sydero and Chris both sit at the table, each in their own world. Chris is flipping through what looks to be //The Lore//, while Sydero busies herself with a challenging Sudoku puzzle.<<else>>Sydero sits at the table in her own world, busying herself with a challenging Sudoku puzzle.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("Flirtatiously tease her.") or hasVisited("Meet her gaze.")>>\ Sydero lifts her gaze to meet mine. At first, I doubt she remembers what occurred last night, but the slight rise of her eyebrow tells me otherwise. She drops my gaze and goes back to her puzzle. So we were to act like nothing happened? <<elseif $bedmoment>>\ Chris pauses from his flipping to look up at me. Realizing that I was already looking his way, his eyes drop back to the book, and the smallest hint of a blush tints his cheeks. He fights it off and clears his throat, acting as if the informative book was the most interesting thing. <<elseif $sofa and $cp>>\ “So,” I start, taking the free chair, “how did you two sleep?” Sydero gives me an expression that I have seen her wear before, but I was still unable to decipher. Chris, on the other hand, rolls his eyes and leans forward. “She put up a pillow wall.” “What?” Sydero asks, highly confused as to why he pointed this out, “did you think I was going to just sleep in the bed with some stranger?” “I thought you were going to be more mature than what you showed last night.” “Oh, bite me,” she snorts. <<else>>\ “How’d you sleep?” “Peachy,” she answers plainly, not once glancing up from the puzzle. <</if>>\ “Hope you guys are hungry,” Faye states, placing the plates of food down. <<if $justcoffee>>She passes me a steaming cup of coffee, the smoke rising from it in thin wisps. I immediately take a sip, I had to hand it to Faye, she could make a delicious cup of coffee.<<else>>I dig in almost immediately, my stomach thanking me for each and every swallow and gulp.<</if>> <<if $cp>>\ “So, how did you all meet?” Faye asks, though her question seems more directed towards Sydero than Chris and me. “Chris and I have been friends since freshmen year,” I begin to answer once Sydero proves that she won’t, “I only met Syd when I helped her to the hospital.” <<else>>\ “So, how did you meet?” Faye asks, though her question seems more directed towards Sydero than me. “I only met Syd when I helped her to the hospital.” <</if>>\ “The first mistake you made,” she says. [[“Just say thank you already.”][$sydero -=3]] [[“Oh right, you’d rather I’d left you there.”][$sydero +=5]] [[“I couldn’t agree more.”][$sydero +=3]]

“You know, this whole ‘I don’t care’ act gets old, just say thank you already so we can move on.” Sydero chuckles lightly, “cute, you think it’s an act.” She worries me sometimes, if not all the time. I stand and grab my dishes, depositing them in the sink. <<include "C3_2">>

“I keep forgetting that you’d rather I’d left you there to bleed out, or whatever was going on with you.” I roll my eyes and grab my dishes, depositing them in the sink. <<include "C3_2">>

“I couldn’t agree more,” I state, standing and grabbing my dishes. I walk to the sink and deposit them. <<include "C3_2">>

Faye stands as well, coming by to collect the dishes and then beginning to wash them. I rub past her, and she recoils from my touch, gasping in shock. <<if $serious >= 50>>“You okay?” I question, finding Sydero sipping her drink like nothing had occurred.<<else>>“Seriously? I swear I took a shower last night,” I say, half-worried and half-playful.<</if>> “I’m fine,” Faye responds, resting a gentle hand on my arm. <<if $uncledead or $chrissafe is false>>\ "You've seen great pain recently, and looking even deeper it has never been easy for you. I'm so sorry for your loss, you have my deepest condolences. This life, it takes, rarely does it ever give," Faye tells me, removing her hand as she stares deep into my eyes. <<else>>\ "Your past says that it has never been easy for you, and I'm sorry to say, but it doesn't get better from here. This life, it takes, rarely does it ever give," Faye tells me, removing her hand as she stares deep into my eyes. <</if>>\ “How did you do that?” “I’m a witch as well. I have the unique talent of being able to see a person’s memories. The longer I touch them, the more I see.” “That’s extraordinary,” I exclaim. “No, it’s a curse. Rarely do I ever see happy memories or something that brings joy. Everyone in this life has lost someone, has seen nothing but hurt. It doesn’t get better, it only stops hurting when you have nothing left to lose. Why would you want this life?” The question is soft, and Faye’s expression tells me that she’s desperately trying to figure out the answer. “You know, I’ve been hearing you guys bring up this ‘life,’ but no one is explaining exactly what it means,” <<if $cp>>Chris points<<else>>I point<</if>> out, gazing between the two in hopes of learning. “When we talk about this life, we mean the life that most mortals end up living when they know about the supernatural,” Faye begins. “Most mortals only end up in this life because they know a hunter or are a hunter.” <<if $cp>>Chris opens his<<else>>I open my<</if>> mouth when Sydero pipes up, answering the unspoken question. “Hunters are anyone who hunt supernatural creatures whether for revenge, the heck of it, or because they think it’s what’s right. Anyone can be a hunter, and most of the folks you meet will be.” Her eyes search mine, “you’ll be a hunter.” “But you aren’t?” I question, noticing that she placed the title on everyone but herself. “You can’t be a hunter when others may seek to hunt you. That, and I don’t do shit for free. I’m what you would call a specialist. Anyone who hunts for money or some other sort of payment is. Most specialists have a select group that they hunt or an interesting way of doing things.” [[“Specialists sound more interesting, and my speed.”][$sydero +=3]] [[“I, for one, am interested in hunting.”][$chris -=3]] [[“Does attempting to live a quiet life ever happen?”][$sydero -=5; $chris +=5]]

“Hmm,” I start, “specialists seem to sound more interesting, and more my speed. I'm not trying to help people out of the kindness of my heart.” “The young and the foolish,” Faye murmurs, but Sydero gives me a nod of approval with a wide smirk. Dare I say she seems almost proud of me? <<include "C3_3">>

“Well,” I start, “I for one am interested in hunting and learning the in’s and out’s.” “The young and the foolish,” Faye murmurs, but Sydero gives me a nod of approval. <<include "C3_3">>

“Does attempting to live a quiet life ever happen?” I can’t quite grasp the thought of no one ever being able to live a simple life. Even Faye seemed slightly okay, despite the interruptions she received from time to time. “It can happen, it’s just rare. There are a handful of people who manage to get out and stay out, who manage to find their happiness,” Faye answers. <<include "C3_3">>

Before I can question Faye further, Sydero clears her throat, rising and walking towards the sink. Faye gives me a sympathetic smile, before returning to her seat. <<if hasVisited("Meet her gaze.")>>\ Before Sydero moves away, she stops at my side. “Next time you feel like drooling on my back, at least try to clean it up. It’s disgusting.” My eyes widen. Whether I actually did what she accused me of or not, it meant that she knew I had broken the pillow wall and gotten close to her, very close. If anything, other than the so-called ‘drool’ bothered her, she didn’t express it. <</if>>\ “Alright, Faye, let’s get started,” Sydero says, leaving before coming back in with her bag from earlier. She brings out two wine bottles, handing them to an expecting Faye. “1995 Pinot Noir, aren’t you a doll, Syd,” Faye grins. She immediately goes to pour herself a glass and once happy, takes a seat, “what do you need then?” “I need your help identifying the man hunting us. As well as something else, something personal.” Both pairs of eyes land on me and I clear my throat awkwardly. “$name,” Faye begins, “I have some car washing liquid and sponges underneath the sink, even a few gallons of gas in the garage. <<if $cp>>How about you and Chris go pay<<else>>How about you go pay<</if>> that car of yours some attention?” Whether I want to disagree or not, it doesn’t seem entirely possible. Faye posed it like a suggestion, but everything else screamed that it was more than that. <<if $cp>>I look to Chris who nods, happy to do something and get his mind off of our most recent events.<</if>> “Fine,” I huff, grabbing the things and heading out. <a data-passage="C3_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I go grab the hose and begin spraying the car. I was happy to be finally able to wash the car, but this was the last thing on my mind. I find myself glancing towards the house numerous of times, wondering what they were talking about. The past few days run through my mind, everything that took place makes its daily rounds. <<if $cp>>\ <<if hasVisited("“Specialists sound more interesting, and my speed.”") or hasVisited("“I, for one, am interested in hunting.”")>>\ “Hey, $name,” Chris begins, I glance towards him to see him leaning on the hood, his eyes studying my face. I suddenly feel as if I was under a microscope, a new species waiting to be discovered. “Were you serious when you said that you were excited about becoming a hunter?” “Uh, yea I was.” Before I can further explain myself, Chris growls and pushes himself off the hood, pacing back and forth. “How can you say that? This isn’t our life. Why do you seem so okay with this?” <<else>>\ “Hey, $name,” Chris begins, I glance towards him to see him leaning on the hood, his eyes studying my face. I suddenly feel as if I was under a microscope, a new species waiting to be discovered. “Do you really want to get away from this? To live some peaceful life like Faye?” “Yea, but you heard her, it's not possible.” "No, she said it's rare. But she did say that some accomplish it." "And what? You think we could? Maybe you can, Chris, but these guys have already shown their want to kill me. Leaving to try and live some simple life, especially not knowing all that I need to know, is suicide." Chris growls and pushes himself off the hood, pacing back and forth. “You don't know that. The further we get in this, the harder it will be to leave, to get away. This isn’t our life. Why do you seem so okay with this?” <</if>>\ [[“Because I’d rather not die.”][$stubborn -=5; $chris -=2]] [[“I’m not okay with this.”][$chris +=3; $stubborn -=3]] [[“We’ve always wanted adventure.”][$chris -=5; $daring +=3]] <<else>>\ I hear the door close and see Sydero approach. I mentally prepare for some sort of insult or jabbing tease, but nothing comes. Instead, she walks up and grabs a sponge from my soapy bucket. “Deep in thought?” she questions. I nod as I continue washing my side of the car. <<include "C3_6">> <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Reasonable ++<</if>> I roll my eyes and look at him quizzically. “Because Chris, not being okay with this means we’ll end up dead. This is survival, and I will do anything I need to to survive. Why did you agree and say you wanted to come along if you were only going to complain?” <<include "C3_5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Reasonable ++<</if>> “Whoa, I never said I was okay with this. But I’m not about to just sit here and wait till something comes along to kill me. Hunting is our way of protecting ourselves, the more we know, the safer we are. Why did you agree and say you wanted to come along if you were just going to complain?” <<include "C3_5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> I sigh, shrugging lightheartedly in hopes of calming him down, “we always said we wanted an adventure, right? Something that will get our blood pumping? Well, this is it.” He doesn’t look convinced, he only seems more upset than before. “Why did you agree and say you wanted to come along if you were just going to complain?” <<include "C3_5">>

“Because I want to live $name,” he snaps back, “some of us still have parents and loved ones that haven’t died yet.” The world seems to slow and then come to a standstill with his words. Neither of us says anything, even more, he doesn’t take his words back. He stutters but in the end, just quiets himself. <<if $uncledead>>\ The image of my uncle’s face comes to mind, the reminder that I would never again be able to hear him laugh or rant about his stupid shows. Knowing that my last family member had died a gruesome and horrible death. Regardless of how Chris meant it, it sounded like he was blaming me. Sydero’s words come back to me, faulting me for my decisions and the consequences that have taken place because of them. My stomach squeezes as my fears come to life, was this truly my fault? <<else>>\ My mind attempted to conjure up the image of my parents, but it has been so long that I have all but forgotten what they looked like. I hardly even remember what they were like, memories with them were rusty and as decrepit as a long-forgotten ruin. But I still had my uncle. Regardless of how Chris meant it, it sounded like he was blaming me. Blaming me for my parent’s death, as if I had a hand in it or somehow could’ve stopped it. <<if $pacifist >= 50>>\ The thought that he could even entertain the idea makes my stomach squeeze, my anger rise. I’m unable to say anything, only because Sydero appears. She immediately reads the atmosphere, glancing between the two of us as Chris pushes past her and goes inside. I mentally prepare for some sort of insult or jabbing tease, but nothing comes. Instead, she walks up and grabs a sponge from the soapy bucket. <<else>>\ The thought that he could even entertain the idea makes my stomach squeeze, my anger rise. On its own accord, my hand moves, and I end up pointing the spray nozzle in his direction, unleashing a torrent of water his way. I don’t ease up until I get my point across, glaring at Chris. Instead of retaliating or even saying anything, he curses under his breath, throws down his rag, and stomps back towards the house, just as Sydero is coming out. She immediately reads the atmosphere, raising an eyebrow as Chris pushes past her and goes inside. Now it was time for me to mentally prepare for some sort of insult or jabbing tease. And despite my preparation, nothing comes. Instead, she walks up and grabs a sponge from the soapy bucket. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ “Trouble in friendship paradise?” she questions, taking up the job that Chris left vacant. I nod as I begin washing my side of the car as well. <a data-passage="C3_6"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Bet you don’t ever have a problem with that huh? Having guilt on your conscience?” She chuckles and shrugs, “you’d be correct. I don’t have friends, I have acquaintances at best. Friends, people you care about, those are weaknesses.” I stop, raising an eyebrow at her and the message she was beginning to preach. It was an old yet interesting trope, the idea that love was either a weakness or a strength. It was obvious what Sydero saw it as. “Do we really have to have this conversation? The which is love, strength or weakness?” She snorts, scrubbing at what I perceive to be a hard to get splotch. After she does get it, she lets out a satisfied huff and looks at me. “There’s no conversation, love and caring for others is a weakness. Sure, there are elements that can give it strength, but at the end of the day, it’ll kill you. There are just too many things that that amount of care opens you up to. Better to keep your distance.” “Is this you trying to convert me?” She puts her sponge back in the bucket and turns to me. “This is me warning you. For every new hunter, ten other hunters die, and it’s always because they were either foolish and did something stupid, or because caring and love got in the way. You want to live? You need to know that at the end of the day, the only one who cares about your life is you.” She takes a second look at the car. “Once you’re done, I have a task that I need your help with.” With that, she leaves, letting me soak in her message and finish up my car. I spray down the car again, allowing the water to clear the remaining soap suds. Love is a weakness, the only one who cares about my life is myself ... [[She has a point.][$optimistic -=3; $sympathy -=3]] [[She was wrong.][$optimistic +=3; $sympathy +=3]] [[It was complicated.]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Pessimistic ++ | Disdain ++<</if>> Despite what I wish to tell myself, she has a point. At the end of the day everyone really only cares about themselves. That’s not saying that people don’t have feelings for others but truly, how many people would give their life for another? Love could be a strength, yes. But most often than not it only brought trouble. <<include "C3_7">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Optimistic ++ | Sympathy ++<</if>> I could see her point, but it was a dangerous mindset and one that wasn’t right in my book. Love wasn’t a weakness. There was indeed cons and pros, but the strengths of love far outweighed the weaknesses. At the end of the day, you’d be surprised at how many people cared about you. How many people weren’t of a selfish mindset and did wish to see you alive and well. <<include "C3_7">>

Sydero had a point, just like someone with a differing opinion would have one. No one was right. Too many factors go into it, and a traumatic event could easily warp one’s perspective on the matter. I don’t know how I feel about it, but I also just started this. I had no choice but to trust Sydero. If she was working selfishly, then there wasn’t much I could do. She was my guide into a world that I knew little to nothing about. <<include "C3_7">>

After I finish washing my car, I go back inside to hear what Sydero has to tell me. Before finding her in the kitchen, I realize that Faye is nowhere to be seen. My mind goes back to whatever they had talked about, a large piece of me wanting to find out. [[Ask Sydero about the talk.][$sydero -=2]] [[Don’t ask Sydero about the talk.][$sydero +=2]]

“So,” I begin, all the different ways that this can go wrong appear in my head, “what did you and Faye find out?" I try to pose the question differently than I initially thought. “Nothing that we don’t already know. She’s upstairs doing more research on our kind kidnapper, she should be back soon and hopefully with news.” <<if $cp>>\ “Kidnapper? You mean the guy who was two seconds away from killing me?” Chris questions. Sydero nods, and he takes a long and deep breath, covering his face in his hands. “Why the hell are we even looking for him? Shouldn’t we be trying to get away from him?” He cuts his eyes towards me, apparently still upset about our argument earlier. I don’t really see why he was the one that was upset, he was the one insinuating that I was some sort of death curse. “We’re not looking for him, smart-ass,” Sydero growls, matching his attitude with one of her own. “We’re learning about him to make sure to avoid him, and if we are found again, how to get away.” <<if $motive is "revenge">>\ “Wait, what? Avoid him? I want to bring this guy down not avoid him.” They both roll their eyes at me. Apparently, I was the only one with enough anger to still want his head on a plate. <<elseif $motive is "survival">>\ “Makes sense, he doesn’t really seem like the type to let someone escape him twice.” My brain attempts to think of what would happen if we run into him again, but I shake my head, no thanks. <<else>>\ “I’m not against hiding, but how is this bringing him to justice?” Chris is unable to answer and Sydero just rolls her eyes at my motive, probably finding it silly. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<include "C3_8">>

I back out, not wanting to question her, especially since I wouldn’t get an answer. She would probably sprout some insult or smart-ass comment, and I would stand here, wishing I could put tape over her mouth. <<include "C3_8">>

“What I wanted to talk about though is another matter. We need to attract the attention of a faerie," Sydero begins, flipping through //The Lore// until she finds a picture of one. She turns the book to us, and I cringe at the sight. <<if $cp>>\ "Aww, you mean like Tinkerbell?" Chris asks before he can see a picture of what his Tinkerbell looks like. "Yea if Tinkerbell was a maniac with razor-sharp teeth and an attitude worse than a wolverine’s." <<if $cp>>Both of us<<else>>I<</if>> frown at her words, "they're not the nicest, fairytales rarely get supernatural creatures right." This faerie had long, lanky arms where three fingers at the end. Their faces were longer than a normal human, and the ears were elven like. They had large evil eyes without an iris, and their legs were bent at the knee. <</if>>\ “Faeries have two different forms, their human size form, and their actual form. This is their actual form, while their human size one actually isn’t that bad. They’re actually quite beautiful and majestic. The tales and stories about finding beautiful naked women roaming through the forest, more than most of the time it’s a faerie.” <<if $cp>>\ “So all that shit I hear about faeries? Completely false?” Chris inquires. “Eh, it’s true they love parties and having fun, but that’s when they’re among their own kind.” <</if>>\ “What do you need me to do exactly? How do we attract their attention?” I ask. “With anything flowery, really. Sparkly things and milk, lavender and apples and pears.” <<if $cp>>\ “Are we attracting their attention by having a tea party ... milk party ... you know what I mean," Chris adds in, if he was serious, I couldn't tell. Sydero doesn't entertain him or his question, her eyes staying on me. <</if>>\ “Sounds easy enough. Why are we looking for faeries?” The room grows silent, a cue that Sydero wasn’t going to answer me. She takes a sip of whatever beverage is in her favorite mug, her eyes lazily reading over the words in front of her. [[“Are we going to do this again?”][$sydero +=3; $stubborn -=2]] [[“Then you can do it yourself.”][$stubborn +=2]] [[“Remember, trust?”][$sydero -=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Reasonable ++<</if>> “Really, are we doing this again? You need me to do something but refuse to answer me?” “Look, I can’t attract them if I wanted to. Supernatural creatures tick them off, I would never be able to catch them.” She doesn’t answer the question, and unlike last time, my threat doesn’t seem like it’s going to prompt the answer I want. <<include "C3_9">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++<</if>> “Fine, then you do it yourself,” I say, shrugging my shoulders. “Look, I can’t attract them if I wanted to. Supernatural creatures tick them off, I would never be able to catch them.” She doesn’t answer the question, and unlike last time, my threat doesn’t seem like it’s going to prompt the answer I want. <<include "C3_9">>

I clear my throat and look at her expectantly, “remember our talk about trust?” “This has nothing to do with trust, you want to learn something that’s personal, and I won’t tell you. I would do this myself, but I can’t. They don’t like supernatural creatures.” <<include "C3_9">>

<<if $cp>>\ “How dangerous is this?” Chris asks. “Not dangerous at all. Just stay silent, as if you were trying to catch a bird.” He nods, despite his dislike of the situation, he doesn’t seem against this. I agree to the plan, and Sydero tells us the best place to find the faeries. She gives us directions along with a glittering bowl, some milk, cut up fruit slices, and lavender scented candles. It all seems simple enough. She hands me a jar, “let them drink all the milk first, once they do, capture and put them in this jar. They should be too slow to escape. Come back when you got one.” I nod and leave with Chris a moment later. <<else>>\ I agree to the plan, and Sydero tells me the best place to find the faeries. She gives me directions along with a glittering bowl, some milk, cut up fruit slices, and lavender scented candles. It all seems simple enough. She hands me a jar, “let them drink all the milk first, once they do, capture and put them in this jar. They should be too slow to escape. Come back when you got one.” I nod and leave a moment later. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="C3_9_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Honeycutt Forest sounds like something out of a children’s storybook. Some forest where all the magical creatures exist and live in peace and understanding of each other and nature. The appearance of the forest didn’t sway far from the name. Knowing that supernatural creatures exist, I wonder if my first storybook thought was that far off. The forest was beautiful and occupying it was a serene feeling. Tall birch trees outline a trail, while oak trees reside further in. The forest was made up of green, golden, and orange tones, each complimenting one another. The white of the birch trees contrasted but only caused the beauty of the forest to pop more. Clutters of dandelions litter the ground, including the trail, reminding me of some mystical pathway towards an unknown destination. <<if $cp>>\ “This is beautiful,” I find myself saying aloud, though I don’t expect Chris to say anything. The entire ride here was silent, and Chris spent most of it glaring at the world on the other side of the window. I fought against my thoughts, but in the end, they won out. Was bringing Chris along really the smartest thing? As far as I’ve seen, it was a horrible mistake. He didn’t want this, not really. I feel like I had just pushed my best friend into the worst, and possibly last, mistake he’s ever made. I continue forward, remembering Sydero’s advice for where to place everything. They were a fan of oak, so setting the trap near an oak tree was wise. I pour the milk and burn the lavender candles, while Chris places the fruit. “We can hide there,” I say, directing his attention to a cluster of nearby bushes. “What fun,” he mumbles. I ignore his tone, and after we finish, I head over. Not five minutes in and Chris speaks on his disgruntlement. “Are we seriously sitting here and entertaining the idea that faeries are real?” “Are we seriously having this discussion again? What do you not understand about the whole supernatural thing?” “A lot, possibly because I’ve never seen one actually. That guy could’ve had a disease that caused his eyes to change, or it could’ve just been how the light had hit them. And his teeth, he could’ve done that, it’s not like he was sane. If those guys were supernatural creatures they wouldn’t have needed a knife.” [[“You’re in denial.”][$stubborn -=2; $chris -=3]] [[“Just one second, can you shut up for that long?”][$sympathy -=3; $chris -=5]] [[“Well, this is the best time to put your theory to the test.”][$chris +=3]] [[Ignore Chris.][$chris -=2]] <<else>>\ “This is beautiful,” I find myself saying aloud, though there were no ears to hear me. I continue forward, remembering Sydero’s advice for where to place everything. They were a fan of oak, so setting the trap near an oak tree was wise. I pour the milk, place the fruit, and light the candles. Once done I retire to a cluster of bushes that rest nearby. The forest grows quiet. Seconds shift to minutes, and I swear that those transition into hours. My patience grows thin just as I hear a fluttering sound. I perk up but freeze when I realize that perking up involves making noise. The shimmering stops and then starts again. As quietly as possible I attempt to resituate myself. I can’t see anything near my trap, but the shimmering continues to go. I move some more, and the noise I create is loud enough to scare the shimmering away. I growl, ready to cuss myself out when the noise comes back. This time it sounds like it’s right on top of me. I turn but see nothing there. I look back towards my untouched trap when suddenly a bright white light flashes and then darkness. <a data-passage="EP3-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Reasonable ++<</if>> “You’re in denial,” I say matter-of-factly. “You’re crazy.” “So I just uprooted my entire life and joined two other people who agree that the supernatural exists? Is that it? And then somewhere got in contact with killers who believe the same thing and hired them to try and kill you? Sounds like you’re the crazy one.” I shush him though before he can say more. Faeries are real, I tell myself. They’re real and Chris would see it, and he’ll shut up finally about the supernatural and the lack thereof. <<include "C3_10">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> “Just one second, can you find the power to shut up for that long?” Chris’s face turns a remarkable shade of red due to anger. I shush him though before he can say more. Faeries are real, I tell myself. They’re real and Chris would see it, and he’ll shut up finally about the supernatural and the lack thereof. <<include "C3_10">>

“Well, guess what,” I start, pointing towards the untouched milk and fruit, “this is the best time to see if your words are true or not.” He grumbles but otherwise quiets down, seeing that I was right. <<include "C3_10">>

I don’t even try to remark. If I did, the conversation would find no ending, and we would go back and forth about the realism of all of this. Sydero said that we needed to be quiet, as if we weren’t there. Discussing this right now was unwise. <<include "C3_10">>

The forest grows quiet. Seconds shift to minutes, and I swear that those transition into hours. My patience grows thin just as I hear a fluttering sound. I perk up but freeze when I realize that perking up involves making noise. The shimmering stops and then starts again. “Do you hear that?” Chris questions quietly. “Yep.” As quietly as possible I attempt to resituate myself. I can’t see anything near our trap, but the shimmering continues. “It’s getting louder,” Chris says, moving around. The noise he creates is loud enough to scare the shimmering away, and we once again sit in silence. I growl, ready to throw all of my anger his way when it starts again. This time it sounds like it’s right on top of us. I turn but see nothing there. “You see anything?” I question Chris, but he shakes his head. We look back towards our untouched trap when suddenly a bright white light flashes and then darkness. <a data-passage="EP3-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/acttwo.png"> ''Back at Faye's place ...'' Sydero lets out a loud and extensive yawn as her eyes skip from one word to the other. She couldn’t recall the last time she has had to actually research something. This being due to knowing far too much, survival required such knowledge. She glances at her almost empty mug, barely a spit of alcohol was left there. She usually wasn’t a drinker, but since meeting Roe, has acquired a taste for the stuff, that, and she always found that it helped her focus more. “Well, I got nothing,” Faye says suddenly, walking into the kitchen. She lazily pours herself another glass of wine before collapsing into the seat. She takes a long sip of it, almost drinking all that she has poured. “We’re getting nowhere with this,” Sydero points out, turning the page of one book. <<if $cp>>\ “I didn’t come down here with all bad news. You said Chris has seen the guy, right? It’ll take a lot of focus, but maybe I can touch Chris and try to get some kind of sense for him. Maybe even learn something that Chris might’ve not thought was important.” Faye gazes around, just now noticing the lack of people around. “Where are they?” “I sent them faerie hunting.” The color drains from Faye’s face, and despite being mid-sip, her throat goes dry. “Syd, please tell me you didn’t use them as faerie bait?” “What’s the big deal. I sent them with milk, one of your weird and ugly glittering bowls, some lavender candles, and fruit. There’s no way they won’t catch one.” “Correct me if I’m wrong, but aren’t they both firstborn?” Sydero waves Faye’s worry away, again glancing at her empty mug, void of alcohol. Maybe it was the fact that she had to deal with people period that had Sydero craving the tingle that alcohol provides. “I already know about the whole firstborn and faerie thing, especially firstborn males. It’ll bring them in faster.” <<else>>\ “I didn’t come down here with all bad news. You said $name has seen the guy, right? It’ll take a lot of focus, but maybe I can touch $name and try to get some kind of sense for him. Maybe even learn something that $name might’ve not thought was important.” Faye gazes around, just now noticing the lack of another around. “Where is ?he?” “I sent ?him faerie hunting.” The color drains from Faye’s face, and despite being mid-sip, her throat goes dry. “Syd, please tell me you didn’t use ?him as faerie bait?” “What’s the big deal. I sent ?him with milk, one of your weird and ugly glittering bowls, some lavender candles, and fruit. There’s no way ?he won’t catch one.” “Correct me if I’m wrong, but isn’t ?he a firstborn?” <<if $gender is "male">>\ Sydero waves Faye’s worry away, again glancing at her empty mug, void of alcohol. Maybe it was the fact that she had to deal with people period that had Sydero craving the tingle that alcohol provides. “I already know about the whole firstborn and faerie thing, especially firstborn males. It’ll bring them in faster.” <<elseif $gender is "nonbinary">>\ Sydero waves Faye’s worry away, again glancing at her empty mug, void of alcohol. Maybe it was the fact that she had to deal with people period that had Sydero craving the tingle that alcohol provides. “I already know about the whole firstborn and faerie thing.” “Which gender is $name though?” <<if $SRomance >=1>>\ “Roe is non-binary from what I figured out. Didn’t really think it was respectful to ask what’s in their pants ... though I can’t say I’m not curious for other reasons,” Sydero snorts with a wicked smile. <<else>>\ “Roe is non-binary from what I figured out. Didn’t really think it was respectful to ask what’s in their pants,” Sydero states and shrugs afterward, “either way, a faerie will come.” <</if>>\ <<else>>\ Sydero waves Faye’s worry away, again glancing at her empty mug, void of alcohol. Maybe it was the fact that she had to deal with people period that had Sydero craving the tingle that alcohol provides. “I already know about the whole firstborn and faerie thing.” “But $name is female though?” “Great observation skills Faye, I know,” Sydero states and shrugs afterward, “either way, a faerie will come.” <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <a data-passage="C4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Faye shakes her head, shooting up and walking over to the wine bottle to take a long swig. “Sydero, that forest isn’t some random forest filled with lackadaisical faeries.” “Careful not to choke on these big words of yours.” “Syd! That forest is rumored to harbor Queen Titania and her followers.” Sydero’s eyes widen at the words, realization hitting her. “That would’ve been important information, Faye!” “I would’ve told you if I knew what you were planning.” “Fuck! <<if $cp>>They’re lucky I need those faeries, and we need Chris<<else>>Roe’s lucky I need those faeries, and we need ?him<</if>> to figure out who this man is.” Faye raises a brow. She wanted to question Sydero but felt it would be no use. Of course, Sydero would care more for her personal reasons than actually saving <<if $cp>>two lives<<else>>a life<</if>>. Faye actually would be more shocked if it was the other way around. The Sydero she knew would never place her life on the line for anyone, well there was an exception to that. But Faye made sure she never brought it up, it was always a touchy conversation with the woman. Faye grabs her keys, fighting herself not to get a second gulp of wine. She would probably finish the rest of the bottle by the end of the night. The two of them rush out of the house, hopefully in time to reach $name<<if $cp>> and Chris<</if>>. <a data-passage="C4_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> My eyes open to another section of the forest. A large oak tree rests in the middle of an otherwise large clearing. There are a few flowers around it but other than that, nothing. The size of the oak tree makes me ponder why they didn’t just call the forest Oak Forest or something, I suppose there was a lack of creativity to that. I attempt to move but can’t move any muscle. I felt as if everything was numb but in a relaxed way. It was hard to explain, but I felt as if I was at a spa and the masseuse had done such a good job that I didn’t have feeling anywhere. I can still speak and blink, my head can still turn, so it was just everything below the neck like I thought. <<if $cp>>\ “Chris, you awake?” I question, and he grunts from the other side of the tree we were tied up near. “Please tell me you can move.” “Nope. I can’t move anything besides my head. Do you see anything on your side?” “Nothing but trees and more trees. Oh, and a squirrel.” I roll my eyes but still hear his next words. “Are we going to die here?” “We don’t even know what’s going on.” <<if $supernatural is 0>>\ “Shit,” I hear him say, registering the fear in his voice. I had to agree, I don’t know what we were up against and therefore couldn’t think of any way out. I hear slight shimmering and call out to it. But nothing appears, and the shimmering grows. Perhaps faeries were behind this? [[“Chris, we’re going to be okay.”][$optimistic +=3; $nerve +=2]] [[“Do you hear the shimmering again?”]] [[“Stop freaking out before I do too.”][$sympathy -=2; $nerve -=2]] <<else>>\ “Shit,” I hear him say, registering the fear in his voice. I attempt to try and think about what I knew so far. I remember reading about faeries, if only for a brief second. I remember learning about what they looked like and what they liked. And that they were invisible unless you believed. It was silly, a Peter Pan lesson about believing in pixie dust. But perhaps there was some truth to it. Sydero did say that all fairytales had a bit of truth to them. I sit and focus, wondering exactly how I should go about this. [[Keep telling myself they’re real.][$stubborn +=3]] [[Use logic and come to terms with it.][$stubborn -=3]] <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $supernatural is 0>>\ “Crap,” I mumble. I don’t know what I’m up against and therefore couldn’t think of any way out. I hear slight shimmering and call out to it. But nothing appears, and the shimmering grows. Perhaps faeries were behind this? [[Calm down.][$optimistic +=3; $nerve +=2]] [[Panic.][$optimistic -=3; $nerve -=2]] [[Think about something else.]] <<else>>\ I attempt to try and think about what I knew so far. I remember reading about faeries, if only for a brief second. I remember learning about what they looked like and what they liked. And that they were invisible unless you believed. It was silly, a Peter Pan lesson about believing in pixie dust. But perhaps there was some truth to it. Sydero did say that all fairytales had a bit of truth to it, only because even the tamest of stories held true origins. I sit and focus, wondering exactly how I should go about this. [[Keep telling myself they’re real.][$stubborn +=3]] [[Use logic and come to terms with it.][$stubborn -=3]] <</if>>\ <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Optimistic ++<</if>> “Relax, Chris, we’re going to be okay. I’m sure Sydero will come to find us.” “Seriously? You’re putting your trust in her? Half the time she seems ready to dump us on the side of the road and take off. Nope, we’re definitely dead if that’s what we’re hoping for.” <<include "Somewhere in Honeycutt Forest ...">>

“Hey Chris, do you hear the shimmering again?” “Yea, I hear a lot of it. Like multiple people are causing it.” “Think that’s the faeries?” “$name,” he stresses in irritation, and I ignore him. What else would it be! <<include "Somewhere in Honeycutt Forest ...">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> “Can you stop freaking out before I freak out too? Two of us freaking out will get us nowhere.” I half expect him to disagree and continue, but he quiets down, grumbling low enough for me not to be able to hear what he’s saying. <<include "Somewhere in Honeycutt Forest ...">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++<</if>> “Faeries are real, faeries are real,” I repeatedly say, whispering it to myself. They say that if you tell yourself something exists enough, you’ll believe it. With everything else I’ve seen, I can’t see why not. <<include "C4_1_1">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Reasonable ++<</if>> With all the crap I’ve seen, why wouldn’t faeries be real? Also, why would Sydero send me here if they weren’t real? I can’t really see Sydero sending me out to do something that was pointless. If they weren’t real, then why were we tied up? Why not believe? Especially if it could lead me to freedom? <<include "C4_1_1">>

<<if $cp>>\ I take a deep breath and open my eyes. My vision is fuzzy, as if the entire forest was now blurry. But it begins to clear up, and I start to see figures appearing. Some are small with glowing bodies, while others are actually walking around, human-sized. Small houses rest all around me, a larger one was built into the oak tree. My heart picks up as I stare at the faeries go about their business, there were so many of them. “Hey, Chris?” “What?” <<if $optimistic >= 50>>\ “I can see them.” <<else>>\ “We just might be screwed.” <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I take a deep breath and open my eyes. My vision is fuzzy, as if the entire forest was now blurry. But it begins to clear up, and I start to see figures appearing. Some are small with glowing bodes, while others are actually walking around, human-sized. Small houses rest all around me, a larger one was built into the oak tree. My heart picks up as I stare at the faeries go about their business, there were so many of them. <<if $optimistic >= 50>>\ I can see them. <<else>>\ I just might be screwed. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<include "Somewhere in Honeycutt Forest ...">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Optimistic ++<</if>> I calm down, focusing on the calming elements that rest before me. Yes, I was tied up and couldn’t feel my body, but that didn’t take away from the beauty that this forest held. I need to remain calm to get out of this. Panicking will do no good. <<include "Somewhere in Honeycutt Forest ...">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pessimistic ++<</if>> I try to stay calm, but I can’t help it. I was numb and couldn’t move due to some unknown force. This forest was big, so relying on Sydero was a stretch. She kept saying that death could come quickly, but I didn’t think it would be this soon. This was probably my fifth panic attack in a week. And the way my week was going, if I lived, I would have plenty more. <<include "Somewhere in Honeycutt Forest ...">>

I think about something else, but that just gives my brain permission to bring up all the horrible things that have happened. I decide to just study the grass instead. <<include "Somewhere in Honeycutt Forest ...">>

<img src="images/divider.png"> ''Somewhere in Honeycutt Forest ...'' <<if $cp>>\ “$name? Chris?” Faye calls out, pausing to see if she would get a reply. Her response was a bird chirping and what she presumed were two squirrels fighting. She begins to shout again when she looks over at Sydero, who casually glances around. She reminded her of a kid who had never been in a forest before. “Do you think you want to help with finding them?” <<else>>\ “$name?” Faye calls out, pausing to see if she would get a reply. Her response was a bird chirping and what she presumed were two squirrels fighting. She begins to shout again when she looks over at Sydero, who casually glances around. She reminded her of a kid who had never been in a forest before. “Do you think you want to help find ?him?” <</if>>\ Sydero approaches a rock, flipping it over with her foot, “no Roe here.” “You’re unbelievable, you know that?” Sydero chose not to answer, believing it would be better not to put Faye on her lecture rant. Instead, she continues to look around, smelling lavender in the air. She follows her nose to an oak tree where an empty bowl sits and half-eaten fruit. Faye walks to the candles, licking her fingers before extinguishing the small flames. <a data-passage="C4_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Do you hear that?” she asks, hearing the twinkling that flows on the breeze. “You?” “No, the shimmering. A faerie?” The two grow quiet, and once again the sound appears. It was rhythmic, as if belonging to a sleeping creature. Sydero is the first to move, following her ears to the noise and finding the culprit. A female faerie lays there, appearing almost drunk due to her sleeping position, and the fact that she hadn’t moved too far away. “Faye, go get a jar.” “Syd, we have bigger issues right now.” Sydero turns, daring Faye’s next actions. She stayed where she was before caving in. Faye always told herself that she shouldn’t ever get attached to people, it was all too easy for them to end up dead the next day. Sydero watches as she goes, slowly stepping away from the bush and faerie while she waited. Suddenly, a loud shout carries itself through the forest, upsetting the peaceful aura that the forest was known for. Sydero casually rolls her eyes, that was definitely Roe. <<if $SRomance >=1>>\ A smirk appears, as she wonders if that’s what ?he would sound like in bed. She would have to tease ?him with the idea later. <</if>>\ Consequently, the shout awoke the faerie, and Faye still wasn’t back. Sydero gazes around for anything that could hold it when suddenly it flies out, screeching to a halt upon seeing her. Realization hits it, and it turns to fly off, freezing and then slamming to the ground. Sydero clenches her fist tighter as the creature wheezes, desperately trying to free itself from whatever was happening. “Shut up,” she growls, feeling her body grow weaker. Faye sprints back, her eyes nervously moving to a sweating Sydero and then to a panicked faerie. She quickly scoops the faerie up and secures the top. Sydero releases her fist, trudging over to a tree after taking the jar with the furious faerie in her arms. “Also, Roe is that way. I heard ?him scream,” she told her antsy companion. “Are you sure you’re going to make it?” Sydero growls in warning, waving the worry away, “let’s go then.” Faye takes off, leaving Sydero who hasn’t yet moved. Her head gently hits the trunk of the tree, the world spinning a tad bit to fast for her. But she needed to go. With all of her remaining energy, she walked in the direction Faye ran off. <a data-passage="C4_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> <<if $supernatural is 0>>\ I watch with concern as groups of beautiful white and pink flowers are placed around me by an invisible force. And then, what looks to be shiny blackberries are placed on top of them. I knew what blackberries looked like, and these were much too big and much to shiny to be that. I hear sonorous shimmering before it drifts away. <<if $cp>>\ “This is some real creepy shit. I swear I’m high,” Chris says. There was no way he wasn’t a believer now. Whether these were faeries or not, something supernatural was definitely going on. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I watch with concern as the faeries place groups of beautiful white and pink flowers around me, and then delicately place what looks to be shiny blackberries on top of them. I knew what blackberries looked like, and these were much too big and much too shiny to be that. The two faeries glance up at me and then giggle like little children, prancing off. <<if $cp>>\ “Hey, $name, what are you seeing?” I roll my eyes at his question. If he only would listen to me, then he wouldn’t need to ask me that every two seconds. “What about you start believing,” I say back. “Whatever, Peter Pan, I already tried.” “Try harder.” <</if>>\ <</if>>\ Suddenly, from my left side, I hear someone approach. I stiffen, my eyes scanning the area when I hear someone psst at me. <<if $cp>>\ “You heard that, right?” I ask Chris who huffs as his way of saying yes. "$name? Chris? Are you two okay?" I hear Faye whisper from the bush. Relief floods over me when I realize it’s her. So, they did come after us, I had begun to doubt them. <<if $supernatural is 0>>\ "Sure, getting tied up by some invisible force is everyone's dream, right?" I question sarcastically. "You mean you can't see the faeries? You still don't believe?" "Seriously?" Chris barks in annoyance, "to see Tinkerbell we have to believe!" “You guys didn’t realize that?” she questions, and though I can’t see Chris’s face, I’m pretty sure we’re both staring at her unamused. <<else>>\ "Sure, getting tied up by some invisible force is everyone's dream, right?" Chris questions sarcastically. "You mean you can't see the faeries? You still don't believe?" “I believe,” I correct her, “and I see them. But Chris still has issues.” "Tinkerbell doesn’t exist," he states stubbornly. “One of these days you’re going to have to face the truth,” I tell him. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ "$name? Are you okay?" I hear Faye call out. Relief floods over me when I realize it’s her. So, they did come after me, I had begun to doubt them. <<if $supernatural is 0>>\ "Sure, getting tied up by some invisible force is everyone's dream, right?" I question sarcastically. "You mean you can't see the faeries? You still don't believe?" "Seriously?" I bark in annoyance, "to see Tinkerbell I have to believe!" “You didn’t realize that?” she questions, and I stare back at her unamused. <<else>>\ "Sure, getting tied up by faeries is everyone's dream, right?" I question sarcastically. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <a data-passage="C4_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

She creeps closer to me, sorting through the plants and then at the ropes that bind me. “I’ll have you –,” she begins to say before her body is launched into the air. She lands on a low hanging branch, and she struggles to move but fails. <<if $supernatural is 0>>\ I hear the sound of shimmering and I close my eyes. I need to start believing, or there was no way I was getting out of this. It wasn’t hard to become a believer. When I reopen my eyes, everything is blurry. The forest is the first to straighten up, but I begin to see figures. The longer I look at them, the more they materialize until I see a large crowd of faeries. Some were in their actual form, flying about. While others were human size, and like Sydero had said, all gorgeous and ethereal appearing. Not just that, but the clearing wasn't so clear anymore. Bright huts of varying sizes litter the clearing, an impressive town. Bridges going from one tree to another rest overhead, and I even see a town square closer to the oak tree. <<else>>\ The faeries gather around, laughing up at her. <</if>>\ <<if $cp>>\ “Aw shit, I see them. Aw shit, aw shit,” Chris states, repeating it again and again. “Let me down!” Faye shouts and the faeries laugh at this. One of them approaches me, her delicate hand taking my chin harshly into her grip. <</if>>\ <<if $supernatural is 0>>\ “It’s about time you see us. Ignorance is bliss, huh? Consider yourself lucky, mortals rarely ever look upon us,” a female faerie points out. <<else>>\ “Your choice cutie, your friend first or you?” “For what?” She doesn’t answer, she just laughs and retreats away from me. <</if>>\ “So, why can’t I move?” I question, and another woman speaks up. Actually, they were all women, I couldn’t see one man among them. <<if $flirt_Syd>>\ On any other day, this would be paradise for me. So many beautiful women in one place. But that paradise lacked the part where they kidnap me for anything less than a good time. <<if $cp>>\ “This would be such a nice thing if they weren’t planning something horrible,” Chris complains, putting my thoughts into words. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ “We charmed you, can’t have you getting away,” one giggles. They all had a case of the giggles, I suspect. “Stop teasing them,” I hear a booming voice announce. The entire area quiets down, the forest along with it. I spot a bright glowing orb make its way down a wide trail. As it gets closer, each faerie takes a knee, bowing their head in respect. Suddenly the bright glow seems to explode, leaving bright colored dust to fall around the woman who now stands there. <a data-passage="C4_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Faerie queen was written all over her. She had long blonde hair that reached the ground, brightly colored flowers resting randomly amongst it. Her eyes were a bright blue and each time she opened her mouth, it was like nature took a deep, relieved breath. But the thing that drew my eye mostly was her nude body. Besides a thick white veil, nothing else covered her, and her body was on display for all of us to see. Her tan skin glimmered under the sun, as if someone had poured just the right amount of golden glitter all over her. <<if $cp>>\ I hear Chris let out a long appreciating whistle and I wish I were near him, if only to kick him. <</if>>\ “Queen Titania,” I hear Faye whisper in fear from overhead. At the mention of her name, her eyes turn to us, and she makes her way over. Beautiful wildflowers appear where she steps, and if she happens to step on dirt, grass immediately appears to cushion her step instead. This entire forest treasured and loved this woman. “Indeed. I am Titania, Queen of the faeries.” Her words felt like whispers upon the skin, a soft and much-needed wind on an otherwise scorching hot day. I shiver, part of me wishing for her to say something else. “What are your names?” [[Tell her my name.]] [[Keep quiet about it.]]

<<if $cp>>\ “$name,” I tell her, hoping to stay on her good side. Her eyes move to Faye, and she answers as well, finally to Chris who seems far too ready to say his name, even more than me. “Welcome, $name, Faye, and Chris to today’s ritual. You are our esteemed guests. And unless you have someone else, we shall start now.” Faye is lifted from the tree by one of the only male faeries I’ve seen thus far and is placed right next to me. <<else>>\ “$name,” I tell her, hoping to stay on her good side. Her eyes move to Faye, and she answers as well. “Welcome, $name and Faye to today’s ritual. You are our esteemed guests. And unless you have someone else, we shall start now.” Faye is lifted from the tree by one of the only male faeries I’ve seen thus far and is placed right next to me. <</if>>\ <<include "C4_6">>

<<if $cp>>\ I keep quiet, whatever this was, I wanted no part of it. She stares at me first, and my mouth moves on its own accord, “$name.” Her eyes move to Faye, and she answers as well, finally to Chris who seems far too ready to say his name. “Welcome, $name, Faye, and Chris to today’s ritual. You are our esteemed guests. And unless you have someone else, we shall start now.” Faye is lifted from the tree by one of the only male faeries I’ve seen thus far and is placed right next to me. <<else>>\ I keep quiet, whatever this was, I wanted no part of it. She stares at me first, and my mouth moves on its own accord, “$name.” Her eyes move to Faye, and she answers as well. “Welcome, $name and Faye to today’s ritual. You are our esteemed guests. And unless you have someone else, we shall start now.” Faye is lifted from the tree by one of the only male faeries I’ve seen thus far and is placed right next to me. <</if>>\ <<include "C4_6">>

“Where’s Syd?” I question, hoping no one heard me. Faye shrugs her shoulders, obviously not knowing where she was and fearing that she had run off. [[“We have one more person.”]] [[“What is this ritual exactly?”]] [[Stay quiet.|Quiet1]]

“Um,” I suddenly blurt out, “we have one more person.” Faye gives me a confused glare, but I had my reasons for outing Sydero. We needed to buy ourselves time, and they didn’t know where Sydero was either. This way, they would halt the ritual until later. “We can still begin now,” Queen Titania chuckles, turning around to direct her faeries. Well, that plan failed. <<include "C4_7">>

“Um, excuse me, your royal faerie highness,” I begin, not exactly knowing what to call her, “what does this ritual entail exactly?” “A ritual to replenish our forests and our magic,” her eyes narrow on me with glee, “a ritual that calls for sacrifices.” <<if $cp>>\ “Of course, those are the best kinds,” I hear Chris say. He says so in a joking manner, but every word was spoken in pure fear. <</if>>\ “Faeries get their magic from mortals?” Faye asks next. “Those of us who live here get our energy from your souls; any soul would do, but humans have a certain ... purity to theirs. We find that it gives us the most energy.<<if $cp is false>> Still, you'll do.<</if>>” <<include "C4_7">>

I don’t say anything, not wanting to be made into a target. Instead, Faye is the one who questions the ritual and its purpose. “A ritual to replenish our forests and our magic,” her eyes narrow on me with glee, “a ritual that calls for sacrifices.” <<if $cp>>\ “Of course, those are the best kinds,” I hear Chris say. He says so in a joking manner, but every word was spoken in pure fear. <</if>>\ “Faeries get their magic from mortals?” Faye asks next. “Those of us who live here get our energy from your souls; any soul would do, but humans have a certain ... purity to theirs. We find that it gives us the most energy.<<if $cp is false>> Still, you'll both do.<</if>>” <<include "C4_7">>

The faeries leave us, going about their tasks to prepare for this so-called ritual. “And you said you have no idea where Syd is?” I question again, trying to fidget in my bonds but I still had no feeling in my body. “Last I saw her she was ...” Faye trails off, her face falling as whatever she says catches up to her. “What? You last saw her what?” “She was out of it, almost out of energy. She was leaning on a tree and I ... I didn’t know if she was going to make it.” I nod, realizing what this meant. Sydero might have passed out somewhere, and we were about to be sacrificed for a forest. My mind goes back to the beauty that the forest held, and I wonder how many souls it took for it to get there. I think about all forests and if this is why some forests burn, while others see centuries of life. How much did the supernatural world affect our world, the world that knew little to nothing of the supernatural? <a data-passage="C4_8"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp is false>>\ I watch as a faerie puts down the last flower and approaches the queen. After performing a dainty bow, she springs back up happily. “We are done, my queen. We can begin.” Titania smiles and her eyes travel to rest on us. <<else>>\ “Hey, $name,” I hear Chris say quietly. “What?” “What I said earlier, I’m sorry. I made it seem like your parent’s<<if $uncledead>> and uncle’s<</if>> death was all your fault. I know it’s not, I know you didn’t ask for this. I’m just scared. I’m scared that I’ll never see my parents again and that they’ll think something bad happened. It’s not easy, tossing your life away, everything you ever worked for.” “You don’t think I know that, Chris? I’ve had to do it too,” I remind him. “You’re right. I guess I just got mad because I’m freaking out, yet you seem so calm, even if you aren’t. I don’t blame you. This is my fault, I kept pushing you, and I put myself in this. I know, I’m just trying to say sorry.” <<if $nerve < 30>>\ “Would you shut up! Stop speaking like we’re about to die before you make me have another panic attack. I swear my heart is too weak for this.” <<else>>\ “This really isn’t the time, Chris, keep it together and tell me this later.” <</if>>\ I’m unable to say more as I watch a faerie put down the last flower and approach the queen. She performs a dainty bow before springing back up happily. “We are done, my queen. We can begin.” Titania smiles and her eyes move to rest on us. <</if>>\ “That one,” she says, pointing at me, “?he goes first.” <a data-passage="EP3-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/actthree.png"> “Hold on,” I screech, moving my head from side to side since my body still refused to respond. //Taken out by faeries// was not something I wanted engraved on my tombstone. “Faye, help! Do something,” I shout to her as if she could actually aid me at the time. The wild look that Faye gives me proves that there wasn’t anything she could do. She thrusts from side to side in her own bounds, each thrust yielding nothing. The faeries drag me over to the flowers that they had arranged like a bed. Others begin to beat drums and play flutes, their song was merry and in my own personal opinion, not a wise one to play. In Titania’s hands rests a blade with thorny vines wrapped around it. If only I had my own blade, perhaps it would be wise to keep it on my person if I do get out of this. They stop me at the bed, Titania raising her hands to cease all talking and noise. The entire air seems to stand still at her command. “Today,” she calls out, even I rest on edge, curious to hear her next words, “we renew our forests and our spirits. Today we cleanse ourselves and start anew. Begin the –” The silence is interrupted by the sound of someone clapping. I turn my head as much as I can, getting a glimpse of Sydero on the clearing’s outskirts. Tucked safely in the crook of her arm is a jar with a faerie inside. And I’m not the only one who takes notice. “Sister,” Titania says, her eyes practically popping out of her head as she looks at Sydero in pure hatred, “you dare trap my kind in such manner?” Sydero looks down at the jar with a puzzled expression, “well, yea.” “Let her go,” she orders and each faerie takes a threatening step towards her. <<if $cp>>\ “You first. I want all three of them, for her.” <<else>>\ “You first. I want both of them, for her.” <</if>>\ Titania takes a step closer to me, raising that blade of hers to my neck. [[“Uh, can you move that away?”][$serious -=5]] [[“Maybe try being nice, Syd.”][$serious +=5]] [[“Is this really necessary?”][$serious +=5]] [[“There’s no way I’m surviving this.”][$serious -=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Comical ++<</if>> “Uh, can you maybe move that away from my neck?” Titania looks at me, confused how one minute I was on the path to peeing myself, and now I have suddenly found my voice. A moment ago, I thought I was doomed, Sydero’s appearance has since changed my mind. <<include "C5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Serious ++<</if>> “Maybe try being nice for a change, Syd,” I suggest, and she rolls her eyes, as if a blade wasn’t being held to my neck. “This //is// me being nice.” “Your manners are atrocious then,” Titania states. <<include "C5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Serious ++<</if>> “Is all this really necessary? The blade I mean?” I question Titania who looks at me in confusion. One minute I was on the path to peeing myself, and now I have suddenly found my voice. A moment ago, I thought I was doomed, Sydero’s appearance has since changed my mind. <<include "C5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Comical ++<</if>> “Oh geez, you’re negotiating? There’s no way I’m surviving this,” I mumble in defeat. “Have faith, Roe. I happen to be a great negotiator,” Syd answers, placing her eyes back on the queen. <<include "C5">>

“So, what will it be?” “You ask me to give the souls of <<if $cp>>three<<else>>two<</if>>, for the life of one?” “Not just anyone, your sister, your kind. But if it’s no deal then I can’t blame you, I’ll just take her with me,” Sydero turns around, and before she can even take a step, Titania orders her to stop. She gives Sydero a skeptical look, smirking afterward. “Or perhaps I’ll take you all? Though I can’t find much use for you,” Titania drifts off, looking Sydero over before her eyes widen. Whether it was due to whatever she was about to say, or because Sydero begins to violently shake the jar up and down, I don’t know. The faerie inside jostles up and down violently. Each time she makes contact with the top or bottom of the jar, a quick thump is heard. “All of these suggestions are great. But I’m only looking for a yes to one.” “Stop. Stop hurting her.” “Wait, this hurts her? See, I was trying to figure out ways to do that, all I came up with is this.” Sydero moves the jar from side to side quickly, the faerie violently slapping each side of the container. She falls to the ground, appearing weak and injured. “Stop, and I’ll give you your friends.” Sydero taps the side of her chin with her free hand, throwing the jar up and down with her free one. “Deal.” “After you let our fellow sister go.” Sydero chuckles, “that’s not how this works. Let them go, and you can get your darling little faerie back. Oh, and make sure to uncharm them, it’s rude to return something in a broken state when that’s not how it came.” Titania snaps her fingers, and I can feel my body. [[Give Titania half of my mind.][$sydero +=5; $pacifist +=5; $charisma +=2; $nerve +=3]] [[Slap the queen.][$sydero +=5; $pacifist -=5; $combat +=2; $nerve +=3; $slapthequeen to true]] [[Sprint towards Sydero.][$daring -=3; $nerve -=3]] [[Take my time.][$daring +=3; $perception +=2]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> I pull off the binds before turning towards Titania. “You are a horrible host, and this entire party, trash. I’ve seen fifth-grade birthday parties with more decorum than you. Put some damn clothes on too, and pick up your glittery crap that keeps falling everywhere.” I can feel her eyes glaring at me as I walk off, continuing to rant about my time here in the Honeycutt Forest. “Got that all out of your system?” Sydero asks with a wide smirk, and I nod. <<include "C5_1">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> Firstly, when was I ever going to have this much power, and a chance this golden? Secondly, she deserves it, trying to sacrifice me for some ritual. I admire the forests as much as the next, but not enough to give my soul to it. I shake my hands out and then turn to Queen Titania, swiftly slapping her clean across the face. The faeries gasp and growl as they turn their ire to me, but Sydero reminds them how vital one life is. I quickly walk to Sydero’s side, feeling the glare of the queen the entire time. “Got that all out of your system?” Sydero asks with a wide smirk, and I nod. <<include "C5_1">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> As soon as I get feeling, I take off towards Sydero, still bound. Only when I feel like I’m entirely free do I begin to work my way free, sighing heavily. <<include "C5_1">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> I slowly free myself from the bounds, glaring at Titania the entire time. Once completely free, I mosey my way over towards Sydero, taking my precious time as if these creatures couldn’t kill me still. <<include "C5_1">>

Once we are all by her side, Titania clears her throat, “be truthful to your word.” “Of course,” Sydero smirks and flings the jar towards Titania who barely catches it. She begins to release the faerie, but that’s all I’m able to see before I’m being dragged away. “Do not let them escape,” I hear the Queen of the Forest scream behind us, each of us pick up our pace as we go. I run behind Sydero, following her closely since she and Faye would know which way to go, hopefully. Suddenly I spot large white clumps, scattered all across the ground. [[Ask what it is.][$perception +=2; $daring +=3]] [[Keep going.][$daring -=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> I slow down just enough to gather my breath and ask what the white stuff is. “It’s salt, now come on,” Sydero growls, pulling me behind her. “Why salt?” “Faeries and some other creatures have some weird obsession with it. They can’t help but count each individual piece when they find it.” “Smart,” I hear Faye yell back at her. <<include "C5_2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> There was no way I was going to stop, I didn’t care enough and I sure as hell wasn’t about to risk my life for some mysterious white stuff. I keep going, telling myself that I’ll ask later. I just want to be out of this forest. <<include "C5_2">>

Once we all get to the cars, <<if $cp>>Chris is the first inside<<else>>I’m the first inside<</if>>, crumpling onto the backseat in exhaustion. “You mind driving?” I ask Sydero, tossing her the keys, “I have a headache.” Once on the road, I take a few deep breaths, thinking back on the day. I was just happy I survived. One question bugs me though, and even though I was going to allow this ride to be silent, I wish to ask it. “You said humans choose this type of lifestyle, why? Seems like everything can kill and take advantage of us, and we can’t do anything.” <<if $cp>>I see Chris perk up, interested in the answer too.<</if>> Sydero is silent the first few minutes, if I had a shorter attention span, then I would no longer care. Finally, she turns to look at me, “I ask myself the same question. Why?” She places her eyes back on the road and continues to follow behind Faye. When we get back to Faye’s place, I immediately head towards the shower, savoring the hot water as it strikes my skin. For the first time in a long time, my mind is blank. Even as I try to think of things, I fail. My mind refuses to do anything but relax, to wash away the day, the week. Once the shower comes to an end, I go to the mirror, taking a look at my reflection. [[I didn’t recognize the person staring back.]] [[I recognized them, and that was the problem.]]

I’ve seen so much, been through so much, the person who stares back at me was no longer me. They were someone else entirely, someone who looked like me but wasn’t. This person held darker eyes, their previous $eyes eyes were sunken and had dark lines among the creases and folds. <<include "C5_3">>

I’ve seen too much, been through too much, for the person to be recognizable. I rather stare back at someone completely different. Someone who was just as bewildered as I was. <<include "C5_3">>

<<if $hairlength is "bald">>\ I run my hands over my head. After a while, I was no longer staring at my lack of hair. I was staring at me. Staring at who I was becoming, and who I still have yet to become. This was only the beginning, Sydero had told me that this morning. <<else>>\ I run my hands through my $haircolor hair. After a while, I was no longer staring at my hair. I was staring at me. Staring at who I was becoming, and who I still have yet to become. This was only the beginning, Sydero had told me that this morning. <</if>>\ I would miss this. Knowing Sydero, we would be back living in abandoned homes and trying to figure out what to eat in no time. The thought makes me cringe, maybe I should start persuading her on the idea of motels. <<if $cp>>\ I open the door, running straight into Chris who’s standing on the other side. We stare at one another. I fail to say anything because I had nothing to say, while Chris seems like he had everything to say. “Can we talk?” he finally asks, I shrug, “look, that stuff I said earlier ...” “You already apologized, remember?” “Yea no, that was horrible, and I did the stupid thing and said it when I thought I was going to die. But you’re right, this entire time I’ve been bitching about how none of this is fair, and how I wish we could go back to normal. It won’t happen, and I know why. I just wanted to say sorry for pretty much the entire day.” [[“Apology accepted.”][$chris +=3; $sympathy +=3]] [[“Well, that’s nice.”][$chris -=3; $sympathy -=3]] <<else>>\ I go into the kitchen, checking for leftovers or anything else since it might be my last good meal. [[Grab some alcohol.]] [[Get some food.]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> “Apology accepted,” I say, and he wraps his arms around me in a tight hug. I return the embrace before pulling myself out of his grasp. <<if $CRomance >=1>>\ Our faces are close, close enough to where if one of us wished, we could definitely kiss. The need to place my lips on his are strong. I feel the shivers course through me, and somehow hold back a whimper as he moves away from me. He gives me one last smile before heading the other way. <</if>>\ I go into the kitchen, checking for leftovers or anything else since it might be my last good meal. [[Grab some alcohol.]] [[Get some food.]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> “Well that’s nice,” I say and pat his shoulder, heading towards the kitchen. I go into the kitchen, checking for leftovers or anything else since it might be my last good meal. [[Grab some alcohol.]] [[Get some food.]]

I wasn’t crazy enough to grab Faye’s last bottle of wine, but I was in the mood for some alcohol. After the day, no the week, I’ve had, I probably needed something stronger. I grab a bottle and some food, sitting down to eat. <<include "C5_4">>

I cook a quick meal and sit down to eat. Enjoying every bite. I would definitely miss this. Between either getting decent meals in or sleeping in motels, something would have to give. Either that or I would talk her ear off the entire way. <<include "C5_4">>

Suddenly Faye and Sydero walk in, Sydero looking happier than I’ve ever seen her, and Faye looking the most nervous I’ve ever seen. Sydero makes a beeline for the fridge, grabbing the first bottle of alcohol that her fingers grip. <<if $cp>>\ “Ready to find out who this guy is?” she asks, looking at me. I was still trying to get over this mood of hers, seeing her smile and not smirk was weird. Chris comes in, seeing the alcohol in Sydero’s hands and grabbing one of his own. “You guys are drinking me out,” Faye exclaims with a small smile. “You have your Pinot Noir, you’ll be fine,” Sydero snickers. “What are we about to do?” I question. “Faye thinks touching one of you will help her figure out who the boss man is.” [[Let Faye touch Chris.]] [[Let Faye touch me.]] <<else>>\ “Ready to find out who this guy is?” she asks, looking at me. I was still trying to get over this mood of hers, seeing her smile and not smirk was weird. “What are we about to do?” I question. “Faye thinks touching you will help her figure out who the boss man is.” “You can use me,” I tell her, moving forward so that she could grab my hands. As soon as she makes contact, her body jumps. Her body twitches from side to side as she grips my hand, relaxing a minute later. <<include "C5_5">> <</if>>\

“You can use Chris,” I tell her, moving away from her so that Chris was the closest thing. He doesn’t look bothered by the change and allows Faye to grab his hands. As soon as she makes contact, her body jumps. Her body twitches from side to side as she grips Chris’s hand, relaxing a minute later. <<include "C5_5">>

“You can use me,” I tell her, moving forward so that she could grab my hands. As soon as she makes contact, her body jumps. Her body twitches from side to side as she grips my hand, relaxing a minute later. <<include "C5_5">>

Well, relaxing wasn’t the best word to describe her new attitude. She stands and goes straight to the counter, grabbing the wine bottle and taking a long sip straight from it. She glances at us, prepared to speak when she suddenly takes another. “What is it?” Sydero finally questions. “Boy, do you have a problem,” she chuckles nervously, taking yet another swig. “Who is he?” I ask. “A demon.” [[Nope.|C5_6][$nerve -=2]] [[If demons exist, then angels ...|C5_6][$nerve +=2]] [[What is this, panic attack number sixteen?|C5_6][$nerve -=3]] [[Of course demons would exist.|C5_6][$nerve +=3]] [[Faye says what?|C5_6]] [[I'm not surprised.|C5_6]]

“And not just some random demon, his name is Raum. He’s one of the Great Earl’s of Hell.” “Must not be that important if I never heard of him,” Sydero whispers, but she says it loud enough for all of us to hear. <<if $cp>>\ “Can we backtrack, I’m still stuck on the whole demon thing. They exist!?” Chris asks, running a shaky hand through his disheveled hair. <<else>>\ “So, demons, huh?” I ask, sighing. <</if>>\ “Let’s just say anything you can think of is real, alright? Besides the Boogie Man,” Sydero tells him. “Well,” Faye sings, taking a considerate sip of her wine. “Don’t you dare ruin me by saying he’s real. Is that all you know about this man?” “Pretty much, he rules over thirty legions in hell, his symbol is a crow. The books don’t really give me up to date knowledge, Sydero. They’re books ... but there is someone who can help.” Both women look at one another and in unison say the name, “Bradley.” Faye relaxes an inch more, “I’m guessing you know where he is?” “Yea. Unless he ran off, which I doubt. I should visit him anyway, knowing him he hasn’t been out of his hole since the last time I dragged him out,” Sydero stands and bids the rest of us goodnight, retiring for the night. <<if $cp>>\ Chris is the next one, leaving Faye and me. Finally, Faye gets up and goes, giving my shoulder a light squeeze before she disappears. <<else>>\ Faye is the next one to go, giving my shoulder a light squeeze before she disappears. <</if>>\ [[Read from The Lore.][$ss_supernatural = true; $supernatural +=5]] [[Grab something to drink.]] [[Go to sleep.|C6]]

I open the book and decide to actually read everything I come across, starting from the beginning. Today has taught me that life was unpredictable. I believed I would be dealing with a shapeshifter and werewolf mainly, but I was kidnapped by faeries and being chased by a demon. I would need a considerable amount of knowledge for every creature, because who knows when it would come in handy. I get particularly far in the book, starting from page five and ending up on page twenty when everything goes dark, and my heartbeat steadies. <<include "C6">>

I grab another beverage, sitting at the table as I relax. The house situates itself before growing quiet. I can’t hear the tiniest bit of movement as I sit there, and I wonder if I reveled in this silence or despised it secretly. Tomorrow we would be back on the road, again doing who knows what. A demon, we had a demon chasing us. But why? Well, I suppose the question was partially silly, I knew why. I got in his way, more than once. But the reason he was after Sydero was unknown, I doubt even she knew. I recall her saying something about taking something of theirs but that was vague, she could be alluding to anything. I sigh in defeat, I had told myself to keep a clear mind, to enjoy the silence that resided not only around me but also in my mind. Yet here I was, thinking and fretting of the future. I finished my drink before leaving to go to sleep. If this trend continues then my dreams should be empty. For the first time in a long time, I was looking forward to sleeping. <<include "C6">>

<img src="images/divider.png"> Faye made her rounds, checking to see if everyone was sound asleep, well everyone but Sydero. Her stomach twists as she thinks about what she was about to do. It was for the greater good, or so that was what she told herself. And she supposes it was true, not just some lie she told herself to sleep better at night. At least this way, Sydero wouldn’t ... Faye shudders at the thought. She’d rather just get this over with. She enters the attic where Sydero is, finishing her task of lighting four white candles. Faye watches her for a second before turning her attention to the three faeries that Sydero had managed to capture. In each jar rests a sweet pea, a scent that faeries couldn’t get enough of and put them in an almost drunken state. This state was bordering unconsciousness, since even while drunk, faeries could react to their environment. “Are you ready?” Faye questions, her hands shaking. Sydero raises a brow but says nothing, nodding so that they could get on with this. Faye takes a deep breath in and opens the first jar, as Sydero places a bowl in front of her. She removes the faerie and puts the comatose being inside. “Bless this body,” she begins and pours water into the bowl, “bless this mind.” Next, she pours a third of the bottle of peppermint oil. “And bless this soul for the one whose blood commands complete control.” Sydero offers her hand towards Faye, and she takes it, with a blade she slices her palm, angling it down so that it dripped onto the faerie. “Remember to keep it open,” Faye reminds her. “With this blessed body, blessed mind, and blessed soul – we bid for the energy within.” The candle's flame grows tremendously, threatening to eat away the candle. The faerie’s body grows blue and white, the colors demanding to be set free. “You gonna do it, or will I?” It really wasn’t a question, there was a reason this ritual needed two people. Faye carefully placed the tip of the knife on the faerie and slid it down, allowing the white and blue essence to escape its host's body. The faerie was so out of it that it couldn't even register the pain, the act of being cut open. Faye could only pray that such a death was without pain and was quick. The mixture swims around, mixing itself with the other contents of the bowl until all of it turned black. <a data-passage="C6_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

In disgust for herself and the faerie, she puts the mutilated body back in the jar. With no essence, the body would decompose into soil. Soil that makes for great fertilizer. She turns to Sydero who pours the liquid into a bottle, drinking it a minute later. She recoils as soon as the liquid touches her tongue, but she continues on, swallowing all of it. Sydero’s amber eyes grew to a golden color, one that radiated power. A grey mist formed across her body, making the smirk that Sydero wore seem five times eviler. “I hate the taste, but I love the feeling,” she growls, shivering as the feeling of raw power spreads throughout her body. “Perhaps we should start looking into alternatives. One that doesn’t require capturing and devouring a supernatural creature’s essence,” Faye points out nervously. She takes a cautious step back, remembering what happened last time Sydero had done this. “We already been through this, there are no alternatives. We either do this, or the real beast gets to come out and play.” “I know,” Faye begins, “but ...” She understood why they did this, why they had to, despite her worries. And as Sydero said, this was the best alternative, it wasn’t as if they hadn’t tried others. That was how they met, Faye was her last hope. For years she has gone through her books, her spells, and called upon others. There was nothing else. She gazes over at the young woman, sighing deeply, “two more to go.” <a data-passage="C6_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/divider.png"> The next day, I place the bags in the trunk and then each of our individual bags in the backseat on the floor. Faye was a more than gracious host, giving us whatever she could spare. We each now had a backpack for our personal things. <<if $aptstuff>>\ <<if $cp>>I had my laptop and some other things from my apartment thanks to Chris, but Chris was still missing a great deal of his stuff. When he came down to see me, he wasn’t planning on staying. Sydero was fine with what she had, I suppose if she had needed anything then she would’ve taken the initiative and gotten it by now.<<else>>I had my laptop and some other things from my apartment thanks to Chris, while Sydero was fine with what she had. I suppose if she had needed anything then she would’ve taken the initiative and gotten it by now.<</if>> <<else>>\ I didn’t have anything from my apartment, and so Faye gave me a spare laptop that she never uses, it wasn’t the newest, but it would do whatever I needed it to do. She also spared some money, telling us all to go get more clothes. <<if $cp>>Neither Chris nor I had a large wardrobe now, and Sydero could always use more clothes.<<else>>I no longer had a large wardrobe, and Sydero could always use more clothes.<</if>> <</if>>\ I look over at the two women, they were speaking low enough to where I couldn’t hear them. But I could tell that Faye was harping, and Sydero was behaving like an insolent child. Sydero was looking much better than yesterday and the day before that. I was left out of the loop on why that was, but I was left out on a lot of things. [[Sydero and I would never truly trust one another.]] [[I needed Sydero to trust me. Otherwise, this was a one-way street.]] [[She held secrets, and I wanted to know what they were.]]

I always told Sydero that she needed to trust me, and I wonder if she failed to do so because she knew I didn’t trust her. If I knew things that she didn’t know, I wouldn’t tell her either. It was strange, relying on someone you didn’t trust and who didn’t trust you. It was one of the reasons our relationship was so rocky, with no sign of getting better. <<include "C6_3">>

At the moment, I was the only one with trust. I didn’t know too much about this world, and I looked to Sydero to teach me and guide me. She could’ve put up more of a resistance, she was stubborn like that. So, the fact that I was here must mean something. No one liked being in the dark, especially when it came to their own mortality. Somehow, someway, I needed her to start trusting me. <<include "C6_3">>

Each time Sydero was short with me, something she said when we first met would come to mind. She told me that she was an honest person, there were things she didn’t tell me but that she had never lied. I don’t know if I believed that, but I had no reason not to. It was obvious what she felt comfortable in telling me, and anything else, she side-stepped and continued on as if the question was never asked. But it was those things that she side-stepped that drew me in, that made me question repeatedly and grow even more curious. <<include "C6_3">>

“Don’t go drinking all of them at once, Syd,” Faye warns as I approach. Sydero huffs in annoyance, walking away before Faye could finish her sentence. “Promise me, Syd.” “Yea yea, I promise.” Faye sighs as she watches her go. “Thanks again for letting us stay here.” “No problem, you’re always welcomed here. Just know what to bring if you come.” I chuckle, “1995 Pinot Noir, right?” “And a lot of it.” [[Hug her.][$sympathy +=5]] [[Shake her hand.]] [[Don't do anything.][$sympathy -=5]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> I hug her warmly when I feel her jump. I take a modest step back, apologizing at my forgetfulness. The smile on Faye’s face is light, carefree almost, not like the grimace she typically wears after seeing something. “Such a simple memory, but a good one. That day you <<if $cp>>and Chris went out to celebrate him getting into his fraternity?”<<else>>helped Chris feel better due to his father's words?”<</if>> “Yea, it was.” <<include "C6_4">>

I shake her hand when I feel her jump. I pull back my hand quickly, apologizing at my forgetfulness. The smile on Faye’s face is light, carefree almost, not like the grimace she typically wears after seeing something. “Such a simple memory, but a good one. That day you <<if $cp>>and Chris went out to celebrate him getting into his fraternity?”<<else>>helped Chris feel better due to his father's words?”<</if>> “Yea, it was.” <<include "C6_4">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> I stand to the other side of her, taking one last look at her house. <<include "C6_4">>

“This road is a dark and scary one, you can’t trust many but those you can, keep them close and safe. They’re your family,” Faye tells me quietly. <<if $cp>>I watch with a raised eyebrow as Chris and Syd argue over something trivial.<</if>> “So, I’m guessing Syd is family now huh?” I joke, <<if $cp>>shaking my head as I assume Sydero says something smart that causes Chris to stalk away, mumbling about how much he dislikes her.<<else>>watching as Sydero rechecks everything.<</if>> At first, Faye doesn't say anything, her eyes on Sydero as she finishes packing the car up, “watch out for her.” “Doesn’t seem like she needs me for that,” I tell Faye, walking towards the ready to go car. “That’s not what I meant.” I stop and turn to see Faye giving me a worried look. My brow creases in confusion, but I don’t ask her to elaborate as I get into the car. I keep my eye on Faye as she wraps her arms around herself, seeing us off. <a data-passage="EP3NT"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/nexttime.png"> <img src="images/divider.png"> "What is up with all of you living out in abandoned houses?" I question. "Bradley was actually the one who gave me the idea to use abandoned places," Sydero pauses after her words, turning back towards us, "be careful, Bradley likes to booby trap his stuff. He's paranoid like that." "Booby trap? You mean like deadly shit is placed on the ground in there?" <<if $cp>>Chris asks.<<else>>I ask.<</if>> <img src="images/divider.png"> "Should we kill her too?" the werewolf, with his grip around Sydero's throat, asks. "I’ll get back to you on that," the man comments, turning his gaze back to me, "just as soon as I eat this dimwit’s heart." I scream in pain as his claws dig deeper into the skin on my chest. <img src="images/divider.png"> “How many werewolves did we kill?” Syd questions, going further into Bradley’s room. “Three,” I answer, finding the room a mess. “And the woman said she remembers seeing five or six.” <img src="images/divider.png"> “I’m tired of all the secrets. I don’t trust you, Sydero.” She bows as if my words were a compliment, “great, you’re learning something after all.” [[Episode Four: Who Let the Dogs In]]

<> <<playlist "ambience" loop play>> <<set $syderolist = false; $chugit = false; $chriscall = false; $aptstuff = false; $chrismeeting = false; $chrismotel = false; $ropecut = false>> <<unset $carcheck, $keycar, $trunk, $moneypromise, $knowher, $chrishonesty, $addressknown, $fakeaddress>> <> <img src="images/eptwo.png"> <img src="images/actone.png"> <<if $uncledead>>\ I walk an unfamiliar path through even more unfamiliar woods. The sky is blocked out by towering skeleton trees and though they hide no secrets, I feel invisible eyes watching me from their gangly branches. They guide me forward, moaning horribly whenever I wander from the path. This is a dream, that much I knew. Yet how to wake myself eludes me. I continue on. I turn a corner and see a figure covered in branch-like limbs. They twitch, and the sound they make makes it seem like they are breaking under unseen weight. [[Call out to the figure.|2CallOut]] [[Throw something towards it.|2ThrowTowards]] [[Approach it.|2Approach]] <<else>>\ Six crows stare down at me from their barren perches. Life resides all around us, but the tree that they chose was dead and has been that way for some time. Desolate branches cling to the tree’s trunk, some lay limp on its side, the last fibers connecting it. It was a peculiar sight. A forest filled with life, birds chirping and frogs croaking in the distance. But here, here sat six crows whose glares were fixed on me. I walk from one place to another, seeing if they were just frozen or if they were actually looking at me. My thoughts answered when their gazes follow my actions. I turn around, half expecting to see a scene like last time. I knew this was a dream. This dream state screamed the truth at me but how to wake up eludes me. No one is behind me. No one else exists, just me and the six crows. [[Throw something at them.|2ThrowAt]] [[Question them.|2Question]] [[Walk away.|2WalkAway]] <</if>>\

I call out to the figure, hoping that my voice would cause some type of reaction. I get nothing, not even a twitch. The forest seems to have heard me though. It was silent before, but that was a hopeful silence. A silence that caused one to believe that if they continued on, then they would soon hear the birds and frogs, and the river. This silence, it was one that haunted places, that watched those who trespassed and followed them like a stalking predator. I gaze around when I spot the body move, suddenly jerking up into the air. <<include "2.00.1">>

I search the ground for anything that I could use, finding only a sizeable stick. I test the weight to decide how much strength would be needed. Once I figure this out, I toss the stick at the figure. I expect the figure to dart out of the way or to even twitch in irritation. It does none of the above, it doesn’t move at all. So, I decide to throw something else. I find another stick, some ways off from where I discovered the first. This one is smaller but will deliver the same results. I toss it towards the motionless body, jumping when the immobile body suddenly moves, jerking into the air and rotating towards me. <<include "2.00.1">>

I approach the figure. This was a dream; therefore, I was somehow controlling all of this. Furthermore, the myth about dying in a dream leads to death in real life is just that, a myth. Or was it? I once believed that the supernatural was just a bunch of stories and apparently that was false. My first few steps yield no response. The still figure remains stationary, and only the branches, intertwining through the limp body, is the only sign of movement. I continue forward, almost close enough to touch the immobile body, when it suddenly jerks up into the air. <<include "2.00.1">>

The branches tighten its grasp on my uncle’s limp form. “$name, how are you?” he asks but his mouth moves lazily. The branches drag the random limbs in erratic directions. The entire scene reminds me of a puppet show, regardless of the spine-chilling atmosphere. I open my mouth to answer, or question, when the body surges towards me, my uncle’s head lazily tilting to the side. It was impossible for the figure to have any bones in his body, judging off the way that his neck was rolling from one side to the other. The body stops short directly in front of me. He grinds his teeth, and his eyes move up and down my body. “You’re fine. Not dead, unlike me. I’m dead!” he screams the last part, the branches pulling him back harshly. His leg gives out, and he stumbles, but his support doesn’t let him follow. It swiftly picks him back up, reprimanding him in the process. “Must be nice,” he sings, chuckling as he sways from side to side. “$name, what were you thinking when you saw my dead body?” [[“Oh shit.”|2OhShit]] [[“I wasn’t thinking anything.”|2WasntThinking]] [[“Eh, the usual, damn.”|2TheUsual]] [[“Just tell me how to get out of here.”|2HowGetOut]] [[“Why does it matter?”|2WhyMatter]]

The words aren’t completely out of my mouth when he laughs loudly. His body whips around, and the branches aid him in walking towards the edge of the forest. The way he goes reminds me faintly of how a child would play with their dolls. Walking was deemed unnecessary, and instead, they would move the doll through hops. “I was thinking about how I finally was able to now get away from you.” “You’re not real. So, whatever you say isn’t real.” “You’re going to die,” he chimes in, his figure disappearing until the fog swallows him. The trees disappear as well, leaving only one tree in its place. The tree stands around seven feet and is probably the thickest tree I’ve seen to date. Ritualistic images are carved into the tree, appearing like five figures sitting on top of one another. Only the figure at the bottom has thick branches that branch out upwards into lankier, more wicked appearing branches. The tree holds no eyes, but I feel it watching me from all sides. I hear faint whispering, as if it was condemning me to a fate I knew nothing about. My eyes follow the branches up, higher and higher until they stop at an intricate pattern. Though I know I have never seen such a design, a strange familiarity with it overwhelms me. I reach out to touch it, growing closer and closer. The whispers get louder, the forest awakes, the pattern stares back at me, and the limbs slither towards its prey. <a data-passage="2.01"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The words aren’t completely out of my mouth when he stops me. “Explain.” “I mean, I was in shock.” He laughs loudly as if he didn’t believe one word I had said. His body whips around, and the branches aid him in walking towards the edge of the forest. The way he goes reminds me faintly of how a child would play with their dolls. Walking was deemed unnecessary, and instead, they would move the doll through hops. “You’re going to die,” he chimes in, his figure disappearing until the fog swallows him. The trees disappear as well, leaving only one tree in its place. The tree stands around seven feet and is probably the thickest tree I’ve seen to date. Ritualistic images are carved into the tree, appearing like five figures sitting on top of one another. Only the figure at the bottom has thick branches that branch out upwards into lankier, more wicked appearing branches. The tree holds no eyes, but I feel it watching me from all sides. I hear faint whispering, as if it was condemning me to a fate I knew nothing about. My eyes follow the branches up, higher and higher until they stop at an intricate pattern. Though I know I have never seen such a design, a strange familiarity with it overwhelms me. I reach out to touch it, growing closer and closer. The whispers get louder, the forest awakes, the pattern stares back at me, and the limbs slither towards its prey. <a data-passage="2.01"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The words aren’t completely out of my mouth when he laughs loudly. His body whips around, and the branches aid him in walking towards the edge of the forest. The way he goes reminds me faintly of how a child would play with their dolls. Walking was deemed unnecessary, and instead, they would move the doll through hops. “You always were a self-centered little prick.” “And you always were a glory-seeking old man.” “You’re going to die,” he chimes in, his figure disappearing until the fog swallows him. The trees disappear as well, leaving only one tree in its place. The tree stands around seven feet and is probably the thickest tree I’ve seen to date. Ritualistic images are carved into the tree, appearing like five figures sitting on top of one another. Only the figure at the bottom has thick branches that branch out upwards into lankier, more wicked appearing branches. The tree holds no eyes, but I feel it watching me from all sides. I hear faint whispering, as if it was condemning me to a fate I knew nothing about. My eyes follow the branches up, higher and higher until they stop at an intricate pattern. Though I know I have never seen such a design, a strange familiarity with it overwhelms me. I reach out to touch it, growing closer and closer. The whispers get louder, the forest awakes, the pattern stares back at me, and the limbs slither towards its prey. <a data-passage="2.01"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The words aren’t completely out of my mouth when he laughs loudly. His body whips around, and the branches aid him in walking towards the edge of the forest. The way he goes reminds me faintly of how a child would play with their dolls. Walking was deemed unnecessary, and instead, they would move the doll through hops. “You always were such an ungrateful little brat.” “And you always were an annoying old man who loved riddles.” “You’re going to die,” he chimes in, his figure disappearing until the fog swallows him. The trees disappear as well, leaving only one tree in its place. The tree stands around seven feet and is probably the thickest tree I’ve seen to date. Ritualistic images are carved into the tree, appearing like five figures sitting on top of one another. Only the figure at the bottom has thick branches that branch out upwards into lankier, more wicked appearing branches. The tree holds no eyes, but I feel it watching me from all sides. I hear faint whispering, as if it was condemning me to a fate I knew nothing about. My eyes follow the branches up, higher and higher until they stop at an intricate pattern. Though I know I have never seen such a design, a strange familiarity with it overwhelms me. I reach out to touch it, growing closer and closer. The whispers get louder, the forest awakes, the pattern stares back at me, and the limbs slither towards its prey. <a data-passage="2.01"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The words aren’t completely out of my mouth when he stops me. “Why does anything matter? Why does my life or your life matter?” “The real question.” He laughs loudly as if he didn’t believe one word I had said. His body whips around, and the branches aid him in walking towards the edge of the forest. The way he goes reminds me faintly of how a child would play with their dolls. Walking was deemed unnecessary, and instead, they would move the doll through hops. “You’re going to die,” he chimes in, his figure disappearing until the fog swallows him. The trees disappear as well, leaving only one tree in its place. The tree stands around seven feet and is probably the thickest tree I’ve seen to date. Ritualistic images are carved into the tree, appearing like five figures sitting on top of one another. Only the figure at the bottom has thick branches that branch out upwards into lankier, more wicked appearing branches. The tree holds no eyes, but I feel it watching me from all sides. I hear faint whispering, as if it was condemning me to a fate I knew nothing about. My eyes follow the branches up, higher and higher until they stop at an intricate pattern. Though I know I have never seen such a design, a strange familiarity with it overwhelms me. I reach out to touch it, growing closer and closer. The whispers get louder, the forest awakes, the pattern stares back at me, and the limbs slither towards its prey. <a data-passage="2.01"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I pick up a rock and launch it towards them. It strikes one of the crows right in the chest, sending him falling to the ground. The others don’t gaze after their fallen compatriot, they don’t move at all. The crow that I had hit uprights itself and flies back to the original perch. The only sign of it ever being hit is a growing blood stain on its chest. Like the others, it goes back to staring at me, ignoring whatever pain it might be in. I don’t understand why, but my heart rate picks up rapidly under their gaze. Each second that passes by sees my fear escalating. Sweat dribbles down the side of my face, my hands grow clammy, my legs stiff. The crows give nothing away, nothing in their behavior has changed. The only variable that has changed is me. I pick up another rock, unchecked rage coursing through me. As soon as I have the rock in my palm, a flash of black appears in front of me. I shriek as the crows fly around my head, cawing and pecking at me. The pain intensifies with every peck, and regardless of how many times I try to scare them away, they are unyielding. I screech as the pecks become cleverly placed: the cheek, the chest, the mouth, and the eye. I scream as loud as I can but find it to be frivolous, death sings my name. <a data-passage="2.01"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“What do you want?” I question. Did I truly expect for them to chirp out a reply? For them to aid me as if this was some sort of fantasy tale? If I did, I was sorely put out by their lack of answering, or even signs that they acknowledged my voice. They each continue to stare, their eyes piercing me. I’m about to question them again when my eyes make contact with each crow, the words are lost. I choke on my thoughts, on the words that I was about to say. I suddenly feel very sick in my body, as if everything about me was wrong. It was an out of body experience on another level. I felt connected to my soul and felt that the body that we were inhabiting was wrong, was diseased in some way. I crumble to the ground, gasping for air, although my lungs were filled with it. I could still breathe fine, but it felt like I was suffocating. Six eyes stare down at me. Six crows glare at me as the forest closes in. <a data-passage="2.01"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I turn on my heel and march the other way, curious about the components of the forest that were actually alive. I hear a stream and go in the general direction, noticing a large oak tree with squirrels running up its trunk. This area was so much different than the last, alive with the feeling of hope. I take a deep breath in when I begin to smell a putrid odor. I open my eyes and find myself in the middle of a desolate clearing. Residing on each barren perch is a crow, six in all. They stare at me with bloodshot eyes. Another sniff and I realize that the odor is being secreted from them. Upon closer inspection I find their wings made of tar, melting under an unseen sun. The smell grows as they decompose, leaving nothing but empty husks. But nevertheless, dead or alive ... Six crows stare down at me. <a data-passage="2.01"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Something light tickles my nose, waking me from the dream. My eyes flutter open, but my vision is blurred. In front of me I see nothing but a gray bundle mess, a bundle that happens to be moving. I hear it produce a squeak and realization hits me. Jumping back, I swat the mouse off from my face. Consequently, I end up on the floor, my eyes darting from one dark crevice to the next. Where the hell was I? Weathered wallpaper, torn curtains, and the retreating mouse remind me of everything that had taken place. It all rushes back to me in a flood of unbelievability. The supernatural world is real. <<if $uncledead>>My uncle is dead, and his house probably mostly burned down. I was on the run with a mysterious witch.<<else>>My uncle is safe in a hotel.<</if>> I was on the run with a mysterious witch. <<if $uncledead>>\ [[I can’t believe all this happened.|2.01AllThisHappened][$nerve -=3]] <</if>>\ [[Whelp, here comes another panic attack.|2.01PanicAttack][$nerve -=5]] [[This was going to take longer than I thought.|2.01TakeLonger][$nerve +=3]] [[I was okay, this circumstance isn’t okay, but I’ll be okay.|2.01BeOkay][$nerve +=5]] [[Shit, that crap seriously happened?!|2.01OhOkayWellShit][$nerve -=3]] [[Deep breaths.|2.01DeepBreaths][$nerve +=3]]

My poor uncle. He didn’t deserve this, he didn’t deserve any of this crap. But I guess that was a tale that most people would, and could, sing. Losing him, on top of everything else, I just feel like I was being hit with multiple shocks. This stress was worse than anything that has happened in the past. I stand up and stretch, feeling a crick in my neck and the soreness in my back. I was surprised an abandoned house had a bed still, let alone a mattress – no matter how hard. I felt like falling back to the ground though, living the rest of my existence there. It had to be better than feeling each and every ache that my body currently held. <<include "2.01.1">>

I was a college student, I was already breaking down and screaming into my pillow every night. I was struggling enough with juggling college, a job, and the trauma from my past. And now this. Oh geez. My heart was beating frantically, and I feel a cold chill lay itself on me, though I was sweating and felt like I was about to have a heat flash. I need to breathe, desperately. I do some breathing exercises, finally feeling more like myself. I stand up and stretch, feeling a crick in my neck and the soreness in my back. I was surprised an abandoned house had a bed still, let alone a mattress – no matter how hard. I felt like falling back to the ground though, living the rest of my existence there. It had to be better than feeling each and every ache that my body currently held. <<include "2.01.1">>

I don’t know how easy I thought this would all be before, but I definitely wasn’t entirely okay with this. Truthfully, I believe I’ve earned that. Cliché as it is, my world has been flipped upside down, dribbled down a court, and then the shooter widely misses. My world was the ball that never gets found, doomed to live out its life in the backyard of some old grumpy man’s house. I stand up and stretch, feeling a crick in my neck and the soreness in my back. I was surprised an abandoned house had a bed still, let alone a mattress – no matter how hard. I felt like falling back to the ground though, living the rest of my existence there. It had to be better than feeling each and every ache that my body currently held. <<include "2.01.1">>

I like to think I’m an adaptive person. The supernatural world caught me off guard, but I can successfully learn to navigate through it, especially with Sydero’s help. The circumstances that led to this aren’t okay, but I can do this. I stand up and stretch, feeling a crick in my neck and the soreness in my back. I was surprised an abandoned house had a bed still, let alone a mattress – no matter how hard. I felt like falling back to the ground though, living the rest of my existence there. It had to be better than feeling each and every ache that my body currently held. <<include "2.01.1">>

Most of me wished that it was all some crappy dream. Maybe I watched a horror movie, and that’s where it all came from. Maybe bits of it was valid, but the majority was fabricated by my own mind. But here I was, living this crap. I’d pinch myself if I didn’t already know I was awake. I literally just fell out of a bed, I was awake. I stand up and stretch, feeling a crick in my neck and the soreness in my back. I was surprised an abandoned house had a bed still, let alone a mattress – no matter how hard. I felt like falling back to the ground though, living the rest of my existence there. It had to be better than feeling each and every ache that my body currently held. <<include "2.01.1">>

I count to ten, and then twenty. And then after realizing that this particular technique was proving fruitless, I rely on just some deep breaths. I stand up and stretch, feeling a crick in my neck and the soreness in my back. I was surprised an abandoned house had a bed still, let alone a mattress – no matter how hard. I felt like falling back to the ground though, living the rest of my existence there. It had to be better than feeling each and every ache that my body currently held. <<include "2.01.1">>

I leave the room in search of Sydero, finding her standing before a lone end table in the middle of the room. She looks comfortable, as if we weren’t both standing in a dilapidated house. I had on the same clothes that I wore yesterday, but here she was wearing a tank top, some loose cargo pants, and sandals. To top it all off, a large mug rests in her hands, and of course, a vulgar phrase is printed on it. “Morning,” I mumble, and her grunt is the only indication I receive that tells me she heard me. “I saw your bag, and there’s no way you fit all of that in there.” “Well, duh,” she snorts, yawning immediately after, “I have stuff upstairs.” I cock my head to the side, glancing at the rickety staircase. The same kind of staircase that you would find in an extravagant adventure story, the one the hero and less than wise sidekick had to cross over. She catches my look and sighs, gulping down the rest of whatever was in her mug. “This is one of my safehouses. What, you think I just put in a random address?” “I did, actually. Why abandoned houses? And if you’re going to choose abandoned houses, then why not at least make them more ... presentable?” “Does it look like I’m the type to have company? The more rundown they look, the better. I don’t need water or electricity, just a roof.” “And mice?” I say this as I glare at one that stares back at me. Apparently, I was the intruder here. “You get used to them,” she reassures. [[“I hope not.”|2.01HopeNot]] [[“We can change that.”|2.01ChangeThat]] [[“Great. Fun.”|2.01GreatFun]]

“I’d rather not get used to these things. They’re not as cute when they’re sitting in front of your face,” I state, never thinking I would have such an experience. “Not all of them have mice. Some have roaches, others have –” “Stop talking. Just stop.” <<include "2.01.2">>

"We can change that," I start, thinking of ways to do just that. “Don’t change shit that don’t need fixing.” “This,” I begin, gesturing to the surroundings, “definitely needs fixing.” <<include "2.01.2">>

“Great. What fun.” She sends me a wide smirk but otherwise doesn’t say anything. <<include "2.01.2">>

<<if $candychipssoda>>\ Before I can say the next thing on my mind, my stomach growls, “so, do you have anything to eat? I’m starving.” “You ate on the way here.” “Whoa, eating some candy and soda doesn’t amount up to anything. Especially since you snuck some of my chips, the bag wasn’t that big, to begin with.” “It was still something,” she points out, believing her words to be true. “It was a snack to an otherwise stressful day.” She shrugs her shoulders and takes a sip of her drink. “That depends on your perspective. Adopt a healthier and more optimistic one.” She sneers as I scowl at her. <</if>>\ “What are we doing today?” I question, leaning up against the wall, ensuring it’s stable and without cobwebs. “You’re going to stay out of my way. And keep all your thoughts and annoying questions to yourself.” I grind my teeth together as she looks back down at a heavy book in front of her. One positive to my dreams was that she wasn’t in them. [[She actually isn’t that bad, annoying, but not bad.|2.01NotBadNotBadAtAll]] [[It’s even harder to get through this because of her.|2.01GiveMeABreak]] [[No, she’s definitely a bitch.|2.01NawSheABitch]] [[Eh, it’s too early to form any kind of impression.|2.01TooEarly]]

Of course, I could do without the smart aleck remarks and the constant attitude. But as far as I can tell, her bark is worse than her bite. Though, I have yet to see her truly angry. I’ve yet to see her anything besides annoyed and irritated. But the truth remains, the two of us have only just met, and it wasn’t under the best circumstances. I’m willing to give her a chance if she’s willing to provide me one as well. <<include "2.01.3">>

After everything that has happened, I just wanted to <<if $sympathy >=50>>have someone console me when needed<<else>>deal with it alone<</if>> And she wasn’t really <<if $sympathy >=50>>helping in that department<<else>>allowing that to take place<</if>>. From what I gather, emotions and feelings are a foreign and hopeless thought to this woman. <<include "2.01.3">>

Plain and simple. She either annoyed the crap out of me, or I had to fight an overwhelming need to put tape over her mouth. But then, that wouldn’t solve the looks she shoots towards me. Sydero’s facial expressions are almost as bad as her mouth. Her existence is starting to irritate me. As I’m sure, mine did her. At least that is something we agree on. <<include "2.01.3">>

I just learned her name. I’m not one to judge before getting to know someone, even someone like her. Sure, she’s a smartass and has an unemotional, uncaring response to everything, but there can be a reason for that. Or she can just be a bitch, and I’m providing excuses when there is no need. I’ll figure out which sooner or later. <<include "2.01.3">>

I leave her to check on my phone that was charging near my things, thankfully I had a portable charger with me. But the dilemma of where I would be able to recharge the charger would soon become an issue. It was just one thing on a long list of things that I needed to figure out now. Another, how I would get ahold of my things. I had a few of them now, but I would definitely need the rest, more clothes and shoes. <<if $uncledead>>\ I think about all the things I want to grab as I nonchalantly go through my phone, scanning the long list of missed calls and an alarming number of texts. A good percentage of them were from Chris. <<else>>\ I think about all the things I want to grab as I nonchalantly go through my phone, scanning the long list of missed calls. I notice a few texts sent from my uncle, asking for updates and complaining about the hotel staff. <</if>>\ I feel the weight of someone’s eyes on me, glancing up to see Sydero watching me. Our eyes meet, her amber one's against my $eyes ones. I wonder if she ever paused her thoughts to remark upon them, much like how I did upon hers. Did she see an intensity or a softness within mine? Did she see anything besides someone in over their head? Her eyes briefly flash to my phone before re-meeting mine, her brow raises as if questioning. “Let me guess, you’re going to tell me how stupid it is to reply?” “Close. I was going to say you’re stupid for even having your phone on. They will track you if need be.” <a data-passage="2.01.4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“I’m still not totally understanding why I have a target on my back when I’m not the threat.” She doesn’t say anything for a moment, completely immersed with the text in front of her. Instead of turning the page, she closes the book, stiffening as she looks over at me. “You’re affiliated with me, as soon as we got in that car together, you became a target. They probably think you know more than you’re letting on. They’ve killed for far less.” I continue to question her, but she ignores each question that I ask. “How about this, you go into town and grab what you need and what’s on this list for me.” She waves the list in her hands for me to see before writing more things down. “And what are you going to do?” “Start crafting these spells. I work better when I’m not surrounded by,” she pauses, her eyes flicker over to me, “yea.” I raise a brow at her choice in words, obviously evading wherever her thoughts were going. But it was for the best, whatever she was going to say would only lead to us arguing. “What kind of spells?” “Spells.” [[“If we’re going to be a team, I need honesty.”|2.01SmellsLikeTeamSpirit][$sydero -=3; $optimistic +=3]] [[“So you want to be a smartass to the one picking things up?”|2.01SmartassPickingThingsUp][$sydero +=3; $stubborn -=3]] [[“I can play this game too.”|2.01Asshole2TheVengeance][$sydero +=3; $stubborn +=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Optimistic ++<</if>> “Look, Sydero,” I begin, choosing my words carefully, “if we’re going to be a team, I need honesty. Something you’re not giving me any of.” “You know, you’re right. I need the items on that list for hexes that concern us, better?” “That’s literally the same thing you just said. There’s no difference besides the word which held the same connotation.” She turns her back to me and makes her way to the stairs, shooing me away. I lean on the doorframe and whistle out to her. Once she turns around, I dangle my keys confidently. <<include "2.01.5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Reasonable ++<</if>> “So you want to be a smartass to the one picking things up?” I question in disbelief. “I can go pick them up myself,” she says as if she’s won this argument. “With what car?” I ask in mock confusion, dangling my car keys before her. <<include "2.01.5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++<</if>> “I can play this game too,” I dangle my keys in front of her, “let’s play; how will you get these things?” <<include "2.01.5">>

Her smirk disappears once she realizes that I won this battle. “It’s cute that you don’t think I can get them from you. May I remind you that I’m a witch.” “You wouldn’t,” I say, but I already know the answer. She raises an eyebrow, as if that was an invitation for her to try. “Okay maybe you would, but there’s no need for that. You’re making a big deal over something petty.” She sighs and nods in agreement, “a tracking spell and a cleansing one, the cleansing one is for you.” <<if $nerve >=20>>\ “Was that so hard?” I tease. “I feel like I’m going to throw up. Is that all? Can you go now?” she questions, placing the money for her items in my hand. I snort, getting directions to the nearby town before leaving. <<else>>\ “Was that so hard?” I tease, my smirk disappearing as I look towards the door, “this is safe, right? Like I won’t be tracked down immediately, will I?” “You should be fine if you go straight there and back and leave your phone out of it. Are you scared, Roe?” “Of course I’m scared,” I grumble, ending the conversation and getting directions to the nearby town before leaving. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="2.02"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The store is a small grocery store that looks no bigger than an average restaurant. With one quick glance around the near-empty parking lot, I came to the conclusion that this was probably all the town had to show. A gas station, a store, and a diner that rivaled the size of the store. In a town like this, I would stand out. There would be no hiding that I’m a stranger, and in a town this small, lying wouldn’t be easy. As soon as I walk into the store, suspicious eyes fall on me, and whispers follow me as I walk towards my first aisle. I grab the list Sydero had given me and look it over. I don’t know what I expected to see, especially since she gave me the list knowing the store would be small, but I’m not sure I expected this. She needed salt and then different colored candles, further listing the exact colors that would aid her. [[Grab the things for Sydero.|2.02SyderoList][$syderolist = true]] [[Do my own shopping.|2.02NoGrab][$sydero -=5]]

Before I go off to collect the things I need, I search for Sydero’s list of things. Salt was an easy object to acquire for obvious reasons, but the candles that she needed not as much. I grab as many candles as I can before leaving to check on my things. If I could somehow get into my apartment though, then most of my needs would be met. At the moment, there were so many things that I was feeling the loss of, my laptop for example. <<include "2.02.1">>

I ball up her list and toss it in the nearest trashcan, continuing on with my own list. I needed food, that was my main priority. Thankfully, the store had plenty of that. If I could somehow get into my apartment, then most of my needs would be met. At the moment, there were so many things that I was feeling the loss of, my laptop for example. <<include "2.02.1">>

I think about all the things that I had left behind as I walk to the checkout counter. It is only when I see the clerk staring at me that I come out of my thoughts. I look around, curious if I had done something wrong, but I have not. She grabs one of the things and scans it, never breaking eye contact. A thought that hadn’t occurred to me until now arises. Who and who wasn’t supernatural creatures? Sydero stated that they hide in plain sight. So, anyone could actually be one. I eye the clerk suspiciously, and she eyes me back twice as untrustworthily. “I’ve never seen you around here,” she starts, “you visiting family?” “No, just passing through,” I answer. Anything else would bring up more questions. Judging by her look of disapproval, I was already unwelcomed as it is. As soon as she rings up my last item, I hurry out of the store, freezing at the three guys surrounding my car. They gaze through the windows, attempting to spot something of value probably, or perhaps even to learn who’s it is. “Can I help you?” I ask. They all straighten up, sizing me up immediately upon approach. They each wear worn-out jeans, outdoor boots, and plain t-shirts. They remind me of the type of guys who would rather be out fishing or hunting. The problem with that was that they were gazing at me as if I was the deer. “This is a mighty nice car.” Despite his diction, the man actually looked as if he could command respect. His smile reminds me of a devilish coyote, one who has found his prey wounded on the side of the road. He rounds my car until he appears in front of me, his grin widening even more as his finger makes a trail along the trunk. [[“What do you want?”|2.02WhatchaWant][$daring -=3]] [[“I was just leaving.”|2.02JustLeaving][$pacifist +=3]] [[“Don't start nothing, won't be nothing.”|2.02TalkShitGetHit][$pacifist -=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> I give them all a second glance, sizing them up for my own safety. “What do you want?” I ask. “We just wanna know where you got this pretty car,” one of them laughs, pushing the other roughly. His friend doesn’t seem to notice though, he was too busy glaring at me. <<include "2.02.2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> I sigh, scratching the side of my head, “look, I was just leaving.” “Not yet you aren’t,” one of them corrects, moving to the driver’s side, blocking it. <<include "2.02.2">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> “Don’t start nothing,” I begin, looking at all of them, “won’t be nothing.” All three of them laugh, much like one would laugh at a cute child who was horrendously cocky. I chew on the side of my cheek, waiting for them to either move out of my way or to make a move. <<include "2.02.2">>

Out of the corner of my eye, I see the quiet one approaching, his fingers drumming against his pants leg. For a brief moment, my eyes go back to who I expect the leader to be. His eyes are currently on my car; a longing resides within them. When he looks back at me, he gives me another wolfish grin, and I swear I see canines. Were they supernatural? Werewolves perhaps? I nervously look between all three of them, the thought growing in my mind. [[Ask them outright.|2.02BoldCrazyButAlright][$daring -=3; $nerve +=3]] [[Prepare to fight them.|2.02PrepareAndFight][$pacifist -=3; $daring +=3]] [[Dodge and weave.|2.02DodgeWeave][$pacifist +=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> I take a step back, gripping the grocery bags in my hand tighter. “Are ... are you guys ... werewolves?” The leader cocks his head to the side. The others do the same, all looking at me with curious eyes. “Are you stupid or something?” one asks, smirking. His smirk disappears once he realizes that I wasn’t joking. Instead, he snorts a couple of times, looking between his more than bewildered friends. “Wow, you're insane,” he laughs, falling back due to his laughter. <<include "2.02.3">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++ | Daring ++<</if>> <<if $combat >=10>>\ I sit my grocery bags down, out of reach, so that whatever happens, it doesn’t destroy them. I turn to all of them, sizing each of them up. The closest one to me, and the one I suppose is the leader, are average built. One on one I could take two of them down. The only one that would give me a run for my money is the man standing to my right. He’s not only well-built, but his size superiorly dwarfs mine. Suddenly the leader lunges towards me. I shoot back just in time to avoid his fist. With him currently off balance, I raise my fist and deliver a punch that sends him to the ground. <<if $perception >=5>>\ Out of the corner of my eye, I see his friend charging forward, impressive since he's managing to make no noise. I take a step back right as he lunges for me, tripping him and then putting up my defenses as the other guy throws a punch my way. The third one keeps his distance, still trying to figure out a way to get close. <<else>>\ Suddenly someone collides into me, tackling me to the ground. I'm just barely fast enough to throw up my arms to block a punch and then throw one on my own. The guy's upper body shoots backwards, and I toss him off of me, putting some much-needed space between them and me. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ I sit my grocery bags down, out of reach so that whatever happens, it doesn’t destroy them. I turn to all of them, sizing each of them up. The closest one to me, and the one I suppose is the leader, is average built. One on one I could maybe take one of them down. I wasn't much of a fighter. Suddenly the leader lunges towards me. I shoot back before his fist can connect, but I’m not fast enough to dodge him entirely. His fist grazes my chin, sending my head snapping to the side and a throbbing sensation through my lower face. In response, I throw a punch of my own, successfully hitting his cheek. Out of the corner of my eye, I spot the biggest one moving towards me. There was no way I’d be able to get out of this. <</if>>\ <<include "2.02.3">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> <<if $combat >=10>>\ I clutch my grocery bags as I look between all three men. The only way I would successfully get out of this was to just duck, dodge, and weave. I need only to get to the driver’s side and successfully get in and lock the door. The man closest to me throws a punch, and I quickly duck and weave it. I dash to the side to not run into the path of the other man, and instead, I end up putting more space between all of them and me. Two of them dart towards me and I plan my move. And, at the perfect moment, I run between them, ducking so they couldn't grab me. I grab my grocery bags but don't take in account how fast the other men are. As soon as I grab the bags, one is there waiting for me. <<else>>\ I clutch my grocery bags as I look between all three men. The only way I would successfully get out of this was to just duck, dodge, and weave. I need only to get to the driver’s side and successfully get in and lock the door. The man closest to me throws a punch, one that I’m able to escape. But this pushes me closer towards the largest of the men. He lunges for me, his speed being the only thing that allows me to get away. I weave out of the way and narrowly avoid the other. <</if>>\ <<include "2.02.3">>

“Hey!” a worker from the store barks, a shotgun resting in her hands, “unless you have further official business, I suggest you get on out of here.” She announces this to all of us, but her eyes never leave mine, and her body language seems to only acknowledge me. I raise my hands in defense, relieved to see the three men backing off now. I make eye contact with no one, rapidly putting the groceries inside the car and then driving off. I retrace my steps back to the abandoned house, making sure no one is following me. When did this become the norm for me? The feeling that I was never safe and must always check my rearview mirror for those trailing me? I take a moment to compose myself when I feel the familiar sensation of a vibrating phone. My heart thumps wildly as only one face appears in my mind. I grab it to see my thoughts proven correct, a goofy photo of Chris stares back at me. My stomach twists and knots up immediately. The feeling of a hundred tiny needles pricking my inner stomach harshly. He was my best friend; his hair was probably turning grey from worrying about me. But at the same time, I wasn’t supposed to talk to anyone. It continues to ring; it would be sent to voicemail soon. [[Ignore his call.|2.02IgnoreCall][$chris -=5]] [[Pick up the phone.|2.02PickItUp][$stubborn +=3; $chriscall = true]]

I flip the phone over so that I can’t see his picture anymore and take a deep breath. I did the right thing, that much I know. If I had talked to Chris, who knows what might happen? My life was more than an unpredictable mess at the moment, it was better to not include others. Also, who was to say that he would believe me? I only believed it because I was living it and if it wasn’t for Sydero, then I might still be doubting. No, it was better this way. <a data-passage="2.03"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++<</if>> I gaze over at the house before accepting the call. “Hello?” “Hello? That’s all you have to say after I left you about ten thousand messages? What’s wrong with you? Where the hell are you? What happened? <<if $uncledead>>Your uncle’s house, and your uncle ... and ... I’m so sorry. Where are you?”<<else>>Those cops showed up with a warrant for you. And guess who they questioned, me!”<</if>> “I ... I can’t tell you, Chris.” “What, is this some secret government stuff? What do you mean you can’t tell me?” “It’s a long story that you won’t believe, I’m still trying to believe it myself. But I’m okay.” “So, you vanish <<if $uncledead>>after your uncle dies and his house burns down, and you’re telling me you can’t tell me? If the cops didn’t believe you were a victim, you would definitely be a suspect.<<else>>just when some cops show up with a warrant for you.<</if>> Tell me what’s going on. I want to help you or at least get closure for myself.” “Closure for what?” “Knowing that my best friend didn’t <<if $uncledead>>have some part in burning down ?his uncle’s house!”<<else>>do something illegal. I don’t know! The officers wouldn’t tell me why they’re after you.”<</if>> <<if $uncledead>>“Don’t do that. How could that even come out of your mouth?”<<else>>“You know me better than that, you can’t believe that I actually did something illegal, can you?”<</if>> “I don’t know what to believe unless you tell me.” I look back towards the house, rehearsing the words in my head. Each time I repeat a sentence though, I find it sounds just as crazy as the first time. There is no way Chris will understand what I’m trying to convey to him this way. If he’s going to believe me, he needs to see me. Face to face. [[“How about we meet up?”|2.02MeetUp][$chris +=2; $chrismeeting = true]] [[“I’m sorry, Chris ... goodbye.”|2.02SorryChris][$chris -=2]]

“Are you being held hostage or something?” “No. Do you know a town called Foster? Small town in the middle of nowhere?” “Yea, during tennis matches we stop at the grocery store there.” “Great, meet me at that grocery store. I’ll tell you everything when I see you, okay? Around 3?” “Fine, be safe, alright?” “You too. And Chris, if you can, can you stop by my apartment and grab my laptop and some clothes?” I ask. I hear him mumble underneath his breath but in the end, he agrees to do what I’ve asked. “And no one can know about this Chris,” I state, stressing every syllable. “Yea, because I was going to scream this little meeting to the heavens.” A second later he hangs up the phone, and I once again sit in silence. I rest my hand on the seat’s headrest. Again, the question of how I got myself into this mess arises, and how I would get out. <a data-passage="2.03"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“No $name wait,” he starts, but I hang up the phone before he can change my mind. I rest the phone beside me and take a deep breath. I did the right thing, that much I know. If I had invited Chris, who knows what might happen? My life was more than an unpredictable mess at the moment, it was better to not include others. Also, who was to say that he would believe me? I only believed it because I was living it and if it wasn’t for Sydero, then I might still be doubting. No, it was better this way. <a data-passage="2.03"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I grab the groceries and hurry inside, placing them on the table. A moment later, Sydero peeks her head out of the room she’s in, walking out with two books in her hand. “You got the stuff?” <<if $syderolist>>\ “Of course.” I remove the things she asked for and place them on the edge for her to collect. “Thank you.” I raise a brow at her words, though I don’t comment. It isn’t hard to guess that such words rarely come out of her mouth. <<else>>\ “No. Um, they didn’t have what you needed.” She raises a disbelieving brow, leaning forward on the unstable wooden railing. It wood groans underneath her weight, at any moment looking ready to snap. “They didn’t have salt?” “Nope,” I reply with the straightest face I can muster. She doesn’t seem to believe me, but she lets the argument go. <</if>>\ “These are for you.” Before I can question her, she walks down the stairs and places two books on the table. She separates them and turns each to face me. One of the books is beyond weathered and its text hardly recognizable. Just barely can I make out the words ‘The Lore.’ The other is a dark sable grey with a strange crimson icon. I flip the book open to see the words ‘Book of the Damned.’ “Uh, is that satanic?” I question, and she rolls her eyes. Her expression says that my question is ridiculous, but I fail to see why based off of what I had just read. She points to //The Lore//, “this book is a great reference and covers almost all the supernatural creatures out there. Again, //almost//. Want to know the difference between a full-blood werewolf and a werewolf that was turned? This is your book.” She moves her hand to cover the other. “This one deals with legends and stories. Do werewolves really howl at the moon? No. This book goes into where that myth came from. Think of this book as the supernatural myth buster.” “Also, here,” she reaches into her back pocket and delicately pulls out a shimmering silver blade. It was small but deathly sharp. The way she handles it is with finesse, someone who has handled and became familiar with such an item. “What do I need this for?” “You’ll learn that most supernatural creatures are hurt by silver. I’ll teach you how to use it later, but it’s always good to have it on your person.” I accept it, running my fingers over the cold stainless metal. The blade was dangerously beautiful. Before I can admire it further, Sydero clears her throat and pushes the two books closer to me. “You want me to read both of these?” <<if $syderolist>>\ “Do what you want with these, I don’t really care. Now, if you’ll excuse me,” she states, grabbing the items I bought back for her, “I’ll be working on these spells.” “Need any help?” She doesn’t answer; instead, she chuckles sarcastically as she goes. <<else>>\ “Do what you want with these, I don’t really care. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to have to improvise because someone wanted to be childish.” She pauses, turning to me as she places her hand out. “What?” “I gave you money for that trip, I want it back, obviously.” I dig into my pocket and retrieve the bills. Snatching them, she flees back up the stairs. <</if>>\ I hear the door close behind her, signaling that I was once again on my own in some unknown house that I knew nothing of. I spy the books sitting idle and think about the other things that I could possibly do. [[Read one of the books.|2.03ReadBook][$ss_supernatural = true; $supernatural +=10]] [[Get my thoughts together.|2.03ThoughtsTogether][$nerve +=5]] [[Bug Sydero in an attempt to get to know her.|2.03BugSydero]]

I grab the books that Sydero dropped off, walk into the room, and sit on the edge of the bed. I open both of them, deciding which to look at first. The Lore’s table of contents was quite simple. Like Sydero said, it highlighted the species and even went into sub-species and other things that needed to be discussed. The Book of the Damned was more focused on legends and events. It looks to contain actual events and myths and discusses specific people. It makes sense why Sydero believed I would need to know about both. [[Read ‘The Lore.’|2.03Lore]] [[Read the ‘Book of the Damned.’|2.03BotD]]

I flip through the table of contents nonchalantly until I finally persuade myself to go to a specific page, the werewolf one. On the left side of the book are charts and diagrams discussing werewolves. Some show the phases they go through while another labels what happens at each phase of the moon, and even another discusses their weak spots. The other side of the page is filled with words and more words. I skim most of it due to the small writing. But some of the text grabs my attention. It points out important facts like a werewolf’s appearance, and how freshly turned werewolves that haven’t transformed are known as weanlings. I learn that werewolves eat the hearts of their victims, especially liking the taste of virgin hearts, those being able to sustain them longer. Their vulnerabilities were silver and their own hearts. <a data-passage="2.03.1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I push the other book to the side and start browsing this one, flipping through the pages nonchalantly, not really focused on any select thing. As I browse, my eyes land on a weird picture of men and women in costumes, all roaming through a forest and towards a pit of darkness. I begin to read, learning that this was all part of a Celtic festival named Samhain. In other words, I read, it is where Halloween originally originated from. It was thought that on the day of Halloween, dead spirits were able to rise and walk the Earth once more. The Celts would dress up in costumes to ward off these ghosts. From there, other cultures chose what they wanted and threw their own twist on it, Halloween taking on different meanings and symbolizing different things in individual cultures. <a data-passage="2.03.1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I take a deep breath and gather my thoughts. This was the best way to work things out in my mind. It was either this or walking around with my nightmares banging into one another, getting me nowhere but closer to depression. I constantly remind myself that I can’t change anything, it was now the past whether I like it or not. I need to be careful, everything I did needed to be thought out. Sydero doesn’t seem to want to do me harm, but even I know she’s hiding multiple things. Either I have yet to ask the right questions, or she has no intention of answering them all. I would need to watch those who I was around, perhaps even more than those after me. <<include "2.03.1">>

She was probably about to start on one of the spells she had talked about earlier, but she had all day to do that. This action would either hurt my already delicate relationship with her or strengthen it, if only just a bit. And that was all I was hoping for, to get a better a grasp of the person I was now traveling with. I walk up the stairs and to her door, knocking on it multiple times when I receive no answer. She opens it on the fourth knock, her brow raised and her patience appearing low. “Hey Sydero, how are you?” “Seriously? What do you want?” “This is actually an attempt to get to know you better.” She leans on the frame of the doorway, “huh, and how do you plan on doing that? Bugging me until I answer something?” [[“We could ask each other ten random questions or something.”|2.03TenRandomQuestions][$sydero -=3]] [[“If we’re going to be traveling together, then we should at least know each other.”|2.03TravelingTogether]] [[“By asking.”|2.03ByAsking][$sydero +=5]]

“Yea, that sounds like a great idea, not to mention a colossal waste of time. I’ll pass.” “Come on, Sydero, all I know about you is your name and that you’re a witch. What if a situation calls for us to know one another?” “Then we go with Plan B or C, or even D. Are we done here, great.” She closes the door without another word. <<include "2.03.1">>

“A good point, kinda. Fine, I’ll humor you, what do you want to know?” “What can I ask?” “I’ll give you one question since I’m feeling generous.” “That’s not going to –,” I begin, but after catching the facial expression she sends me, decide to just keep that thought to myself. [[“Who are those people after you?”|2.03Who]] [[“Why are they after you?”|2.03Why]] [[“How did you figure out you were a witch?”|2.03How]] [[“Where’s your family?”|2.03Where]]

“Straight forward and to the point, huh? Alright, I’ll humor you. What do you want to know?” “I only get one question, don’t I?” She nods her head once, waiting for what that one question would be. [[“Who are those people after you?”|2.03Who]] [[“Why are they after you?”|2.03Why]] [[“How did you figure out you were a witch?”|2.03How]] [[“Where’s your family?”|2.03Where]]

“Hell if I know.” “You’re kidding.” “Believe it or not, I’m not totally sure who they are. Langston and Petri, I know simply because they’ve been on my case lately. And when I say lately, I mean it. They’ve shown themselves, who they work for has not.” “You think they work for somebody?” “Have you not met them? Those two wouldn’t eat unless they were told to.” In Sydero’s defense, she appears genuine. But I hardly know the woman, this could be her lying face. With my question answered, she waves goodbye and closes the door behind her. <<include "2.03.1">>

“I already told you, it’s because I took something from them. Did I expect to be hunted? Not really, but it’s not totally unheard of.” In Sydero’s defense, she appears genuine. But I hardly knew the woman, this could be her lying face. With my question answered, she waves goodbye and closes the door behind her. <<include "2.03.1">>

“Happened when I was a kid. One day I just found that I had abilities. I knew enough to know that wasn’t normal, but I also thought it was the coolest thing ever.” “Do all witches have powers?” “No. Witches have powers. Practitioners follow the way of Wicca. They’re the ones you hear the most about, the ones with the spell books. Witches, you hardly hear anything about them.” <<include "2.03.1">>

For a minute, she looks ready to answer me. But after a minute, she remembers where she is and who she’s talking to, she shakes her head. “The same place yours is at,” she tells me before taking a step back and closing the door. <<include "2.03.1">>

<<if $uncledead>>\ After I finish, I lie down on the bed, staring up at the ceiling. Flashes of my uncle arise, as well as of his burning house. I know that everyone deals with loss differently. That some hardly shed a tear, a whimper, for those that have moved on. Others grieve for months, failing to see even the dimmest of lights. But they all yearn for the same flicker of hope, only a few grasp it. <<else>>\ After I finish, I lie down on the bed, staring up at the ceiling. I feel like a terrible migraine was moving in. Placing itself between my disbelief and fear. A good night’s sleep could cure it, maybe. But who knows when I’ll get another one of those. <</if>>\ My eyes drift closed. I fight nothing. Even the uncomfortable bed doesn’t deter me. “$name!” I jump up, looking around in shock. Had I seriously fallen asleep? I look up to see Sydero standing under the arch, a bottle of discolored liquid residing in her hands. “This can work one of three ways, you drink this, you dunk it on yourself, or I throw it on you.” “Why would I ever pick the last one?” “Trust me, that’s probably the best option.” [[Ask what’s in it.]] [[Drink it.][$chugit = true]] [[Do it myself.]] [[Let her throw it on me.]]

"What's in it?" “I'll tell you, after you put it on or drink it. Otherwise, you won’t and I’ll either have to use drastic measures or you’ll still be trackable.” “It’s that bad?” “Yes, it is. So, which one?” [[Drink it.][$chugit = true]] [[Do it myself.]] [[Let her throw it on me.]]

I chew the side of my cheek, motioning for her to hand it over. She does as I ask. “Are the contents edible?” “I wouldn’t suggest it if they weren’t. But you’re a brave soul because there is no way in hell I’d –” As she continues, I gather all of my strength and chug it down. As soon as the liquid touches my tongue, I am overwhelmed by an unpleasant taste. It's horribly sour, and the taste is more than enough to make me question my life decisions. I stiffen and twitch in disgust. “You might want some water.” “You think!” I shriek, whimpering as I gratefully accept the water she offers, “what was in that?” <<include "2.03.2">>

I chew the side of my cheek, motioning for her to hand it over. She does as I ask. “Why do I feel like this is a horrible idea?” “Because it is.” I sigh, unscrewing the top and splashing some on me like it was some sort of fragrance. My nose twitches as I catch a whiff of a disagreeable smell. It starts off faint before escalating tremendously, causing me to shudder violently. “Good god, what is this?” <<include "2.03.2">>

“I don’t even want to think about this so –” I’m unable to finish my sentence when she suddenly throws the liquid on me. “Consider yourself cleansed,” she grins. My nose twitches as I catch a whiff of a disagreeable smell. It starts off faint before escalating tremendously. “Good god, what is that?” <<include "2.03.2">>

“Do you really want to know?” [[“Nope, keep it to yourself.”]] [[“Yea, that’s why I asked.”]]

I raise my brow, peering over at her. She looks all too eager to tell. “Nope, keep it to yourself.” <<if $chugit>>\ “Nope, I’m telling you anyway. It’s vinegar and skunk spray,” she confesses as she heads back to her room. Revolted, I follow behind her. I feel like I’m going to be sick. I can practically feel the vomit rising up, demanding to be let out. I pause behind her, trying to center myself and breathe, hoping that I wouldn’t just throw up where I stand. <<else>>\ “Nope, I’m telling you anyway. It’s vinegar and skunk spray,” she confesses as she heads back to her room. Revolted, I follow behind her. My clothes are probably permanently destroyed now, and it isn’t like I have a large wardrobe. That, and I have no idea when I will be able to take another shower. <</if>>\ <<include "2.03.3">>

<<if $chugit>>\ “Well, the smell is from the vinegar and skunk spray.” I shout in disgust; I felt like I was going to be sick, I can practically feel the vomit rising up, demanding to be let out. <<else>>\ “Well, the smell is from vinegar and skunk spray.” I shout in disgust; my clothes were probably permanently destroyed now, and it wasn’t like I had a large wardrobe. That, and I had no idea when I was going to be able to take another shower.” <</if>>\ <<include "2.03.3">>

“Where’d you get that from?” <<if $cmajor is "Psychology" or $cmajor is "Communications">>\ “I already had the vinegar, but the skunk spray was from outside. Duh.” I notice the look that comes across her face. She wasn’t telling me something. “When did you go outside and how’d you get it?” I further question. “When you were gone and I’m a witch, you should probably stop forgetting that.” She heads back up to the room, closing the door before I can further question her. <<else>>\ “I already had the vinegar, but the skunk spray was from outside. Duh.” <</if>>\ <<include "A2_3">>

I follow her into the room and see her setting up for another spell. This room was otherwise empty besides a dingy looking sleeping bag resting against the wall and her pack. She gave me the bed, not that it was a wholesome bed or anything, but still, she gave it to me. I gaze over at her, “what are you doing now?” “A tracking spell.” “To find the people after us?” “Yea.” “I want to help.” “No.” “Why not?” “Because this isn’t something that you can help with. Spells like this can only be done by a witch. So, leave a witch to it. And I swear, if you disturb me, I’ll give you a straight dose of skunk urine.” <<if $chrismeeting>>\ I raise my hands in surrender as she shoo’s me out of the room. Thankfully, it was almost time to meet up with Chris. It was best that Sydero was distracted. Otherwise, I would have to explain myself. <<else>>\ I raise my hands in surrender as she shoo’s me out of the room. I wonder how long I’ll need her? It seems like one of us would kill the other before I get an answer. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="EP2-Act Two"><img src="images/acttwobutton.png" alt="Act Two" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/acttwo.png"> <<if $chrismeeting>>\ I drive back to the grocery store, relieved when I see no signs of the men from earlier. I’m not entirely sure what I would do if they were to appear again. Instead of parking right next to the store, I take a more discrete parking spot. This spot was closer to a patch of trees, as well as by a large dumpster. I cut the engine, rehearsing what I would say to Chris. Nothing I say causes me to nod and feel even a slight bit better about my predicament. I realize that I was just now exposed to the truth of the world, but I saw it with my own eyes. I was living it. Chris was not, how would I get him to believe me? Thirty minutes or so later, I hear the familiar sound of loud classic rock and look to see Chris’s car. I honk my horn, guiding him to my location. As soon as I get out, Chris is upon me, wrapping me in a big hug. “Whoa!” he shouts, releasing me and taking a few steps back, “what the heck is that? Is that you smelling like that?” I chuckle softly, almost forgetting about the cleansing that Sydero had me undergo. “It’s part of the story.” “Then you should start telling it before I pass out.” “Chris, I doubt – no, I know, that you’re not going to believe a word that comes out of my mouth.” <<if $uncledead>>\ “I just drove about an hour to meet up with you. I came for answers, not excuses. Folks are worried about you, $name. You disappear out of nowhere, and coincidentally it’s right when your uncle’s house burns down, and authorities find out that he’s dead? If I had to fight everyone who believed you were a murderer or an arsonist, then I’d be rivaling Mayweather in wins.” <<else>>\ “I just drove about an hour to meet up with you. I came for answers, not excuses. Folks are worried about you, $name. You disappear out of nowhere, and everyone knows about the cops wanting to arrest you. And then, your uncle is gone, and no one knows where. If I had to fight everyone who believed you were a murderer or involved in some government conspiracy, then I’d be rivaling Mayweather in wins.” <</if>>\ <a data-passage="A3_1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ I grumble as I make my way back towards my room, freezing when I catch a glimpse outside. It wasn’t so much what I did see as it was what I didn’t. I dash to the window and look up and down the street. My car was nowhere to be seen. “Crap,” I say under my breath, my mind racing when it comes to a screeching halt. The three guys from earlier, but would they have seriously taken my car? I dash into my room, finding my keys still where I left them. If they took my car, they either brought a tow truck or broke into it. The mental image of them busting one of my windows open and hotwiring my vehicle sends anger coursing through me. “Sydero,” I shout, marching back upstairs with purpose. “What?” she growls, dragging out the word. “We have a problem,” I grab her wrist, knowing she wouldn’t listen to me any other way. She doesn’t struggle, but she does constantly question what the problem could be, as well as stating that the only problem she can see is me. I stop at the window and point outside. “Tell me what’s missing.” It doesn’t take long for her to catch on, and when she does realize the issue at hand, she turns to me. “I’m guessing you have some idea about who did it?” “Yea, three guys that I think are actually supernaturals.” “What do you mean?” “They had werewolf tendencies, I guess I’d say.” She laughs at this, patting my shoulder like I was a helpless, naive child. I follow her outside, both of us scouring the streets for any sign. “It’s a small town. Not a lot of places to hide a vehicle like yours. We’ll search by the general store first and work our way from there.” I nod, going inside to grab my wallet and keys. It would be easier to find if I could hear my car going off. As soon as I’m ready, we set off toward the store on foot. Once there, we decide to split up and meet back in front of the general store. [[Talk to the woman inside.]] [[Walk around and use my keys.]] [[Go across the street and speak to anyone there.]] <</if>>

“Oh, so you would win all of them?” I question and Chris chuckles. “Well, not to toot my own horn but,” he states and toots an invisible horn, smiling warmly at me. I smile in turn but feel it slowly fall. Whether or not Chris would believe me, he was untainted. Like Sydero said, most people couldn’t handle the truth, and so they were allowed to live in their oblivious existence, never learning what crept in the dark. People were already haunted by their own demons, it would do them no good to know that werewolves and vampires needed to be added to that list as well. He would either believe me, think me crazy, or think me mad and believe the rumors. At this exact moment, the Chris standing before me was my best friend. The brilliant and fun-loving man that sat beside me in freshman seminar, whispering to me that I didn’t have to raise my hand to use the bathroom. When I look into those soft bluish-grey eyes, I know he sees the same friend. Did I truly wish to see that look vanish forever? [[Send him back home.]] [[Tell Chris the truth.][$chris +=2; $honesty +=5]]

“Truthfully,” I start out, “I just called you here so you could see that I was alright.” Chris’s smile disappears almost instantly. “I wanted you to see it for yourself and to tell the others that I was okay.” Chris shakes his head, pacing in front of me, troubled. “I’m not leaving until I hear what happened.” “Chris, go home,” I say and turn to grip my car’s door handle. “No. Tell me what’s going on, $name,” he growls and grabs my shoulders, turning me around and giving them a light squeeze. [[Tell Chris the truth.]] [[Refuse.][$aptstuff = true]]

“It’s not what you think,” I start, not knowing exactly where to begin. I had rehearsed this. And though I wasn’t happy with any of the previous tries, I should at least be prepared for how to begin the explanation. “So, condense the story if you have to, but I’m entitled as your best friend to learn the truth.” <<if $uncledead>>\ <<if $incustody>>\ “You want condensed? Alright. I save a woman out of an alleyway who turns out to be hunted by the same folks that killed my uncle. I do everything she says, avoid her and forget about her and guess what, a werewolf cop still gets my scent and goes to my uncle’s house. He and his group killed my uncle to send me a message for helping the woman and interfering, the message saying I was next. I teamed up with the woman, and before we left, she gave me this ‘are you sure you can handle this’ speech, told me happy birthday, and then burned the house down to buy time. Here I am.” <<else>>\ “You want condensed? Alright. I save a woman out of an alleyway who turns out to be hunted by the same folks that killed my uncle. It would’ve never happened if I listened to her and avoided her, but a werewolf cop got my scent and went to my uncle’s house. He and his group killed my uncle to send me a message for helping the woman and interfering, the message saying I was next. I teamed up with the woman, and before we left, she gave me this ‘are you sure you can handle this’ speech, told me happy birthday, and then burned the house down to buy time. Here I am.” <</if>>\ Chris stares at me long and hard, giving no evidence of what he’s thinking. “But didn’t your birthday just pass?” he points out, and I don’t know whether to laugh or to tell him to take me seriously. It seems that my facial expression conveys both messages. <<else>>\ <<if $incustody>>\ “You want condensed? Alright. I save a woman out of an alleyway who turns out to be hunted by the same folks after me. I do everything she says, avoid her and forget about her and guess what, a werewolf cop still gets my scent. He and his group forced me to hide my uncle and join the woman. I teamed up with the woman, and before we left, she gave me this ‘are you sure you can handle this’ speech, and now I’m living with mice in abandoned houses.” <<else>>\ “You want condensed? Alright. I save a woman out of an alleyway who turns out to be hunted by the same folks after me. It would’ve never happened if I listened to her and avoided her, but a werewolf cop got my scent. He and his group forced me to hide my uncle and join the woman. I teamed up with the woman, and before we left, she gave me this ‘are you sure you can handle this’ speech, and now I’m living with mice in abandoned houses.” <</if>>\ Chris stares at me long and hard, giving no evidence of what he’s thinking. “That’s a really cliché trope,” he points out, and I don’t know whether to laugh or to tell him to take me seriously. It seems that my facial expression conveys both messages. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="A3_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“I’m sorry. I didn’t know we were being serious.” I physically and emotionally deflate at his reaction, beginning to rethink all of this. “I told you you wouldn’t believe me.” He laughs again, this time having to lean on my car to remain standing. “I have one question, what college student gave you these drugs you’re rocked out on?” I remain quiet, it was obvious that he wasn’t going to believe me. “No, but seriously, give me his info cos I want some. I could make a fortune on em during finals.” “Everything I just told you is the truth.” “Do you hear yourself?” “I do, and it took me a while to believe it too, but if you’ve seen what I have in the last twenty-four hours alone ... you would believe it all too.” <<if $chrishonesty>>\ "Wait, is this the girl you told me about before you left, back in the library?" "Yea, this is her." He sighs deeply, covering his face with his hand before looking at me. <</if>>\ “You got any proof of this? Like a dead werewolf in the trunk?” he asks. “I can find some proof.” “$name,” he starts, but I stop him with a raised hand, waving his doubts and words away. “Don’t $name me. You’ve reduced me to finding you proof so I don’t look like some sort of psycho.” <<if $uncledead>>\ “How about you take a walk in my shoes for a moment, let’s switch it up here. I disappear, and you find my uncle dead, and his house burned. When you finally find me, I spit some BS about crap that doesn’t exist.” I sigh in annoyance and gently slam my head on the hood of my car. <<else>>\ “How about you take a walk in my shoes for a moment, let’s switch it up here. I disappear, and cops show up to our place of work to question you about my whereabouts because I have a warrant out for my arrest. When you finally find me, I spit some BS about crap that doesn’t exist.” I sigh in annoyance and gently slam my head on the hood of my car. <</if>>\ [[Give up on persuading Chris.][$chris -=3]] [[Promise to find him proof.][$chris +=5; $chrismotel = true; $aptstuff = true; $stubborn +=5]] [[Drive off.][$chris -=5]]

I remove his hands and shake my head, taking a step back. “This is something you wouldn’t understand, Chris. I barely understand it.” “So that’s it? That’s how you’re going to leave this?” I nod slowly. He backs away from me, a new look in his eye. This look is bewildered, not sure of what it’s looking at. It would seem that whether I told him or not, he would leave today not seeing me the same way. He opens the passenger side of his car, passing me a large suitcase. “Here’s the stuff you asked for,” he mumbles. He gives me no time to thank him, as he gets into his car and reverses. Right before he drives off, he rolls down the window. “Goodbye, $name.” I watch the car disappear, along with my best friend. <a data-passage="A3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“I can find you proof, Chris, I swear. I just need some time.” “For what? To pay someone to act along with you?” “You know me better than that,” I stress, “you should at least let me try and show you. Or do you really think I just woke up and decided to suddenly lie about all this?” Chris goes back to his pacing, chewing the side of his cheek. He gazes at me and then goes back to pacing. Finally, he stops, shaking his head and groaning loudly. “I’m going to get a room at the only motel in this town. I’m giving you till tomorrow.” “Here’s the stuff you asked for,” he mumbles, opening his passenger door and handing over a large suitcase. He gives me no time to thank him, as he gets into his car and reverses. Chris leaves, driving in a direction that I surmise the motel resides. I would have to broach the idea of motels to Sydero. Of course, they cost money, but they were a far better alternative than abandoned houses. <a data-passage="A3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

It was time for me to go before Chris busted out a surprise on me. “I’m sorry this is how it went,” I tell him, walking to my car and getting in. “$name, don’t do this,” he tells me, hurrying to his car. I waste no time, pulling out of the parking lot and speeding away. As I drive, I regularly check to see if he’s behind me. Once I know for sure that he’s not following, I head back to the abandoned house. I was becoming far too accustomed to losing people in this car. <a data-passage="A3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

There was no way he was going to believe me, no way whatsoever. And then, for him to take it all as a joke. This was a mistake. I wasn’t getting anywhere, and now he would probably think I was lying to cover up something else. “Whatever, I give up,” I finally say, and throw my hands in the air. “Can you blame me for not believing you?” Chris asks, no longer playful or smiling. “No, I can’t, because I know how crazy this all sounds. But I told you, and that’s all I can do. What you do with that, none of my business.” “So, what now?” he asks me, but the way he says it, it seems like he had an idea about what should happen next. I raise an inquisitive brow and look at him. “$name, you need to turn yourself into the police. Come clean.” “About how I’m innocent?” “I don’t know if you’re innocent. I’d like to believe it, but I guess we’ll see.” Would he call the cops on me if I refused or did he bring them with him? No, they would’ve shown themselves by now. “I’m sorry this is how it went,” I tell him, walking to my car and getting in. “$name, don’t do this,” he tells me, hurrying to his car. I waste no time, pulling out of the parking lot and speeding away. As I drive, I regularly check to see if he’s behind me. Once I know for sure that he’s not following, I head back to the abandoned house. I was becoming far too accustomed to losing people in this car. <a data-passage="A3_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Once I make it back to the house, I collapse on the floor, cringing in pain when I hear a crunch. I peer down, slightly relieved to see that it was only a piece of wood that had crushed underneath my weight. I massage my temples, thinking about if I ever had a tetanus shot. <<if $optimistic >= 50>>\ Look at the bright side, I wasn’t bored anymore. I hear a door open and watch as Sydero walks by me. <<else>>\ Look at the bright side, I tell myself but fail to see anything but darkness. I hear a door open and glance up to see Sydero walking towards me. <</if>>\ “How was the trip?” So, she knows that I left. Of course she knows. All she had to do was walk out and see that I wasn’t there, or she probably guessed when I didn’t come by and tap on the door. “Uh, good. How’s the tracking spell going?” She disappears but comes back into the foyer with a water bottle in hand. “It’s going fine, had to look around for some more ingredients.” She lets out a loud yawn, shaking her head and taking a long gulp of the water. Neither of us says anything to the other, and after she takes another gulp, she heads back towards the staircase. <<if $chrismotel>>\ “Hey, can you help me with something?” She faces me, waiting to hear more. “My friend –” “No.” “Come on, Sydero, I had to. He’s down here and doesn’t know where we are, I didn’t tell him that. But he doesn’t believe me, can’t blame him. But he wants proof, and you’re the only thing I could think of.” “Ah, so you want me to meet him, tell him that you’re telling the truth. Maybe show him a spell or two?” “Yes! That would be great.” “No.” “But –” “No. I warned you, and you, again, did the opposite. And like all the other times, you can face the consequences on your own.” She goes into the room and slams the door, ignoring me as I bang up against it. I would either need to figure out something else or give her some time, persuade her further. I was currently at a loss on how. I just know I needed to. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="A4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I go inside the general store, quickly finding the same woman that helped me out earlier. As soon as her eyes meet mine, they narrow. “Thought you were only passing through?” “I was until my car was stolen. Any idea where it might be?” She leans towards me, resting her elbows on the short conveyor belt. “You tryna insinuate something about my town?” [[“If the shoe fits, then I guess so.”][$sympathy -=3]] [[“I’m just trying to find my car, please.”][$sympathy +=3]] [[“Maybe about some of the folks living in it, yea.”]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> “If the shoe fits, then I guess so,” I huff. The woman doesn’t look offended or shocked; instead, she seems almost happy with my words. She reaches down and sits her shotgun on top of the belt, cocking her head to the side. “I suggest you go now.” As far as I’ve seen, everyone in this town was either crazy or close enough. Testing her wasn’t wise, and I refuse to die in some backwater town because a clerk was easily offended. <<include "A3_4">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> “Look,” I sigh in frustration, “I’m just trying to find my car. So can you please help me if you can?” She sucks her teeth before straightening back up, “I saw the boys ride past with it not too long ago. They were towin’ it back to Shawn’s Junkyard, not too far from here. Just keep going left on Mansley.” I thank her before rushing back outside. She probably only told me because she wanted to see me go, but it didn’t matter. <<include "A3_4">>

“Not your town per se, but maybe some folks living in it.” I wasn’t about to mince my words for her. She had thieves in her town. She sucks her teeth before straightening back up, “I saw the boys ride past with it not too long ago. They were towin’ it back to Shawn’s Junkyard, not too far from here. Just keep going left on Mansley.” I thank her before rushing back outside. She probably only told me because she wanted to see me go, but it didn’t matter. <<include "A3_4">>

I begin walking around, pressing the lock button on my key set. The sound of my car locking was unique. I’ve had the car for so long that I would recognize it anywhere. Besides, most of the cars here weren’t new, so it shouldn’t be hard to distinguish mine from theirs. I continue walking around, failing to find or hear my car. The idea could’ve worked if my car was anywhere nearby. <<include "A3_4">>

I walk across the street towards the diner. Two old men sit out in front, each with a newspaper cradled in their hands. They stare into the distance, their gaze not wavering even with my approach. This is probably a daily thing for them. For all I know, they’re asleep. I approach and clear my throat. Neither man budges. “Excuse me,” I try, again to no avail. “They’re asleep,” a voice states, and I see a young blonde-haired girl looking at me. She holds a dishtowel and wears a cliche plaid diner uniform. “Ah, had a feeling they were,” I smirk playfully. “Can I help you with something?” She seems low on patience, but still, her eyes give away her curiosity. [[Charm the waitress.][$charisma +=3]] [[Simply ask her.]]

I give her a relaxed and friendly smile, a look I have perfected thanks to my time at work. “You sure can. My car was stolen not too long ago, and I was wondering if anyone saw it and where it was heading.” “What makes you think I did?” “I actually don’t think you did. You look like you’re hardworking, the type of girl who doesn’t slack off. Let me guess, lead waitress?” I don’t even know if that is a thing, but the smile that she sends me at least says I’m saying the right things. “That’s why I came over here. I thought these nice gentlemen might have seen it.” “Yea, this is kinda a thing for them. I did happen to see your car, though, kinda flashy looking?” Compared to what she was used to seeing around her, any car made in the last five years would be flashy. I nod to avoid saying anything that would get her off my side. “I saw it being towed, heading towards Shawn’s Junkyard.” How I manage to keep a straight face illudes me because Inside Me was throwing the temper tantrum of the year. I thank her and turn on my heel, my eye twitching as I think about what could be happening to my car right now. <<include "A3_4">>

“Um, yes, actually. I was wondering if you might’ve seen a $car pass by here recently.” “Kinda flashy looking?” Compared to what she was used to seeing around her, any car made in the last five years would be flashy. I nod to avoid saying anything that would get her off my side. “I saw it being towed, heading towards Shawn’s Junkyard.” How I manage to keep a straight face illudes me because Inside Me was throwing the temper tantrum of the year. I thank her and turn on my heel, my eye twitching as I think about what could be happening to my car right now. <<include "A3_4">>

I meet back up with Sydero, exchanging information. She was told that the car was being towed and headed towards Shawn’s Junkyard. We waste no time and head over. Hopefully, the next time we come through here will be in my car. Shawn’s Junkyard was your standard run-of-the-mill trash pile. Only a poorly painted sign lets us know where we are. Out of commission cars rest atop the light dirt ground; each one reminds me of a jigsaw puzzle with how they are arranged. Finding my car in this graveyard would be easy, as long as it still resembles my car. My hopes that they haven’t done something to it begins to disappear, but one nudge from Sydero renews it immediately. I follow her finger and see my car near a building, the three men that had taken it a few yards away, laughing at something. “What kind of supernaturals are they?” I question. I don’t know how Sydero can tell, perhaps a spell or even a fundamental understanding since she’s been around them so long. “They’re not supernaturals,” she tells me plainly, “they’re just humans.” “What!” I exclaim. She motions for me to follow quietly, attempting to get closer, using the cars to hide us. “Rule number one when doing this line of work, humans are just as monstrous as monsters.” [[Question her further.]] [[Continue on silently.]] [[Start devising a plan.]]

“This line of work? What does it entail exactly?” “There’s a lot of terminologies involved. You’ll learn it as you go. Basically, it’s anyone who hunts monsters. You have humans who hunt who are called hunters, whether they were born in it or saw something and decided to get in on it.” “I’m guessing others have a different name?” “Humans are hunters, but folks like me - supernatural beings who hunt - are called specialists. Look, we can talk about this later. Right now, we need to get your car back.” I nod in agreement. <<include "A3_5">>

I allow the conversation to die there. There will be a time and a place for questions and further explanations. <<include "A3_5">>

As we grow closer, I start to devise a plan. I had the keys, but these guys would definitely notice if my car went missing. Perhaps Syd can come up with something. I glance over at her, finding her scrutinizing our surroundings as well. <<include "A3_5">>

“Got a plan?” I ask her. “I do. We can clone your car. The spell would be focus and distance-based, so the car won’t disappear until we’re out of here.” “You can do that? Clone things?” “Yea, witchcraft is pretty powerful.” “What do you need?” “Nothing like before. A random item to enchant from the car, and then we place it on the ground underneath it.” “A piece of paper would work?” she nods. [[Ask Sydero to distract them.]] [[Sneak over there.][$sydero +=3; $perception +=2]]

“Mind distracting them?” I ask. She stares at me with a blank expression before finally getting up and leaving my side. She was acting reasonably cooperative, probably since my car was a plus for both of us. I wait until Sydero gets their attention, stating that she was sent there to pick up something. If the three men try to overtake her, I have no doubt that she can fight them off, especially since they’re just humans. I make it to the car and open the glove department, grabbing a random piece of useless paper. I move back to our hiding place, waiting for her to walk off, and then once they stop watching her, bring her to where I’m hiding. <<include "A3_6">>

I do the simplest thing I can think of, sneak over. As long as I use the cars for cover, I should be fine. Sydero stays where she is, mumbling something that I can't hear while she focuses on the men. I surmise that she's in the middle of some kind of spell or curse and I continue on. Whether under her influence or just because I was quiet, I'm able to make it to the car undetected. I grab a random piece of worthless paper from the glove department and dart back to Sydero's side. <<include "A3_6">>

She mumbles some words to the paper and nods, the two of us going back to my car. “Won’t they hear us when I start the engine and drive off?” “No,” she states, “the spell I put over them will wear off soon, but it’s a mirage one. It’s like they’re in their own little bubble right now. So come on.” I do as she says, ready to get out of there as much as she was. I start the car while she puts the paper underneath us. Once she’s in, I drive off, heading back to the abandoned house and celebrating the victory. <a data-passage="A4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

Later that day, I awake from a nap to the familiar feeling of vibration. I gaze around the room, looking outside to see that the sun is still in the sky though beginning to fall. I suppose it’s around five o’clock, perhaps six. My day was filled with doing minimal tasks and sleeping, though I guess I can’t complain. I could only complain about the quality of the bed, mainly because there is no quality whatsoever to it. I finally find my phone and gaze at the caller ID, seeing Chris’s name. [[Ignore it.]] [[Pick up.|A4_1]]

I ignore it, cutting it off and putting it back down. I stretch and consider all the things I can do when my phone vibrates once again. This time it’s a text. I briefly see a text from Chris with the acronym ‘SOS.’ A second later he calls back. <<include "A4_1">>

“Hello?” “$name Roe, isn’t it?” My heart immediately sinks at the unfamiliar voice. Each beat echoes across my chest, loud in my eardrums. “Who is this?” “Officer Langston of the fairytale police department, also your local shapeshifter.” “Where’s Chris?” “Your friend? I would say he’s a bit tied up at the moment, but that would be way too cliché, right?” [[“I swear if you hurt him.”][$serious +=2]] [[“What do you want?”]] [[“I’m more surprised that Chris gave you his password.”][$serious -=2]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Serious ++<</if>> <<if $uncledead>>\ “You’ll what? Try to overpower me and kill me? String me up like we did your uncle?” “You were there.” “Yea. Gotta say, one of the easiest jobs to date. He didn’t really put up a fight when we got him. But the boss likes to make a scene, so we had to make it look like he was hard to handle.” “Shut. Up.” “Oh, you should’ve heard him screaming for mercy. I’m surprised the neighbors didn’t call it in.” <<else>>\ “You’ll what? Try to overpower me and kill me? Cute kid, didn’t you just learn that the supernatural exists?” “Doesn’t mean anything. Everything dies.” “Yea, but some of us don’t go down as easy. Take your friend here, he went down really easily.” <</if>>\ <<include "A4_2">>

“That’s kind of a stupid question. I think you know what we want. The girl.” “So, let me guess. I bring her in exchange for Chris?” “Bingo, we have a winner. This is why I like you college students, you’re not stupid. So, we both understand what needs to happen. You bring us the girl and meet us at the only motel in this sad pathetic town, room 25, and we’ll do a clean swap.” Langston hangs up before I can question him any further. I bury my face in my hands. <<if $chriscall is false>>\ How did they even catch Chris? Better yet, how did they know where I was? I haven’t picked up the phone since I’ve been gone. <</if>>\ <<include "A4_3">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Comical ++<</if>> <<if $uncledead>>\ “You’d be surprised at what folks will do when they fear for their life. Your uncle for example.” My face grows pale. “You were there.” “Yea. Gotta say, one of the easiest jobs to date. He didn’t really put up a fight when we got him. But the boss likes to make a scene, so we had to make it look like he was hard to handle.” “Shut. Up.” “Oh, you should’ve heard him screaming for mercy. I’m surprised the neighbors didn’t call it in.” <<else>>\ “You’d be surprised at what folks will do when they fear for their life.” <</if>>\ <<include "A4_2">>

“When I find you –” “Great, so I have your attention plus your cooperation. Let’s make this easier for all of us. I won’t touch your friend if you bring in the girl.” “And you expect me to believe that?” “Believe me, don’t believe me. I don’t care. But, you do. Think about what you’re losing because I’m not losing anything. So, meet us at the only motel in this sad pathetic town, room 25, with the girl, and we’ll do a clean swap.” Langston hangs up before I can question him any further. I bury my face in my hands. <<if $chriscall is false>>\ How did they even catch Chris? Better yet, how did they know where I was? I haven’t picked up the phone since I’ve been gone. <</if>>\ <<include "A4_3">>

I surge to my feet and out of the room, making my way to Sydero’s room. “What?” she growls throwing the door open and looking at me as if I was crazy. “They got him. They got Chris.” “And let me guess, they want a trade. Me for him?” “Yes. Can you help me?” “That seems kinda textbook, even for them. I mean, the whole a life for a life type deal doesn’t really seem like their style. Oh, and the answer is no.” “Please. He has nothing to do with this. I brought him into this, I take responsibility for that. They’re going to kill him.” “All of that sounds like a personal problem, one that I’m not emotionally invested in.” “I am begging you,” I say through gritted teeth, my hands balling up to form a fist. She cocks her head and leans on the door frame, looking me up and down. “Let me get this right. You want me to put my life in danger to save your friend, a person I don’t know and couldn’t care less about?” “I’m sure we can come up with some plan where we all get away safely.” “You’re right, we can. I don’t go, you don’t go, and your friend just dies or rots.” [[Do this on my own.]] [[Threaten her into helping.][$sydero -=5]] <<if $chriscall is false>>\ [[Persuade her into helping.][$sydero +=3]] <</if>>\

I shake my head and walk away. I was done with begging for her help, especially when I know that she wouldn’t help under any circumstance. She was heartless. She probably never loved anyone in her life, the idea was such a distant thought that she was perhaps amazed others possessed it. I gather my things, making sure I had the silver blade that she had previously given me. I would get Chris back; I would make sure of it. <<include "In Sydero's Room...">>

I reach forward to grab her when she waves her hand, sending me across the room. I slam into the wall, groaning along with the wood. I attempt to get back to my feet, only to end up sliding back to the ground. I look up at Sydero to see her breathing heavier than usual, whatever she just did seemed to have drained her. The two of us stare daggers at one another before she disappears, going back into the room. It would seem that I would have to do this on my own. <<include "In Sydero's Room...">>

“I did what you said, and this still happened,” I tell her. This catches her attention, she freezes and turns to face me. Whether she was going to tell me off again, or actually entertain whatever plan I concoct, I don’t care. I just wish for her to hear me out and help me save a life. “The only reason I picked up this time was because it seemed drastic, and it was. But any other time I followed your directions.” “Besides cutting off your phone.” I stare at her, and she in return waits for a reply. Failing to receive one, she nods before heading towards her room. “So that’s it? You're not even gonna help me?” The door closes. <<include "In Sydero's Room...">>

<img src="images/divider.png"> ''In Sydero's Room ...'' Sydero pauses, her back leaning heavily against the door. She presses an ear to it, curious if Roe would actually attempt this rescue mission without her. ?He learns that supernatural creatures exist and suddenly thinks ?he can take one on. And not just one, multiple ones. If ?he failed to listen to her, then there was little she could do. She wasn’t a babysitter. Regardless of her stubborn thoughts, the sound of a door slamming and that of a distant engine opens up a pit in her stomach. She should be ecstatic. In no way related to her, she was able to get rid of Roe. There was no way Roe would survive whatever was lying in wait for ?him. In fact, ?his actions will give her a large opening of escape. Sydero sneers as she rushes to pack her things, stuffing everything she could into her pack. She doubts she’ll be back to this safehouse, so taking what was left would be beneficial. Suddenly she became woozy, her quick actions ceasing as she sat back on her feet. This was a feeling she was slowly growing more accustomed to each day. Every time she used her power, it got worse. And her current thoughts weren’t helping either. She wanted to believe that abandoning Roe was the right thing to do, for her anyway. She couldn’t think of too many positives to saving ?him. So why was her brain working tirelessly to figure out a way to save the day? To make sure that Roe was okay? She was not a fan of lying to herself, but here she was trying to suggest that she wouldn’t feel Roe’s absence. <<if $SRomance >=1>>\ Somehow, that stubborn person managed to worm themselves straight into her life. She hated ?him for it. Hated that she would poke her head out to see if she could get a glimpse of ?him, or having her gaze linger on ?him for too long. She even found herself missing the constant, yet annoying, inquisitive voice of ?his. <</if>>\ “Fuck!” she shouts in anger. If she were born a dragon, then smoke would be pouring out of her nose, filling the room up with its toxic fumes. She stuffs the last essentials into her bag, recalling that Roe said something about a motel. She was never a fan of plans and has never seen the benefit in them. She’ll just improvise, like always. <a data-passage="EP2-Act Three"><img src="images/actthreebutton.png" alt="Act Three" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/actthree.png"> Deep breaths, I tell myself. After I do take a few calming breaths, I question how stupid my plan is, and why I thought this would work at all. Here I was standing outside a motel room where my best friend was being held hostage by supernatural creatures. At least now Chris would believe me. The thought did little to ease my racing heartbeat. I shuffle to the left and gaze through the window of Room 25, not being able to see much thanks to the curtain. I make out two guys in black, but that was it. I move back, trying to think of a game plan. [[Go in, kick ass, and take names.][$pacifist -=2]] [[Go in and try to negotiate.][$pacifist +=2]] [[Go in and give away Sydero’s hiding spot.][$honesty +=2]] [[I was just gonna have to wing it.][$daring +=2]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> I’ve probably watched one too many TV shows. Not to mention that most of the folks who say that either are superheroes skilled at what they do or usually get their butts beat. I had a single silver blade that was given to me by Sydero, with no knowledge of how to use it. <<include "A5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> Sure, they didn’t seem like the type to sit and talk about their problems, but I had little choice. I only had a single silver blade given to me by Sydero, though I had no knowledge of how to use it. <<include "A5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Honesty ++<</if>> If Sydero didn’t want to help, that was her business. But I wasn’t about to let these men kill my best friend because of her. They might just believe me when I say that she didn’t agree to come, but that I could lead them to her. It wasn’t like she could get far, she had no car. <<include "A5">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> I had no plan. I know how crazy that was, but there was little else I could do. I needed to save Chris above all, and not get killed. <<include "A5">>

I summon all of my courage and energy, eyeing the door. First things first, how was I going to get inside? [[Bust the door down.]] [[Knock politely.]] [[Knock and then charge.]] <<if $creativity >=10>>\ [[Throw a rock at the window and then bust the door down.]] <</if>>\

I wasn’t a pro at busting down doors, but it couldn’t be that hard. I go over to the door and feel for the silver blade that Sydero had given me out, bracing myself. I get my adrenaline going before charging the door, putting all of my strength behind it. The door shakes slightly, but that’s about it. I fall to the ground, moaning in agony as my entire left side is in pain. I hear the door open and see a man walk over to me, he has a gigantic smile on his face, amused at my failed attempt. He yanks me to my feet with one fluid motion, dragging me inside the room, and closing the door behind him. <<include "A5_1">>

I didn’t want to seem like a threat, not yet. I feel for the silver blade that Sydero had given me, just in case negotiations did go sour. I knock on the door, and the door immediately opens. A large man stands there, letting me in. <<include "A5_1">>

Busting down doors wasn’t my style and knocking politely just ... just didn’t sit right. This way, they opened the door for me, and I was able to just barge in with no problem. I feel for the silver blade that Sydero had given me and tap on the door, backing up as I wait. As soon as the door opens, I charge forward. I rush into the room, but someone trips me. My body lurches forward, and I skid across the rough carpeted ground. The headache that comes with the fall is there for only a minute before retreating, a rough hand yanking me to my feet. <<include "A5_1">>

It would be unwise to try and take the door with them standing right beside it. Instead, I get a creative idea. What if I throw a rock at the window, bringing their attention to it, before I charge for the door? I go over the idea countless times, finding it to be the best one so far. I feel for the silver blade that Sydero had given me and then search for a rock. Well, here goes nothing. I throw the stone at the window and after five seconds, charge for the door. It budges but does nothing else. Instead, my shoulder screams out in silent pain. I hear voices inside, many of them cussing about what was going on. That's when I feel someone appear over me, grabbing me and yanking me to my feet. <<include "A5_1">>

There are six men in all and thanks to the size of the room, they each look menacing in their own way. Two sit on the bed, and I instantly recognize them. The officers that I already had the pleasure of dealing with. One man guards the only entrance and exit, and two men stand off to the side as if awaiting orders. Chris is in the middle of the room, tied and gagged to a dining room chair. The sixth man stands behind Chris, his back to me. “$name, I’m guessing?” “Who are you?” “Where’s the girl?” It seems like all supernatural creatures had a distinct problem with answering questions. They either posed another question or ignored it altogether. <<if hasVisited("Go in and give away Sydero’s hiding spot.")>>\ “She refused to come, but I can take you to where she is.” I observe the room, and my situation, for the second time. I was highly outnumbered, and I knew for a fact that two of the six were a werewolf and a shapeshifter. Fighting was out of the question. <<else>>\ “She refused to come, but I’m here.” I observe the room, and my situation, for the second time. I was highly outnumbered, and I knew for a fact that two of the six were a werewolf and a shapeshifter. Fighting was out of the question. <</if>>\ “That wasn’t the deal,” he laughs. “Neither was hurting my friend, but I see he’s bleeding.” The man finally turns to me. He was completely bald, the only hair residing on his face, besides eyebrows, is a semi-full beard. It was trimmed just enough to show that he still cared about personal grooming. His eyes were an expressionless grey, monochrome and as dull as any average metal. His eyes take me in, and once he’s done, there is what resembles curiosity in them. “I do believe Langston said he wouldn’t hurt your friend,” motioning to the grinning man who sat beside his stoic partner, “I wasn’t part of that deal. Kill the boy.” Chris’s eyes come to life, landing on me and begging me for help. <a data-passage="A5_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I immediately uncover the blade that I brought, relieved when they each take a few steps away from Chris. Yet the feeling evaporates when they suddenly begin laughing, all but the man who had just ordered my best friend’s death, he continues to eye me, as if deciphering a puzzle or clue. It was evident in his eye, he didn’t know what to make of me. “Congratulations, you’ve been doing your homework,” the man begins, leaning his weight on the round dining table, “but that doesn’t mean you know how to use it.” The man near the door makes a move towards me. [[Duck and attempt to stab him.][$pacifist -=3]] [[Move out of the way and slice him.][$pacifist -=3]] [[Wait till he’s closer and kick him.][$pacifist +=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> I duck at the last minute and lunge forward to stab him. He moves out of the way to avoid most of the force, but I still end up making contact. He grabs his side in pain and steps away from me. My eyes connect with the leader, who looks entertained at best. <<include "A5_3">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> I move out of the way and turn to swipe wildly at his arm. I make contact, and the blade smoothly slides across his arm. He hisses in pain and holds his arm close to him, attempting to stop the bleeding. My eyes connect with the leader, who looks entertained at best. <<include "A5_3">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> I wait till he’s closer before kicking him. My kick lands in his stomach, and he doubles over, prompting me to bring my knee up to his head. But he’s not that idiotic, and he moves before I can do any more damage. My eyes connect with the leader, who looks entertained at best. <<include "A5_3">>

“What are you doing here, huh? With the girl I mean?” <<if $motive is "survival">>\ “Survival, I’m guessing,” Langston voices, staring at me to see if he’s wrong. <<if $uncledead>>“Can’t blame you. This world is new to you. If only your uncle had the same option.”<<else>>“Can’t blame you. This world is new to you, and she was the only one who could help.”<</if>> <<elseif $motive is "revenge" or $motive is "justice">>\ “I’m guessing $motive,” Langston voices, staring at me to see if he’s wrong. <<if $uncledead>>“Ah, for your dead uncle?”<<else>>“Ah, because we ruined your life?”<</if>> <<else>>\ “Companionship, I’m guessing,” Langston voices, staring at me to see if he’s wrong. <<if $uncledead>>“Seems like such an idiotic reason to go through all this. I’m sure your uncle would agree that he didn’t die for that.”<<else>>“Seems like such an idiotic reason to go through all this,” Petri states, his partner agreeing.<</if>> <</if>>\ <<if $uncledead>>\ Realization hits me slowly but nevertheless, it hits. My eyes narrow on the new man, “you’re the one who killed him?” “Guilty. Ever wonder how you got into this? How you managed to kill two people that are close to you?” He makes a move towards Chris, but I leap forward, only to be restrained by Langston and Petri. The man grabs a blade and holds it close to the side of Chris’s face. Even muffled, his whimpering is audible. <<else>>\ He shakes his head, “ever wonder how you got into this? How you managed to kill someone that’s so close to you?” He makes a move towards Chris, but I leap forward, only to be restrained by Langston and Petri. The man grabs a blade and holds it close to the side of Chris’s face. Even muffled, his whimpering is audible. <</if>>\ <<include "A5_4">>

“Just let him go,” I plead. Yet, the man only sighs and trails the knife down Chris’s arm next. Blood slowly seeps from the open wound, crawling down his arm and to the floor where every single droplet takes their time falling. Out of the corner of my eye, I see Petri’s eyes take on a goldish tint, he snarls, and his canines appear. “Now, why would I do that?” the man questions, standing behind Chris with the blade to his neck. “He didn’t do anything; this is my fault.” “It sure is.” <a data-passage="A5_5"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $chriscall is false or $sydero >=35>>\ “Stop!” I plead, but the sound of a window breaking drowns me out. “Shield your eyes!” the leader shouts. I shield them as well when a bright light goes off. Even with my eyes closed, I can still feel the light threatening to burn my skin. I can hear shouting and frantic screams. This was the distraction I needed, I lunge forward, feeling for Chris. When I do finally feel him, a hand grabs me. [[Fight whoever it is.|FightChrisSafe][$pacifist -=3; $chrissafe = true; $ropecut = true]] [[Don't fight them.|DFChrisSafe][$chrissafe = true; $pacifist +=3]] <<else>>\ “Stop!” I plead, but it lands on deaf ears. I watch as the blade inches closer towards Chris’s neck. His muffled screams increase as the blade makes contact. [[Make a deal with the man.]] <<if $daring >=50>>\ [[Threaten to kill myself.]] <</if>>\ [[Throw my blade.]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> I fight whoever grabs me, blindly kicking and punching out until I hear them groan. They release their grip, and I go back to Chris, grabbing my blade and doing my best to only cut the rope. It was a difficult task, but the minute I hear Chris make a high pitched muffled sound, I know he’s free. Suddenly another hand grabs me, but it lets me go a moment later. I now hear the familiar sound of my car’s engine and no longer the blazing heat of the light. I delicately open my eyes. <<include "A6">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> I decide not to fight whoever had me, for all I know this was Sydero. I feel the hand quickly move up to my neck, attempting to choke me. I battle with whoever is trying to kill me. But before they can succeed, the hold is released, and I hear a scream. I again go towards Chris, but before I can even attempt to free him, another hold grabs onto me. This particular hold lets me go a moment later. I now hear the familiar sound of my car’s engine and can no longer feel the blazing heat of the light. I delicately open my eyes. <<include "A6">>

<<if $charisma >=10>>\ “We can make a deal. You don’t have the girl, but you obviously want her, and I can get her.” I shout at him. He looks up at me, pausing but the blade still stays dangerously close to Chris’s neck. “What makes you think I can’t just kill him, and then torture you for her location afterward?” He was right, he could just go with that plan, but it would seem that he wouldn’t be able to. The sound of a window breaking grabs everyone’s attention, followed by another object that I can’t make out due to proximity. “Shield your eyes!” the leader shouts. I shield them as well when a bright light goes off. Even with my eyes closed, I can still feel the light threatening to burn my skin. I can hear shouting and frantic screams. This was the distraction I needed, I lunge forward, feeling for Chris. When I do finally feel him, a hand grabs me. [[Fight whoever it is.|FightChrisSafe][$pacifist -=3; $chrissafe = true; $ropecut = true]] [[Don't fight them.|DFChrisSafe][$chrissafe = true; $pacifist +=3]] <<else>>\ “We can make a deal,” I shout at him. He looks up at me, but his motion doesn’t cease. In one fluid motion, he slices Chris’s throat without even blinking, his eyes still resting on me. Chris attempts to cough, but the tape over his mouth disables him from doing anything – screaming, coughing, whimpering, or talking. Blood gushes from his neck wound, dyeing his shirt as it seeps down. His eyes begin to flicker, and he soon goes limp in his seat. “Chris,” I scream, trembling from where I stand. My mind plays cruel jokes on me, and I suddenly <<if $uncledead>>feel like I did in the dream that I had. Feeling totally helpless and frozen amongst a decaying world.<<else>>hear crows squawking, six of them.<</if>> “Now let’s talk about that deal,” the leader says, suddenly appearing in front of me. His hand finds purchase along my neck and he slowly raises me, my feet no longer touching the ground. I claw at his arm, but he fails to appear bothered. Suddenly, the window breaks and his eyes widen in shock. <<include "A5_6">> <</if>>\

This would either be really smart, or horribly stupid. To think that my life was important to these people was taking a leap in unfamiliar territory. But it had to mean something that he didn’t order my death along with Chris’s. I didn’t bring him what he wanted, if he didn’t need me for anything, then he would kill me just as quickly as he was killing Chris. I raise the blade to my throat, and the man freezes, slowly removing the blade from Chris’s neck. I have learned never to celebrate prematurely while in the presence of these men. He cocks his head to the side and points the bloody blade towards me. “And what are you planning to do? Kill yourself?” “Yes.” “You don’t have the guts,” he laughs again. He was right, I wasn’t going to kill myself, but it would seem that I didn’t need to. The sound of a window breaking grabs everyone’s attention, followed by a loud shrill. “Shield your eyes!” the leader shouts. I shield them as well when a bright light goes off. Even with my eyes closed, I can still feel the light threatening to burn my skin. I can hear shouting and frantic screams. This was the distraction I needed, I lunge forward, feeling for Chris. When I do finally feel him, a hand grabs me. [[Fight whoever it is.|FightChrisSafe][$pacifist -=3; $chrissafe = true; $ropecut = true]] [[Don't fight them.|DFChrisSafe][$chrissafe = true; $pacifist +=3]]

I need only a second, a second to further figure out my course of action. This was incredibly stupid, but I could think of nothing else. I grab my knife and with a flick of the wrist, send it flying towards the leader’s head. He moves calmly to the side, and the blade instead plants itself into the man behind him. He lets out a loud cry, grabbing the blade and turning his angered gaze to me. “You’ll pay for that you brat!” he screams, stalking towards me and then grabbing me by my shirt. He rips the blade out of his chest, and gets ready to plunge the knife into mine when the leader ushers for him to stop, looking highly annoyed. “But boss,” the man begins, but the look that the man gives him is enough to shut him up. The man backs away, my eyes still resting on my dagger held in his tight grip. "Now, where were we?" he questions. He's unable to add anything else though when the sound of a window breaking grabs everyone’s attention, followed by a loud shrill. <<include "A5_6">>

“Shield your eyes!” he shouts. I shield them as well when a bright light goes off. Even with my eyes closed, I can still feel the light threatening to burn my skin. I can hear shouting and frantic screams. This was the distraction I needed, I reach blindly for my dagger before feeling for Chris. When I do finally feel him, a hand grabs me. [[Fight whoever it is.][$pacifist +=3]] [[Don't fight them.|DFChrisNotSafe][$pacifist +=3]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> I decide not to fight whoever had me, for all I know this was Sydero. I feel the hand quickly move up to my neck, attempting to choke me. I battle with whoever is trying to kill me. But before they can succeed, the hold is released, and I hear a scream. I again go towards Chris, but before I can even attempt to free him, another hold grabs onto me. This particular hold lets me go a moment later. I now hear the familiar sound of my car’s engine and no longer the blazing heat of the light. I delicately open my eyes. <<include "A6">>

I feel the hand quickly move up to my neck, attempting to choke me. I battle with whoever is trying to kill me. But before they can succeed, the hold is released, and I hear a scream. Another grip replaces it but then lets me go a moment later. I now hear the familiar sound of my car’s engine and no longer the blazing heat of the light. I delicately open my eyes. <<include "A6">>

<<if $chrissafe>>\ <<if $ropecut>>\ I open my eyes, allowing them to adjust to the natural light that comes with the daylight, dimmed only due to my tinted windows. A light that doesn’t blind me and makes me want to scratch my eyes out. The first thing I see is the scenery flying by, tree after tree. I turn in my seat, spotting Chris in the backseat, frantically looking around. His mouth is still gagged and blood still oozes out of his multiple wounds, but otherwise, he was fine. I look past him and out the back window, only able to see the fleeting image of the motel. <<else>>\ I open my eyes, allowing them to adjust to the natural light that comes with the daylight, dimmed only due to my tinted windows. A light that doesn’t blind me and makes me want to scratch my eyes out. The first thing I see is the scenery flying by, tree after tree. I turn in my seat, spotting Chris in the backseat, frantically looking around. His mouth is still gagged and hands still bound. Blood still oozes out of his multiple wounds, but otherwise, he was fine. I look past him and out the back window, only able to see the fleeting image of the motel. <</if>>\ I take several deep breaths before looking over at Sydero, she looks worse than me, and I was the one who had gone inside. Her breathing is harsh, and her breath falters numerous times. It seems like every breath pains her. It’s not long before she finally pulls the car over, stumbling out. Clutching her side, she walks towards a group of trees that rest to the side. Once there, she collapses in pain. I go to Chris, pulling the tape free from his mouth. “What the hell!” he shouts, threatening to blow my ears out, “who were they? That light, what was that? That one guy’s eyes, they fucking turned gold, and he had those ... teeth. $name, what the hell<<if $chrismotel>>!?”<<else>> is going on. Where are we? How did we get out here?”<</if>> [[Place the tape back over his mouth.][$chris -=2; $sympathy -=3]] [[Tell him to shut up.][$sympathy -=3]] [[Promise to answer his questions soon.][$chris +=3; $sympathy +=3]] <<else>>\ I open my eyes, allowing them to adjust to the natural light that comes with the daylight, dimmed only due to my tinted windows. A light that doesn’t blind me and makes me want to scratch my eyes out. The first thing I see is the scenery flying by, tree after tree. I turn in my seat, only able to see the fleeting image of the motel. I take several deep breaths before looking over at Sydero, she looks worse than me, and I was the one who had gone inside. Her breathing is harsh, and her breath falters numerous times. It seems like every breath pains her. It’s not long before she finally pulls the car over, stumbling out. Clutching her side, she walks towards a group of trees that rest to the side. Once there, she collapses in pain. [[Help her.]] [[Stay my distance.]] [[Ask if she's going to be okay.]] <</if>>\

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> I sigh. He was safe, and I had other things to worry about at the moment. That, and I was beginning to suffer a headache from his steady stream of questions. I straighten out the tape and place it back over his mouth, happy that I hadn’t unbound his hands yet. He shouts at me, his eyes narrowed in rightful fury. I politely pat his shoulder before standing, turning to see where Sydero was. [[Help her.]] [[Stay my distance.]] [[Ask if she's going to be okay.]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Disdain ++<</if>> I sigh. He was safe, and I had other things to worry about at the moment. That and I was beginning to suffer a headache from his steady stream of questions. “Chris?” “Yea?” “Do me a favor and shut up, just for a minute please.” He blinks in shock but does as I ask. “Mind handing me that blade of yours so I can get out of these bounds?” I nod but cut his bounds myself, turning to find where Sydero had gone. [[Help her.]] [[Stay my distance.]] [[Ask if she's going to be okay.]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Sympathy ++<</if>> “Chris, stop,” I say, and he instantly shuts up, “I know exactly what you’re going through and how you feel. I literally was in the same situation not too long ago. I’ll answer all of your questions as best I can, just give me a minute.” He takes a few deep breaths and nod. “Mind handing me that blade of yours so I can get out of these bounds?” I nod but cut his bounds myself, turning to find where Sydero had gone. [[Help her.]] [[Stay my distance.]] [[Ask if she's going to be okay.]]

I rush to her side, attempting to help her up when she pushes me away, stumbling as she does so. <<include "A6_1">>

The fact that she was silent was enough to tell me that one wrong move would be detrimental. And so, I hang off to the side, keeping my eye on her but not moving a muscle to come to her aid. <<include "A6_1">>

“Are you alright?” She doesn’t answer; instead she lunges for me. But I don’t even have to back up before she doubles over in pain, throwing up. I spot some blood mixed in with the other contents. <<include "A6_1">>

<<if $chrissafe>>\ “I know you’re pissed, but are you okay?” “Pissed? Is that the best word you can come up with?” She sits up, coughing once again. She continues to cough, wiping away some of the blood that stuck to the side of her face. <<if $uncledead>>“Do you have something against all the people you know? Is there a reason why you want to see all of them dead?”<<else>>“Do you have something against yourself? Is there a reason why you keep putting yourself in the most dangerous situations ever?”<</if>> <<if hasVisited("Place the tape back over his mouth.")>>\ “Look it’s not $name’s fault,” Chris begins, I turn to him, shocked to see him out of his bounds. I guess he found the blade and managed to get out himself. <<else>>\ “Look, it’s not $name’s fault,” Chris begins. <</if>>\ “Shut it!” she growls to him, her eyes scrutinizing him almost like she did me the first time the two of us had met. “Chris, maybe you should wait in the car,” I suggest. “No, I want some answers. None of this shit makes any sense.” <<if $chrismotel>>\ “You asked for proof and you got it. You heard and saw the exact same things I did.” He offers me an apologetic look and seems to want to say more, but Sydero’s coughing stops both of us. <<else>>\ “You heard and saw the exact same things I did.” He gives me a mixed emotional look and seems to want to say more, but Sydero’s coughing stops both of us. <</if>>\ <a data-passage="A6_2"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <<else>>\ “I know you’re pissed but are you okay?” “Pissed? Is that the best word you can come up with?” She sits up, coughing once again. Due to her previous actions, I decided to stay away from her. She continues to cough, wiping away some of the blood that stuck to the side of her face. “Do you have something against all the people you know? Is there a reason why you want to see all of them dead?” How was one even supposed to reply to such a ridiculous notion? By saying ‘no, of course not’? That seems like an obvious yet stupid answer. Perhaps this was a trick question. “I don’t believe you thought you could save him. You knew there was no way your friend was walking out of that room.” “If you would’ve just came like they had proposed, then –,” you begin. “This is your fault!” she shouts, “every wrong and twisted thing that has happened to you has been your fault. I say forget everything. You don’t. I say forget your old life, you don’t. Don’t talk to anyone who calls, you do.” She stands up, continuing to breathe heavy and spit out blood. “Next time, next time I’m not going to play the hero.” That is all she says before bending over again, resting her hands on her knees. “Get in the car, I’m driving.” “I don’t think that’s a good idea.” “Did I ask you for your opinion?” she asks, shooting me a glare that burns worse than the blinding light did. I raise my hands in surrender, and she makes her way towards the car again, passing me. <a data-passage="Back at the motel ..."><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a> <</if>>\

<<if $chriscall is false and $ride is false>>\ “I’ve dealt with a lot throughout my life, but you’re on the way to becoming the worse constant headache I’ve had to deal with!” she murmurs, sitting on the ground with her back to a tree. “Don’t make it seem like this is my fault. I take your advice and still end up in these situations.” “I didn’t say it was your fault,” she growls harshly. She stands up, continuing to breathe heavy and spit out blood. “But I also don’t think you’re worth the headaches and problems I’m dealing with.” That is all she says before bending over again, resting her hands on her knees. When she does straighten up, she doesn’t look any better, though she tries to play it off as if she’s okay. <<else>>\ <>\<<set $sydblame to true>><>\ “This is your fault!” she murmurs, sitting on the ground with her back to a tree, “every wrong and twisted thing that has happened to you has been your fault. I say forget everything. You don’t. I say forget your old life, you don’t. Don’t talk to anyone who calls; you do. So, congratulations, you have now brought your friend into it.” She stands up, continuing to breathe heavy and spit out blood. “Next time ... next time, I’m not going to the be hero.” That is all she says before bending over again, resting her hands on her knees. When she does straighten up, she doesn’t look any better, though she tries to play it off as if she’s okay. <</if>>\ “Now. What do we do with the oddball?” We both turn to Chris who is standing awkwardly to the side. Though he’s looking at me, he seems distant, as if his mind is somewhere else. I can easily sympathize with him, at least he didn’t see anyone die. “I can go home. I won’t tell anyone what I saw here,” he reassures. “I don’t care who you tell. Not like they’ll believe you anyway,” Sydero mumbles, rolling her eyes. <<if $chriscall>>\ “How would you get home?” I question, “we can’t go get your car cos it’s back at the motel. And I don’t think you’d be safe at home. If they knew to follow you here, then they probably know a whole lot more about you.” <<else>>\ “How would you get home?” I question, “your car isn't here. And I don’t think you’d be safe at home. How did they even know to grab you and then bring you here? What happened, what do you remember?” “I was at work when they came in and asked to speak to me, this was the second time they asked to. I went with them and next thing I know I’m being jumped and knocked out. I heard them say something about tracking you.” “You’re getting a new phone,” I hear Sydero groan, and the look she gives me is less than pleased. <</if>>\ “So, what?" Chris asks, "are you trying to say going home isn’t safe?” I nod sadly, and Sydero reaffirms what I say. Chris shakes his head but doesn’t say anything; instead he paces back and forth. I look over at Sydero who has managed to find her way to the ground, looking over at Chris with a poker face. <a data-passage="A6_3"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Then I come with you,” Chris finally says, a small amount of hope in his eyes, but mostly sorrow and fear. “Absolutely not. No. Hell no,” Sydero growls, throwing me a look, questioning if I was going to agree to this. “I have enough on my plate trying to save ?him. And if you’re anything like your friend, then you’ll just be another pain in my ass.” “It’s either that or I hide somewhere, and I’m not accustomed to that sort of life,” Chris argues. “I don’t care. I’m not accustomed to having a travel partner, let alone two. Go cry someone else a river.” Seeing that he wouldn’t be able to get through to Sydero, Chris puts all of his attention on me. “$name, please. What if they find me even if I go into hiding? I don’t want to die,” he whimpers. “Sounds like a personal problem,” Sydero grumbles. Chris had a point, but he was more likely to find his death traveling with us, than on his own. Could I truly fault Chris for his reaction? Was this not how I was when I was asking Sydero to allow me to travel with her? [[Tell Chris to join us. (Chris will permanently join the group.)][$cp = true; $chris +=5; $sydero -=5]] [[Put Chris on a bus. (Chris will disappear permanently.)][$chris -=5; $sydero +=5]]

“I think your best bet is to join us,” I tell him, feeling the glare Sydero gives me before her eyes even land on me. “Are you crazy? I barely wanted to drag you along. Now you’re trying to drag your friend into it?” “No matter how you look at it, he’s in danger now. His best bet at survival is sticking with us.” “No, his best bet is to get on the first bus out of here and live out the rest of his life in some confused, unhealthy mental meltdown state.” “That sounds horrible,” Chris finds himself saying, resting his hand on his chest. “Better than the alternative, you dead,” she informs with a shrug. “I still think his best chance is with us.” “Well, maybe you should stop thinking. You haven’t been living this life for even a week, and if you haven’t noticed, you’re not doing a good job.” I remain unperturbed, while every second that passes sees Sydero growing angrier. “Do me a favor, run me over with your car,” she growls and shakes her head. She trudges back to the car, heading towards the driver’s seat. I start to protest when she sends me a heated glare, I allow her to have it. I need to focus on Chris anyway. She starts the car back up, and Chris and I get in as she gets back on the road, driving off. <a data-passage="Back at the motel ..."><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“I think Sydero’s right, your best option is to get on a bus and disappear. Not going home, but somewhere else.” “So ... starting over somewhere else?” Chris asks sadly, tears threatening to run down his face. I agree, doubting he would last long. He would probably cave in and head home. Perhaps he would be safe if he did later on, when the heat around him died down. Whether he wishes to argue, Chris merely nods. Sydero looks at me before trudging back to the car, heading towards the driver’s seat. I start to protest when she sends me a heated glare, I allow her to have it. I would probably never see Chris again after this, it was better to spend as much time as I could with him. She starts the car back up and gets back on the road, driving off. A few minutes later we find the local bus stop, and I prepare to tell Chris goodbye. <a data-passage="A6_4"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

“Be careful,” I command. “Yea, I’ll be fine,” he reassures me, but everything about his words screams the opposite. Who would be fine? Chris knew the supernatural existed and unless he learned more himself, he would never know more than just that broad fact. He was tortured and kidnapped, and all because of who he was associated with. I did this to him, regardless if my actions directly influenced this or not. “Um, look, $name. I won’t tell anyone what I witnessed so don’t worry. But, take care of yourself, you got yourself in some deep stuff.” I nod in agreement. The sound of a bus approaching catches all of our attention. Chris gives me an alarmingly tight hug, one that I can feel he doesn’t wish to step back from. When he finally does, he rubs at his eye, clearing his throat. “I swear, when I pictured us not talking, I thought it’d be because we just grew apart, and even that thought scared me. You’re my best friend, $name. I know we get into arguments and stuff, but I ... they were never ...” he struggles to find the exact words he’s looking for, choking on some of his words as he goes on. I give him another hug, knowing what he meant and knowing that words would never be able to describe what we had experienced together all these years. [[Yea, no. Chris is coming with us.][$cp = true; $sydero -=10; $chris +=5]] [[I wish I could just board a bus and go.]] [[I wasn’t going anywhere, this was my life now.]]

Chris takes a step back, attempting to leave my hug but I’m unable to let him go. I shake my head and finally move, shaking my head even more as I look deep into his eyes. “No … you’re coming with us,” I tell him, and his eyes widen in shock but also happiness. “What!” Sydero shouts from near the car, her eyes showing the exact opposite, “no, he’s taking his ass and getting on that bus.” “I can’t just send him off, Sydero. I thought I could, but I can’t.” She waves my words away as if they an annoying fly that refused to leave her be. “All I’m hearing is ‘I want to see my friend get killed too.” Chris, on the bus now.” Chris glances at me, and I roll my eyes, “you’ll learn to ignore her.” “No, he won’t. Because he’s leaving!” she says, pronouncing the word leaving very slowly, treating me as if I was deaf. I guide him back to the car, telling the bus to go ahead and leave. Judging by the look in Sydero’s eye, if anyone wanted to get on the bus and disappear, it’s her. “Someone, be kind to me and just run me over, not once, multiple times,” she grumbles loud enough for us to hear. She starts the car back up, and Chris and I get in as she gets back on the road, driving off. <a data-passage="Back at the motel ..."><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The bus stops, and he immediately turns and walks onto it, giving the driver money before seeking a seat. I was a bit jealous of him, he was able to walk away from this. I, well, I was stuck in it for who knows how long. I turn and head back to the passenger’s seat of the car, Sydero getting in as well. Neither of us says anything as she drives off, heading in the opposite direction of the bus. <a data-passage="Back at the motel ..."><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

The bus stops, and he immediately turns and walks onto it, giving the driver money before seeking a seat. I turn and head back to the passenger’s seat of the car, Sydero getting in as well. Neither of us says anything as she drives off, heading in the opposite direction of the bus. <a data-passage="Back at the motel ..."><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if $cp is false>>\ <<set $ChrisRichardson = false>> <</if>>\ <img src="images/divider.png"> ''Back at the motel ...'' The leader tucks his gun away, rubbing his temples as he stares at the two bodies resting before him. They were idiots, complete and useless idiots. One would think to cover their eyes when they heard someone scream it – who just screams something like that out for fun? They were lackeys, yes – but lackeys had to be replaced, and they were worthless if they were blinded for life. Yet, that wasn’t the only thing that angered him. This was the second group he has had to put down, all because of the same spell, because of the same damn bitch. “Clean up all the dead crap in this room,” he tells the only lackey to survive. He scratches his forehead and takes a seat on the bed, ignoring the screeching of the mattress. He knew this job wasn’t going to be easy, but he never believed it would end up this hard. “What do you want us to do about the tracking ordeal?” Petri asks upon approach. “Were you able to get ?his scent?” “No, sir. Whatever cleansing spell she put on ?him was strong, in fact, it’s still messing with my nose now,” he admits, whimpering at the last bit of information. His nostrils were burning due to the smell. “Let them go for now then. When they slip up, we’ll find them. Besides, I doubt they’ll get far, she’s about out of energy, and I need to go discuss our new friend with a colleague.” <<if $chrissafe is false>>\ “Would you like me to burn the bodies?” the last lackey asks nervously, after gathering them all in one area. He waves his hand, giving him the signal to do whatever his little mind could think of, but froze mid-wave. “Actually, keep the boy’s body. I think I might find a use for it.” <</if>>\ <a data-passage="EP2NT"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<img src="images/nexttime.png"> <img src="images/divider.png"> We were in the suburbs. I look around curiously, these weren’t abandoned houses. These were actually inhabitable houses whose homeowners cared about appearances. Hopefully, we weren’t just driving through. She turns into an empty driveway, cutting the car off. “Another safehouse?” “No.” <img src="images/divider.png"> “I’m a witch as well. I have the unique talent of being able to see a person’s memories. The longer I touch them, the more I see.” “That’s extraordinary,” I exclaim. “No, it’s a curse. Rarely do I ever see happy memories or something that brings joy. Everyone in this life has lost someone, has seen nothing but hurt. It doesn’t get better, it only stops hurting when you have nothing left to lose. Why would you want this life?” <img src="images/divider.png"> "Aww, you mean like Tinkerbell?" <<if $cp>>Chris asks before he can see a picture of what his Tinkerbell looks like.<<else>>I ask before she turns the book towards me, I cringe at the sight.<</if>> "Yea, if Tinkerbell was a maniac with razor-sharp teeth and an attitude worse than a wolverine’s. They're not the nicest, fairytales rarely get supernatural creatures right." <img src="images/divider.png"> “Um, excuse me, your royal faerie highness,” I begin, not exactly knowing what to call her, “what does this ritual entail exactly?” “A ritual to replenish our forests and our magic,” her eyes narrow on me with glee, “a ritual that calls for human sacrifices.” [[Episode Three: Charmed]]

<><<set $sex to "v">><> You have a vagina.

<><<set $sex to "p">><> You have a penis.

<><<set $sex to "na">><> You have chosen not to disclose this information.

<><<set $chest to "p">><> You have breasts.

<><<set $chest to "np">><> You do not have breasts.

<><<set $gender to "male">><> Cis male.

<><<set $gender to "male"; $trans = true>><> Trans male.

<><<set $gender to "female">><> Cis female.

<><<set $gender to "female"; $trans = true>><> Trans female.

<><<set $gender to "nonbinary">><> Nonbinary.

<>\<input type="checkbox" id="fullscreen"><label for="fullscreen" class="gofullscreen"><img @src="setup.ImagePath+'FullScreenGo_white.png'" alt="Go full screen" title="Go full screen" class="fullscreenImg"></label><label for="fullscreen" class="exitfullscreen"><img @src="setup.ImagePath+'FullScreenExit_white.png'" alt="Exit full screen" title="Exit full screen" class="fullscreenImg"></label> <>\

©2022-2024 Bum Studios LLC ~~Version 4.00 //Superstition// contains gore, alcohol reference, sexual content, dark themes and other material that may be disturbing to some readers. Reader discretion is advised.~~

<<link ' Stat Guide' "StatGuide">><</link>> <<link ' Credits' "Credits">><</link>>

/* Bio & Personality */ <<set $name to "Unknown"; $fname to "Not Chosen">> <<set $gender to "Not Chosen"; $trans to false; $int to "unknown"; $s_att to "unknown"; $r_att to "unknown"; $virgin to false>> <<set $eyes = "unknown"; $hair to "unknown"; $color to "unknown"; $length to "unknown"; $height to "unknown"; $tattoo to "unknown">> <<set $car to "Not Chosen"; $cmajor to "Not Chosen"; $style to "Not Known">> /* Skills */ <<set $sanity to 100; $reaction to "unknown"; $fight to 0; $flight to 0; $freeze to 0; $honesty to 50; $daring to 50; $optimistic to 50; $stubborn to 50; $sympathy to 50; $pacifist to 50; $serious to 50; $leader to 50>> <<set $charisma to 0; $combat to 0; $medical to 0; $engineering to 0; $creativity to 0>> <<set $bartending to false; $exorcise to false>> /* Character Variables */ <<set $badhabit to "none"; $coping to "not known">> <<set $religious to false>> <<set $darkburns_visible to false>> <<set $suicidal to false>> <<set $plants to false; $cooking to false; $scouts to false; $tailor to false>> <<set $class_survival to false; $class_tracking to false; $class_potions to false; $class_forgery to false; $class_cooking to false; $class_language to false>> /* Status|Fear */ <<set $dark_burns to false; $dark_truth to false; $dark_control to false; $dark_sight to false>> <<set $a_fear to "unknown"; $m_fear to "unknown"; $blood_fear to false>> <<set $injuries = false>> <<set $doglike = false; $catlike = false>> /*Relationships*/ <<set $flirt_chris to false; $flirt_syd to false; $flirt_zillah to false; $flirt_chanara to false>> <<set $ChrisRichardson to false; $chris to 50; $CRomance to 0; $chrisLo to 0>> <<set $SyderoTheron to false; $sydero to 50; $SRomance to 0; $syderoLo to 0>> <<set $TheEntity to false; $zillah to 50; $ZRomance to 0; $zillahLo to 0>> <<set $Nara to false; $chanara to 50; $NRomance to 0; $chanaraLo to 0>> <<set $BradleyWhittaker to false>> /*Unique Relationships*/ /*JC1: Morgan*/ <<set $jealouschris = false; $jealouschris2 = false; $jealousAlyrian = false; $jealousCimmerian = false>> <<set $guardian = false; $friend = false>> <<set $uncledead = false; $uncleknows = false; $unclepicture = false>> <<set $morgan to 0; $morganfling = false; $morgancuddle = false>> /* Morgan Variables */ <<set $mgender_roll to 1; $mgender = "male"; $mhe = "he"; $mhim = "him"; $mhis = "his"; $mHe = "He"; $mHim = "Him"; $mHis = "His">> <<set $entitytakeover = false>> /* Important Variables */ <<set $chrissafe = false; $cp = false>> <<set $motive = "unknown">> <<set $suicidal = false>> <<set $slapthequeen = false>> /* Whether Syd Blames Roe for Joining */ <<set $sydblame = false>> /* Roe Chose Break Over Gone */ <<set $break = false>> <<set $syderoBar = false>> <<set $incustody = false>> /* Roe Believing in God */ <<set $believer = false>> /* Langston Variables */ <<set $langstonfate to "alive">> /* Sidebar Activators */ <<set $fstyle = false>> <<set $sydknown = false>> <<set $ss_bartending = false>> /* Music */ <<cacheaudio "prologue" "audio/prologue.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "prologue2" "audio/tension_in_the_dark.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "calm" "audio/calm.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "darkness" "audio/darkness.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "forthecrown" "audio/pryceball.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "romance" "audio/romance.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "ambient1" "audio/disturbing_events.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "ambient2" "audio/ghost_stories.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "ambient3" "audio/heavenly.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "ambient4" "audio/terrifying_journey.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "ambient5" "audio/uncovering_a_deep_story.mp3">> <<createplaylist "prologueduo">> <<track "prologue" volume 0.40>> <<track "prologue2" volume 0.40>> <</createplaylist>> <<createplaylist "ambience">> <<track "ambient1" volume 0.40>> <<track "ambient2" volume 0.40>> <<track "ambient3" volume 0.40>> <<track "ambient4" volume 0.40>> <<track "ambient5" volume 0.40>> <</createplaylist>>

<img src="images/title.png"> @@.center; //A simple college student. Those were the words that once described you, and you would've shrugged your shoulders in agreement. Your day was a never-ending cycle of the same thing. Wake up, go to class and study, work, visit your uncle, go to sleep, have traumatic nightmares, and repeat for another day. So, it would be an understatement to say that you didn't sign up for this. You didn't sign up for the supernatural. To learn that werewolves, shapeshifters, witches, demons, and angels all exist. And you certainly did not sign up for the target that now resides on your back and the list of names that have you to blame for their untimely demise. And now, to add to everything else, an old friend is reappearing. Everyone has a secret, and you have no idea who you can trust. Fight and hunt that which goes bump in the night. And avoid those that hunt you for their own purposes. Meet others with their own agenda. The world has shown its true colors, and it's up to you how to deal with them.// <hr> If you already played then be sure to check out the other seasons. Similar to this game, they are free. Otherwise, enjoy. [[Season Two|https://13leagues.itch.io/superstition-s2]] | [[Season Three|https://13leagues.itch.io/superstition-s3]] | Season Four @@ <a data-passage="SeasonOneStart"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:center"/></a>

<>\<<playlist "prologueduo" volume 0 fadeto 0.60>><>\ "My dear," my mother calls softly. She sounds like she almost wished to sing it but, at the last minute, chose otherwise. Never have I heard her address me in such a sinister manner. It feels as if the entire house moans in agreement as the ambient sounds of it and the night fade out, leaving behind a leaden silence. It haunts me to my core, causing every breath to feel heavier and foreshadowing on my last. I stop and try to compose myself, failing immensely. I take another step forward, and it feels like the house suffers from the weight of my action. Something is very wrong. I'm young, yes. I have vivid dreams and a wild imagination that goes alongside those dreams nicely. I stay up at night and watch movies that I know I shouldn't. But even I can not merely imagine this. The air of the house is unlike anything I have ever felt. In some way, it feels like I'm not in my house at all but another. "My beautiful baby." I hear my mother repeat in the same manner as the last three times she's called. My heartbeat slows. [[Continue on.|0ContinueOn][$daring +=10]] [[Call for my mom from here.|0CallParent][$daring -=10]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> I need to see what is going on, with my own eyes. The only way to do that is to continue on. The closer I get to the door, the more I feel a peculiar feeling overtake me. A foreboding pressure that wishes to bring me to my knees. It feels like a pulse reverberates from the door, warning me to turn back. To let go of whatever foolishness had decided to claim my mind. I ignore it. <<include "0.01">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> Perhaps calling her now is the safest option; that way, I don't have to take another step. "Mom? Are you okay?" The minute the words leave my mouth, I regret them. It's a foolish question. Everything about the situation tells me that nothing about this is okay. And yet, all I wish for is to hear my mother tell me that such fears are unneeded and that all will be well. "Is that you dear?" I hear my mother ask softly. Her voice still carries hints of malice, but there is also an underlying amount of care there. The closer I get to the door, the more I feel a peculiar feeling overtake me. A foreboding pressure that wishes to bring me to my knees. It feels like a pulse reverberates from the door, warning me to turn back. To let go of whatever foolishness had decided to claim my mind. <<include "0.01">>

I gaze up at the large door, not remembering it to ever be this large in the past. Reaching towards it with shaky hands, I am unsure of what I will find resting behind it. My entire body shakes profusely. "Dear?" my mother voices, sounding weaker than ever. "Help me." I shove my fear to the side as I close my eyes and open the door fully. I stand there awaiting a gust of wind, a scream, or for someone to rush out and attack me. When nothing happens, I open a single eye and tell myself to relax at the unchanged room. Everything seems to be in its proper place. The furniture has not been shifted, and the television is in sleep mode from disuse. The slow-moving fan blades barely air out the room that I have long thus accepted as mawkish. The curtains are parted to let the full moon's light inside, though a nearly nonexistent moon hardly does much. Resting on the bed is my mother, her IV snaking to a silent machine that I remember being introduced to but did not see the need to remember. She has a personal nurse to see to most of her needs, I am rarely ever consulted. "Mom?" I question as I inch closer, unable to tell if she is sleeping. <a data-passage="0.02"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"Come," she whispers, and I go to her side. Time has never been kind to her. Each day I see her, I feel as if more and more life flees her, leaving behind a husk that no child should ever have to face. Deep within, I know I will lose her soon, but part of me refuses to accept it. As long as I am here, there is nothing to worry about. Her eyes gingerly open, and she looks at me with tears running down her cheek. I grab her hand, about to question what is wrong, when her mouth opens wide, and a bloody hue overtakes her eyes, abolishing all other colors. "Mom!" I scream, scrambling up the bed to be closer as if my presence alone will stop whatever is happening. She lets out a blood-curdling scream that causes me to halt my attempt and stumble back. It appears as if something sucks all the moisture out of her skin, rendering it as wrinkly as a raisin before it begins to thin until nothing besides a pink, meaty substance lies there. She thrashes as if to escape whatever is happening, and though I wish to aid her, fear has secured me to the spot. A horrified and ghastly expression is all that lingers on a face that I hardly remember possessing youth. <a data-passage="0.03"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

I stare on in horror as even the meat begins to vanish, leaving behind a bubbly substance and a nauseatingly foul odor that doesn't even have time to hover. All that is left of her is a skeleton. The kind of skeleton I have seen many times while wandering stores or the neighborhood during Halloween. The only sign that my mother was ever here in the first place are the clothes she once wore. I remain frozen, my body only allowing itself to tremble. From out of the darkness, a shadow seems to separate and rests on the bed's edge. Before I can stop it, a tentacle reaches out and touches her. Upon touching her, everything turns to dust, genuinely leaving nothing of my mother behind. The shadow faces me, a lopsided cartoonish grin making up its features. It's the only sign of a facial expression, as the only other thing on its face are two white dots that symbolize its eyes. [[Attack it.|0Attack][$pacifist -=10; $fight +=5; $dark_burns to true]] [[Question it.|0Question][$pacifist +=10; $freeze +=5; $dark_truth to true]] [[Control myself.|0Control][$daring +=5; $freeze +=5; $dark_control to true]] [[Run away.|0Sight][$daring -=5; $flight +=5; $dark_sight to true]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Violent ++<</if>> Fury, wrath, vengeance—everything and anything that encompasses the full might of anger—becomes my primary focus and my only want is to unleash it onto this monster. I lunge for the creature, but it doesn't even bother to move. I realize why when my arms pass straight through it. I attempt to wrench my arms back when I'm suddenly rendered frozen; my arms disappearing in whatever mass this creature exudes. "Now, what did you think you'd gain from doing that?" it questions, cocking its head to the side in an unnatural way. It speaks as if the intention behind the action honestly hurt it. Words form in the back of my throat but never move past that point due to the pain that I feel next. It is as if I stuck my hands in a hole and couldn't yank them back out. But that is only at first. I glance up at the creature, that grin still plastered on it. A burning sensation soon follows, starting at my fingertips before running down the length of my covered arms. I yank with all of my strength, but besides having my legs give out underneath me, I get nowhere. I scream and cry, thrashing around, balling my hands into fists, but nothing works. I look back up at the creature. Its mouth is gone, and its glowing white eyes have turned pale red. It leans down to be closer to my face. "Friends don't attack each other," it hisses in my ear, its breath stinging my neck. "You killed my mother. You're a monster, not my friend!" It comes even closer, its face warping in a way words can never describe. "No, little one, you killed her. I just got rid of the evidence." It stares at me, my heart aching at everything I had experienced in the last few minutes when it finally releases my arms, and I stumble back into the wall. <a data-passage="0.04"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.statShow>>Pacifist ++<</if>> "Why?" The word stumbles out my mouth as I look from where my mother once was to where the shadow now resides. "Why would you do this?” It cocks its head to the side in an unnatural angle. "Whatever do you mean? What did //I// do?" "You killed my mother. You monster!" It comes even closer, its face warping in a way words can never describe. Suddenly it lashes out, a tentacle striking my cheek and lower jaw. It feels as if someone has both stabbed and chosen to slap me, the pain never lessening as I shrink away. "I help you and you have the nerve to slander me?" It grabs my face, squeezing the place it struck. "Let us not forget whose touched caused her to draw her last breath. Make no mistake, you are the one who killed her." It stares at me, my heart aching at everything I had experienced in the last few minutes as it finally releases me and I stumble back into the wall. <a data-passage="0.04"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.statShow>>Daring ++<</if>> I take multiple deep breaths, attempting to calm myself. Opening my eyes proves to be foolish as the trembles return, everything I had just done for nothing. The shadow continues to gaze at me, trying to figure out what I hope to accomplish, and part of me is curious to learn the same. I open my mouth to question it, but my lip quivers tremendously, and I cannot get a single word out. There is only so much control a child can practice upon finding their mother dead and having someone who was once regarded as a companion wipe her from existence. "How?" The words finally stagger out, and throwing another glance toward the now empty bed, I ask, "why?" "Why do any of us do anything?" it inquires as it nears me, a tendril crawling towards me. I stumble back until the wall halts my retreat. "Because we are merely puppets to our masters." The tentacle incessantly taps at my chest, and I feel a bolt of pain radiate through me with each strike. "I must say I am surprised that it's still thumping. You will be a tough one." "You killed her," I sob, contradicting its words as tears stream down my cheeks. "You killed my mother." It stalks closer, not ceasing its advances until a wall stops me from continuing my retreat. Its face warps in a way words can never describe. "No, little one, you killed her. I just got rid of the evidence." It stares at me, my heart aching at everything I had experienced in the last few minutes. <a data-passage="0.04"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<if settings.statShow>>Cautious ++<</if>> Fear spurs me into action, and that action turns me towards the door. I hardly cover half the length of the room when something wraps itself around my leg and I am yanked to the ground. I fight as much as I can, pulling at the fleshy tendril that refuses to give way until it slashes at my face. I bite my tongue to mitigate the terror but it is useless. It feels as if my eye is burning, a sensation that I'm sure those forced to stare at the sun experience. "Why fight?" the shadow questions. I blink but find vision out of my right to be exceedingly blurry, images attempting to come together while the pain continues. "You killed her," I sob, rubbing at my eye and regretting it. It stalks closer, not ceasing its advances until a wall stops me from continuing my retreat. Its face warps in a way words can never describe. "You have only just now found issue with your vision. I know you are smart enough to know that your words aren't true. I just got rid of the evidence." It leans closer, running its tendril over my damaged eye. "We both know who killed her and it was you." It stares at me, but I ignore it as my heart aches at everything I had experienced in the last few minutes. <a data-passage="0.04"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"No." I manage to say but the images of what happened to her come back to me and ... No. None of this is my fault. It only wants me to think that to be true. "Why did you do this?" "I wouldn't expect a child to understand, but one day you will. And I'll be there to help guide you every step of the way." "No, you won't. I created you and I can make you disappear." It lets out a hearty laugh as it straightens up, towering over me. Clenching my eyes closed, I will it to go away. When I open them, I find that my wishes have done nothing as it is still there. "Go away," I shout. It grows taller and more tendrils begin to erupt. "I said –" Before I can scream the entire sentence, I catch movement out of the corner of my vision and in terror I turn and see the wall breathing. Multiple objects pushing up against it as if it was made of elastic material. [[Run.|0Run][$stubborn -=10]] [[Stare at the wall.|0Glance][$stubborn +=10]]

<<if settings.statShow>>Reasonable ++<</if>> Ignoring the lingering pain <<if $dark_sight>>still in my right eye<<elseif $dark_burns>>residing in both of my arms<<elseif $dark_control>>existing along my jaw and cheek<<else>>echoing across my chest<</if>>, I get up and allow adrenaline to carry me towards the door. A mix of roars, shrieks, and moans fill the house but I refuse to turn and look back at whatever may be happening. I continue rushing down the hall with only escape on my mind. <<include "0.05">>

<<if settings.statShow>>Stubborn ++<</if>> I stand frozen in my spot due to the overwhelming need to know what is happening. The wall stretches and exhales as a dozen skeletal limbs erupt, black ichor dripping from them. Acting as the only defense against the hoard, the wall seems to moan, warning me of its impending failure. And then a low, resounding pop echoes through the room, and the figures surge forward. I no longer wait to see what more they will do. Instead, I turn and rush into the hall. <<include "0.05">>

"Where will you run?" I hear the creature scream in rage. The wraiths populate the hallway as well, pushing their way out of the wall, each in competition with the other to reach me first. Their mouths are filled with gore and their odor pollute the house with the foul smell of rotten eggs and spoiled garbage. I choke on the fumes, growing faint and lowering my faith in escaping. "There's the door." I hear my guardian mock, and some unseen force causes it to swing back and forth. [[Go for the door.|0Door][$fight +=10; $coping to "rational"]] [[Go for a window.|0Window][$flight +=10; $coping to "risky"]] [[Go for my room.|0Room][$freeze +=10; $coping to "comfort"]]

<>\ <<if $flight gt $fight and $flight gt $freeze>> <<set $reaction to "flight">> <<elseif $fight gt $flight and $fight gt $freeze>> <<set $reaction to "fight">> <<elseif $freeze gt $fight and $freeze gt $flight>> <<set $reaction to "freeze">> <<else>> <<set $reaction to "balanced">> <</if>> <>\ <<if settings.choiceShow>><<notify 5s>>You seek comfort by rationalizing things around you, no matter if you're telling yourself a lie.<</notify>><</if>>\ I can make it. All I have to do is reach it, and though I am terrified of whatever may be controlling the door, I tell myself it is my imagination. My world grows blurrier, and suddenly, my mother appears right in front of me. Her arms are opened wide, and I don't hesitate as I run straight into her patient embrace. The smell vanishes, and the suffocating air of desperation disperses. Birds chirp outside as soft, evening light streams in through a nearby window. "Shh, bad dream?" she asks, running her thumbs over my cheek to wipe away any tears. "It was awful," I scream at her, and she rubs my back in soothing circles, rocking me back and forth like she used to do. Her embrace is warm, and I melt into it, wishing for her to never let me go. And then my world seems to slow and freeze. Like she //used// to do. The past year has seen her bedridden. Each month robbing more of her strength and leaving behind nothing more than an animated corpse. She hasn't been able to stand and hug me for a very long time. "It's okay," she continues, almost as if she knows what I've been thinking. "It's over now. No more bad dreams. No more bad dreams." I attempt to pull away but immediately regret it when a cold, stale wind meanders in. Her soothing rubs turn to aching scratches. I should not have let the sight of her deter me. But I was terrified, and no matter what, she was my mother. I choke on a sob. All I wanted was my mother. "There's the door," I hear her growl in my ear, and I can do nothing more than close my eyes and wish to wake up. I feel myself sinking. Dragged down by a hundred different bony hands all at once. They cling to the fabric of my clothing, tugging and stretching the material. They call for me, telling me this was always meant to be. Fate demands it, they repeatedly say. Darkness impedes my vision of the door, still swinging back and forth as if to mock me. <a data-passage="Season One"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<>\ <<if $flight gt $fight and $flight gt $freeze>> <<set $reaction to "flight">> <<elseif $fight gt $flight and $fight gt $freeze>> <<set $reaction to "fight">> <<elseif $freeze gt $fight and $freeze gt $flight>> <<set $reaction to "freeze">> <<else>> <<set $reaction to "balanced">> <</if>> <>\ <<if settings.choiceShow>><<notify 5s>>You find comfort in distracting yourself from the truth around you.<</notify>><</if>>\ I turn direction abruptly, choosing to head for the closest window instead. The door is a trick; nothing but agony and torture await me there. I can make it. All I have to do is make it. The idea of outsmarting my once guardian spurs me to run even faster, a nearly hushed thrill about it all. Once at the window, my hands fidget with the locks, clumsily trying to unlock it as the pressure surrounding me escalates. "Are you fast enough?" I hear a mocking voice ask. Against my better judgment, I glimpse down the hallway that has returned to normal. A single ceiling light flickers, encouraging me to focus once again. I do as it suggests, but the impinging feeling causes me to take another look. The light is constantly flickering until the bulb seems to have had enough and dies with a swift pop. Everything inside of me urges me to leave. Stop staring into the dark hallway, open the window, and leave. My eyes refuse to leave the corridor. The light flares back to life, illuminating the decrepit and contorted body standing at the end. "You didn't say goodbye," the figure sings, taking but a single step. It mimics the voice of my mother but it obviously is not hers. It is as if has the capability to sound just like her but it chooses not to, wishing to contort and deluge it with an eldritch tone. I turn back and frantically attempt to undo the locks. My brain tells my heart to calm itself while my heart screams at my brain to shut up and work faster. Finally, I unlatch it and push the window up as far as possible, clawing at the screen. Behind me, I can hear the rapid thumps of feet slamming against the wooden floor, growing louder as they near. I tear a big enough hole in the screen and practically throw myself out right as a figure pushes me back in. A non-discernible shape overwhelms me, its hand closing around my neck as it pins me to the ground. <a data-passage="0Window1"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"You're not real," I try to persuade myself, and as if hurt by my words, the figure's grip tightens. It comes through the window ungainly, one lean leg after another, and its body last. It does this all without loosening its hold on my neck. Once fully inside, it stands at full height, its eyes boring into mine. "Not real!" it suddenly blurts, its mouth opening in ways that no normal jaw would allow. I fear that its jaw will somehow swallow its entire head. I see more gum than teeth, and the few teeth I do see are jagged and serrated. Its head bounces from side to side as if trying to laugh but not knowing how. Then it freezes and leans its face mere inches away from mine. It scrapes a long fingernail down my cheek. "I am the realest thing present," it growls right next to my ear, and I can do nothing more than close my eyes. I feel myself sinking. Dragged down by a hundred different bony hands all at once. They cling to the fabric of my clothing, tugging and stretching the material. They call for me, telling me this was always meant to be. Fate demands it, they repeatedly say. Darkness impedes my vision of the window, parts of the screen flapping frivolously in the wind, bidding me goodbye. <a data-passage="Season One"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

"Nine. Ten." Everything is silent. The smell disappears, and I no longer hear the moans of the damned outside my door. No matter what I say, my body continues to shake uncontrollably. Water. I need water. I remove the blanket, about to rush to the bathroom, when I'm met by the shadow and its bright, colorless eyes. I fail to keep back my scream, and as soon as my mouth opens, it leaps forward as if wishing to be swallowed. The terror that fills my being subsides only to be replaced by the feeling of sinking, of being dragged down by a hundred different bony hands all at once. They cling to the fabric of my clothing, tugging and stretching the material. They call for me, telling me this was always meant to be. Fate demands it, they repeatedly say. I feel a tear rush down my face, but that is all. Darkness impedes my vision of my room, my teddy bear staring directly back at me from its position on the dresser. <a data-passage="Season One"><img src="images/continue.png" alt="Continue" style="float:right"/></a>

<<silently>> <<if $nerve >100>>\ <<set $nerve to 100>> <</if>>\ <<if $nerve <0>>\ <<set $nerve to 0>> <</if>>\ <<if $honesty >100>>\ <<set $honesty to 100>> <</if>>\ <<if $honesty <0>>\ <<set $honesty to 0>> <</if>>\ <<if $daring >100>>\ <<set $daring to 100>> <</if>>\ <<if $daring <0>>\ <<set $daring to 0>> <</if>>\ <<if $optimistic >100>>\ <<set $optimistic to 100>> <</if>>\ <<if $optimistic <0>>\ <<set $optimistic to 0>> <</if>>\ <<if $stubborn >100>>\ <<set $stubborn to 100>> <</if>>\ <<if $stubborn <0>>\ <<set $stubborn to 0>> <</if>>\ <<if $sympathy >100>>\ <<set $sympathy to 100>> <</if>>\ <<if $sympathy <0>>\ <<set $sympathy to 0>> <</if>>\ <<if $pacifist >100>>\ <<set $pacifist to 100>> <</if>>\ <<if $pacifist <0>>\ <<set $pacifist to 0>> <</if>>\ <<if $serious >100>>\ <<set $serious to 100>> <</if>>\ <<if $serious <0>>\ <<set $serious to 0>> <</if>>\ <<if $chris >100>>\ <<set $chris to 100>> <</if>>\ <<if $chris <0>>\ <<set $chris to 0>> <</if>>\ <<if $sydero >100>>\ <<set $sydero to 100>> <</if>>\ <<if $sydero <0>>\ <<set $sydero to 0>> <</if>>\ <<if $zillah >100>>\ <<set $zillah to 100>> <</if>>\ <<if $zillah <0>>\ <<set $zillah to 0>> <</if>>\ <<if $bradley >100>>\ <<set $bradley to 100>> <</if>>\ <<if $bradley <0>>\ <<set $bradley to 0>> <</if>>\ <</silently>>