Vindicate: A Story of Two Sisters

(display: "Inventory Jump") <== (text-style: "shudder") [Ring Ring Ring] The sound of your phone pulled you from your dreamless sleep. You opened your eyes slowly, staring at the ceiling blankly. Reaching over to your nightstand, you swiped your hand around. Your fingertips connected with your pill container and sent it flying across the room. You looked at the pills scattered across the floor and debated committing murder. ...All in due time. You grabbed your phone and looked at the screen. ####'Officer Ramirez' You sighed. You'd been dreading this conversation. You'd been ducking his calls for days now. You probably shouldn't put it off anymore but... [[Answer the phone]] [[Let it go to voicemail]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You tossed your phone back onto the bed. It rang for a couple more seconds before finally falling into blessed silence. The silence settled over the room like a old blanket: familiar and warm. You laid back in your bed again. The picture of Layan stared back at you from the ceiling. You pressed your lips. 2 years. Two years since you'd heard her laugh. She used to do it often. When you could no longer stomach looking at the picture anymore, you turned to the calendar. March 2nd was coming up. Ramirez always called around now. Ever since the court case had finally closed. With a technicality verdict nonetheless. Just the thought of it burned you up inside. You took a deep breath. You'd been doing your best since she was gone. You'd been patient. Two long years and the wait was finally over. You threw your legs over the side of the bed. No time like the present. [[Explore]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") Your socks grew wet as you stood in the bathroom. The light overhead flickered. Your nail polish sat on the counter ready to be used. You looked around at the various cosmetics and objects all over the sink. You should probably put those away. [[Look in the mirror]] [[Paint your nails]] [[Explore somewhere else |Explore]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") The living room was painted in earthy greens and browns. If the room wasn't a mess right now, it would look nice. You'd tracked in mud the day before and the prints were still on the hardwood. The TV was on, muted on a cooking show. A man in a huge chef hat was overenthusiastically chopping onions. The coffee table was a cluttered mess and the couch was no better. You really needed to clean up after yourself better. [[Examine the portrait]] [[Examine the coffee table]] [[Explore somewhere else |Explore]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") The study had seen better days. The room had become a fire hazard with all your research. Papers were strewn around the room collecting on every surface until there was nothing left but them. The stack of newspapers underneath the window was faded by the sun but still legible. Last night's top hung from one of the arms of the treadmill. The wall of information you'd collected over the last two years mocked you. You didn't know where to start. [[Look at the wall]] [[Read the newspapers]] [[Investigate the treadmill]] [[Use the dartboard]] [[Explore somewhere else |Explore]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") Looking around your bedroom, you regret not giving it a good clean recently. Your bed was a mess after you'd more or less rolled out of it. Your pills were still scattered across the floor. You should probably clean the cups off your nightstand at some point. A quick look around couldn't hurt. [[Investigate the nightstand |Grab your ring]] [[Pick up your pills |Investigate the pill bottles]] [[Explore somewhere else |Explore]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") With a sigh, you answered. Might as well bite the bullet now. You leaned back, staring at the ceiling again and wishing the conversation was already over. Officer Ramirez's deep voice was muffled on the other end like he was underwater. You could hear subtle sounds behind him. Laughter mostly, probably Officer Davis. For a man who worked homicide, he was way too chipper. "Azima? You there?" You glared at the photo on your ceiling. [["What do you want, Diego?"]] [["Stop calling me."]] [[Say nothing.]]

=><= (text-size: 3) [Vindicate] (text-size: 1.5) [//A Tale of Two Sister//] (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 8) [[Begin |Act 1]] (text-size: .9) [//Deriving from the Latin vindicatus, the past tense of vindicare, meaning "lay claim to" or "avenge."//] (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 8) [[Achievements]] (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 8) [[Credits |Credit]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") "I just wanted to check in on you. Scout's honor." He sighed to himself. "I mean, it's been two years but it still burns, you know." You could hear him moving around his office. He'd probably gotten up and started pacing. He did that from time to time. "A *fucking technicality*. There was so much evidence and they let him go on a fucking technicality. Was the jury sleeping?" You could feel yourself zoning out. You'd had this conversation a thousand times. Officer Ramirez was a good cop but you wouldn't call him a good man. He'd dedicated so much time to this case only to see his main suspect go free. You didn't know what to say to him. It felt at times like you needed to comfort him not the other way around. [[Continue]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You stared at the photo on your ceiling. Layan smiled back at you. The photo was from your last family vacation. She was wearing one of the ugly matching shirts your mother had gotten for the trip. Yours was still in a box somewhere. "Azima, I just wanted to see how you were doing. I've been checking the calender. I know March is coming up." Your eyes pulled over to the calender on your wall. March 2nd was circled four times. You sat up in bed. "Come on, Zi. Talk to me." You didn't have anything nice to say so you let the silence wash over you both. You heard Officer Ramirez shuffling around in his office. You could picture him in his office so vividly. The way he picked at his thumb when he was nervous. The PD mug full of pens on his desk. The coffee stain underneath the visitor chair that never came out of the carpet. [["Diego, what do you really want?" |"What do you want, Diego?"]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") "Azima, look I know you don't want to talk to me." Officer Ramirez started. He stopped himself. "I'm just checking in on you. I've been checking the calendar. I know March is coming up." Your eyes pulled over to the calender on your wall. March 2nd was circled four times. You sat up in bed. It made sense that he was calling you again. Officer Ramirez had done everything in his power to solve your sister's case only to watch his main suspect go free. On a technicality no less. It burned him up inside. You remember the look on his face in the courthouse. He looked like a man capable of murder at the moment. Too bad, he hadn't stayed that way. You sighed. You looked down at your alarm clock. You were already running behind schedule. [["Ramirez, I don't need any help. I'm fine. |"I'm fine."]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") "No, you're not, Kid." Officer Ramirez snapped. "I mean, I'm not okay and it was your sister. I just-" He trailed off with a sigh. Silence fell over you again. You wondered if hanging up on him would be a good idea. He might show up at your doorstep if you did. You looked around your room. You definitely didn't want that. "Just promise me you won't do something crazy." You looked over to the side. You sighed. [["I Promise"]] [[Say Nothing |Don't Promise]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You sighed. "Goodbye, Diego." You hung up before he could get another word in. Setting the phone on the counter, you looked around your room. Your eyes returned to the calendar again. You'd been counting down the days. You'd been waiting so patiently and now it was finally here. Getting out of bed, you stretched nice and long. No time like the present. [[Start your day |Explore]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You looked around the room. "I promise, Diego." Lying was becoming easier every day for you. You wondered what your face looked like when you said it. Did you have a tell? Layan had always said you were a horrible liar. Ramirez seemed satisfied either way. "I'll call soon-" "-I wish you wouldn't." "See you, Zi." He spoke over you and hung up. You held the phone to your ear a moment longer before dropping it down onto the bed beside you. You turned your head, looking at the calender again. You'd been doing your best. You'd been patient. Two long years and the wait was finally over. No time like the present. [[Get ready to go |Explore]] (set: $APromise to true)

(display: "Inventory Jump") You still had a couple of things to do before you left for the day. You'd planned meticulously for two years. Being impatient now would ruin everything. You needed to prepare to leave the house. [[Go to the living room]] [[Go to the bathroom]] [[Go to the study]] [[Investigate the bedroom]] (set: $list to (history:))(either: $list contains "Go to the study" or $list contains "Go to the living room" or $list contains "Go to the bathroom" or $list contains "Investigate the bedroom") [ [[I'm done exploring]] ]\

(display: "Inventory Jump") "I wish there was something I could do." You wondered if Ramirez had meant to say that out loud. He didn't like to talk about 'could be' and 'should be' situations. In the beginning, his rationality had been grounding but now it grated on your nerves. You'd found your own way to cope. You looked around your room. Your eyes landed on the alarm clock on your nightstand. [["Ramirez, look. Thanks for calling but I'm fine." |"I'm fine."]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You checked the clock on the wall. It was nearly time to leave. You'd grabbed everything you wanted to bring with you. You expected at this moment to hesitate. To maybe second guess your choices. But all you felt was a cold acceptance. maybe even glee if you looked at the darker parts of your emotions at the moment. You needed to get to the bar and quickly if you were going to make sure Patrick was following his schedule. (if: $HasYourKeys is true) [ [[Drive to the bar]] ]\ [[Catch the bus]] [[Walk to the bar]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You stop in your tracks. Your mother had kept a lot of pictures of you and Layan around the house in frames but occasionally when she found a stray photo, she tucked it into the corner of another frame and forgot about it. The photo sticking out of your last family portrait was her senior portrait. The Qatari flag slash over her shoulder was a pop of color against the black cap and gown they'd forced her into. The cap in the picture was tilted slightly, a detail your mother had gone through the roof over when she'd seen the final pictures. You and Layan had joked about it anytime you'd seen the portrait. But the most important part of the image was her smile. Layan's dimple and bright eyes pulled you into the photo. You remembered her graduation. Your family went out to the diner down the street from the school. Your father spilled his cup of sprite the second the waitress had set it down. You remember how sticky the table was afterward. You remember complaining about it. [[Take photo]] [[Step away from the portrait |Go to the living room]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") <section class="paper">\ <article class="paperheader"></article>\ <div class="papertext"> Dear Azima Habib, I hope this letter finds you amidst the support and understanding of those who care for you during these challenging times. As a police officer committed to serving and protecting our community, I feel compelled to reach out to you personally in the wake of the recent developments in the trial regarding Layan Habib. I understand that the outcome of the trial has not provided the closure you and the community were hoping for. The verdict delivered has undoubtedly left many with a sense of frustration and disappointment. I want to express my sincere empathy for the emotions you must be experiencing, as I know the impact of such decisions reverberates far beyond the courtroom. Throughout this investigation, our collective goal has been to seek justice for Layan Habib and her loved ones. The dedication of the entire law enforcement team, including myself, has been unwavering in the pursuit of the truth. The legal process, however, is complex, and outcomes can be unpredictable. I want to assure you that our commitment to justice remains steadfast. We understand the profound impact this case has had on you, the victim's family, and the entire community. While the recent verdict may not have provided the closure we had hoped for, it does not diminish the gravity of the loss or the importance of the ongoing investigation. I am here to offer my support and assure you that the investigation will persist. We will continue to explore every avenue, reevaluate evidence, and collaborate with legal experts to determine the best course of action moving forward. Your understanding and patience during this challenging time are invaluable. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. Your perspective and input are crucial to the process, and we remain committed to transparency and communication. Thank you for your understanding, and please accept my heartfelt condolences for the difficult journey you've been on. Sincerely, The Lakeview Police Department </div>\ </section> [[What else is on the table? |Examine the coffee table]] [[Look at something else |Go to the living room]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") Even you could admit your research wall looked...intense. You'd stapled, tacked, and pinned all of the papers you found connections to the case onto the wall over the last two years of research. Several color coded yarn strings, now fuzzy from use, connected pieces of papers to one another. To someone like Ramirez, it would look psychotic. But to you, the wall was everything. It was the contents of your mind brought to reality. Every paper a thought. Every string a connection. It was (text-colour:red)[**everything.**] You looked down at the last bit you'd strung together yesterday. Patrick walked by the bar on third street every night between 7:15 - 7:17 pm on his way from work. You needed to get to the bar soon if you were going to make sure that he was still on schedule. You couldn't afford any slip ups today. When you finally got home, you could update the wall and maybe you'd have some new information to add. [[Look at the individual clippings]] [[Go back |Go to the study]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") <img src="Article One.png" width="800px" height="1100px"> [[Read another article | Read another]] [[Go back |Go to the study]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") The treadmill sat in the back corner of the study. You'd been running on it every day for the last two years. 25 miles a week was a little excessive but you didn't take any chances. Just a little extra stamina could make all the difference. You stepped onto the treadmill and started your daily workout. You were used to it by now. With every heavy step, you pictured the forest. The smell of it. The sounds. (text-colour: #e30000)[Chasing after him.] (text-colour:#d60202)[Him ] (text-colour:#CC0000)[running ahead. You pouncing. ] (text-colour:#B31B1B)[**His neck between** ] (text-colour:#9e1818)[ **your teeth.**] You snapped out of it just as the taste of copper coated your mouth. You looked over at the clock. You needed to get going. [[Go back |Go to the study]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You pick up your pills. Medication is expensive and you definitely can't afford to throw them out. You pause as you put the cap on. Now that you think about it, it might be a good idea to bring one with you. [[Take a pill]] [[Look somewhere else |Investigate the bedroom]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") Turning your head left and right, you looked at your reflection. Brown hair wasn't the best look for you. It had fit Layan better. You kind of missed your jet black curls. But Layan and the other victims had had brown wavy hair and now, so did you. Looking at your reflection, you did look a little like her. Your mother had said growing up you two were practically twins but you'd never really seen it when you looked at her. Now you did. You had the same eyes. Yours were sharper now. The bags underneath them were heavier. But they were the same eyes nonetheless. You took a deep breath and turned away from the mirror. You couldn't look at ~~her~~ yourself anymore. [[Step away from the mirror |Go to the bathroom]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") The dart board (and the surrounding area around it) was littered with tiny pinprick holes. You'd perfected your aim by this point but practice was still important. You picked up one of your throwing knives and gave it a toss. It landed in the center of the torn photo attached to the dart board. You ripped the picture off of the dartboard and stared down at it. Patrick Hayes. //6'1". Brown hair. Blue eyes. Freckles over his nose and cheeks.// You put the picture back up on the dart board and threw another throwing knife at him. The throwing knife landed directly between his eyes. A smug satisfaction filled you. You couldn't spend forever playing darts. You needed to keep moving. [[Take the throwing knife]] [[Go back |Go to the study]]

==> (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 5) [[Inventory]] +1 <== You pocketed the throwing knife. You never knew when it might come in handy. It was better to be safe than sorry. [[Go back |Go to the study]] (set: $HasThrowingKnife to true)

==> (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 8) (link-goto: "Back", (history:)'s last) <== ''Inventory'' (if:$HasThrowingKnife is true) [[THROWING KNIFE: A small pointed knife] ]\ (if:$HasPhoto is true) [[PHOTO: Layan is smiling. She smiled a lot.] ]\ (if:$HasYourKeys is true) [[YOUR KEYS: there's a small Winnie the Pooh charm hanging from it] ]\ (if:$HasRing is true) [[ESCAPE RING: Will be good in a jam] ]\ (if:$HasPill is true) [[SLEEPING PILL: It's extra strength!] ]\ (if: $HasLighter is true) [[LIGHTER: A small blue lighter with a sports logo on it] ]\ (if:$HasBat is true) [[WOODEN BAT: The end of the bat is stained red] ]\ (if: $HasKitchenKnife is true) [[KITCHEN KNIFE: Freshly Sharpened!!] ]\ (if:$HasGun is true) [[SHOTGUN: 1 Shot. 1 Kill.] ]\ ''Knowledge'' (if: $NailPolish is true) [[NAILS: Your nails are now ready to go!] ]\ (if: $Melissa is true) [[MELISSA: Melissa Donahue is Patrick's latest victim. You've managed to recover her.] ]\ (if: $APromise is true) [[YOUR WORD: You promised DIego you wouldn't do anything crazy.] ]\ (if: $Brainmap is true) [[MAP MAKING: You made a map in your head from the bar to here while you were in the trunk.] ]\ (if: $FullMichaelKnowledge is true) [[MICHAEL: A man friends with Patrick. They go hunting together. He might know that Patrick is a serial killer.] ]\ (if: $OneMonth is true) [[CAPTIVE DURATION: Patrick takes 1-2 girls a month and kills both before taking new ones.] ]\ (if: $GirlsAPlenty is true) [[MISSING GIRLS: You know the names of several of the missing girls. Melissa is currently still alive. Luna, Charlotte, and Regina are probably dead.] ]\ (if: $BoxerPatrick is true)[[BOXER: Patrick used to be a boxer.] ]\ (if: $MelissaEscaped is true) [[ESCAPE ARTIST: Melissa is free! She'll bring Ramirez eventually.] ]\

(display: "Inventory Jump") The coffee table was a nice oak piece that your father had brought home years ago. You had tossed a couple of papers onto it the night before when you'd seen the mailbox overflowing. A letter from the Lakeview Police Department sat on top of all of the papers. You'd left your keys in the candy bowl too. You really should deal with those. [[Read the letter]] [[Grab your keys]] [[Step away from the coffee table |Go to the living room]]

==> (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 5) [[Inventory]] +1 <== You grabbed your keys out of the small dish on the coffee table and tucked them into your pocket. It might be good to have your car parked somewhere where people would notice it instead of in your driveway. [[What else is on the table? |Examine the coffee table]] [[Look at something else |Go to the living room]] (set: $HasYourKeys to true)

(display: "Inventory Jump") The trip to the bar is short and uneventful. The small necklace hanging from your rearview mirror catches your eye occasionally. Your mother had almost not given it to you. You lost jewelry too often for it to seem like a good idea. You had a habit of playing with it, slipping it on and off. You'd strung the necklace up in your car to keep it safe. With the heart shaped locket hanging from your mirror, it felt a little like your mother was keeping you safe too. [[Continue |The bar]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") The horizon held the sun in a white knuckle grip and try as it might, the sun couldn't get away as it slowly sank over tree line. The gravel crunched under your feet and you took in a deep breath. Winter would be here soon. You could feel it in the air but you still had a few weeks until the first frost finally reared its ugly head. You'd never liked the winter. Everything froze over. Everything changed into a single boring color. You walked quickly, eager to get to the bar before Patrick could get there and find his usual seat. [[Continue |The bar]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") <img src="Article Two.png" width="800px" height="1100px"> [[Read another article | Read another article]] [[Go back to the study |Go to the study]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") <img src="Article Three.png" width="800px" height="1100px"> [[Read the last article |Finish reading]] [[Go back to the study |Go to the study]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") <img src="Article Four.png" width="800px" height="1100px"> [[Go back to the study |Go to the study]]

* Check for author notes * Rewrite the newspaper articles (you got them off of chat gpt) * Rewrite the letter from Ramierez to Azima (you got it off of chat gpt) * Write something on the Melissa missing person's poster page * Write the timered section. Make it that he'll take you to the upstairs room and tie you down but them Michael calls and he leaves you there. You then escape losing health but get away and then you fight him without learning anything in the house and it imediiately leads to act 3. * if any of the go to passages (the one in blue) are in the middle of the choices, add a [ and a ]]\ after them so there isn't a blank space after them if the player doesn't meet the qualifications. * write Patrick's letter * give each of the articles there own varaible and make an if history statement for the bookworm achievement * Remember to keep all the credits for the pictures you use because you're going to make a credits page at the end of the game

==> (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 5) [[Inventory]] +1 <== You gently pulled the portrait from the corner of the frame and tucked it into your pocket. It would be nice to keep her with you tonight. She was guiding you. You could feel it. [[Go back to the living room |Go to the living room]] (set: $HasPhoto to true)

==> (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 5) [[Inventory]] +1 <== Your escape ring on the nightstand shined brightly. You'd bought it online a couple of months back in preparation for this. Moving the inner area of the ring, you pulled out the saw and picking bar and looked them over. They hadn't rusted or broken in the time you'd been practicing with them. It was a good purchase. You slipped the ring onto your finger. [[Look around somewhere else |Investigate the bedroom]] (set: $HasRing to true)

==> (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 5) [[Inventory]] +1 <== You take a pill with you. It might be a good idea to have something like it. Better to be safe than sorry. [[Look somewhere else |Investigate the bedroom]] (set: $HasPill to true)

(display: "Inventory Jump") Checking your watch, you sighed. The bus was two minutes behind schedule. You'd left home with a few minutes to spare but that same gnawing anxiety clung to you. He could already be there. He could already have sat down. He would notice if you came in after him. He always noticed people who came in after him. The bus rolled up and you stepped inside. You tapped your foot as you waited one stop, two stops, three stops. You got off quickly and headed for the bar in the distance. [[Continue |The bar]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") The bar, Sonny's, was a little place tucked into the corner of town. The interior was mitch match furniture and the floor was always sticky. You stepped inside under the low yellowish light. There were plenty of people inside. Sonny didn't charge much for a drink and alcoholics liked cheap ones. [[Wait for Patrick]]

==> (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 5) [[Inventory]] *New Info* <== You shook the red nail polish a couple of times before you got to work. It had taken forever for the nail polish to get to you but you hoped that it worked. You'd need it later tonight. Your fingernails looked glossy in the low light of the bathroom. At least it was clear. You didn't like colored nail polishes too much. When they clipped, they looked tacky. [[Finish painting and find something else to do |Go to the bathroom]] (set: $NailPolish to true)

maybe have her step on a bar trap

(display: "Inventory Jump") "Could you get me a lemon?" You asked with an easy smile. You leaned toward him, fluttering your lashes. Patrick nodded, a smile growing on his face. He turned to the bartender. You didn't waste a second. You slipped your pinky finger into the glass and back out before he could turn his head to you again. Your wet fingers joined the mess on the counter and you waited. It would only take a minute for the reaction to happen. Patrick thanked the bartender and handed you the lemon. "Don't add too much. It'll get sour." 'Of course it would, it's a lemon.' You thought miserably. You looked down at your pinky nail. The clear polish had turned red. The drink was drugged. [[Throw the drink away |Toss it]] [[Pretend to drink it]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") He was watching you. You could feel it. Like his eyes were a sticker on your cheek. You brace yourself. Mixing the soda into your glass, you take a sip. Patrick begins to talk next to you. Something about designing cocktails. But very quickly, you begin to feel strange. The strength of the drugs was higher than you'd expected him to use. The world began to shift even though you were standing still. Your head felt like Patrick had shoved cotton into you. You felt hands grip yours. "You don't look so good." Patrick's voice sounded miles away. You let him guide you out of the bar. Your legs moved on their own like a puppet held by its hands and forced to move forward. [[Go outside]] [[Try to fight it]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") "But no thank you." You slid the drink toward him and turned toward the counter. You could see the look of shock on Patrick's face in the corner of your eye. Patrick grumbled to himself, grabbed the offered drink, and slinked away. You sipped your soda, the smugness only getting better as the night went on. Patrick stayed in the bar a ways away from you. He'd tucked himself into a booth in the corner with his own drink. The patrons came and went around you but he never moved. How could he? You were still here. Patrick didn't strike you as a guy who handled rejection well. You finished your soda and paid. Leaving behind a large tip, you watched the bartender's brow raise. You gave him and smile as he took it. He'd remember you for sure. Bartenders always remembered the big tippers. Grabbing your coat, you pulled it on and headed for the door. You didn't have to check to see if Patrick was following you. You knew he was. [[Go outside |Outside the bar]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You pressed your lips firmly on the cup and tilted it forward. Patrick was watching you. You pretended to swallow. You set the glass down and turned to Patrick. "You were right. It does taste better." Patrick leaned against the sticky counter. "I'm pretty well versed in cocktails. Sonny sometimes asks for my help designing new ones." He hooked his thumb to the back office where Sonny no doubt was currently working. You nodded, letting him talk at you for a while. Occasionally, you would bring the drink to your lips and pretend to take a sip. Patrick's eyes followed the movement every time. You wondered how long it would take the drug to hold. After a couple of minutes, you let yourself pretend to feel it. You swayed a bit. "You okay?" Patrick asked, his voice sounding sweet and concerned. You nodded. "I think I just need some fresh air." You stepped around him and headed for the door. You debated stumbling a bit but you didn't want to lay it on too thick. Patrick might get suspicious. [[Stagger outside]] (set: $Sober to true)

(display: "Inventory Jump") You set the glass between the two of you. Leaning closer, you smirked. "You sound like you know your stuff." Patrick leaned closer too. You could smell liquor and stale coffee on his breath. You tried not to grimace. "I'm a bartender myself. I like designing drinks. Sonny even has me design ones for the bar sometimes. A rum and coke is easy." You leaned closer letting your hand bump the rim of the glass. The glass tilted and splashed across the counter. Patrick shot back and you gasped. "I'm so sorry!" You said. Patrick looked down at the spilled drink for a long second. He sighed and looked toward the door. "I was thinking about stepping outside anyway. Wanna join me?" You looked from the drink to him. Putting on a shy demeanor like a new suit, you rubbed your arm. You smiled. "Sure." [[Go outside for fresh air |Step outside]] (set: $Sober to true)

(display: "Inventory Jump") You felt the world change around you. Everything tipped before it all seemed to drop at once. Your shoulder connected with a hard flat surface and you found the side of your face covered in sticky wetness. A set of hands grabbed your shoulders and pulled you to your feet. Blue eyes peered down at you. "It's alright," You could hear Patrick talking to someone. "She's a friend. I'm going to take her home." You pulled out of his arms and stumbled for the door. You pulled your phone from your pocket. You could barely see the screen but you could try. [[Call Officer Ramirez]] [[Call the police]] (set: $Drugged to true)

(display: "Inventory Jump") You tried to will your mind to clear but your focus slipped and slid like you were trying to balance on an icy road. Patrick's grip was firm and only grew tighter as he tugged you out of the bar into the chilled night. He felt you stall and gave you a hard yank. You stumbled forward into him. The world tilted and you clung to his side to keep upright. The world began to change around you as you two moved toward the door. [[Go outside |Go outside now]] (set: $Drugged to true)

(display: "Inventory Jump") Officer Ramirez would never get to you in time not that you wanted him to. But you could get him on the phone at least. You hit the button and prayed that he picked up. The cool air hit your face as you stepped outside. You stumbled over the bits of gravel under your feet. A pair of hands caught your shoulders. "Hey, sweetheart, come on we're going this way. Don't be difficult." Patrick's voice felt like sludge on your skin curling down your neck and back as he grabbed you from behind. Your phone dropped from your hand as he yanked you roughly. You swore you could hear the sounds of Officer Ramirez on the other side. Your attention turned back to Patrick. Raw anger shot through you. (text-colour: red) [[Fight Back |Fight Back Drugged]] (set: $RamirezKnows to true)

(display: "Inventory Jump") Your mind couldn't seem to focus on anything. But suddenly a voice broke through hazy. "Where're you going?" Patrick. That was Patrick talking. He was behind you. He was talking to you. "This way, sweetheart. I'll take you home." A hand grabbed your shoulder. You felt raw anger shoot through you. (text-colour: red) [[Fight Back |Fight Back Drugged]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You pulled away, falling to the ground. Patrick huffed, looming over you. His bright blue eyes stood out in the darkness. "Don't make this difficult, sweetheart." He reached for you again. [[Punch him |Punch him drugged]] [[Kick him |Kick him drugged]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You stepped outside into the cool air and took a deep breath. You didn't know how long it would be before you managed to enjoy a night like this. Walking across the bar lot, you idled. You didn't know how long you were standing there before you heard the sound of footsteps behind you. You took a deep breath and braced yourself just as a heavy weight collided with your back. You staggered. Patrick grabbed you from behind, holding you high off the ground. "You really shouldn't say no to a free drink, sweetheart." He said. Raw anger shot through you. (text-colour: red) [[Fight Back |Fight Back Sober]] (set: $Sober to true)

(display: "Inventory Jump") You stepped outside and waited underneath the dark moon. Patrick would be out any minute. You could wait around all day but it wouldn't be productive. You started walking. When you listened closely, you heard another set of steps following behind you. You braced yourself as they grew faster. A heavy weight landed on your back. Panic shot through you as you physically grabbed off the ground. You bit back a scream. (text-colour: red) [[Fight Back |Fight Back Sober]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You let your shoulder connect with the side of the door as you stepped outside. The cold air washed over your face and you sighed in relief. The bar had been stifling but the air outside was cool and refreshing. You swayed back and forth listening to the sounds behind you, waiting. "Hey!" You didn't stop even after Patrick's voice started calling out behind you. He grabbed your shoulder and pulled you in another direction. "I'll drive you home." You pulled away from him and grumbled to yourself pretending to be delirious. Patrick grabbed you a little harder, yanking you closer toward a car parked underneath a dark streetlight. You were going to let him take you, but you weren't going to go without a fight. (text-colour: red) [[Fight Back |Fight Back Sober]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") Patrick forced you toward the car. You looked it over as you heard him moving around behind you. The trunk popped with a sharp beep. A hand pushed you forward between your shoulders. "Don't make a fucking sound." He said as you got inside. You glared up at him as he slammed the trunk. "If you kick out my tail light, I'll slice your pretty face up." He called from outside. You pressed your lips. This was happening. You couldn't believe it. This was really happening. You felt the car come to life around you and Patrick tore off with you in the trunk. The car turned left and right sporadically but always stayed below the speed limit. In the darkness, you tried to figure out what you should do next. (If: $Sober is true) [[Make a map]] (If: $Sober is true) [[Get your bearings]] (if: $Drugged is true) [[Let sleep take you]] (If: $Drugged is true) [[Try to stay awake]]

==> (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 5) [[Inventory]] +1 <== Left. Right. Another Right. The car stopped for a very long light. It must be 7th street's light. Another left. You did what you could, plotting out the path in front of you. Eventually, you couldn't make sense of the map in your mind anymore. You drew lines on your hand to keep the map in line inside your head. You were sure you had a good idea of just how far you were from town. The car didn't stop for another street light. The paved roads stopped under the wheels. You weren't in town anymore. He was taking you to Lakeview Forest. The car eventually came to a stop and you looked at the trunk. He'd be coming any moment now. You needed to figure out how to approach this. [[Comply]] [[Pretend to sleep]] (set: $BrainMap to true)

(display: "Inventory Jump") You tried to figure out exactly where the car was going but you couldn't seem to keep your thoughts together. You didn't know how many lefts you'd taken. Patrick might even be making more turns just to confuse you. You looked around. In the darkness, you could feel a jacket sitting next to you. The jacket reeked of copper and something sticky flaked onto your fingers. You reached into the pocket of the jacket. In the dark, you felt over the object you found. Your finger brushed over a small wheel on the end. A sharp hiss came from it and fire sparked to light. You stared in awe. He'd left a lighter behind. You tucked it into your shoe and waited for the car to stop. When it finally came to a crawl, you readied yourself. You needed to figure out how to approach this. [[Pretend to sleep]] [[Comply]] (set: $HasLighter to true)

(display: "Inventory Jump") Your body was starting to feel sluggish. You raised a hand only to find it moving much more limply than you wanted. The car turned left and right but you couldn't seem to get any idea of where you were. Your eyelids felt heavy. You just needed a second to close them. <span class="drunk"> Just a second. Just a second.. Just a second... </span> [[So It Begins |ACT 2]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") Your mind was still puddy but your legs were strong enough to push you forward. You could barely stay standing but you needed to. The cold air tried to sober you as you stepped outside but you couldn't seem to latch on to it. A dark shadow loomed over you in the sharp light of the bar's blinking sign. (text-colour: red) [[Focus]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You pulled away and Patrick huffed. "Don't make this difficult, sweetheart." He reached for you again. [[Punch him]] [[Kick him]] (If: $HasThrowingKnife is true) + (text-colour: red) [ [[Stab Him]] ]\

The cold hard floor of the cell left your back feeling wet and chilled. There was a faint dripping noise somewhere further down in the room. You leaned forward trying to figure out where the sound was coming from. Large iron bars obscured your view to the rest of the room outside of the cage that Patrick had trapped you in like an animal. You leaned further. Your body caught on the pillar behind you. You shifted your shoulders, wiggling your arms. It was cold metal around your wrists. It encircled your wrists, cold metal slowly warming as it bit into your wrists. He'd handcuffed your arms around the pillar. You yanked hard. The cuffs didn't budge. The quiet of the room settled around you. You yanked again. The cuffs wouldn't budge. They ''wouldn't budge.'' You could feel the panic starting to well like bile in your throat. You couldn't afford to lose it yet. Panicking would only get you killed. You had to be smart about this. Okay...first things first. [[Escape your cuffs]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You raised your head determined to stay away. The car took a sharp left and your body slammed against the wall. Your head landed on a red speckled jacket, pillowing you as the car jerked and jumped. You tried to keep your eyes open. You just needed to keep them open. If you did, you could gather information. You counted the seconds in your head, clinging to them just the same as you did consciousness. The seconds began to bleed together despite your best efforts. <span class="drunk"> Your eyes finally found their way closed but you swore you heard something just before sleep took you. The sound of music. </span> [[So It Begins |ACT 2]]

==> (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 5) [[Inventory]] -1 <== You reached into your pocket and found the smooth surface of the throwing knife. Pulling it out, you brought the knife down into the meat of his shoulder. His scream pierced the night air around you. His free hand shot forward. Your head snapped to one side as he backhanded you. Your back connected with the ground. Gravel bit at you through your jacket. Patrick staggered. He ripped the throwing knife out of his shoulder and tossed it into the bushes. Panting, he pulled his own knife out of his pocket and jabbed it in your direction. "Get up." He said. You stood slowly letting yourself sway. "Move." He gestured to a car underneath a dark streetlight. [[Let him grab you]] (set: $HasThrowingKnife to false)

(display: "Inventory Jump") You swung hard. You felt your knuckles cry out just as Patrick did. Your hand throbbed but Patrick hit the ground. You stared down at Patrick on the ground. You looked around. You could do this here. It wouldn't be as easy but you could- -Patrick's foot hit your leg and you crumbled to the ground. He jumped on top of you. A blade pressed against your throat. "Don't fucking move." He growled. You felt the knife bit into your throat and did as he asked. [[Let him grab you]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You pulled back your foot and kicked with all your might. Patrick's gasp was sharp and shocked as your foot connected with his leg. He fell forward and you darted around him. Patrick shot a hand forward and caught the back of your jacket. He pulled you to the ground with him. A sharp blade pressed against your throat. "Don't fucking move." You looked up into his angry eyes and stayed still. [[Let him grab you]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You swung and connected with his jaw. Your fist only slightly grazed him but it was enough to send him backward, shocked. The ground shifted below you and you fell face first into the gravel. Sharp shards of rocks bit into your cheeks. You felt a hard kick into the side and groaned. Hands grabbed your shoulders and yanked you up. [[Let him grab you]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You kicked upward and Patrick shot backward. "God, you're a mess" He watched you fall back to the ground and waited until you'd gotten everything out of your system. He grabbed you and pulled you upward. You squirmed. [[Let him grab you]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") You let your eyes slip closed and slowed your breathing. When the trunk finally popped open, you waited to see what he'd do. Patrick grabbed you roughly. You let your body go limp. He dragged you out of the car. "Don't pretend to sleep now." He grabbed you again and moved you left and right. You did your best to stay limp. You felt him pause. He raised your hand and let it drop. He cursed and picked you up, tossing you over his shoulder. You opened your eyes and looked around as he brought you inside. You passed a living room and a dining room. He took you down a staircase and into a basement. Several cells were shut tight and you snapped your eyes closed again. Patrick set you down inside and you hear the sinch of a pair of handcuffs locking both of your hands around a bar behind your back. He gave you a spiteful kick. (If: $HasThrowingKnife is false) ["Crazy bitch," He growled cupping the wound in his shoulder.] He closed the door of your cell with a hard slam and stomped upstairs. [[So It Begins |ACT 2]]

You felt around a bit. The cuffs were cool metal against your skin. The sharpness cut into your wrists as you shifted uncomfortably. A heavy thunk bounced off of the ceiling boards and plumes of dust scattered around you. You took a deep breath. You had no idea how long it would take Patrick to come downstairs for you. You had a couple of options for what to do next. Some were more dangerous than others but in this situation, you had to do what you had to do. [[Use strength]] [[Dislocate your thumb]] (if: $HasRing is true) [[Pick the cuffs]]

Bracing your back against the pillar, you pulled your hands into opposite directions. With enough leverage, you could break them. You were sure of it. You'd been planning this for nearly two years now. You weren't about to be stopped by a pair of handcuffs. The handcuffs bit into the meat of your wrists. Your skin parted easily for them as they dug in deep. Your wrists grew slippery quickly. Pain shot through you but you didn't stop. The soft snap was mercy. You pulled your bloody wrist closer investigating the mess. The cuts weren't too deep. It would stop bleeding soon. But at least you were free. The broken cuffs still clung to you like manacles but you could find a way to get them off completely later. You needed to find a way out of here now. Everything else could wait. [[Check the cell]] (set: $health to it - 5)

The metal of your ring clicked against your cuffs every time you thrashed. The sound pulled you back to earth. You felt over your ring. If you could just get it off of your finger. You wiggled a bit before the ring slipped off and into your hand. You picked the little pick and saw out from the ring's interior and dropped the silver band. The sound echoed harshly in the empty room. With a bit of wiggling, you felt the pick slip into the little key cylinder. With practiced hands, the click of the cuffs was almost music to your ears. You rubbed your tender wrists and looked around. The cuffs were off. Phase one complete. You just had to get out now. [[Check the cell]]

You'd practiced this. You could do it. Don't scream. Don't cry. Don't bite through your tongue. Grabbing your thumb, you pulled. and pulled. (text-colour: red) [and pulled.] The bones in your hand submitted and popped like bubble wrap. <span class="drunk"> White spots flashed over your vision. You clenched your teeth. Breathe. Breathe. You waited until the pain passed.</span> Slipping your hand free from the cuff, the other dangled loosely from your wrist. You popped your finger back into place and whimpered. You flexed your hand trying to work through the pain. You were free at least. You needed to start gathering information. [[Check the cell]] (set: $health to it - 10)

(display: "Inventory Jump") Patrick would be here any minute now. You looked around the bar. There was a nice silver colored pan decorating one of the walls by the bar. You settled down in one of the bar seats near it and grimaced at the way you sank into it. Feeling the germs climb up your clothes, you took a deep breath and tried to focus on something else. When the door opened, your eyes flickered to the pan. You could see the vague shape of the people coming in through it without having to turn to look. A short figure with thin shoulders. Not Patrick. A heavyset figure with a shiny head. Not Patrick. A wide hipped figure with long legs. Definitely Not Patrick. What felt like hours seemed to crawl by. You caught the bartender eying you. It wasn't your first time in here but you didn't want to pull unnecessary attention to yourself. You ordered a soda. The bartender frowned but slid one over to you anyway. You cracked the soda top. A glass of alcohol slid in front of you. The smell made your nose turn. You looked up at the bartender. He was at the other end of the bar. You turned the other way. Your blood ran cold. (text-colour: red)[[Patrick]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") Patrick was exactly the way you remembered him. His smile looked sweet and unassuming in the low light. His hair was pushed out of his eyes and swung off of his freckled face. He looked you up and down. He'd gotten the drop on you. You'd thought you were watching carefully but somehow he'd gotten past you. With him standing so close, you waited to see if recollection would color his face but it didn't. You'd expected as much. You did look different with brown hair after all. But above all else, you hadn't mattered to him. You'd sat in the courtroom on several occasions and he didn't remember you. ~~How could he? You weren't your sister.~~ "You look lonely over here." He pushed the drink closer to you. "I hope you don't mind but I ordered you a drink. Rum would go great with that." You took the drink and turned it around in your hands. The rum had a glossy finish. A warm brown that looked like it would burn going down. You looked out of the corner of your eye to find Patrick still staring at you. "Thank you," you said. [[Take a sip]] [[Don't drink it]] (If: $NailPolish is true) [ [[Test the drink]] ]\

(display: "Inventory Jump") The police never responded quickly but you could give it a try. You tried to dial the numbers but your fingers fumbled over the buttons. A hand materialized in front of you and snatched your phone. "Who're you calling?" Your brain was still trying to grapple with the fact that your phone was gone. Everything felt like it was moving at supersonic speeds while you were standing still. "Oh, that's not going to happen." You looked up to find Patrick tossing something over his shoulder. He grabbed your arms. "Just come with me, sweetheart. I'll take you home." Raw anger shot through you. (text-colour: red) [[Fight Back |Fight Back Drugged]]

(display: "Inventory Jump") When the trunk finally popped open, you looked up. Patrick was holding the same sharp pocket knife. He opened the trunk with a sharp jolt. He waited to see what you'd do. You raised your hands in surrender. With a grumble, he grabbed you by your hair. "You so much as shift in a way I don't like and I'll gut you." He forced you out of the trunk and onto the dirt road he'd parked on. A large house stood in front of you bracketed by dense trees. He forced you forward, using the clump of hair he held to direct you forward into the house. You passed a living room and a dining room. He took you down a staircase and into a basement. Several cells were shut tight and he pushed you into the only open cell at the end of the row. Keeping a knife against your throat, you didn't struggle as he moved behind you. You hear the sinch of a pair of handcuffs locking both of your hands around a bar behind your back. He gave you a spiteful kick, glaring just as hard at you as you did him. (If: $HasThrowingKnife is false) [ ["Crazy bitch," He growled cupping the wound in his shoulder.] ]\ [[So It Begins |ACT 2]]

=><= (text-size: 3) [Act 2] (text-size: 1.5) [//In the Woods Somewhere//] (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 8) [[Open your eyes]] (text-size: .9) [//"There is a kind of euphoria of grief, a degree of madness." - Nigella Lawson//]

The cell was dirty and dark around you. Only a single light shined at the end of the rows of cages. A pile of rags and a stained old blanket sat in one of the corners of the cage. Everything smelled faintly of mildew. Standing up, you looked over the cage door. You tried to open the cage door but the thick padlock stopped the door in its tracks. Reaching through the bars, you grabbed the lock and flipped it upward. The lock itself was old and rusty looking. If you could just get it off... [[Try to break the lock]] (If: $HasRing is true) [ [[Pick the lock]] ]\

Pulling out the lock pick, you gently begin to tinker with the padlock. The lock pick wasn't made to fit but you managed well enough. You turned the lock slowly, feeling each of the little key pins jump and fall as you worked the lock open. With a heavy thunk, the lock fell free. You smiled to yourself. Your hard work had paid off. You crew the cage door open. You just need to decide what to do next. [[Check the other cell]] [[Find a way out]]

=><= (set: $counter to 10) (css: "color: red; font-size: 160%")[|amount>[$counter]] [ (live: .8s)[ (set: $counter to it - 1) (if: $counter is 0)[(go-to: "Watch and see what happens")] (replace: ?amount)[$counter]] ]\ <== The key cylinder shattered and the sound pierced through the room. The steady sounds of walking upstairs stopped. You stared at the ceiling, waiting, praying for them to continue. All at once, the footsteps broke out in a run. His heavy footfalls left dirt and dust falling from the ceiling. You hear a whimper somewhere else in the cages. (text-colour: red) [He's coming.] [[Pretend to still be sleep]] [[Draw less attention to yourself]]

You peered into the other cells. The same soiled scratchy blankets and piles of rags sat in each of the cages. A line of them stretched down the expanse of the room. Five cages. He could hold up to five people at once. You wondered if he'd ever had that many people in here. How many people had been down here, crying and scared, just like Layan... (text-colour: red) [When you finally had your chance, you'd drag him down here kicking and screaming and let him feel exactly what they'd felt. You-] ''Stop. None of that now. '' You shook the thought from your head. You needed to focus. You could feel your every thought struggling to stay on your path. You'd had such a clear plan in mind but now that you were here. Patrick was so close by. (text-indent: red) [if you just went upstairs...] Something moved in the corner of your eye. You looked into one of the cages. There was someone else alive down here with you. A woman, curled up in the corner of the cell like a small child, pulled herself even tighter when she noticed you watching her. Her dark brown hair was matted to her head. In the dull light of the room, her skin looked a sickly yellow. "Hello," you called. She jumped like a startled deer but said nothing. You didn't know how long she'd been down here. She might know more about what's going on. If you could just get her to talk, you might get the upper hand quicker. [[intimidate her]] [[Try to soothe her]] (if: $HasPhoto is true) [ [[Show her Layan]] ]\

Stepping closer to the cage, you looked over the lock. You could break it off when the time came. You peered into the cage again, looking closer at the woman. "I know you're in there." You said. She tucked closer to herself. "Look, I need answers and you might know something." She said nothing. You slammed your hand against the bars and she jumped hard. Her wide frightened eyes turned to you. "I'm talking to you." She sniffled. "Please, just leave me alone." You looked her over. Even under her messy hair, her face looked familiar. You peered closer at her, watching the way she squirmed under your gaze. Her name came to you in a moment of clarity. "You're Melissa." She nodded. "How do you know who I am?" You ignored her question. "You're still alive." You were surprised to say the least. She'd been missing for a while. "Melissa, I have a couple of questions so I need you to answer them. Now." She sniffled again, whipping her nose. You had her attention. You didn't have much time. You needed to keep moving. You had time for one question. [["What is his daily routine?"]] [["How long have you been here?"]]

You raised your hands. "It's okay." You said, approaching her slowly. Her eyes darted over you quickly as if trying to get a sense of just how dangerous you were as quickly as possible. "My name is Azima. What's your name?" You tried to smile. It had been a long time since you'd done it but you still tried. The woman calmed a bit, staring at you. "Melissa." The name seemed familiar to you. You thought about it carefully. "Melissa Donahue. You're Melissa Donahue." She looked up at you with wide eyes. She nodded. You looked around. You hadn't expected Melissa to still be alive. "Melissa, I don't have a lot of time for questions. I need you to answer me as quickly as possible. Can you do that?" She nodded slowly, eyes wide but slightly more trusting than they had been before. You didn't have much time. You should probably decide what to ask. [["What do you know about Patrick?"]] [["How often does Patrick come down here?"]] {Conversation choice 3]]

Melissa shook her head frantically. "I didn't," she insisted. "I've seen him around town before. I've never even talked to him before." She looked down at her hands clenched in the ratty blanket across her lap. "When I was at the diner...I finished eating." She shook her head as if trying to dispel the fog in her mind. "I dropped my keys by my car. I bent down to get them and..." Her eyes widened. "He hit me. I remember." She touched the back of her head as if the wound was still there. "I woke up here with another girl a couple of cages away telling me it would be okay." You nodded. You wondered what else you could say to her. [["Is there anyone else in the house?"]] [["How often does Patrick come down here?"]]

Melissa shook her head. "I don't know for sure. He brings me food two times a day." She pursed her lips. "He sometimes came to check on us but there was never any reason why. I think he just liked seeing us get scared of him. She looked around uncomfortably at the other cells. "The only other time he came down here was to bring one of us upstairs. Regina said he'd done it to the other two girls before us." [["What's upstairs?"]]

"His daily routine?" she asked. You nodded. "When does he come down here? How often? What does he do down here?" She thought about it. "I don't know," Her voice filled with tears. "He comes down to give me food twice a day. Please, just leave me alone. I don't know anything." You watched her crumble in on herself. You sigh. "Melissa, I need you to focus and answer some other questions." Her sniffling was beginning to grate on your nerves. (text-colour: red) ["Melissa."] She shot backward. "What do you want?" You eyed her carefully. She was already barely hanging on. You had to be careful with your next question. [["How many other people have been here?"]] [["How did he catch you?"]] [[Move on]]

She thought about it. "Since February," She shifted around looking at the walls imprisoning her. "What day is it?" "March 1." You said. Her face crumbled. You tapped your knuckle against her cage. "Stay focused." She shirked away from you but nodded. You still had her attention. [["How many other people have been here?"]] [["How did he catch you?"]] [["What is his daily routine?"]]

Melissa shook her head. "Sometimes he has friends over. I hear them upstairs. He always turns on music so that they don't hear us. And if he finds out that we were screaming..." She shifted uncomfortably. "Regina said that one of the other girls told her that the last girl that tried that went upstairs. I don't want to go upstairs." She shook her head just thinking about it. You nodded. "Does he have people over often?" Melissa shook her head no again. "He has one guy over occasionally. He never plays music when he comes. I think his name is Michael. I don't really know much about him and Patrick gets upset if we ask too many questions." Michael? You didn't think you knew that name. "Okay. Thank you for the help, Melissa. I need to keep moving." Melissa's hands darted through the bars. She grabbed your arm. "Wait, please, take me with you." "Melissa-" "-Please don't leave me." Fresh tears pooled in her eyes. "Please, please, he'll kill me. Don't leave me here. I'm begging you." You stared down at her, sobbing through the bars. She was clinging to you in a way that felt very familiar. You looked from her to the rest of the cages. She might slow you down. She might get herself hurt. She could compromise everything you'd been planning for the last two years. What should you do? [[Free her]] [[Leave her here for now]]

Her eyes darted around and she tried to remember. "I don't know." She said, breathing heavily. "I don't know what happens to them but they don't come back. The girls. He takes them upstairs and they don't come back. He took Regina." You watched her cry, helpless. You could tell her it was going to be okay but you'd be a liar. And you were many things but you weren't a liar. "Melissa, he isn't going to take you upstairs." She looked up at you with wet sad eyes. "I'm scared." You nodded. You wondered what you should do next. "Okay. Thank you for the help, Melissa. I need to keep moving." Melissa's hands darted through the bars. She grabbed your arm. "Wait, please, take me with you." "Melissa-" "-Please don't leave me." Fresh tears pooled in her eyes. "Please, please, he'll kill me. Don't leave me here. I'm begging you." You stared down at her, sobbing through the bars. She was clinging to you in a way that felt very familiar. You looked from her to the rest of the cages. She might slow you down. She might get herself hurt. She could compromise everything you'd been planning for the last two years. What should you do? [[Free her]] [[Leave her here for now]]

You moved further away from her. "Melissa-" "-Wait, please. Don't leave me here." Melissa was pressed entirely against the bars now. "I'll be back." you said looking down the hall. You needed to keep going and you couldn't risk her messing anything up. Melissa shook her head. Her eyes were wide and frightened. Her face scrunched as if she'd start to scream any second now. You grabbed her hands and she clung to them like a vice. "I promise I'll be back." You said. You didn't know if you'd be able to keep that promise but you would do your best. Melissa sniffled. "Okay." She said in a soft heartbroken voice. She didn't have a choice either way, did she? If she wanted to be free, she'd have to wait for you to come back. You had to peel her hands off of yours and step away. Melissa didn't stop reaching for you. You had to ignore her for now. You had to get out of here. [[Find a way out]] (set: $LeaveMelissa to true)

When you looked at her, you saw Layan. If someone had been down here free and able to fight back, you would have wanted them to take Layan with them, wouldn't you? You nodded. "Step back." The look of relief on her face made everything that could potentially come from this feel worth it. "Thank you." She said. You grabbed your lock pick and fiddled with the key cylinder. After getting out of your own, opening a second wasn't as hard. A sharp snap seared your hand in painful heat. You looked down at the broken lock pick that had shattered in your palm. Dropping the remains, you slipped the lock off of the cage. The cage door opened with a whine. Melissa threw herself at you. You stiffened as her arms wrapped around you and she buried her face in your shoulder. "Thank you so much." She said. Her tears wet the shoulder of your shirt. You patted her back until she calmed. "We need to be quiet." You said pulling her away until she was at arm's length. "We need to make sure that he doesn't know we're out of the cages. Can you do that?" She swallowed. Something that looked almost like resolve filled her eyes and she nodded. You took a deep breath. Now that you were both free, you just needed to get out of the basement. [[Find a way out]] (set: $Melissa to true) (set: $HasRing to false)

==> +1 info <== Melissa thought about it. "Regina was here a few days ago. He took her upstairs and she hasn't come back down." She sniffled. "Regina told me there had been two other girls. She mentioned them a couple of times." She thought about it hard. "Charlotte and Luna. That was their names. Charlotte and Luna." You nodded along. You didn't remember seeing any missing person's reports for girls with those names. He might have taken them from another town. In your silence, Melissa's sniffling only grew louder. Her voice filled with tears. "I hope Regina's okay." You watched as the soft tears began to stream down her face. She crumbled in front of you, her tears and her resolve leaving her all at once. She wouldn't answer any more questions. You'd need to move on. [[Move on]]

Melissa's lip wobbled. She looked down at the ratty blanket over her lap. "I was getting dinner. I got off of my shift at the library and went to the Lakeview diner. I was outside." She took a shaky breath. "He hit me and I woke up here." You sighed as she finally crumbled. The poor girl didn't seem like she would be answering any more questions. You might be able to find out more later. [[Move on]]

You pulled the portrait of Layan out of your pocket. "I know you're scared." You said in the softest voice you could. You held up the picture. "My sister was scared too." You watched the woman lean a bit forward to see what you were holding. "Your sister?" Taking a deep breath, you nodded. "She died here, two years ago. I'm trying to stop the man who hurt her. Who kidnapped you. I just need you to answer some questions for me." You looked down at the portrait. "Please, anything you could tell me would be helpful." The woman looked up. She looked at the picture again. "I remember her. That girl. She was on the news a couple of years ago." Her eyes flickered up to you. "What do you want to know?" You looked her over. Something about her seemed familiar. "You're Melissa." You said. Her eyes widened. She nodded. "Yes, that's me." You nodded to yourself. The timeline was starting to make sense now. "I'm Azima." [[Ask her questions]]

She thought about it. "Since February," She shifted around looking at the walls imprisoning her. She looked almost afraid to ask but she did anyway. "What day is it?" "March 1." You said. Her face crumbled. "I've been here a month." Her posture stiffened and her eyes widened. "I've been here a month." She looked around frantically as if Patrick would come out of the darkness itself and attack her. "I have to get out of here." Fat tears filled the corners of her eyes and she began to cry. You watched her demeanor change so rapidly. Whatever had upset her was clearly terrifying. You needed to know. [["What's wrong?"]]

==> +1 Info <== Melissa counted on her fingers. "Regina was here a little while ago. Regina told me about a girl named Luna who was here with a girl named Charlotte." She looked at her three raised fingers. "I don't know who was here before that. They were long gone by the time he grabbed me." You nodded. You tried to remember if you'd seen a missing poster for a girl named Luna or Charlotte but nothing came to mind. He might have taken them from the next town over. You nodded again. "So, there were only those three girls that you know of?" Melissa shifted around uncomfortably. "Melissa, I need you to tell me everything. Please." [["How many more girls were there?"]]

Melissa thought about it. "He brings us food two times a day." She looked around. He brings //me// food twice a day." Sadness filled her voice as she played with the ratty blanket in her lap. "He comes to check on us occasionally but there never is any rhyme or reason behind it." She shifted uncomfortably. "Can you keep a secret?" You nodded. "I can hear the clock." She looked up at you with big brown eyes. "There's a clock upstairs that chimes every hour. I hear him leave on weekdays really late at night and he doesn't come back until really early in the morning." She thought about it. "Sometimes he brings friends." [["Tell me about his friends."]]

"I don't know much about them." Melissa absentmindedly played with her tangled hair. "Sometimes I hear a bunch of people upstairs. He always turns his music up really loud when they're over so they can't hear us." He looked down the hall of cages. "Some of the other girls used to try screaming. It never went well." "How often do the friends come over?" You asked. She thought about it. "I don't know. Not very often. There is one guy though. His name is Michael. Patrick talks about him all the time. When he comes over, Patrick doesn't turn on the music. I think he knows we're down here." [["Tell me more about Michael."]]

==> +1 Info <== "Regina told me I had a month," Melissa said. She pressed her fists into her tears, willing them to stop. She sobbed between words. "No girl lasts longer than a month here before they do upstairs." You reached for her through the bars. Her hand found yours and she clung for dear life. "Melissa, take a deep breath for me." Melissa took in a shaky breath. Tears trailed down her face but she looked a little calmer now. [[What happens upstairs?]] [["What else can you tell me?" |Ask her questions]] (set: $OneMonth to true)

"I don't know. I promise I didn't see them." She looked over to the back wall of her cage. She crawled back toward it and moved the pile of rags piled by the wall. You could see something in the low light scribbled into the wall but you couldn't quite make it out. "What is that?" "Initials," She said softly. "There are six in this cell. Six other people were here." She placed her hand over one of the initials. "I don't know about the other cells but six other people were here. I think Regina put initials in her cell too. I put mine in yesterday." She looked up at you. In the darker corner of the cell, she looked frightening with her matted hair and round eyes. "Six other people." You looked back at your cell. "You should check." She said. She crawled closer again. Her fingers flexed around the iron bars of her cell. "You should look and see who was here." You nodded. You had other questions but something gnawed at you to check. [[Check your cell]] [["What else can you tell me?" |Ask her questions]] [[I don't have any more questions]] (set: $GirlsAPlenty to true)

"I have to keep going. Patrick will be back soon and I can't have him find me out here." Melissa moved closer to the bars. "Take me with you." she said. You looked at her. Her eyes were wild. "Melissa, I-" "-Please don't leave me here. Please." New tears began to trail down her face as she reached for you. You were just a finger's length out of reach. You looked from her to the rest of the cages. She might slow you down. She might get herself hurt. She could compromise everything you'd been planning for the last two years. What should you do? [[Free her]] [[Leave her here for now]]

You looked out the door. The forest around you greeted you. Patrick had picked a house just outside of town but it wasn't the furthest walk, especially if you were desperate. (if: $Melissa is false) [ [You could leave. You definitely had enough information now to get him arrested again. You could make sure he didn't get away this time. There had to be a phone in the house somewhere. He might even still have yours. If you looked for it and managed to call Ramirez, Patrick wouldn't be able to get away again. A cold hard cell of his own would be in his future. But...if you didn't, you could make sure that he didn't even make it that far. There wouldn't be a cold cell in his future. Only a cold grave. You shifted back and forth trying to decide what to do.] ]\ (if: $Melissa is true) [ [You looked at Melissa. Two people against Patrick would definitely be easier. But looking Melissa over, she was exhausted. There was a cold resolve in her eyes but her gaunt figure left you second guessing the idea of involving her in this fight. You'd work for two years for this, Melissa had just ended up in the crossfire. "Melissa?" You said. She looked up at you. Her gaze moved to the window. "Are we leaving?" She sounded so eager. "I'm not. But you can." You looked out the backdoor window. (If: $BrainMap is true) ["If you head north, you'll be able to get to town quickly."] "I don't want to leave you here." She said, clinging to your arm. You smiled at her. "I'll be okay." You said. She looked from you to the door. "Are you sure?" You looked out the window again, unsure of what to do.] ]\ [[Search the rest of the kitchen |Look around the kitchen]] [[Leave. Now.]] (if: $Melissa is true) [[Leave. Now. |Leave with Melissa]] (if: $Melissa is true) [[Let Melissa go]] (if: $Melissa is true) [[Tell her to stay]]

You readjusted the lock to the cage. It wasn't fixed but at a quick glance, it would pass. You settled back into place and hung your head. Your breath caught as the door to the basement flew open. You forced yourself to breathe evenly. Heavy footsteps move through the room. You could feel eyes on you. He was looking you over. His footsteps grew faint as he moved down to another cage. "Mel, I've told you before to keep it down." "Patrick..." She said. "Please, I didn't-" "-Shhhhhhh...it's okay, sweetheart. I forgive you." You heard the jingle of keys and a heavy thud. "Melissa, ow, I've told you before not to scratch me. Do you want me to cut off your fingers?" "Patrick!" Melissa screamed. Several more thuds came from the cage nearby. You chanced opening your eyes a bit. Patrick had a handful of Melissa's hair and was dragging her out of the cell. Her feet kicked wildly as he dragged her across the harsh cement. He dragged her past your cage and toward the open door leading upstairs. Her back connected with each stair taking the wind out of her mid scream. Patrick slammed the door shut behind her and there was silence again. [[Look around]] (set: $Melissa to false)

The screaming grew fainter until eventually it cut out completely. You wait for what felt like an eternity before you got up. It didn't seem like Patrick would be something coming downstairs to get you while he was occupied with that other girl. You'd heard him close the door but you hadn't heard him lock it. This could be your chance to get upstairs. A small part of you hesitated. This was really happening. Patrick had captured you. He'd brought you here to kill you. You were in actual danger right now. One wrong move would get you killed. But you'd already come this far. You'd dedicated so much time to this. You couldn't get cold feet now. You took a deep breath, climbed the stairs, and opened the door. [[Go upstairs |The Kitchen]]

Your foot bumped against the side of a large wooden bat you hadn't noticed. (if: $Melissa is true) [Melissa's hand shot out and caught the bat before it could hit the ground. You both breathed a sigh of relief. She held the bat out to you and you took it with a grateful smile. She smiled back.] (if:$Melissa is false) [You grabbed the bat before it could hit the ground. You let out a sigh of relief as you turned it over in your hands.] You looked the bat over. It was old looking but strong. The name brand along the side of it was so worn away you could hardly read it. A faint red stain was deep in the woods. You didn't want to think about it. (text-colour: red) [His own blood would be staining it soon if you had anything to say about it. It only seemed right for his to join the rest.] You blinked a couple of times trying to let the darker thoughts pass. You needed to stay on task. You looked down the hallway. You could probably find more information if you went searching through the house but you'd need to be careful not to run into Patrick. You looked down at the bat. At least now you were armed. [[Look around the kitchen]] [[Sneak through the house]] (set: $HasBat to true)

(unless: (passage:)'s tags contains "no-header")[ (print: "Health")<div id="health-bar">\ <div class="bar"></div>\ </div><div style="float: right">(b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 5) [[Inventory]] </div><div style="clear: both;"></div> ]

(print: "<script>GE.updateHeathBar(" + (text: $maxHealth) + "," + (text: $health) + ");")

{ (set: $maxHealth to 100) (set: $health to $maxHealth) (set: $HasThrowingKnife to false) (set: $HasPhoto to false) (set: $HasYourKeys to false) (set: $HasRing to false) (set: $HasPill to false) (set: $NailPolish to false) (set: $HasLighter to false) (set: $HasBat to false) (set: $HasGun to false) (set: $HasKitchenKnife to false) (set: $Melissa to false) (set: $MelissaEscaped to false) (set: $APromise to false) (set: $MelissaKnife to false) (set: $MelissaBat to false) (set: $BadFriend to false) (set: $Sober to false) (set: $Drugged to false) (set: $BrainMap to false) (set: $APromise to false) (set: $FullMichaelKnowledge to false) (set: $OneMonth to false) (set: $GirlsAPlenty to false) (set: $LeaveMelissa to false) (set: $RamirezKnows to false) (set: $BoxerPatrick to false) (set: $MelissaDead to false) (set: $FindingSalvation to false) }

</div>\ </section>

==> (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 5) [[Inventory]] <==

=><= (text-size: 3) [Act 1] (text-size: 1.5) [//Home//] (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 8) [[Wake Up]] (text-size: .9) [//"Grab the broom of anger and drive off the beast of fear." - Zora Neale Hurston//]

The house's decorations stuck out to you quickly. The hallway leading toward the front of the house was covered in old pictures and antique furniture. It looked as if an elderly person had lived in the house previously and Patrick had just been squatting ever since they left. You peeked at some of the pictures in the hallway and found several pictures of Patrick with an older woman. Thinking back, you vaguely remembered the many many nights you'd spent trying to find any information you could about Patrick. He'd been raised by his grandmother. Looking at the dresser in the hallways, the many many dollies made sense suddenly. You looked between the rooms. There were a lot of places to look. (if: $Melissa is false) [ [You had no idea where to start.] ]\ (if: $Melissa is true) [ [Melissa looked left and right at all of the rooms in front of us. "Where should we start?" she whispered. Good question.] ]\ [[Check the living room]] [[Check the bathroom]] [[Check the bedroom]] [[Check the kitchen again |The Kitchen]] (if: $Melissa is false and $LeaveMelissa is false and $BadFriend is false and $MelissaEscaped is false and $MelissaDead is false) [ [[Follow the screaming]] ]\ (if: $Melissa is true) [ [[Go to garage]] ]\ (if: $Melissa is true) [ [[Check the attic]] ]\ (if: $Melissa is true) [ [[Look in the extra room]] ]\ [[Lie in wait]] (set: $list to (history:))(either: $list contains "Check the living room" or $list contains "Check the bathroom" or $list contains "Check the bedroom" and $PoisonedSoup is true) [ [[Wait for him to get hungry]] ]\

The living room had the same antique look to it that the rest of the house had. The furniture looked older than you were. One of the sofas had stuffing poking through the cushions. The flat screen television mounted to the wall was the only modern looking thing in the room. The stuffed heads of deer seemed to follow you around the room. You wondered how often Patrick even used this room. From the look of the dust settled around, not very often. But there still seemed to be a few things of interest to you in here. [[Look at the portraits]] [[Check the table]] [[Sneak through the house]]

The bathroom reeked of bleach. The entire room looked as if it hadn't been cleaned in weeks if not longer. You looked into the tub to see a red rim around the circumference of it. You shivered as you closed the curtain back. The bathroom didn't seem to hold much of anything in it. You should probably look somewhere else. [[Sneak through the house]]

The vague smell of sweat was the first thing that you noticed. You wrinkled your nose as you moved further into the bedroom. The bed was unmade and the laundry backset over flowed with clothes. There was a large dresser with a mirror pushed into a corner of the room. (if: $Melissa is true) [ [Melissa looked around the room. Her eyes settled on a poster of a busty woman on a motorcycle. "Is he twelve?" She grumbled. She moved past the poster and picked up a newspaper sitting on the nightstand. Her eyes darted over the contents. "He leaves little notes on the paper?" she said looking up at you. You leaned over looking at the paper too. Patrick had scribbled little thought onto the margins of the newspaper. Your eye flew over the chicken scratch. "Tell Christina you'll bring fresh meat next time?" You read the words scribbled by the article about The Whiskey Barn, a restaurant in town. Melissa cocked her head, flipping through the pages. "Something about this seems off to me." She sat down on the corner of the dresser and continued reading. You looked around the room. You might find something yourself while Melissa read through that.] ]\ (If: $Melissa is false) [ [You looked at the paper on the nightstand. Setting it aside, you looked over the rest of the room. You'd ] ]\ [[Look under Patrick's bed]] (if: $Melissa is false) [ [[Check the nightstand]] ]\ [[Read the sticky notes on the mirror]] [[Sneak through the house]] (set: $list to (history:))(either: $list contains "Look under Patrick's bed" and $list contains "Check the nightstand" and $list contains "Read the sticky notes on the mirror" and $Melissa is true) [ [[See what Melissa is doing]] ]\

You reached back and handed Melissa the knife. She looked from you to the knife before taking it slowly. Testing the weight in her hands, she took a deep breath. She gave you a nod and you nodded back. She was armed now. That was good. (if: $HasBat is true) [ [You turned the bat in your hands. You were both armed now.] ]\ [[Search the rest of the kitchen |Look around the kitchen]] (set: $MelissaKnife to true) (set: $HasKitchenKnife to false) (set: $HasBat to true)

Melissa stopped in the middle of the hallway. She looked up. "He has an attic." She said. You hadn't even noticed the little drawstring when you'd been walking past. Your attention was so centered on making sure Patrick didn't know you were snooping that it hadn't caught your eye. If Melissa hadn't been here, you never would have seen it. "Good idea. Glad I have you around." Melissa's dirty face brightened. "I heard him talking to someone upstairs about it once." You nodded reaching up and grabbing the drawstring. "We should be careful. If he comes in the hallway, he'll definitely notice. Melissa nodded. "I'll keep an ear out. You go check." You nodded. "If you hear anything, anything. Let me know. I don't want you putting yourself in danger." Melissa fidgeted. "Okay, I'll do my best." You pulled down the ladder as quietly as you could and listened for movement around the house. Nothing seemed to stick out so you set the ladder in place. [[Continue |Go into the attic]] [[Head back |Sneak through the house]]

Your nose followed the smell of food. The warm hearty smell permeated throughout the kitchen. A pot bubbled on the stove. You lifted the lid to get a look at it. Patrick was making chili for dinner. You tried to take in as much as possible. Large cute food magnets clung to the white fridge. There was a shopping list stuck underneath a banana magnet. Your eye strayed to a large sign hanging above the fire extinguisher. 'Kitchens are made for bringing families together.' You stared at it with disdain. (if: $Melissa is true) [ [Melissa looked around the kitchen. "His kitchen is so normal." She said. "Were you expecting a head in the fridge?" you said opening the fridge. Melissa shifted from foot to foot. "I don't know. It just seems so ordinary. Like he's a normal person." You nodded. You understood what she meant. It was weird seeing that serial killers were normal people too. But you didn't let it phase you. Patrick was a monster and if you searched long enough, you'd find items to prove it here somewhere.] ]\ For now, you set the mundanity aside. You needed to find more information. (if: $HasPill is true) [[Poison the chili]] [[Check the drawers]] [[I'm done searching |The Kitchen]]

You followed the sound of screaming to the end of the hall. On the third door down, you found the light on inside and the door ajar. Peeking in, you took in the scene. The woman from earlier was strapped down to a table. Her screaming had not stopped since she'd been brought upstairs. Patrick stood over her in a large red stained apron. "Melissa if you don't stop screaming, I'll cut your tongue out first." Melissa's screaming quickly turned to crying. Patrick sighed. He reached for something just out of view, Anger bubbled inside of you. Melissa was terrified. Patrick had already hurt so many people. You needed to make a decision and fast before it was too late. [[Jump him]] (if: $HasKitchenKnife is true or $HasBat is true) [ [[Attack him]] ]\ [[Leave him here]] (set: $Melissa to false) (set: $BadFriend to true)

You looked into the bubbling pot. The smell of the chili was almost mouthwatering. The beans jumped around inside of the thick hearty liquid. Reaching into your back pocket, you pulled out the sleeping pill. (if: $Melissa is true) [ ["What is that?" she said watching you break the pill and toss it into the food. "A sleeping pill." You answered. The white chalky powder disappeared into the chili quickly. You gave it a stir for good measure. "Now we just need to wait until he eats. Any idea when that'll be?" Melissa said. "He fed me while you were sleeping. The chili almost looks done. He'll probably eat soon. Do you think the pill will be enough to knock him out?" You thought about how much you'd begged your doctor for the pills. How dangerous he'd said they could be if you take too many. "Yes, I'm sure it'll knock him out."] ]\ (if: $Melissa is false or $LeaveMelissa is true) [ [You had begged your doctor for these pills. They were prescription strength. The one time you'd taken them, you'd been out for hours. Dispursing it through the chili might make that time a little more varied but it would still definitely knock him out. You broke the pill apart and stirred it into the chili. There, that should do it.] ]\ You set the spoon down where you found it and put the lid back on. Until he decided to eat, you had time to look around. Or, you could hide and wait until he was hungry. [[Search the rest of the kitchen |Look around the kitchen]] [[Wait for him to get hungry]] (set: $HasPill to false) (set: $PoisonSoup to true) (set: $LetHerCook to true)

You got down onto your hands and knees and looked under the bed. Several boxes were covered in dust underneath the bed. It looked as if he hadn't cleaned under here in a long time. There was a long dustless path just under the bed next to a small box. You pulled it out and opened it. Two rows of DVDs clacked back and forth as you jostled the box. Pulling one out, you looked over the front. "Donna Tylers." You grumbled to yourself. (if: $Melissa is true)[ [ "Donna?" Melissa said looking up from the newspaper. "I knew Donna." She stepped closer looking at the DVDs. "She worked at Carnegie Market on Broadway. She used to give me lollipops." She stared at the DVD. "She went missing years ago." The two of you stared at each other. You flipped through the DVDs with a numb expression. You pulled out another. "Regina Crenshaw." You said, looking up at Melissa." Melissa stared down at the DVD in your hand. She swallowed shakily. "How many DVDs are in there?" You looked down, counting. "Fifteen." You said. You looked down at the box without actually seeing it. "Melissa, do you think-" "Azima, give me the box," She said in a soft voice. You looked up at her. Her dewy brown eyes were soft and understanding. You handed the box over and she flipped through it. "We're bringing this with us." She said. You nodded. "Melissa-" "Azima, do you really want to know?" You stared up at Melissa. "No. No, I don't." You said and looked away from the box. Melissa gently took the box from you. You watched as she rummaged around in Patrick's closet before she came back with a small bag. She took a couple of the DVDs and tossed them in "We should be gathering evidence." She said. You nodded. You had thought of that. It seemed like a moot point when your plan was to kill him. But Melissa didn't know that, so you nodded. You looked back under the bed. There were several other boxes. There might be other DVDs.] ]\ (if: $Melissa is false) [ [Donna Tyler? The name sounded familiar but you couldn't quite place it. You pulled out another DVD. Regina Crenshaw. You paused. That was the name of one of the more recent missing girls. You stared numbly down at the box before your fingers flew over the DVDs, counting. Fifteen. There were fifteen DVDs in this box. We're each of them really... Shaky fingers moved over the boxes DVDs, quickly reading name after name. You burned them into your memory. Tears filled your eyes. You pulled out one of the DVDs with shaky hands. Layan Habib. You felt a small part of you die as you held Layan's DVD in your hands. You looked at the television hanging from one of the walls. There was a DVD player just under it. (text-colour: red) [The sick bastard watched these. He made these videos and then watched them with his fucking feet kicked up, reliving his kills.] White hot rage flooded through you. (text-colour: red) [When you killed him, you'd kill him slowly. You'd savor every scream. When you were done with him, not even his own family would be able to identify him.] Your grip tightened on the DVD to the point that the case cracked. The small snap caught your attention. You looked under the bed again. There were several other boxes. There might be other DVDs.] ]\ [[Keep Searching]] [[Look at something else |Check the bedroom]] [[Leave the bedroom |Sneak through the house]]

You looked over the chest. It was old looking and worn around the edges from being dragged across the ground. You could see small little dents in the metal as well. There was a large lock built into the chest. A large key would fit in the lock. (if: $PatrickKeys is true) [You looked down at the key in your pocket. It was made of the same heavy iron as the chest. It might actually fit if you tried.] (if: $PatrickKeys is false) [You doubted that Patrick just left the key up here where anyone could find it. It was probably somewhere else in the house. If you searched, you might find it. Or maybe, you could break the lock. But if Patrick heard...] [[Break the lock]] (if: $PatrickKeys is true) [[Open the chest]]

==> +1 <== You looked into one of the boxes. Several trophies clicked against one another as you jostled the box. You picked one up. They all appeared to be from boxing tournaments. From the looks of it, he'd been boxing for years. You filed that information away for later. You'd been taking self defense courses for two years now but you doubted it would be a match for his boxing experience. You'd have to be careful. You closed the boxes. [[Search somewhere else |Go into the attic]] [[Leave the attic |Sneak through the house]] (set: $BoxerPatrick to true)

You listened hard. (If: $Melissa is false and $LeaveMelissa is false) [ [The screaming obscured every other sound you could hear. You sighed, trying to block it out. You couldn't save her right now. You could barely save yourself. You'd need to find a way to stop Patrick as soon as possible and hopefully save that woman in the process. ] ]\ (If: $Melissa is true) [ [You could faintly hear the sounds of a garage door opening and closing. You looked back at Melissa. She shrugged. She must have heard it too. You'd need to be careful but that didn't mean you wouldn't be able to find any clues. "What should we do?" Melissa said. You looked around. Search for clues or keep moving?] ]\ [[Look around the kitchen]] [[Search through the house |Sneak through the house]]

You looked through the drawers in the kitchen. Ladels, spoons, forks, skewers. You looked over the knives. Those could be useful. You stopped by the drawer next to the sink. Every kitchen had a junk drawer of some kind. Sliding it open, you shifted through the contents. Some old batteries. A soy sauce packet. A menu for a pizza place. An old heavy looking key caught your eye. You didn't know what it belonged to but it looked important. [[Take the knife]] (if: $Melissa is true) [ [[Give the knife to Melissa]] ]\ (if: $Melissa is true and $HasBat is true) [ [[Give Melissa the bat]] ]\ [[Look at something else |The Kitchen]]

You looked around. "I have to go." You said. Melissa immediately moved closer. "Wait, please, don't leave me here." You sighed. "I'm sorry, Melissa. I can't bring you with me." She would slow you down. The last thing you needed was to get caught because she was stumbling around. You felt bad for her but you needed to prioritize survival right now. "I'll come back for you." You said. Melissa shook her head. "Soft tear streamed down her face. "Wait, please. Don't leave me here." You moved out of reach. "I'll come back for you." You repeated. Melissa whimpered. Her hand clenched around nothing as she reached for you through the bars. Her begging turned to soft tears but you wouldn't be moved. To ensure both of your survival, you had to do this alone. [[Find a way out]] (set: $LeaveMelissa to true) (set: $Melissa to false)

You looked around. There was a large door leading up to the stairs. You didn't know exactly what to do. (if: $Melissa is true) [ [Melissa looked left and right as you moved toward the door. She reached for you without thinking. You let her cling to you. The contact was grounding in its own way. Staring up the flight of stairs. A small part of you hesitated. This was really happening. Patrick had captured you. He'd brought you here to kill you. You were in actual danger right now. One wrong move would get you killed. But you'd already come this far. You'd dedicated so much time to this. You couldn't get cold feet now. You took a deep breath, climbed the stairs, and opened the door with Melissa right behind you.] ]\ (if: $Melissa is false) [ [Patrick had taken the girl away so he probably had left the room above. The screaming out be louder if he hadn't. All you needed to do was get up the stairs and see exactly what was going on. A small part of you hesitated. This was really happening. Patrick had captured you. He'd brought you here to kill you. You were in actual danger right now. One wrong move would get you killed. But you'd already come this far. You'd dedicated so much time to this. You couldn't get cold feet now. You took a deep breath, climbed the stairs, and opened the door.] ]\ [[Go Upstairs |The Kitchen]]

Pushing the door open slowly, you peeked into the kitchen. The sun was beginning to rise now, leaving the room in a faint reddish glow. The smell of cooking food filled the air. (if: $Melissa is false and $LeavingMelissa is false) [ [You can hear screaming somewhere else in the house. It could be that girl he'd grabbed. You need to go investigate soon while he was occupied at the moment.] ]\ (if: $Melissa is true) [ [ Melissa clung to your arm as the two of you looked around the room. Her bare feet made a soft patting sound as she moved over the pristine tiled floor. You could see her looking around frantically. This was the first time she'd seen the sun in nearly a month. Her gaze seemed to land on the clock. "He'll be going to work soon." she whispered. You nodded. The two of you should look around the house first. He'd probably come downstairs to check on you both before he left. You didn't want him going downstairs and finding you both missing.] ]\ (If: $Sober is true) [ [You looked around the room. You remembered being dragged through the house. The living room and dining room were down the hallway Patrick had carried you.] ]\ You should probably look around. You didn't know how much time you had. [[Look for a weapon |Find the bat]] [[Look around the kitchen]] [[Listen]] [[Check the backdoor]] [[Sneak through the house]]

The knives in the kitchen looked well taken care of. You pulled the largest knife out of the drawer and looked it over. It was sharpened to a professional cut. (if: $HasBat is true) [You looked from the bat to the knife. The knife would probably do more immediate damage if you took it.] (if: $HasBat and $Melissa is true) [ [[Give Melissa the bat]] ]\ (if: $HasBat is true) [ [[Put the bat back]] ]\ [[Search the rest of the kitchen |Look around the kitchen]] ]\ (set: $HasKitchenKnife to true)

You grabbed the key and put it into your pocket. You didn't know exactly what it was a key to but it could be helpful. You'd keep it for now. [[Check somewhere else |The Kitchen]]]] (set: $PatrickKeys to true)

You looked around the room. It might take a bit of effort and noise but you could break the lock. You grabbed a small object from in the room and knocked it against the lock. "What are you doing?" Melissa's scared whisper carried up the attic stairs. You moved over to the opening to find her looking up at you with wide eyes. "There's a chest up here. I'm trying to open it." "You're being too loud." She said. "Try something else." You nodded. If she had heard you, Patrick might be able to hear you too. You couldn't risk it. The key had to be somewhere around here. You just had to find it.

+1 info

You didn't want to go in there. You stared at the door for the longest second. The smell of copper clung to it in a way that cleaning would never get out. Melissa looked over to you. "We don't have to go in there." She said in a soft voice. "I don't want to look in there either if I'm going to be honest." You looked over at her. It had never occured to you to just stopped. You put yourself into so many upsetting situations in the last two years. All for the sake of your goal. Melissa's viewpoint was so simplistic it was groundbreaking. You looked at the door again and nodded. "Okay, we won't go in." Melissa nodded back. She took your hand in hers and gave it a squeeze. You moved on. [[Sneak through the house]]

==> +1 Info <== (if: $Melissa is true) [ [You looked back at the door again. You couldn't endanger someone else like this. You started all of this to avenge Layan. If she were here, she wouldn't want you to put Melissa in danger. For all you know, Melissa had a sister. Someone who would want her to be safe. "Go." You said. "Head north. Use the sun to do it. It shouldn't take you long to get to town. When you do, get to the police station and ask for Diego Ramirez and tell him everything." Melissa's eyes were wide and her nod was frantic. "Okay," she said softly. "Please be safe." You smiled at her. "It'll try." You pushed her toward the door. The back door creaked as it opened and you both felt the warm wind hit your face. Melissa grabbed a pair of Patrick's shoes from beside the backdoor and slipped them on. She spared one last look back to you before she tore off into the woods. You watched her until you couldn't see her anymore. She would be safe. You looked back into the house. You would be too. You weren't going to let Patrick kill you here. ] ]\ [[Check somewhere else |The Kitchen]] (set: $Melissa to false) (set: $MelissaEscaped to true) (set: $RamirezKnows to true)

<== <img src="MelissaMissingPoster.png" width="800px" height="1100px"> <img src="LayanMissingPoster.png" width="800px" height="1100px"> [[Go back |Go to the study]]

==> (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 8) (link-goto: "Back", (history:)'s last) <== ####Act 1: * Melissa's Model: @Racool _ studio (Freepik) * Article One's Forest Trail Image: @wirestock (Freepik) * Article Two's Investigation Photo: @standret (Freepik) * Article Three's Courthouse Photo: @rawpixel.com (Freepik) * Article Four's Restaurant Image: @freepik (Freepik) ####Act 2 * Regina's Model: @pch.vector (Freepik) * Layan's Model: @karlyukav (Freepik) ####Act 3 N/A https://unsplash.com/photos/man-in-black-jacket-holding-a-light-yXAXya621Po https://unsplash.com/photos/aerial-photography-of-forest-QsWG0kjPQRY

The heavy clunk of metal came from the door in front of you. You peeked into the room trying to see exactly what Patrick was up to. The garage appeared to be the best organized room in the entire house. All of the boxes were labeled neatly and stacked into shelves for easy access. A large jeep was parked inside. Patrick was leaned over it rummaging through the engine. Soft curses left his mouth as he fiddled with the components inside, He wiped his hands off the oil from the engine and closed the hood. Reaching into the trunk, he pulled out a small box and set the rest on the shelves. He pulled out several packs of scalpels from the small box and set them down before opening a couple of other boxes on the shelves. Melissa watched, wide eyed as he moved around the room. At one point, the bastard even started whistling. "He's picking what he's going to hurt us with." She whispered. You both watched as he inspected a pair of clippers before deciding against them and grabbing shears instead. (if: $MelissaKnife or $MelissaBat is true) [Her grip tightened around the weapon in her hands.] "We should stop him. Right here, right now." You looked at Melissa. There was a furious look in her eyes. She was willing to kill Patrick right here and right now if you let her. You looked back at Patrick. You had your own plans for the man. What should you do? [[Jump him |Jump him with Melissa]] (if: $HasKitchenKnife is true or $HasBat is true) [ [[Attack him |Attack him with Melissa]] ]\ [[Stop Melissa]]

You threw open the door and jumped into action. Patrick shouted as you threw yourself at him. (if: $HasKitchenKnife is true) [You buried the knife into the shoulder. The scalpel he'd been holding dropped quickly as he screamed.] (if: $HasBat is true) [You swung your bat as hard as you could. The bat connected with Patrick's head cutting him off mid-shout. He stumbled backward, grabbing his bleeding head.] (text-colour: red) [It wasn't so much fun when you were the one hurting, was it?] A fist came flying at your face and you saw stars as you flew backwards. Patrick stumbled to his feet just as you did. He raised his hands. (if: $PatrickBoxer is true) [If he managed to land another punch, you were sure he'd knock you out.] You pushed the rolling tray of equipment he had placed out at him. Patrick's hands dropped to stop the tray from hitting him. Grabbing the tray, you swung with all your might. The tray connected with his head and he dropped like a sack of stones. You looked over to Melissa who was watching you with wide confused eyes. (set: $health to it - 10) [[What now?]] (set: $MelissaSaved to true)

You threw open the door and jumped into action. Patrick shouted as you threw yourself at him. A fist came flying at your face and you saw stars as you flew backwards. Patrick stumbled to his feet just as you did. He raised his hands. (if: $PatrickBoxer is true) [If he managed to land another punch, you were sure he'd knock you out.] You pushed the rolling tray of equipment he had placed out at him. Patrick's hands dropped to stop the tray from hitting him. Grabbing the tray, you swung with all your might. The tray connected with his head and he dropped like a sack of stones. You looked over to Melissa who was watching you with wide confused eyes. (set: $health to it - 20) [[What now?]] (set: $MelissaSaved to true)

You pursed your lips, You couldn't do this right now. You had other plans to take care of. You had to find information. Get the upper hand on Patrick. If you tried to save Melissa, you could get yourself hurt. You stepped away from the door as quietly as you could. If you were quick, you'd be able to find what you needed and- -Melissa's voice cut off mid-cry. Your head whipped back to the door. Nothing but silence followed for a very long second. You wanted to take another look but you couldn't bring yourself to move closer to the door. A slow dripping noise was now coming for the room. Patrick's voice carried. He grumbled more to himself than anyone in particular. "God, you weren't fun at all, Mel. Maybe Michael will get a kick out of the video anyway." Nausea rose within you. You turned your back on the door. You had to keep looking elsewhere. There was nothing you could do here now. [[Sneak through the house]] (set: $BadFriend to true)

You threw open the door and jumped into action with Melissa right behind you. Patrick shouted as you threw yourself at him. A fist came flying at your face and you saw stars as you flew backwards. Patrick stumbled to his feet just as you did. He raised his hands. (if: $PatrickBoxer is true) [If he managed to land another punch, you were sure he'd knock you out.] You threw one of the boxes at him. He swatted the box out of the air. Melissa threw herself onto Patrick's back. He thrashed trying to toss her off. He wasn't looking at you. Now was your chance. You looked around. A spare wrench was sitting on a table by the jeep. You grabbed it and swung with all your might. The wrench connected with his head and he dropped like a sack of stones. You looked over to Melissa who was staring back at you, surprised. You did it. Patrick was unconscious. You looked at the wrench in your hand. (set: $health to it - 5) [[What to do now?]]

You threw open the door and jumped into action with Melissa right behind you. Patrick shouted as you threw yourself at him. (if: $HasKitchenKnife is true) [You buried the knife into the shoulder. The scalpel he'd been holding dropped quickly as he screamed.] (if: $HasBat is true) [You swung your bat as hard as you could. The bat connected with Patrick's head cutting him off mid-shout. He stumbled backward, grabbing his bleeding head.] (text-colour: red) [It wasn't so much fun when you were the one hurting, was it?] A fist came flying at your face and you saw stars as you flew backwards. Patrick stumbled to his feet just as you did. He raised his hands. (if: $PatrickBoxer is true) [If he managed to land another punch, you were sure he'd knock you out.] You threw one of the boxes at him. He swatted the box out of the air. (if: $MelissaKnife is true) [Melissa swung the knife down hard and it buried itself into Patrick's other arm. He growled, backhanding her. She stumbled away but the damage was done.] (if: $MelissaBat is true) [Melissa swung the bat down hard onto Patrick's other arm. A sharp crack filled the air. Patrick cried out as his arm bent in the wrong direction. He backhanded her with his other hand. She stumbled away but the damage was done.] He wasn't looking at you. Now was your chance. You looked around. A spare wrench was sitting on a table by the jeep. You grabbed it and swung with all your might. The wrench connected with his head and he dropped like a sack of stones. You looked over to Melissa who was staring back at you, surprised. You did it. Patrick was unconscious. You looked at the wrench in your hand. (set: $health to it - 10) [[What to do now?]]

Patrick had to get hungry eventually. You slipped behind one of the sofas in the living room and waited. (if: $Melissa is true) [ [Melissa tucked herself next to you. "When he falls asleep, what are we going to do?" You looked at Melissa. She didn't really know the full scope of your plan here. "You're going to go into town and get help. I'm going to keep an eye on him." "Couldn't we call the police?" Melissa asked. You shook your head. "It's not that simple." You said and didn't elaborate further. When the time came, you'd have to get Melissa out of the house. She didn't realize just how malicious your intentions were with Patrick. You wanted to keep it that way. The two of you held your breath as you heard Patrick moving through the house. He grumbled to himself as he moved from room to room. For a brief moment, you thought he would come into the living room. (if: $HasKitchenKnife is true) [Your grip tightened on the knife] (if: $HasBat is true) [Your grip tightened on the bat] (if: $MelissaKnife is true) [Melissa's grip tightened on the knife.] (if: $MelissaBat is true) [Melissa's grip tightened on the bat] He passed quickly and you breathed a sigh of relief. You could hear him thumbing around in the kitchen. You listened and waited as the minutes seemed to stretch by. The sound of cutlery hitting ceramic came from the kitchen. He was eating. "How long does it take the pill to kick in?" Melissa whispered. You didn't know. It usually took about 20 minutes but with it dispersed through the chili, who knew how long it would take? You shrugged tucking yourself and Melissa further down behind the sofa. Every minute that passed felt like the longest minute of your life. Melissa fidgeted next to you. You tried to ignore her restlessness. Eventually, a sharp shattering sound came from the kitchen. Odd mumbling followed and a heavy thud was the last thing you heard before there was silence. The two of you looked at each other. "I'll go check." You said. Melissa shook her head. "We'll go check." She corrected. You conceded and the two of you tiptoed into the kitchen. Red fluid covered the floor and for a moment you thought Patrick had managed to kill himself without your help. But as you stepped closer, you saw bits of beans and tomato in the red liquid. The chili pot sat on the table rolling back and forth. Patrick lay in the middle of it all face down on the ground. His breathing was soft but visible in the slow rise and fall of his shoulder blades. You chanced a step closer and kicked him with the tip of your shoe. He was asleep. You and Melissa looked at each other.] ]\ (If: $Melissa is false) [ [You held your breath as you heard Patrick moving through the house. He grumbled to himself as he moved from room to room. For a brief moment, you thought he would come into the living room. (if: $HasKitchenKnife is true) [Your grip tightened on the knife] (if: $HasBat is true) [Your grip tightened on the bat] He passed quickly and you breathed a sigh of relief. You could hear him thumbing around in the kitchen. You listened and waited as the minutes seemed to stretch by. The sound of cutlery hitting ceramic came from the kitchen. He was eating. You didn't know how long it would take the pill to kick in. It usually took about 20 minutes but with it dispersed through the chili, who knew how long it would take? You tucked yourself further down behind the sofa. Every minute that passed felt like the longest minute of your life. You tried to ignore your own restlessness. Patience was key. Eventually, a sharp shattering sound came from the kitchen. Odd mumbling followed and a heavy thud was the last thing you heard before there was silence. You tiptoed into the kitchen. Red fluid covered the floor and for a moment you thought Patrick had managed to kill himself without your help. But as you stepped closer, you saw bits of beans and tomato in the red liquid. The chili pot sat on the table rolling back and forth. Patrick lay in the middle of it all face down on the ground. His breathing was soft but visible in the slow rise and fall of his shoulder blades. You chanced a step closer and kicked him with the tip of your shoe. He was asleep. You stared down at his unmoving body.] ]\ [[What to do now?]]

You stared down at Patrick's body. You'd been dreaming about this day for a while now. The moment when you finally had the upper hand. (text-colour: red) [The moment when he was entirely at your mercy. You could do whatever you wanted to him. You could make him pay for every life he'd ever taken.] (if: $Melissa is true) [ ["What do we do now?" The innocent question pulled you out of your daydreaming. You looked over to Melissa. She was standing there ready to follow your lead. You had a choice to make.] ]\ (if: $LeaveMelissa is true or $Melissa is false) [ [You had all the time in the world now. You could do whatever you wanted now but you did have a choice to make.] ]\ [[It finally begins]]

You must finally pick what path you decide to walk. [[Vengeful Route: Coming Soon |The Hunt Begins]] [[Lawful Route:: Coming Soon |The Hunt Begins]]

=><= #ACT 3 COMING SOON!! [[Thank you!]] [[Credit]]

Thank you so much for playing. This was a labor of love and a wonderful experience. I couldn't have done this without so many people to help motivate me to continue this project. Thank you to my mother for starters for pushing me to finish this project. Thank you to Alley, Noa, and Spyri for our many work sessions where I managed to finish the bulk of this project. Thank you to all my playtesters! I couldn't have done this without you. And thank you again for playing!! Be on the look out for Act 3 and I'll see you then! Mina <3

The door flew open and your eyes connected with Patrick. He looked down at you, his back illuminated by the bright light of the upstairs level. He chuckled to himself as he stepped downstairs. Each step creaked with his weight, the sound piercing the air like the sharp knife in his hand. He passed the other cages and stopped just outside yours. His eyes were amused as he played with the lock. It fell free from the cage and clattered to his feet. "Now, how did you do that?"His bright eyes flickered up to you. He sighed, his shoulders dropping. "I can already tell you're going to be trouble. Usually, I like the feisty ones but I can't afford to mess up again." He leaned further back, yelling down the hall. "Hey Melissa, it looks like it's your lucky day." He opened your cage. "You're coming with me." He grinned. You looked down at the knife in his hand. Panic welled up in your throat as he reached for you. [[Fight back]] [[Run]] [[Scream]]

Panic flooded your mind. He was coming. If he noticed you here, you'd draw too much attention to yourself. You dove for the pillar and cowered beside it with your arms positioned behind you. If he came into the cage, maybe you could fight him off but hopefully this would be enough. The door flew open. Patrick stood at the top of the stairs looking down into the basement. His back was haloed with light. He stepped downstairs, each step creaking from the dirty floorboards. //Make yourself small,// A little voice in the back of your mind said. //He prefers when they fight. Make yourself small and he'll go away.// You couldn't afford for him to grab you now. You could feel Patrick's eyes on you. He knocked something metal against the cage and you looked up. The large knife in his hand gleamed in the low light. He ran the blade over the bars with a soft smile. You stared at him for a long second before you could will the tears to well up in your eyes. You cowered, hating every second of it but it satisfied him. Soft crying filled the room and caught your attention. You looked over to the sound and Patrick's gaze followed. He sighed. "Mel, what have I told you about crying?" He sighed. His voice sounded like an adult speaking to a child. He slipped the knife into a holster on his hip. His footsteps sounded impossibly loud as he moved closer and closer to the other cage. "Look at you. Your face is puffy." "Patrick, please." another woman's voice came from two cages down. Patrick sighed again. "I told you last time." he chided. "If you cried again, you were going upstairs." "Patrick, no, wait, please-" The sound of the woman's cries was cut off by screams. Several thuds came from the cage nearby. You looked between the bars. Patrick had a handful of Melissa's hair and was dragging her out. She scratched at his hands, pounded her fists against the hand gripping her hair but he didn't let go. (text-colour: red) [//I'll kill him.//] You thought. (text-colour: red) [//I'll kill him for this. I'll kill him.//] He dragged her past your cage and toward the open door leading upstairs. Her back connected with each stair taking the wind out of her mid scream. Patrick slammed the door shut behind her and there was silence again. [[Look around]] (set: $Melissa to false)

[[Continue |Death #1]]

You heard a scream and it took a second to realize it was your own. The scream soon turned to cries as you [[Continue |Death #1]]

You stepped away from the bars but not so much to obscure your view. The door flew open and Patrick stepped into view. His back was haloed by the light of the upper floor. He came downstairs slowly, prowling toward the cages. He stopped beside your cage. His bright eyes shined like lanterns in the low light. "Was that you?" You stared at him. The soft sounds of whimpering came from a nearby cage. He waited for your answer. [[Shake your head no]] [[Nod]]

Patrick looked you up and down, trying to tell exactly what you were thinking. You did your best to look smaller, to not meet his eye despite wanting to. He didn't scare you. (text-colour: red) [You wouldn't let him.] He seemed to find whatever he was looking for on your face because he nodded to himself and looked into one of the further down cages. "Melissa," he sing-songed. "You're being a bad example for our new guest." You looked between the cage bars to see what was happening but you couldn't make it out. "I didn't do anything, Patrick. I promise." Melissa's voice carried, desperate and scared. Patrick tsked. "It's okay, Melissa. Don't cry. You know I hate to see you cry. It's your turn to go upstairs anyway." "No, no." Melissa shouted. Her cries turned to screams. Several thuds came from the cage nearby. "Damn it, Melissa. Come here." Patrick dragged her down the hall of cages by her hair and toward the open door leading upstairs. Melissa grabbed the bars and clawed the ground. Her hands shot to her roots as he gave a hard tug. You watched in horror as he pulled her past your cage. (text-colour: red) [//I'll kill him.//] You thought. (text-colour: red) [//I'll kill him for this. I'll kill him.//] Melissa's back connected with each stair taking the wind out of her mid scream. Patrick slammed the door shut behind her and there was silence again. [[Look around]] (set: $Melissa to false)

He stared at you with a disappointed gaze. "Alright," he sighed. "You're new here. I'm a reasonable man." He held up the knife in his hand and tapped it against the cage. "So you need to learn the rules. No loud noises and absolutely no crying. I thought Melissa would have told you by now." He leaned a little further back to look into a further down cage. "Mel, have you even said anything to your new housemate?" He left your cage and walked two cages down. "That's so rude. You know I hate rudeness." "Patrick, I'm sorry. I thought she was asleep." Melissa stammered, her voice shaking. "No excuses," Patrick said, chiding her like an adult scolds a child. "It's your turn upstairs now anyway. I'm sure she'll figure everything out herself." "Wait, no, please, Patrick." Her cries turned to screams. Several thuds came from the cage nearby. "Damn it, Melissa. Come here." Patrick dragged her down the hall of cages by her hair and toward the open door leading upstairs. Melissa grabbed the bars and clawed the ground. Her hands shot to her roots as he gave a hard tug. You watched in horror as he pulled her past your cage. (text-colour: red) [//I'll kill him.//] You thought. (text-colour: red) [//I'll kill him for this. I'll kill him.//] Melissa's back connected with each stair taking the wind out of her mid scream. Patrick slammed the door shut behind her and there was silence again. (set: $Melissa to false) [[Look around]]

"Melissa, can you answer some questions for me? It would really help me out." Her eyes swept over you. She nodded. //Okay, progress.// you thought. You could ask anything. What exactly would help you learn more about Patrick? [["How long have you been down here?"]] [["How many people have been here?"]] [["What is Patrick's routine?"]] [[I don't have any more questions]]

==> +1 Info <== Melissa shrugged. "I've never seen him before. I've just heard Patrick talking to him. He's got really light footsteps. Sometimes I can't tell where he is upstairs. Patrick's footsteps are really heavy." You nodded. "So, Michael never comes down here?" She shook her head. "Patrick talks about him a lot. They go hunting together. He doesn't like it when we ask questions about him." You nodded. There had to be more that she knew. What else could you ask her? [["What else can you tell me?" |Ask her questions]] [[I don't have any more questions]] (set: $FullMichaelKnowledge to true)

Her hand tightened in yours. "I don't know." She said, breathing heavily. "I don't know what happens to them but they don't come back. The girls. He takes them upstairs and they don't come back. He took Regina." You gently reached down and took her hand. Her soft sobbing stopped as she looked up at you, surprised. You squeezed her hand. "Melissa, he isn't going to take you upstairs. I won't let him." If you had your way, Patrick would never hurt another person again. She looked up at you with wet sad eyes. "I'm scared." You nodded. "It'd be crazy if you weren't. But you're still here and you're going to be okay." She nodded back to you, taking in your words. "Thank you, Azima." You tried to smile at her. Her smile back looked just as shaky as yours. You wondered what you should do next. [["What else can you tell me?" |Ask her questions]] [[I don't have any more questions]]

You stepped back into your cell and looked around. The walls looked empty for the most part. You tried to ignore the browning patches in various splattered designs. Moving the pile of rags out of the corner, you saw it. There were initials. Carved in harsh twisted letters but they were initials nonetheless. You looked over each one. R.W. T.E. K.M. N. O. Your eyes settled down on the last set. You couldn't rip your eyes away from them. Your vision grew murky and the tears fell against your will. L.H. You ran a finger over the initials. Your nail caught in the same places as the carving. She'd gouged it out of the wall with her own fingernail. You swallowed hard. Staring down at your own hands, you didn't know what else to do in this moment. Your sister had been in this very cgae. She must have been so scared. She must have screamed and cried for you. Patrick killed her. You got up on shaky legs. You needed to move on. If you sat her weeping, Patrick would come back and find you free. You couldn't be a set of initials on the wall. You had to keep going. For Layan. For every single girl who's broken their fingernails making sure they'd be remembered. [[Go back to Melissa]]

Melissa saw your tears before you could say anything. "I'm sorry." She said. You always hated when people said that. That they were sorry. You remembered hearing it so many times at Layan's funeral. You didn't blame those people for not knowing what else to say just like you didn't blame Melissa now. Besides, Melissa was in a worse situation than you were. "I'll be okay," you said wiping your face. You looked around. "Where were we?" You said, feeling yourself trying to distance yourself from this awful mess. [["What else can you tell me?" |Ask her questions]] [[I don't have any more questions]]

==> (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 8) (link-goto: "Back", (history:)'s last) (if: $Melissa is true) [[MELISSA: Melissa Donahue is Patrick's latest victim. You've managed to recover her] ]\ (if: $APromise is true) [[YOUR WORD: You promised DIego you wouldn't do anything crazy.] ]\ (if: $Brainmap is true) [[MAP MAKING: You made a map in your head from the bar to here while you were in the trunk] ]\ (if: $FullMichaelKnowledge is true) [[MICHAEL: A man friends with Patrick. They go hunting together. He might know that Patrick is a serial killer.] ]\ (if: $OneMonth is true) [[CAPTIVE DURATION: Patrick takes 1-2 girls a month and kills both before taking new ones.] ]\ (if: $GirlsAPlenty is true) [[MISSING GIRLS: You know the names of several of the missing girls. Melissa is currently still alive. Luna, Charlotte, and Regina are probably dead.)] ]\ (if: $MelissaEscaped is true) [[ESCAPE ARTIST: Melissa is free! She'll bring Ramirez eventually.] ]\

You pulled another two boxes out. The first one you opened was filled with small trinkets. There were rings and bracelets. Little trophies that sent bile crawling up your throat. You closed the box and put it back. At first glance, the second box seemed to be filled with more CDs. You felt the color drain from your face as you stared at them. But when you looked closer, you noticed that they were CDs. You pulled one out and looked it over. //Vesti La Giubba// You had no idea what that was. (if: $Melissa is true) [ [You looked over to Melissa. You showed her the CD. Her brows furrowed. "I think that's an opera song." "Opera?" You looked down at the other CDs. "I didn't take Patrick for the cultured type." Melissa looked down at the CD in her hand. "He isn't." She said slowly. "Michael is. He always plays metal when his friends come over but not with Michael. I've heard him play classical music for him before. I think I've even heard him sing." You looked down at the container again. There were a lot of tapes. //Did he play these for Michael? Were they Michael's voice?// You frowned. He didn't know exactly what to make of this. Melissa handed you back the CD and you put it back in the box before sliding it in its rightful place under the bed.] ]\ (if: $Melissa is false) [ [You looked over the CDs. You didn't really know what to make of it all. Patrick didn't strike you as an opera enjoyer, maybe not even a classical music enjoyer in general. But you didn't know what else this could be. You slipped the CD back into the box and put it back under the bed. That was a mystery for later.] ]\ [[Look at something else |Check the bedroom]] [[Leave the bedroom |Sneak through the house]]

(if: $Melissa is true) [ ["I can't protect you out there." You said turning away from the backdoor. "The sun is only starting to rise. Have you ever been in the forest before?" She shook her head. You looked out the backdoor. You could just see her wandering aimlessly, trying to get back to town. Dying out there so soon after getting away from Patrick. A soft squeeze pulled you back to reality. Melissa was holding your hand. You looked at her. She looked back at you. "I'm with you." she said. She used her free hand to play with her long tangled hair. "What should we do now?" You looked around. Melissa's hand was grounding. You could think more clearly now. You needed to gather as much information] ]\ [[Check somewhere else |The Kitchen]]

(if: $Melissa is false) [In trying to put him in the grave, you could potentially die in the process. It wasn't worth it. The rational part of you that you had abandoned years ago finally reared its ugly head. Layan wouldn't want this for you. She'd want you alive. When you'd finally made up your mind, you tried to block out the sound of the screaming behind you as you ran through the forest. Hopefully, you could make it into town and get to Officer Ramirez before Patrick could kill her. You ran through the woods feeling the nightmare that was this experience nip at your ankles with every step. You would make it home and though he wouldn't be dead, Patrick would go to jail where he belonged and you would be alive. =><= (text-size: 2) [ENDING 2 UNLOCKED] (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 5) [[Play Again? |Title]] (set; $Abandoned to true)

You opened one of the drawers of the nightstand. There were several letters inside all addressed to the same person. Michael Summers. They were all bundled together with twine and tucked into the furthest corner of the drawer. You looked at the other knick knacks in the drawer. A few pens, some blank DVDs, nothing really stood out to you. (if: $Melissa is true) [ [Melissa looked at the letters. She took a breath. "Do those have cologne on them?" Her face twisted into a grimace. You took a deep breath. The sharp spicy smell of cheap cologne wafted off of the letter. You looked back at Melissa. "Should I open it?" She nodded, curiosity piqued. You sighed. It seemed only natural that Melissa would find this interesting. You, on the other hand, weren't so sure how pressing this was. Patrick could appear any second now. The last thing you needed was for him to find the two of you in here reading the contents of his nightstand. Maybe it would be better to just wait until later.] ]\ (if: $Melissa is false) [ [You sighed. The letters might not be important. Crammed so far into the back of the nightstand, they probably weren't important. Patrick could appear any second now. The last thing you needed was for him to find the two of you in here reading the contents of his nightstand. Maybe it would be better to just wait until later.] ]\ [[Read the letters |Finished Reading Letters]] [[Move on |Check the bedroom]] [[Leave the bedroom |Sneak through the house]]

You stepped closer to the mirror. There were small sticky notes attached to the mirror. You pulled one off and read it. (text-colour:black)+(bg:yellow)[People love you. You are strong. Michael thinks you're beautiful.] You looked at another one. (text-colour:black)+(bg:yellow)[Christina's dinner @ 7 on 4/15. Call Michael on 4/17.] Each of the sticky notes was some combination of an affirmation or reminder. You tried to remember the various names on the pieces of paper before you turned away from the mirror. [[Look at something else |Check the bedroom]] [[Leave the bedroom |Sneak through the house]]

(if: $Melissa is true) [ ["Azima, come look at this." You leaned over Melissa's shoulder, eyes skimming over the newspaper. Melissa was pointing at a small article in the corner of the newspaper that Patrick had left several exclamations next to. "What is it?" You said. Your eyes skimmed over the words in it. They landed on the name hidden in the middle of the article. "Michael Summers." You said, leaning closer. The article itself was about a new opera that was being done in the concert hall in Craven, the next town over. Melissa nodded. "This explains the CDs." You looked over the other articles. "And he's got some connection to some woman named Christina at The Whiskey Barn too. Do you think she knows what he and Michael are up to?" Melissa shrugged. "No idea," She fidgeted. "I thought only Patrick was the bad guy but now it's looking like the town has quite a few of them." She bit into her bottom lip. "We really need to get this information to the police." You nodded. You didn't necessarily trust the Lakeview Police but handing the information over was probably for the best. As much as it felt morally reprehensible to say, those other people weren't your priority. Only Patrick was. Melissa slipped the newspaper into the same bag as the DVDs. "What should we do now?" She seemed to be waiting for you to decide.] ]\ [[Look at something else |Check the bedroom]] [[Leave the bedroom |Sneak through the house]]

My Dearest Michael, As the shadows lengthen and the moon casts an eerie glow upon the world, I find myself consumed by a haunting desire for you. Your presence is like a ghostly whisper that echoes in the corridors of my mind, both chilling and intoxicating. In the darkness, my thoughts are tangled in the web of your essence, a macabre dance of love and obsession. Your eyes, like deep pools of mystery, draw me into a labyrinth of emotions, where fear and passion entwine in a sinister embrace. The rustling of the leaves outside my window seems to carry your name, whispered by the restless spirits that linger in the night. The cold wind that caresses my skin mirrors the shivers that your touch sends down my spine, a sensation that both terrifies and thrills. Every heartbeat echoes like the distant tolling of a funeral bell, signaling the relentless march of time, and yet, in this timeless realm, my love for you becomes an eternal curse. I am entwined with the specter of our connection, bound by a love that transcends the boundaries of the living and the dead. In this twilight realm of our twisted affection, I am both captor and captive, ensnared in the cobwebs of a love that is as haunting as the ghostly figures that dance in the moonlight. Beware, for in the depths of my soul, a darkness resides, and it yearns for the macabre union only our twisted hearts can create. Yours Eternally, Patrick

You stared down at the letter in your hand. Patrick's handwriting was frantic scribbles across the page. He waxed poetry about Michael in a way that left your stomach turning. You opened another. There were several lines crossed out in it. You tried to read them but Patrick had scribbled over them so aggressively that he'd torn through the paper. With each new letter, the words only got more and more violent, more and more eager to please. Patrick begged for Michael's attention. He talked about how much he enjoyed their hunting trips. How happy he was to have found someone who understood him. How sorry he was for messing up. That it wouldn't happen again. That he would never put Michael's livelihood in jeopardy. The letters trailed off into delirium over time, each older letter making less and less sense. (if: $Melissa is false) [ [Michael? The name didn't bring anyone to mind. You flipped over the envelope again. Michael Summers... No, you didn't know that name. In all your research on Patrick, you'd never come across a Michael Summers. That meant Patrick had been very careful never to have the other man's name come up anywhere in connection to him. Who was this guy? You looked down at the letter again. Patrick seemed obsessed with him. You wondered what their relationship to each other was. You weren't sure you wanted to find out. You felt like you were uncovering more than you'd set out to do. A whole new can of worms that you hadn't prepared for. You set the letters back down and closed the drawer slowly. This could wait for now. At the moment, you had a different objective. Whoever this Michael Summers was would have to be a question for later.] ]\ (if: $Melissa is true) [ [Melissa leaned over your shoulder, reading each letter as it was revealed. "He's obsessed with him," she said, horror clear in her voice. "What exactly have they been doing together?" You didn't know. You weren't sure you wanted to find out. You felt like you were uncovering more than you'd set out to do. A whole new can of worms that you hadn't prepared for. You set the letters back down and closed the drawer slowly. "I think that's enough of that." Melissa nodded, looking just as uncomfortable and confused as you probably did. You wanted to rinse your eyes out. Those letters only left more questions than answers.] ]\ [[Move on |Check the bedroom]] [[Leave the bedroom |Sneak through the house]]

The attic was dusty as all attics tend to be. You fanned your hand in front of your face to keep yourself from sneezing. Looking down the ladder, you gave Melissa a thumbs up. She gave one back with a soft smile. With her ready to go, you felt more at ease looking through the dusty room. Large boxes cluttered the entire space. You eyed them warily. [[Check the boxes]] [[Sneak through the house]]

Grabbing the knife, you reached back and handed Melissa the bat. She looked from you to the bat before taking it slowly. Testing the weight in her hands, she took a deep breath. She gave you a nod and you nodded back. You turned the knife in your hands. You were both armed now. (set: $MelissaBat to true) (set: $HasKitchenKnife to true) (set: $HasBat to false)

You looked over to Melissa. You didn't have much evidence on your side now that you thought about it but maybe with Melissa with you, you could get Patrick caught this time. You took her hand and nodded. "You're right. I shouldn't stay here." As much as it burned you up inside to leave him alive, your life wasn't worth risking that much. The rational part of you that you had abandoned years ago finally reared its ugly head. Layan wouldn't want this for you. She'd want you alive. When you'd finally made up your mind, you looked down to see Melissa already tugging on a pair of Patrick's shoes by the backdoor. She smiled at you. You smiled back. You opened the back door and tugged Melissa out into the sunrise. (if: $BrainMap is true) ["I know how to get back to town so just follow me. Watch your step." You led her through the tree line and began to look around. It would take an hour or two but you'd be able to get back into town. You just needed to focus and keep you both on the right path.] (if: $BrainMap is false) [You didn't exactly know the way back to town but if you picked a direction, eventually you would find a path. The Lakeview Forest was full of them. You just had to keep moving forward.] With that in mind, you both ran through the trees. Your heart pounded in your chest. Patrick would notice you both were gone eventually. You had to put as much distance between you and him as possible. Holding tightly to Melissa's hand, you both ran toward salvation. =><= (text-size: 2) [ENDING 1 UNLOCKED] (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 5) [[Play Again? |Title]] (set: $FindingSalvation to true)

==> (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 8) (link-goto: "Back", (history:)'s last) =><= DIFFERENT ENDINGS UNLOCKED <== (if: $FindingSalvation is true) [FINDING SALVATION: You managed to escape the house with Melissa.] (if: $Abandoned is true) [ABANDONED: You managed to escape the house alive but Melissa's future is unsure.] =><= OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS <== (if: $BadFriend is true) [ [BAD FRIEND: You got Melissa killed] ]\ (if: $LetHerCook is true) [ [GETTING FANCY WITH THE SPICES: You poisoned Patrick.] ]\ (set: $list to (history:))(either: $list contains "Read the newspapers" and $list contains "Read another" and $list contains "Read another article" and $list contains "Finish reading" and $list contains "Read the sticky notes on the mirror" and $list contains "Read the letters" and $list contains "Read the letter" and $list contains "Read the individual clippings") [ [BOOKWORM: You read every article] ]\ (set: $list to (history:))(either: $list contains "Take the throwing knife" and $list contains "Grab your keys" and $list contains "Take the photo" and $list contains "Grab your ring" and $list contains "Take a pill") [ [HOARDER: You collected everything in the house] ]\

You put the bat back where you found it and take the knife. The knife is definitely the better option anyway. (set: $HasBat to false) [[Search the rest of the kitchen |Look around the kitchen]] ]\

You have a choice, Azima. What will you do? [[Vengeful |ACT 3 VENGEFUL]] [[Lawful |ACT 3 LAWFUL]]

You looked at some of the portraits. Most of them appeared to be Patrick in various stages of life. An older woman was holding him in most of them. You guessed it was his grandmother. You stared at the baby pictures in confusion. In one of them, Patrick was wearing a yellow raincoat. He was happily splashing through a puddle. You wondered where it all went wrong. You wondered if the woman in the photos knew just how evil Patrick was. Had she made him that way? Could she really be blamed if, as an adult, he decided to do bad things? You had read a lot of articles over the last two years about what made people kill others. There was no definitive answer. A part of you wondered what Patrick's answer was. A larger more vengeful part of you didn't care. You didn't have sympathy for the devil. (if: $Melissa is true) [ [Melissa only gave the photos a single glance. "We should keep looking around." She said. You nodded.] ]\ You needed to keep on task. [[Check the living room]]

There was a small table next to one of the sofas. You looked over the envelopes scattered haphazardly across the old oak. A water bill. An electricity bill. A car loan bill. He seemed to be behind in all of them. You grabbed a letter that stood out amongst the debt collecting on the table. It was a letter from someone named Dominic. The return address was from Bitterbrook. You'd never been before but you knew it was about an hour away from Lakeview. You opened the letter and read through it quickly. There was nothing in it as far as you could tell. Something about Dominic thanking Patrick for introducing him to his friends. They'd all apparently had fun on the last hunting trip and he was happy to be included. You frowned staring at the letter curiously. You didn't know exactly what it was but something about the letter rubbed you the wrong way. You set it back down on the table and sighed. You should probably look somewhere else for more clues.

You grabbed Melissa's shoulder before she could run into the room. "We need to get more information. Who knows what he's planning right now. We don't want to go in there and have him catch us off guard." She looked up at you wide angry eyes. "Please, trust me." You whispered. Only the sounds of Patrick's tinkering filled the air for a long second. There was a moment where you thought Melissa would run in anyway. But she stopped and her shoulders sagged. "Okay, I trust you." She said. She stepped away from the door. You breathed a soft sigh of relief. Once you had more information, you could get him. But for now, you needed to go snoop some more. [[Sneak through the house]]

You stared down at Patrick's body. You'd been dreaming about this day for a while now. The moment when you finally had the upper hand. (text-colour: red) [The moment when he was entirely at your mercy. You could do whatever you wanted to him. You could make him pay for every life he'd ever taken.] You snapped out of your daydreaming. Moving quickly, you undid Melissa's restraints and she looked down at Patrick unconscious on the floor. "What are you going to do with him now?" The innocent question reminded you of your dilemma. You looked over to Melissa. She was standing there ready to follow your lead. You finally had a chance to avenge your sister. You had a choice to make. [[It finally begins]]

You didn't know what else to put in the chest so you left this here. Here's the other written info and where you had it placed in case you come up with something later. in "Go into the attic" A large solid looking chest sat just underneath a round window. In "Check the drawers" you made an option called "take the key'' You grabbed the key and put it into your pocket. You didn't know exactly what it was a key to but it could be helpful. You'd keep it for now. [[Check somewhere else |The Kitchen]]]] (set: $PatrickKeys to true)

=><= (text-size: 3) [Act 3] (text-size: 1.5) [//Divine Retribution//] (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 8) [[Begin | The True Hunt Begins]] (text-size: .9) [//"Think you're escaping and run into yourself. Longest way round is the shortest way home." - James Joyce, Ulysses//]

=><= (text-size: 3) [Act 3] (text-size: 1.5) [//Divine Retribution//] (b4r: 'solid')+(corner-radius: 8) [[Begin |Ambulance]] (text-size: .9) [//"Think you're escaping and run into yourself. Longest way round is the shortest way home." - James Joyce, Ulysses//]

You decide to wait. He'll pass by eventually and when he does... You hear him before you see him. His shadow loomed in the hall like a giant. (if: $Melissa is true) [You look over your shoulder. Melissa looked terrified. You tried to rationalize the situation in your head. There's two of you and only one of him. You can do this.] (if: $HasKitchenKnife is true) [You buried the knife into his shoulder. Patrick howls in pain, shock clear on his face.] (if: $HasBat is true) [You swung your bat as hard as you could. The bat connected with Patrick's head cutting him off mid-shout. He stumbled backward, grabbing his bleeding head. (text-colour: red) It wasn't so much fun when you were the one hurting, was it?] (if: $HasBat is false and $HasKitchenKnife is false) [You throw yourself at him, punching and kicking with all your might.] A fist came flying at your face and you saw stars as you flew backwards. Patrick stumbled to his feet just as you did. He raised his hands. (if: $BoxerPatrick is true) [If he managed to land another punch, you were sure he'd knock you out.] (if: $MelissaKnife is true) [Melissa swung the knife down hard and it buried itself into Patrick's other arm. He growled, backhanding her. She stumbled away but the damage was done.] (if: $MelissaBat is true) [Melissa swung the bat down hard onto Patrick's other arm. A sharp crack filled the air. Patrick cried out as his arm bent in the wrong direction. He backhanded her with his other hand. She stumbled away but the damage was done.] (if: $HasBat is false and $HasKitchenKnife is false and $Melissa is false) [You threw each other from room to room. You don't know anything but survival now. You needed to beat him. You both stumble into the kitchen and your back collided with the open basement door. Before you could think, you grabbed him and threw yourself down there with him in tow. His back connected with each step on the way down. At the bottom of the staircase, you both were a crumbled heap but you got up. Patrick's head was bleeding and he wasn't moving but the rise and fall of his breath told you he was still alive. You looked around unsure now.] [(If: $Melissa is true) [Melissa darted to the left and his head snapped over to her movements. He wasn't looking at you. Now was your chance. You looked around. You grabbed the nearest frame on the wall and swung with all your might. The frame connected with his head and he dropped like a sack of stones. You looked over to Melissa who was staring back at you, surprised. You did it. Patrick was unconscious. You looked at the frame in your hand. A picture of Michael as a child stares back. ] (set: $health to it - 10) ]\ [[What to do now?]]