,,,"Monster" used to be a pejorative term, screamed at those we fear, those we hate. As of recent times though, you can't really say that anymore, not when actual monsters are a part of society now. It's a neutral term to them, just a descriptor for what they are - not human, monsters of every shape and size. Alraunes, basilisks, catpeople, all of them living in harmony with humans.
As part of an ongoing effort to better integrate monsters with human society, host programs have also been initiated on both sides where members of each community can experience the lives of their counterparts and possibly attain proper citizenship. Perhaps you will be able to host some monsters yourself? Or the other way around.
First off, in the undying words of Professor Oak, are you a boy or a girl?
[[Male]]
[[Female]](set: $gender to "male")(set: $hers to "his")(set: $she to "he")(set: $her to "his")(set: $him to "him")(set: $herself to "himself")(set: $Her to "His")(set: $Hers to "His")(set: $She to "He")(set: $Him to "Him")(set: $Herself to "Himself")
So you're male?
[[Yes.->Hair Color]]
[[No.->A Brief Introduction]](set: $gender to "female")(set: $hers to "hers")(set: $she to "she")(set: $her to "her")(set: $him to "her")(set: $herself to "herself")(set: $Her to "Her")(set: $Hers to "Hers")(set: $She to "She")(set: $Him to "Her")(set: $Herself to "Herself")
So you're female?
[[Yes.->Hair Color]]
[[No.->A Brief Introduction]]What color's your hair?
(link: "Black")[(set: $hair to "black")(goto: "Eye Color")]
(link: "Brown")[(set: $hair to "brown")(goto: "Eye Color")]
(link: "Blonde")[(set: $hair to "blonde")(goto: "Eye Color")]
(link: "Red")[(set: $hair to "red")(goto: "Eye Color")]What color are your eyes?
(link: "Black")[(set: $eyes to "black")(goto: "Skin Tone")]
(link: "Brown")[(set: $eyes to "brown")(goto: "Skin Tone")]
(link: "Green")[(set: $eyes to "green")(goto: "Skin Tone")]
(link: "Blue")[(set: $eyes to "blue")(goto: "Skin Tone")]
(link: "Hazel")[(set: $eyes to "hazel")(goto: "Skin Tone")]What's your skin tone?
(link: "Pale")[(set: $skin to "pale")(goto: "Name")]
(link: "Fair")[(set: $skin to "fair")(goto: "Name")]
(link: "Tanned")[(set: $skin to "tanned")(goto: "Name")]
(link: "Dark")[(set: $skin to "dark")(goto: "Name")]Finally, what's your name?
[[My name is...->name entry]]headpat simulator
[[New Game->A Brief Introduction]]
$name, is that right?
[[Yes.->maininit]]
[[No.->Name]](if: $guests contains "none")[You are now at home. (if: $time is "Daytime") [The sun shines in through the blinds, and you can hear the sound of cars driving past outside.] (if: $time is "Nighttime") [It's a cool night. Outside, you can see your neighbors' windows either illuminating or going dark.]
[It's quiet, with only yourself for company.]
What would you like to do?
[[Go out.]]
[[Go to bed.]]
[[Look in the mirror.]]
{(link:"Write in your journal.")[
(if:(save-game:"Slot A"))[
Game saved!
](else: )[
Sorry, I couldn't save your game.
]
]}]
(if: $guests contains "gray" and $grayflag is "false")[You are now at home. (if: $time is "Daytime") [The sun shines in through the blinds, and you can hear the sound of cars driving past outside.] (if: $time is "Nighttime") [It's a cool night. Outside, you can see your neighbors' windows either illuminating or going dark.]
Gray is home. (either: "$gShe seems absorbed in reading a book, sitting at the sofa with $gher tail lightly swaying behind $ghim.","$gShe's quietly reading through the newspaper, occasionally circling sections with a red marker.","$She looks like she's about to fall asleep. Sure looks comfy on the sofa right about now...")
[[Go out.]]
[[Talk to Gray.]]
[[Go to bed.]]
[[Look in the mirror.]]
(if: if: $guests contains "gray" and $grayflag is "true" and $time is "daytime")
[[Go out.]]
[[Talk to Gray.]]
[[See Gray off.]]
[[Go to bed.]]
[[Look in the mirror.]]Where do you want to go?
[[Park]]
[[Hospital]]
[[Cafe]]
[[Back home.->main]]You're a $gender human with $hair hair, $eyes eyes and $skin skin. (if: $looks contains "average") [Nothing special. Nothing terrible either. Nobody would give you a second glance on the street.]
[[Back->main]](set: $guests to "none")
(set: $money to 100)
(set: $looks to "average")
(set: $days to 0)
(set: $time to "Daytime")
(set: $metgray to "false")
(set: $knowgray to "false")
(set: $ggender to "unknown")
(set: $gheadpats to "false")
(set: $gray to "genderless")
(set: $postpats to "false")
(set: $metsierra to "false")
(set: $sgender to "unknown")
(set: $saffection to "0")
(set: $gaffection to "0")
(set: $grayflag to "false")
(goto: "main")(set: $name to (prompt: "What is your name?", ""))(goto: "name?")You are now at the park near your house. It's one of many pockets of greenery in the city, and this one is furnished with a playground (if: $time is "Daytime")[where you can see children of a variety of species shouting and playing together. Their parents sit around nearby, chatting with each other.](if: $time is "Nighttime")[which is now empty, the swings swaying somewhat lonesomely in the moonlight.]
What do you want to do?
[[Walk around.]]
[[Leave.->Go out.]]not implemented yet get out of here
[[Back->Go out.]](if: $time is "Daytime") [You settle down for a nap.(set: $time to "Nighttime")](else:) [You go to sleep for the night.(set: $time to "Daytime")(set: $days to +1)]
(if: $postpats is "false")[[["Time to wake up.->main]]](if: $postpats is "true")[(link: "Time to wake up.")[(set: $postpats to "false")(goto: "gray postpats")]](if: $time is "Daytime" and $guests is "none")[You take a walk around the park, breathing in the fresh air. This park isn't usually crowded, which makes it a nice place to relax. (if: $metgray is "false" and $knowgray is "false" and $guests is "none") [Out of the corner of your eye, you see a gray canid sitting curled-up under a tree, gingerly munching on what looks like a (either: "sandwich", "burger") from 7-Eleven. A ratty-looking duffel bag sits under their legs, bulging with whatever's inside it.](if: $metgray is "true" and $guests is "none") [Out of the corner of your eye, you see Gray sitting under the same tree, quietly staring at nothing in particular. When $gshe notices you though, $gher pointy ears perk up and you can see $gher tail wagging excitedly.](if: $metgray is "false" and $knowgray is "true" and $guests is "none") [Out of the corner of your eye, you see the same gray canid from before sitting under the same tree. $gshe nods at you silently in acknowledgment when $gshe notices you.]
What do you do?
[[Approach the canid.]]
[[Keep walking.->Park]]]
(if: $time is "Nighttime")[You take a walk around the park, breathing in the cool night air. At this time, only night joggers and the like are around. (if: $metgray is "false" and $knowgray is "true" and $guests is "none") [You wonder if the canid you saw earlier is around. You don't see $ghim anywhere though. Hopefully everything is alright...] (if: $metgray is "true" and $guests is "none") [You wonder if Gray sleeps here at night. Hopefully not, that wouldn't be very safe...]
It's getting late. You should start heading back.
[[Go home.->main]]]
(if: $time is "Daytime" and "guests" is "gray")[You take a walk around the park, breathing in the fresh air. This park isn't usually crowded, which makes it a nice place to relax. You wonder if you should bring Gray here for an outing one day...
[[Keep walking.->Park]]](if: $metgray is "false" and $knowgray is "false" and $ggender is "unknown")[The canid peers at you from behind their bangs as you approach, and you can see their mouth curl in a low wary growl as they pull the duffel bag closer to them.
"What do you want?"
Their voice is hoarse and barely audible. Seems like they're...
(link: "A guy.")[(set: $ggender to "known")(set: $ghers to "his")(set: $gshe to "he")(set: $gher to "his")(set: $ghim to "him")(set: $gherself to "himself")(set: $gHer to "His")(set: $gHers to "His")(set: $gShe to "He")(set: $gHim to "Him")(set: $gHerself to "Himself")(set: $gShe's to "He's")(set: $gshe's to "he's")(set: $gray to "male")(goto: "Approach the canid.")]
(link: "A girl.")[(set: $ggender to "known")(set: $ghers to "hers")(set: $gshe to "she")(set: $gher to "her")(set: $ghim to "her")(set: $gherself to "herself")(set: $gHer to "Her")(set: $gHers to "Hers")(set: $gShe to "She")(set: $gHim to "Her")(set: $gHerself to "Herself")(set: $gShe's to "She's")(set: $gshe's to "she's")(set: $gray to "female")(goto: "Approach the canid.")]]
(if: $metgray is "false" and $knowgray is "false" and $ggender is "known")[The canid has matted gray hair that goes past $gher shoulders, and $gher bangs hide most of $gher face, making it difficult to see $gher eyes. $gHer clothes are clearly quite dirty and oversized, consisting of an old varsity jacket, t shirt and baggy shorts with a belt that looks like its going to fall apart. $gHer shoes are battered Converse high tops that are just barely held together with the power of bad stitching and faith.
[[Are you okay?]]
[[Nothing...->Park]]]
(if: $metgray is "false" and $knowgray is "true")[The canid peers at you from behind $gher bangs as you approach.
"It's you again. What is it?"
$gShe isn't quite as wary of you now, but $gshe still draws $gher duffel bag closer to $ghim.
[[I can help you.->I can help.]]
[[No...it's nothing.->Park]]]
(if: $metgray is "true")["$name! Hey there, how's it going...?" Gray smiles widely at you, $gher tail wagging. $gher big brown eyes shine with happiness behind $gher bangs - it's really very cute.
[[Do you want to stay at my place?->I can let you stay at my place.]]
[[Let's go get some food.]]]$gShe shifts uncomfortably. "What does it matter to you?" $gShe takes a bite from $gher food and after a few moments, $gher ears flatten against $gher head. "I'm homeless. Ran away from m'host family...don't go reporting me or I'mma bite ya." $gShe bares their teeth, and you don't quite relish the prospect of $gher dangerous-looking fangs sinking into you.
[[I can help.]]
[[I'm sorry to hear that.]]You introduce yourself and say that you can help $ghim. "W-Wha?" $gHer ears perk up despite $gherself, and $gshe almost drops $gher food. "W-What do you mean?"
[[I can spot you a meal.]]
[[I can let you stay at my place.]](set: $gaffection to +5)The canid's eyes widen behind $gher bangs, and $gher hoarse voice almost cracks. "T-Thank you...!" $gShe all but bolts up from $gher seat under the tree as you move to lead the way to a McDonald's, and $gshe carries $gher duffel bag over $gher shoulder.
You've never seen somebody eat so quickly in your life. Or quite so much, aside from in mukbang videos. You thank your lucky stars for the large portion sizes and dirt-cheap price as the canid wolfs down $gher upsized set meals about three times as fast as you finish your own burger.
"Oh man...I haven't eaten so much in a long time. Thank you so much, $name." The canid wipes $gher hands on a serviette before gripping your hand, smiling at you gratefully. $gShe had pulled $gher hair back to eat, revealing large dark brown eyes that are now actually glittering with tears. "Ah...! I'm sorry, I haven't introduced myself. T'was rude a' me. Um, m'name's Gray. I really owe y'one, $name."
(set: $metgray to "true")
[[Pat Gray's head.]]
[[Why don't you stay at my place?->I can let you stay at my place.]]
[[Let's get going.]](set: $guests to "gray")(set: $gaffection to +10)"H-Huh? F'real?" Gray's eyes widen. "But then, you're gonna hafta do all the paperwork and stuff, right? I'm still technically registered under m'host family an' all..."
You'll...cross that bridge when you get to it. For now, it's more important to put a roof over Gray's head.
"Ahaha...well, that's true, I've been sleepin' rough all this while. Thank you so much, $name. You're amazin'. I'll definitely pay you back someday."
With that, Gray picks up $gher duffel bag and you make your way back home with $ghim.
[[Time to go home.->gray first scene]]"S'alright..." The canid sighs and quietly goes back to eating. Doesn't seem like $gshe wants to talk anymore.
(set: $knowgray to "true")
[[Leave.->Park]](set: $gaffection to +5)Gray smiles widely, nodding vigorously. "Y-Yeah, let's! Thank you...!" $gShe all but bolts up from $gher seat under the tree as you move to lead the way to a McDonald's, and $gshe carries $gher duffel bag over $gher shoulder.
The canid wolfs down $gher food as usual, though $gshe eats somewhat less this time. Looks like $gshe was really gorging $gherself last time.
"Ah...that was great. Thanks, $name." Gray wipes $gher hands on a serviette and grins happily at you.
[[Take care.->Pat Gray's head.]]
[[Why don't you come stay at my place?->I can let you stay at my place.]]
[[Let's get going.]](set: $gaffection to +2.5)(if: $gheadpats is "false")[You reach out to Gray and $gshe draws back, confused.
"H-Huh? What are you doing?"
You tell $ghim that you want to pat $gher head, and $gshe blushes, nodding quietly. $gShe looks down at $gher lap as you gently pat $gher head, taking care not to pull at $gher matted hair. You can't see $gher face behind $gher bangs, but you can see $gher tail wagging in joy behind $gher, slapping against the chair. Gingerly, you move to scritch at $gher ears, and $gher tail wags even more violently as $gshe angles $gher head to press into your hand.
You have a nice time giving Gray headpats.
(link: "Let's get going.")[(set: $gheadpats to "true")(goto: "Let's get going.")]
(link: "Why don't you come stay at my place?")[(set: $gheadpats to "true")(goto: "I can let you stay at my place.")]]
(if: $gheadpats is "true")[You reach out to Gray and $gshe smiles widely, immediately scooting $gher chair closer to you so you can reach $gher more easily. $gShe smells terrible on account of not having taken a shower in a long while, but $gher delighted tail-wagging is enough to make you ignore it.
$gShe looks down at $gher lap as you gently pat $gher head, taking care not to pull at $gher matted hair. You can't see $gher face behind $gher bangs, but you can see $gher tail wagging in joy behind $ghim, slapping against the chair. Gingerly, you move to scritch at $gher ears, and $gher tail wags even more violently as $gshe angles $gher head to press into your hand.
You have a nice time giving Gray headpats.
[[Let's get going.]]
[[Why don't you come stay at my place?->I can let you stay at my place.]]]"Mm, okay." Gray hops off $gher chair and you clear your food away before you go your seperate ways. Is $gshe going to be alright...?
(link: "Go home.")[(set: $time to "Nighttime")(goto: "main")]Almost immediately when you get home, Gray turns to you and asks where the bathroom is, pulling irritably at $gher matted hair.
"So canids aren't totally like dogs..."
Gray puffs out $gher cheeks. "That's speciesist, and I haven't washed up in two weeks." You laugh and point the bathroom out to $gher, which $gshe promptly disappears into. In the meantime, you grab some clothes for $gher. (if: $gray is "male" and $gender is "female") [It's a bit difficult considering that he's a fair bit larger than you even in his malnourished state and it's not like you keep male clothes around the house, but you eventually scrounge up an old oversized shirt of yours and a pair of free-size shorts. He's just going to have to deal with wearing uncomfortably short shorts for now. You also grab a plain hairtie for him so he can tie his hair back.] Eventually Gray does realize that $gshe forgot to get clothes for $gherself, and you're ready to pass her a towel and the clothes when $gshe cracks the door open to ask for them.
$gShe emerges from the bathroom soon enough dressed in the clothes you gave $ghim. (if: $gray is "male" and $gender is "male" or $gray is "female" and $gender is "female")["Thanks for the clothes. Been a while since I wore something that actually fit me!" Your shirt does fit $ghim fairly well,](if: $gray is "male" and $gender is "male")[though it's a bit tight around the shoulders.] The oversized clothes $gshe was wearing from before didn't really clue you in to $gher physique, but you realize that $gshe has definitely seen better days. Looking at $gher arms and legs, you can tell that there $gher muscles are quite toned. Partly from $gher canid blood which gives her greater physical abilities than a human, and probably at least partly from all the walking and such $gshe had to do while living on the road.(if: $gray is "female" and $gender is "male") [She's having a bit of trouble keeping her shorts on though, seeing as they're at least a size too big for her. Her shirt fits somewhat better though, owing to her surprisingly broad shoulders for a girl.](if: $gray is "male" and $gender is "female") [As you predicted, his shorts sit awkwardly on him, showing off far more leg than what is tasteful.] $gHer large, fluffy tail twitches slightly, poking through one of the legholes of $gher shorts.
"This is a little awkward...since I usually cut holes in my clothes to make room for my tail."
[[We should go clothes shopping soon.]]
[[You can go ahead.]](set: $gaffection to +2.5)Gray's ears perk up. "Ooh, that'd be great! All of the clothes I have were kinda taken out of charity bins. Oh, but, I'm gonna go get a part-time job or something too so I don't have to keep using your money. I've mostly been running delivery jobs to get by." $gShe smiles.
"Thanks again for letting me stay at your place. You're the best, $name."
[[Thanks, I try.->main]]"What? No way, I couldn't do that! These are your clothes and all. I mean, even if all of the clothes I have were kinda taken out of charity bins I totally couldn't butcher yours. Oh, but, I'm gonna go get a part-time job or something too so I don't have to keep using your money too. I've mostly been running delivery jobs to get by." $gShe smiles.
"Thanks again for letting me stay at your place. You're the best, $name."
[[Thanks, I try.->main]](if: $postpats is "true")[You gently shake Gray awake. "H-Huh? Oh...! Did I fall asleep? I'm sorry!" $gShe sits bolt upright, blushing heavily.]
(if: $postpats is "false")[Looking up, Gray smiles at you as you approach. $gHer tail wags lightly behind $ghim. "Hey, $name. What's up?"]
[[Have some time to chat?]]
[[It's headpat time!]]
[[Nothing.->main]]"Sure, what's up?"
(link-goto: "Chat.", (either: "book", "grayfave", "gray's hobbies"))
[[What was your host family like?]]
[[Back.->Talk to Gray.]]
(if: $grayflag2 is "true")"Sure, what's up?"
(link-goto: "Chat.", (either: "book", "grayfave", "gray's hobbies"))
[[Back.->Talk to Gray.]](set: $gaffection to +2.5)(if: $gheadpats is "false")["H-Huh? Headpat?" Gray looks completely befuddled...and embarrassed. $gHer tail is most definitely wagging though. You motion for $ghim to come closer to you on the sofa and $gshe complies quietly, scooting a bit closer to you bashfully and lowering $gher head.
$gShe smells like your shampoo, soft smooth hair pleasant to the touch.(if: $gray is "male") [You briefly wonder if you might want to ask him to cut his hair. It's so fluffy right now!] Almost immediately when you begin patting $gher head, $gher tail starts batting lightly against the back of the sofa in pure joy, eventually slowing to an even rhythm as you continue.
"This feels really nice...I don't really remember the last time someone patted m'head." $gShe murmurs, smiling a bit wistfully.]
(if: $gheadpats is "true")["O-Oh! Okay!" A bit embarrassed, Gray scoots closer to you on the sofa. You don't even have to ask before $gshe automatically lowers $gher head for you.
$gShe smells like your shampoo, soft silky hair pleasant to the touch.(if: $gray is "male") [You briefly wonder if you might want to ask him to cut his hair. It's so fluffy right now!] Almost immediately when you begin patting $gher head, $gher tail starts batting lightly against the back of the sofa in pure joy, eventually slowing to an even rhythm as you continue. $gShe sighs, not even trying to hide how much $gshe enjoys it.
If anything, Gray is very honest with $gher feelings.]
[[Intensify patting.]]
[[That's all for today.]](set: $gaffection to +5)You move onto scritching at Gray's ears, lightly massaging them at the base. $gShe starts to blush, initially trying to (weakly) push your hands aside but eventually giving up. "D-Damn, that feels really, really good. It's like, relaxing too..." $gHer ears feel like a regular dog's, thin and pliant to your touch. They twitch periodically in your grasp too, as Gray nuzzles into your hands.
Pushing aside $gher bangs, you notice that $gher eyes are closed, a smile of total contentment on $gher face. Frankly, it's adorable. You figure (if: $gray is "male")[even if you don't ask him to cut his hair]you might get $gher to cut $gher bangs. How does $gshe even see through them?
[[INTENSIFY PATTING.]]
[[That's all for today.]](set: $gaffection to +10)You ask Gray to put $gher head in your lap. "Wha?! That's...embarrassing." $gShe doesn't seem entirely against it though, judging from how $gher tail is batting excitedly against the back of the sofa again. It's not like anyone else is here, so it isn't as embarrassing as if you asked $gher to do so outside, you point out. $gShe sighs and relents, tentatively (very, very hesitantly) resting $gher head on your lap. "...You're comfy."
You continue to gently massage Gray's ears, eventually moving on to stroking $gher hair, running your fingers through to the tips. For someone who looked like such a wreck when you first found $gher, Gray is surprisingly good at maintaining $gher mane of hair.
After a while, you realize that Gray has fallen asleep on your lap, $gher breaths soft and even.
(link: "Time to nap...")[(set: $postpats to "true")(goto: "Go to bed.")]
(link: "Wake $ghim up.")[(set: $postpats to "true")(goto: "Talk to Gray.")](set: $postpats to "false")(set: $gaffection to +2.5)Eventually, you wake up and gently shake Gray awake as well. $gShe sits up blearily, rubbing $gher eyes. "H-Huh? Oh...! Did I fall asleep? I'm sorry!" $gShe scrambles back, blushing heavily. "Sorry... I'll try not t'fall asleep next time. It's troublesome for you..."
[[It's alright.->main]](set: $gaffection to +2.5)You ask what book Gray is reading.
"Oh, this?" Gray holds up the book on $gher lap. It's a worn paperback, titled "Nighttime Maneuvers". There's a crescent moon on the cover behind the title, with a gritty old film effect overlaid. "It's a murder mystery! I really like those. This one has a canid hero, too. He's kinda like, a freelance detective? So the local police kinda just ask 'im for help to solve cases." $gShe smiles, fingering the bookmark $gshe's using. "I really like readin'. Always used to visit the library back in my hometown too. I actually wanted t'go t'university here, which is why I signed up for the host programme cuz' it'd be a lot cheaper than getting m'own place. But uh well, that didn't turn out s'well. Ahaha..." Gray rubs the back of $gher neck sheepishly.
Poor thing.
[[Back.->Talk to Gray.]](set: $grayflag2 to "true")A look of distaste flashes over Gray's face when you mention $gher host family.
"Right...I did tell you I ran away from 'em." $gShe sighs and leans back in $gher seat, tail flopping limp at $gher side. "Well, they were fairly well-off. Family of three, the dad's a property developer, the mom's a restaurant manager. Kid's a teenage dude, high schooler. They were all crap people though, it was alright at first - then they started to get really speciesist. Would call me (if: $ggender is "male")'good boy'(if: $ggender is "female")'good girl' like I was a dog or somethin', and then the parents started to treat me like a servant, forcin' me t'do all the housework - all of it, seriously. I was like their maid or somethin'. An' hitting me if they caught me takin' a break, or if I talked back. But I thought, I gotta tough this out, yanno? Cuz' they were my lifeline, I couldn't stay here without 'em. But then one day, the kid tried t'put a motherfuckin' leash on me." $gShe snarls, putting $gher hands over $gher neck protectively. "I made a break for it."
What the hell? Isn't this totally illegal?(if: $grayflag1 is "true") Wait, you remember asking Sierra about this...
"It is. Of course I called the cops on them, once, when the kid tried t'put out a cig on me. The fuzz rolled up an' then they took one look at them acting like they were cowerin' behind me, the big scary canid, and told me not t'make false reports. An' drove off." $gShe fumes, then $gher shoulders sag. "I'm...really glad I'm here now. Thanks again, $name. I really owe you."
Damn...
[[Back.->Talk to Gray.]]There's a nice cafe a few blocks down that opens 'till late. The owner and barista smiles and nods at you as you walk in, the bell above the door jingling lightly. (if: $metsierra is "false")[You pretty much recognize all of the regulars, but today there's a bit of an odd sight sitting by the window. You've never seen a melusine before, given that they tend to live near the sea...](if: $metsierra is "true")[Sierra is at $sher usual seat beside the window, working on $sher laptop.]
What do you want to do?
[[Get a drink.]]
[[Approach the melusine.]]
[[Leave.->Go out.]]You take your usual seat at the counter and order...
[[Black coffee]]
[[A latte]]
[[Hot cocoa.]](if: $sgender is "unknown")[You approach the melusine sitting near the window. They seem to be...
(link: "Male.")[(set: $sgender to "known")(set: $shers to "his")(set: $sshe to "he")(set: $sher to "his")(set: $shim to "him")(set: $sherself to "himself")(set: $sHer to "His")(set: $sHers to "His")(set: $sShe to "He")(set: $sHim to "Him")(set: $sHerself to "Himself")(set: $sShe's to "He's")(set: $sshe's to "he's")(set: $sierra to "male")(goto: "Approach the melusine.")]
(link: "Female.")[(set: $sgender to "known")(set: $shers to "hers")(set: $sshe to "she")(set: $sher to "her")(set: $shim to "her")(set: $sherself to "herself")(set: $sHer to "Her")(set: $sHers to "Hers")(set: $sShe to "She")(set: $sHim to "Her")(set: $sHerself to "Herself")(set: $sShe's to "She's")(set: $sshe's to "she's")(set: $sierra to "female")(goto: "Approach the melusine.")]]
(if: $sgender is "known" and $metsierra is "false")[The melusine is, in a word, beautiful. $sShe has pale skin and powder blue hair(if: $sierra is $male) [cut neatly and slicked to one side, his fringe hanging just above elegantly curved eyebrows](if: $sierra is "female")[cut in a stylish, sleek assymetrical bob that brushes lightly against her shoulders] to frame sharp, piercing amber eyes that have slitted pupils. The tips of $sher hair gradually deepen in color to a striking ultramarine, matching the scales on $sher extremities, cheeks and chin that start in flecks of sapphire blue and sparkle ultramarine in the sunlight where they're the most concentrated. $sHer incredibly long lower body meanwhile curls elegantly around $sher chair, the tip idly swaying to and fro. Most striking are $sher deep blue wings that rest folded behind $shim, occassionally twitching as $sshe works on a laptop. The glare of the screen reflects off $sher glasses as $sshe works.
$sShe looks up from the laptop as you approach, and you immediately feel a bit threatened by $sher steely gaze.
"Yes, how may I help you?"
[[Can I buy you a drink?]]
[[No, it's nothing.->Cafe]]](if: $sgender is "known" and $metsierra is "true")[Sierra looks up from $sher laptop as you approach, a small smile gracing $sher features. Today, $she's dressed in a (if:$sierra is "male")[(either:"stylish, loose blue-green top that drapes over $sher chest to reveal a good view of $sher collarbones and a silky-looking lavender scarf that partly hides an aquamarine pendant on a black string.","classy pale blue button-up that has a few buttons undone near the top, revealing an aquamarine pendant on a black string.")](if: $sierra is "female")[(either:"stylish, loose blue-green top that drapes over $sher chest to reveal a good view of $sher collarbones and a silky-looking lavender scarf that partly hides an aquamarine pendant on a black string.","classy pale blue button-up that has a few buttons undone near the top, accented by a simple black silk ribbon tied in a loose bow.")] (if: $sierra is "female")[She also has a simple yet cute barette holding back part of her fringe, decorated with pearls.]
"(either:"Hey there, $name.","Oh, $name, it's you. What is it?","Good day, $name. How've you been?")"
[[Hi, Sierra.]]
[[Hey, was just passing by.->Cafe]]]"Coming right up, we got a good shipment from all the way in Indonesia the other day. Tanamera roastery, you ever heard of it?" The barista grins a bit as she brandishes a glass container of beans from under the bar and shows it to you. It's labeled 'Aceh Gayo', 'N. Sumatra' written in small, neat handwriting below it. Opening the sealed container with a soft //pop//, she lets you inhale the aroma of the roasted beans. They smell pretty much like regular coffee to you, but you can detect some floral hints.
The container is soon whisked away and there's a light clatter as she spoons out some of the beans into a hand-cranked grinder. Methodically, in no real rush, the barista grinds the beans into a fine dust. Eventually she deposits the beans into a cone-shaped filter and pours hot water over it slowly while chatting idly. Her voice is oddly soothing, rather deep for a woman but not at a timbre you would call //sexy//, really. Just comforting.
"(either: "Have I ever told you before? Ahaha, I'm not really much of a coffee drinker. Don't like the bitterness myself. It's my dad who likes this stuff, the beans I got here are all recommended by him. I like to just, kinda, watch other people have coffee though. It definitely does smell good.","Been having a good day so far? Feels nice to see a regular coming in, you know, I always wonder what you guys are up to. Does that make me a nosy parker?","You ever wonder what it's like to fly? Melusines can't fly with their wings, apparently, but they can fold their wings around themselves to go faster when swimming. Like, they become more...aero...uh no, aqua? Aquadynamic.","Canids have super good hearing, just like dogs. I mean, you'd expect it from the ears right? They can drink coffee and eat chocolate though... Guess they're not totally like dogs. Ah, is that speciesist?","Oh, get this, that murder mystery series with the canid detective is getting a new installment soon! Are you a fan?","That melusine by the window is a real beauty, huh? Sierra's $sher name. Gosh, I love $sher hair...")"
She passes you your cup of coffee and you quietly sip at it while she goes about serving other customers. It's smooth but strong on your tongue, a rich taste that's simultaneously relaxing and stimulating. It reminds you of dark chocolate with notes of butterscotch. (if: $guests contains "gray")[Gray might like this...]
[[Finish your coffee.->Cafe]]"A latte, huh? Coming right up!" There's a whirring from the coffee machine as the barista froths some milk, preparing the coffee in the meantime. Soon, the comforting fragrance of freshly-prepared coffee wafts to your nose and the barista makes a show of pouring the frothy milk into the black coffee, forming a perfect fluffy cap of white. Brushing back some of her long black hair, she sticks out her tongue slightly as she concentrates on the cup to do some latte art.
(either: "On the froth she doodles a series of little pawprints leading to a small black cat with a chocolate syrup-tipped toothpick, a few tiny hearts dotted about.","With a flourish, she adds even frothier, fluffier milk to the top in quick dollops. When she's done and pokes at the indistinct white clouds gently with a chocolate syrup-tipped toothpick, you suddenly have a fluffy white cat staring at you over the rim of your cup with an innocent :3 face. It jiggles a bit if you shake the cup gently.","Smiling a bit goofily, the barista drops a blob of frothy milk to the edge of your cup and tops it off with three more tiny dollops, then doodling a little 'x' on the base shape. Seems like she made a cat with a stubby tail stuck head-first in your coffee..." )
You feel almost guilty about destroying the artwork, smiling at how cute it is before taking your first sip. She chatters as you drink, polishing another cup in her hand.
"(either: "Don't like coffee much, but I do like doing latte art! Cute, isn't it? Of course it is.","Did I put too much milk in it? No? Ah, good. I don't usually taste-test the coffee so I kinda just wing it most of the time...","Been having a good day so far? Feels nice to see a regular coming in, you know, I always wonder what you guys are up to. Does that make me a nosy parker?","You ever wonder what it's like to fly? Melusines can't fly with their wings, apparently, but they can fold their wings around themselves to go faster when swimming. Like, they become more...aero...uh no, aqua? Aquadynamic.","Canids have super good hearing, just like dogs. I mean, you'd expect it from the ears right? They can drink coffee and eat chocolate though... Guess they're not totally like dogs. Ah, is that speciesist?","Oh, get this, that murder mystery series with the canid detective is getting a new installment soon! Are you a fan?","That melusine by the window is a real beauty, huh? Sierra's $sher name. Gosh, I love $sher hair...")"
The coffee's natural bitterness is dulled slightly by the milk in the latte, but the chocolatey aftertaste of the beans still lingers on your tongue. "Heh, you have some froth on your lips." The barista chuckles, handing a serviette to you.
[[Finish your coffee.->Cafe]]"Feeling sweet today, eh?" The barista grins as she spins around to grab a glass jar of chocolate bits from the shelf behind her. Seems like she broke apart the chocolate bars herself, the bits uneven and of varying shades of brown, mostly dark. She spoons out some of the chocolate into a small saucepan on top of a little induction cooker, then pouring in some milk and stirring leisurely as the milk changes color. She then tips the saucepan over a large white mug which eventually fills up with deliciously thick hot cocoa.
(either: "The barista then produces a baking tray from the fridge, which you realize has a whole sheet of white marshmallow fluff on it. Using a metal cookie cutter, she stamps out a cute white cloud from the sheet and levers it out with a butter knife, then deftly sliding it off onto the hot cocoa. You now have a soft white cloud floating on the surface of your hot cocoa, slowly melting into the mixture.","The barista then produces a baking tray from the fridge, which you realize has a whole sheet of pale pink marshmallow fluff on it. She also produces what looks like a long wooden doughnut holder except with rings of chocolate on it. Using a metal cookie cutter, she stamps out a sakura flower from the sheet and levers it out carefully with a butter knife. Her slender fingers gently fold the flower closed and places it in a chocolate ring, lightly dropping it into the hot cocoa. The chocolate eventually melts, and the flower unfolds in front of you, spinning gently atop the cocoa.","Spooning out some frothed milk from a metal pitcher, the barista spreads it across the top of the mug to form a fluffy white cap. She then dusts cocoa powder over the cap with a stencil (which she seems to have made herself...) to form the shape of a cat's face complete with whiskers on the top of the froth. To complete it, she drops in a straw made out of chocolate. It's not exactly functional though, seeing as it's already starting to melt with the heat of the hot cocoa by the time she slides the mug over to you.")
The generous portion of chocolate the barista spooned into the mixture is definitely coming through here, you think as you sip gingerly at the hot cocoa. Far from the sad, diluted hot cocoa you get from the convenience store, this hot cocoa is absolutely luxurious, coating your tongue with warm bliss as you take your time enjoying the drink. The barista smiles at this as she cleans up the counter a bit.
"(either: "I love chocolate. Ahaha, I really hate white chocolate though, too sweet for me. I don't like stuff that's too sweet or too bitter, or too sour, or too spicy...just, no extremes in tastes. Is that weird?","Been having a good day so far? Feels nice to see a regular coming in, you know, I always wonder what you guys are up to. Does that make me a nosy parker?","You ever wonder what it's like to fly? Melusines can't fly with their wings, apparently, but they can fold their wings around themselves to go faster when swimming. Like, they become more...aero...uh no, aqua? Aquadynamic.","Canids have super good hearing, just like dogs. I mean, you'd expect it from the ears right? They can drink coffee and eat chocolate though... Guess they're not totally like dogs. Ah, is that speciesist?","Oh, get this, that murder mystery series with the canid detective is getting a new installment soon! Are you a fan?","That melusine by the window is a real beauty, huh? Sierra's $sher name. Gosh, I love $sher hair...")"
Even if just for a little while, everything feels right with the world as you enjoy your hot cocoa.(if: $metsierra is "true")[Maybe Sierra would like this?]
[[Finish your drink->Cafe]]"What can I do for you, $name?"
[[Care for a drink?]]
(link-goto: "Let's chat a little.", (either: "aloe vera", "cocoatalk", "sierra's hobbies"))
[[Just passing by, see you around.->Cafe]]{
(print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>")
(if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[
(print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>")
]
}
$name
Days Passed: $days
Time:
$time
Money:
$moneyPulling your hand away, you notice that Gray is trying $gher best not to look disappointed as $gshe shuffles away from you on the sofa.
"Alright..."
[[Cute.->main]](set: $metsierra to "true")You introduce yourself, and the melusine smiles.
"$name, hm? Right, I'll remember that." $sShe holds out a perfectly manicured hand, black claw-like fingernails contrasting against smooth aquamarine scales that cover $sher arm all the way to $sher elbow. You shake the proferred hand, noting that $sshe has a very confident, firm handshake. You feel like you're at a job interview, suddenly.
"I'm Sierra. Practicing lawyer specializing in extraspecies matters. Pleased to meet you."
[[So, what are you doing here?]](set: $metsierra to "true")"Eh? What about...oh, how rude of me. I should have introduced myself first." The melusine chuckles, shrugging $sher shoulders a bit. $sShe holds out a perfectly manicured hand, black claw-like fingernails contrasting against smooth aquamarine scales that cover $sher arm all the way to $sher elbow. You shake the proferred hand, noting that $sshe has a very confident, firm handshake. You feel like you're at a job interview, suddenly.
"I'm Sierra. Practicing lawyer specializing in extraspecies matters. Pleased to meet you."
You introduce yourself and $sshe nods, seeming to commit your name to memory.
[[So, what are you doing here?]]Lawyer, huh? Is $sshe studying here? "Hmm, not really. I'm not from around here as you've probably guessed, the law firm I work for transferred me to this city because of my specialization - this city is apparently among the most diverse in this region, in terms of its extraspecies population. How about you? What do you do?"
You tell Sierra that you work at the hospital as a nurse. Only started fairly recently though. $sHer interest seems to be piqued by this. "Oh! You mean Fairfield Hospital? I've been there a few times for checkups, I heard that it's the biggest hospital around actually, and one of the only ones which actually caters to extraspecies individuals." As $sshe says this $sshe worries $sher lip a bit with a fang though, seeming troubled. Wonder why...? Before you can ask $sher, $sshe quickly moves on to another topic. "I've also heard that this city was one of the first to run an interspecies integration programme in the region."
[[Are you participating in the programme?]]
(link: "What are your thoughts on it?")[(set: $saffection to +5)(goto: "What are your thoughts on it?")]The melusine raises an eyebrow, nodding slowly. "Well, sure. I won't say no to a free drink."
(link: "Get $shim some coffee.")[(set: $saffection to +2.5)(set: $drink to "coffee")(goto: "It's rare to see a melusine.")]
(link: "Get $shim a latte.")[(set: $saffection to +5)(set: $drink to "latte")(goto: "It's rare to see a melusine.")]
(link: "Get $shim some cocoa.")[(set: $saffection to +10)(set: $drink to "cocoa")(goto: "It's rare to see a melusine.")](if: $drink is "coffee")[$sShe accepts the coffee with a neutral smile as the barista swoops by with one in hand, taking a small sip from the cup then setting it aside next to $sher laptop.](if: $drink is "latte")[A pleased smile forms on $sher face as the latte arrives, topped with a milk foam cat peeping curiously over the edge of the cup at $sher.](if: $drink is "cocoa")[$sShe's clearly pleased with this offering, judging from how $sher wings flutter behind $shim. Blowing cautiously at the hot cocoa, $sshe then takes a long sip before setting the mug aside, dabbing $sher mouth delicately with a serviette.]
You remark that it's rare to see a melusine around these parts, since the sea isn't exactly nearby. The melusine peers at you curiously. "Mm, I suppose it is. Today is my first time here, but I've passed by a few times. You're a regular, aren't you?." That explains why you don't recognize $shim. Surprising that you've never noticed $sher passing by before though, maybe it's because you're usually sitting at the counter? $sShe tents $sher fingers in front of $sher, smiling slightly. "So, what's your name?"
(link: "Introduce yourself.")[(set: $saffection to +5)(goto: "Introduce yourself.")]
[[What about you?]]"Oh, me? No, I'm living on my own. As part of my being transferred here, my firm was kind enough to provide me with some lodging too. It's a studio apartment down in the city district." Swanky. "Er well, as you can see, I'm a bit...large, anyway." Sierra chuckles a bit sheepishly as $sshe indicates $sher long tail, still wrapped around the chair. This...is probably why $sshe's sitting by the door.
"It'd be pretty difficult for most people to lodge large extraspecies individuals like myself or say, a centaur if they don't have the space. I have heard that some other places provide a lot of funding to host families up to and including any renovations they need, though." Good point. To your knowledge, this city is not one of those places. "Ah...look at the time. I have to go meet a client. I'll see you around, $name." Quickly finishing off what's left of $sher drinks, Sierra smiles as $sshe bids you a good day and exits with a soft jingle of the bell on the door.
(link: "You should be heading home yourself.")[(set: $time to $night)(goto: "main")](set: $grayflag1 to "true")Sierra hums softly in thought. "...I have my doubts. I think it's admirable for the government to want to improve interspecies relations, and host family programmes are definitely not a new concept." $sShe hedges $sher words, sipping at the drink $sshe had originally bought - a mocha latte topped with whipped cream. "But...I've also seen my share of questionable cases, being the one who's usually handling disputes between extraspecies individuals and their human hosts. Abuse, exploitation, you name it. And, many extraspecies individuals can't do much because they tend not to know who to approach for help in these circumstances."
Why not? It's against the law to do things like that to other people, right? They could just approach the police. Sierra nods, but there's a bitter look on $sher face. "Yes, that's true. Unfortunately, in my experience many cases don't get taken seriously by the police well...because of the fact that the victims are extraspecies. Either their cases get brushed off because hey, they can't possibly be abused because they're supposed to be physically much stronger than humans - like myself for instance - or speciesist police officers don't pursue the cases further." $sShe sighs, clutching $sher cup a bit tighter. "Some extraspecies people end up not reporting their cases anyway out of fear, or reliance on their host families. More then a few of the participants in these programmes are actually using it as a way to potentially gain citizenship in a new country after an extended stay."
Well. That sucks. Sierra nods, concurring. "Of course, things have gotten much better over time. I do my best on my end to help these individuals however I can, usually getting them reassigned to another less dodgy host family." $sShe nods towards $sher laptop.
[[Are you participating in the programme?]]Who's gonna say no to a free drink? Sierra smiles, taking off $sher glasses and hanging them on $sher shirt. "What will it be today?"
(link: "Get $shim some coffee.")[(set: $saffection to +2.5)(goto: "coffee")]
(link: "Get $shim a latte.")[(set: $saffection to +5)(goto: "latte")]
(link: "Get $shim some cocoa.")[(set: $saffection to +10)(goto: "cocoa")]Sierra accepts the coffee with a neutral smile as the barista swoops by with one in hand, taking a small sip from the cup then setting it aside next to $sher laptop. "Thanks, I needed a little pick-me-up." $sShe seems mildly disappointed though. Did you see $shim grimace a little bit after taking a sip? Maybe $sshe doesn't like bitter things.
[[Back.->Hi, Sierra.]]A pleased smile forms on $sher face as the latte arrives, topped with a milk foam cat peeping curiously over the edge of the cup at $sher. $sShe jiggles the cup lightly on its saucer, and the cat jiggles along with it. It's very cute, though $sshe doesn't seem to be aware of your reaction. Turning the cup so the cat is facing you instead and away from $sher, Sierra carefully takes a sip from the latte.
...Looks like $sshe doesn't want to destroy the artwork.
[[Back.->Hi, Sierra.]]Sierra's clearly pleased with this offering, judging from how $sher wings flutter behind $shim. Blowing cautiously at the hot cocoa, $sshe then takes a long sip before setting the mug aside, dabbing $sher mouth delicately with a serviette. "Hmm, I kind of wish that there was whipped cream on top, but I shouldn't be drinking too much sweet stuff. I gain weight easily..." $sShe chuckles sheepishly, taking another sip from the mug anyway.
Maybe you should get $sher the whipped crema anyway.
[[Back->Hi, Sierra.]](set: $saffection to +2.5)From what you've learned about melusines, it's rare to see them away from water for any extended period of time. And this city isn't exactly too near the sea. How does Sierra deal with that?
"Oh, it was definitely pretty difficult when I first moved here. Our scales get sensitive and irritable when they're dried out, and I couldn't find a good way to stay moisturized throughout the day." $sShe sighs, grimacing at the memory. "Seems a little bit silly now, but I eventually thought to just use aloe vera gel. Simple, right?" You glance down at $sher extensive tail, still coiled lightly around $sher chair. Catching your gaze, $sshe laughs lightly. "Right, yes. How do I get all of this covered in the morning? I literally have a small vat of aloe vera at home. It keeps my scales moisturized for the whole day, so it was a worthy investment."
Fancy.
[[Back->Hi, Sierra.]](set: $saffection to +2.5)You ask $sher what $sher favorite drink is.
"Anything with chocolate in it! I particularly like hot cocoa, but I generally order mochas here because I need the pick-me-up. And the owner knows that I don't like things bitter, so she puts extra chocolate in my orders too." $sShe smiles brightly. Somewhat surprising - $sshe seemed like the kind to take $sher coffee black as coal.
"As you probably know, as reptilians we melusines are cold blooded. We can get by normally without doing anything special, but I personally like to warm up with a nice drink."
[[Back->Hi, Sierra.]](set: $saffection to +2.5)You ask Sierra about $sher hobbies.
"Oh, me? Let's see, I recently discovered that I really like cooking! I didn't cook much before I moved here actually, usually would eat out. Since I'm generally rather busy I've taken to prepping meals though, so I don't have to waste time traveling! I'm learning how to make Chinese food now, mainly fried rice and other wok-based dishes. It's such a useful tool!" $sShe chirps excitedly. Real jack of all trades we have here!
[[Back->Hi, Sierra.]](set: $gaffection to +2.5)You ask Gray what $gher favorite drink is.
$gShe seems to ponder this for a while, head tilted to the side. "T'be honest, I don't think I particularly have a favorite. Oh, but I don't really like sweet stuff that much. I drink coffee every mornin', I guess? I like the smell."
[[Back.->Talk to Gray.]](set: $gaffection to +2.5)You ask Gray what $gher hobbies are.
"I like readin'! I used t'play the guitar too, back when I was at home. M'guitar was too much of a hassle t'bring over here though, so I left it there. I think m'little sis is using it now, last I heard from her she was taking lessons too." $gShe mimes playing the guitar, looking nostalgic. "I'd like t'visit them at some point, but it's a real long trip."
Maybe one day.
[[Back.->Talk to Gray.]]$gHis ears perking up slightly, Gray puts $gher book down with a smile. "Oh, yeah! Was about to tell ya, I managed t'find a job down at the shoppin' district. At a café, it's pretty close by and pays well too! I was actually gonna go down soon for an interview. Saved my nice clothes for this an' all too - the ones that actually fit me, ahaha."
On $ghis own, though? You're somewhat worried for $gher...
[[Give $gher a phone, at least.]](set: $grayflag to "true")
"Hey, tell you what. I'll at least pass you an old phone of mine, just in case you need to call for anything. You'd probably have to give them a number anyway."
Gray nods, $gher ears flattening with some embarrassment. "Ah, yeah. Thanks a lot, $name. Didn't really think 'bout that."
With that, you grab the said phone from your room - damn, this thing is dusty - and test it out before handing it over to Gray. "Man, it's kinda been a while since I had my own phone. Wonder if my old one got thrown away or sold...?" $gShe muses, carefully stowing it away in the sling bag you had given $gher some time back.
[[Back-->main]](set: $grayarc to "true")"I'll be heading off now, then!" It's somewhat strange to see Gray in clothes that fit $gher. With the provision of your washing machine, it seems that $gshe got $gher old clothes cleaned up - a thin black short-sleeved button-down and a pair of dark red shorts with a small tail cut out of the back to let $gher fluffy tail stick out. Compared to $gher worn, battered sneakers, $gher clothes were positively pristine. You realized that $gshe was probably saving them for something like this.
"Do you have the phone with you?"
Gray rolls $gher eyes. "Yeah, yeah. Right here, mom." $gShe pulls the phone you gave $gher out of her pocket. "Thanks again, though. I really, really appreciate it. I'll see you later!" $gShe smiles brightly at you, genuine gratitude obvious in $gher expression (and wagging tail) before $gshe walks off, waving at you.
[[Later...]]An hour passes, and you feel your phone vibrate by your side. Picking up the call, your stomach drops when you're met with Gray's panicked voice on the other end.
"$name, help! I'm-"