A Valent-ine's Day

The incessant ringing of the alarm clock wakes you up from your slumber. Your left cheek is oddly numb - there are checkered indents where you had slept on your keyboard. * |continue>[What time is it, now?] { (click:?continue)[(go-to:'The Time')] }

As the clock comes into focus, you realise in horror that you've got 10 minutes to get ready before the bus leaves. Shoving the remains of your homework into your bag, you caught a glimpse of the calendar. It is February 14th. **Valentine's Day.** * |1>[Valentine's day... your crush!] * |2>[Nothing really comes to mind.] { (click:?1)[{ ( (set:$crush to true) (go-to: "Gift Choosing") }] (click:?2)[{ (set:$crush to false) (set:$gift to 'none') (set:$deity to it + 1) (go-to: "The Gender You Seek") }] }

This is it, you thought. You'll ask your crush out on Valentine's Day. You've got it all planned - time to put that special gift into your bag. * |1>[A piece of art you painted...] * |2>[Something you made that the world hasn't seen before...] * |3>[A poem you wrote...] * |4>[A gift you bought...] * |5>[Nevermind, it's an awful gift...] * |6>[... no gift?] { (click:?1)[{ (set:$feir to it + 1) (set:$wisp to it + 1) (set:$gift to 'painting') (go-to: "Gender of the Crush")} ] (click:?2)[{ (set:$slyth to it + 1) (set:$wisp to it + 1) (set:$gift to 'creation') (go-to: "Gender of the Crush")} ] (click:?3)[{ (set:$moonbeing to it + 1) (set:$wisp to it + 1) (set:$gift to 'poem') (go-to: "Gender of the Crush")} ] (click:?4)[{ (set:$feir to it + 1) (set:$moonbeing to it + 1) (set:$drogen to it + 1) (set:$wisp to it + 1) (set:$gift to 'gift') (go-to: "Gender of the Crush")} ] (click:?5)[{ (set:$riskling to it + 1) (set:$gift to 'none') (go-to: "Gender of the Crush")} ] (click:?6)[{ (set:$drogen to it + 1) (set:$deity to it + 1) (set:$gift to 'none') (go-to: "Gender of the Crush")} ] }

Well, it's just another day. You race towards the bus stop, bag in hand. You get into the bus just as it is about to leave, and Keith hollers at you from one of the back seats. "Jeez, you're exceptionally late today! Quick, I got a space reserved for you, right beside me." As you snuggle comfortably into your seat, Keith whispers in an almost conspiratorial manner, "so... got anyone? For Valentine's, I mean." You shake your head. He shrugs. "Okay. Just curious though... which way would you rather swing? A |him>[him], |her>[her] or |them>[them]?" { (set:$rsdialogue to "(upperfirst:$them).") (set:$rsfollowup to "He nods sagely, no doubt considering the potential candidates among your friends.") (click:?him)[{ (set:$they to 'he') (set:$their to 'his') (set:$theirs to 'his') (set:$them to 'him') (set:$theyre to "he's") (set:$s to 's') (set:$are to 'is') (set:$themselves to 'himself') (go-to:"He Has Someone Too") }] (click:?her)[{ (set:$they to 'she') (set:$their to 'her') (set:$theirs to 'hers') (set:$them to 'her') (set:$theyre to "she's") (set:$s to 's') (set:$are to 'is') (set:$themselves to 'herself') (go-to:"He Has Someone Too") }] (click:?them)[{ (set:$they to 'they') (set:$their to 'their') (set:$theirs to 'theirs') (set:$them to 'them') (set:$theyre to "they're") (set:$s to '') (set:$are to 'are') (set:$themselves to 'themselves') (go-to:"He Has Someone Too") }] }

"(upperfirst:$them)." “Oh, ooh...” Keith exclaims with the tone of a sensational reporter. "Are those wedding bells I hear?" * |embarassment>["Hush, no one's supposed to know about this!"] * |confirmation>["Not sure about a wedding, but I'm confessing to $them today."] * |seekinghelp>["For that to happen, I'll need a little help from you..."] * |rejection>["Nah, I’m not good enough for $them, not gonna happen."] * |clapback>["You said that to yourself last Valentine's - guess who's still single?"] { (set:$friends to false) (click:?embarassment)[{ (set:$wisp to it + 1) (set:$rsdialogue to "Hush, no one's supposed to know about this!") (set:$rsfollowup to 'He smirks at your flustered attempts to check if anyone had eavesdropped.') (go-to: "He Has Someone Too") }] (click:?confirmation)[{ (set:$moonbeing to it + 1) (set:$feir to it + 1) (set:$rsdialogue to "Not sure about a wedding, but I'm confessing to $them today.") (set:$rsfollowup to "<q>Oh, woah.</q> He gives you a silent gesture of encouragement, <q>good luck, man.</q>") (go-to: "He Has Someone Too") }] (click:?seekinghelp)[{ (set:$slyth to it + 1) (set:$friends to true) (set:$rsdialogue to "For that to happen, I'll need a little help from you...") (set:$rsfollowup to "<q>Sure, I'll lend a hand.</q> Then, he quickly adds, <q>Just don't make me do anything weird.</q>") (go-to: "He Has Someone Too") }] (click:?rejection)[{ (set:$riskling to it + 1) (set:$rsdialogue to "Nah, I’m not good enough for $them, not gonna happen.") (set:$rsfollowup to " <q>Come on,</q> he pats you on the back, perhaps with a little too much force, <q>have faith in yourself!</q>") (go-to: "He Has Someone Too") }] (click:?clapback)[{ (set:$drogen to it + 1) (set:$rsdialogue to "You said that to yourself last Valentine's - guess who's still single?") (set:$rsfollowup to "<q>Oof, don't you think that's a little too harsh?</q> he said, grimacing at the memory.") (go-to: "He Has Someone Too") }] }

"$rsdialogue" $rsfollowup After a moment's pause, Keith gestures you to come closer. "I've got a crush on someone(if:$crush)[ too]... Joan. But... I just don't think I have the guts to do it." * |encouragement>["You can do it! Don’t let your dreams be dreams!"] * |same>["Looks like we're in the same boat..."] * |better>["Don’t worry, you’ll have better chances than me for sure."] * |book>[Give him the "Confessions 101" book that you have in your bag.] * |matchmake>[Decide to secretly play matchmaker.] * |wingman>[A plan to get them together hatches in your mind.] * |clueless>[...] { (click:?encouragement)[{ (set:$feir to it + 1) (set: $brdialogue to "You can do it! Don’t let your dreams be dreams!") (set:$brfollowup to '"Easy to say, hard to do... but I will!" He gets all fired up."Pump me up with more motivation!"') (go-to: "Bus Reaches") }] (click:?wingman)[{ (set:$slyth to it + 1) (set:$drogen to it + 1) (set: $brdialogue to "Hmm... hold on, I have a marvelous plan... you on?") (set: $keithscene to true) (set:$brfollowup to "He stares at you suspiciously. <q>Hmm. Okay. I'm on.</q>") (go-to: "Bus Reaches") }] (click:?same)[{ (set:$wisp to it + 1) (set: $brdialogue to "Looks like we're both in the same boat...") (set:$brfollowup to 'Both of you heave a long, dragged-out sigh.') (go-to: "Bus Reaches") }] (click:?matchmake)[{ (set:$drogen to it + 1) (set: $brdialogue to "... Okay!") (set: $keithscene to true) (set:$brfollowup to "He gives one look at your excitement and begins to regret telling you anything. <q>Please don't do anything embarassing, okay?</q>") (go-to: "Bus Reaches") }] (click:?better)[{ (set:$riskling to it + 1) (set: $brdialogue to "Don’t worry, you’ll have better chances than me for sure.") (set:$brfollowup to "<q>Nah, I'm just more experienced,</q> he said, placing his hand over his heart, then muttered, <q>bad experiences.</q>") (go-to: "Bus Reaches") }] (click:?book)[{ (set:$moonbeing to it + 1) (set: $brdialogue to "Check this out, it'll probably help.") (set:$brfollowup to "<q>Are you serious?</q> He chuckles and flips through a few pages of the thick guide.<q>Dang, you're serious.</q>") (go-to: "Bus Reaches") }] (click:?clueless)[{ (set:$deity to it + 1) (set: $brdialogue to "...?") (set:$brfollowup to "<q>No love advice for this poor soul?</q> He hits his chest in mock sadness. <q>Nevermind then.</q>") (go-to: "Bus Reaches") }] }

"$brdialogue" $brfollowup Before you could reply, however, the bus arrives at the school compound. You and Keith hop off the bus and get past the school block entrance. Class is almost starting, and the hallways are busy with movement and crowds of friends. (if: $keithscene)["Meet me immediately after school at my class!" You say to Keith, before you both head for your respective classrooms. Equally puzzled and excited, he nods and leaves. ]As you make your way through, someone catches your eye. (if: $crush)[It's $them... your crush.](else:)[It's your classmate, Alex.] (upperfirst:$they) wave$s at you. * |blush>[Look away from $them to hide your blushing face.] * |honour>[Greet $them with a smile.] * |wink>[Give $them a playful wink.] * |notme>[(upperfirst:$are) $they looking at someone behind you?] { (click:?blush)[{ (set:$moonbeing to it + 1) (set:$wisp to it + 1) (set:$fcfollowup to "Your face warms up, and as you look away to hide your blushing face, you catch a glimpse of their lips curling into a faint smile. You wonder what that means as you scuttle into your classroom.") (go-to: "First Class") }] (click:?honour)[{ (set:$feir to it + 1) (set:$deity to it + 1) (set:$fcfollowup to "You greet them with a smile - which they return politely - and stride through the crowd towards your classroom.") (go-to: "First Class") }] (click:?wink)[{ (set:$drogen to it + 1) (set:$slyth to it + 1) (set:$fcfollowup to "You give them a playful wink, and they flash that perfect grin of theirs. However, they soon disappear into the crowd, and you decide to get to your class before it’s too late.") (go-to: "First Class") }] (click:?notme)[{ (set:$deity to it + 1) (set:$riskling to it + 1) (set:$fcfollowup to "You disregard them, thinking that they’re waving at someone behind you. They frown a little, but you pay no attention to it, instead following the flow of students until you reach your classroom.") (go-to: "First Class") }] }

$fcfollowup Ms. Janet, your mathematics teacher arrives just right after you cross the doorstep. The class settles, and the day begins. As she expounds the ways of algebra, your thoughts wander towards (if:$crush)[your crush... * |soulmate>[... your destined soulmate.] * |small>[... your current infatuation.] * |league>[... your one-sided love.] * |blur>[... you don't know why you first started to feel this way.] * |like>[... and how $theyre so similar to you, in various ways.] * |hot>[... breathtakingly good-looking.] ](else:)[your encounter with Alex. Now that you think about it... * |soulmate2>[... could it be destiny, you and $them?] * |small2>[... $they $are actually pretty likeable!] * |dontcare>[... nevermind, $they wouldn't care about you anyway.] * |hot2>[... $theyre actually quite good-looking.] ]|focus>[... or not. You never lose focus in class, even if it's Valentine's day.] { (click:?soulmate)[{ (set:$wisp to it + 1) (set:$slyth to it + 1) (set:$btfollowup to "... your destined soulmate.") (go-to: "Break Time") }] (click:?soulmate2)[{ (set:$wisp to it + 1) (set:$slyth to it + 1) (set:$btfollowup to "... could it be destiny, you and $them?") (go-to: "Break Time") }] (click:?small)[{ (set:$moonbeing to it + 1) (set:$drogen to it + 1) (set:$btfollowup to "... your current infatuation.") (go-to: "Break Time") }] (click:?small2)[{ (set:$moonbeing to it + 1) (set:$drogen to it + 1) (set:$btfollowup to "... $they $are actually pretty likeable!") (go-to: "Break Time") }] (click:?league)[{ (set:$moonbeing to it + 1) (set:$riskling to it + 1) (set:$btfollowup to "... your one-sided love.") (go-to: "Break Time") }] (click:?blur)[{ (set:$riskling to it + 1) (set:$feir to it + 1) (set:$btfollowup to "... you don't know why you first started to feel this way.") (go-to: "Break Time") }] (click:?like)[{ (set:$feir to it + 1) (set:$slyth to it + 1) (set:$wisp to it + 1) (set:$btfollowup to "... and how $theyre so similar to you, in various ways.") (go-to: "Break Time") }] (click:?hot)[{ (set:$feir to it + 1) (set:$btfollowup to "... breathtakingly good-looking.") (go-to: "Break Time") }] (click:?hot2)[{ (set:$feir to it + 1) (set:$btfollowup to "... $theyre actually quite good-looking.") (go-to: "Break Time") }] (click:?dontcare)[{ (set:$riskling to it + 1) (set:$btfollowup to "... nevermind, $they wouldn't care about you anyway.") (go-to: "Break Time") }] (click:?focus)[{ (set:$deity to it + 1) (set:$btfollowup to "Nothing's going to hinder your learning, not even Valentine's.") (go-to: "Break Time") }] }

$btfollowup The morning classes go by; after wrestling with numerous cables in computer class, and almost failing a biology quiz ambush, lunch break is bestowed upon you as the bell rings. Your classmates gradually leave, chatting and fretting over the quiz results. (if:$crush is true and $gift is not 'none')[You head over to your crush's class. This is the perfect opportunity to gift $them your $gift! * |sneak>[Secretly place the $gift onto $their desk.] * |face>[You'll give the $gift to $them directly. Let's look for $them.] * |change>[Actually... your $gift isn't good enough for $them.] (if:$friends)[Or, you can call upon a favor and ask |deliver>[Keith to deliver the $gift to $them.]] ](else:)[|leave>[(if:$crush)[Let's look for $them.](else:)[You head out to the cafeteria for lunch too.]]] { (click:?sneak)[{ (set: $wisp to it + 1) (go-to: "Gift Label") }] (click:?deliver)[{ (set:$slyth to it + 1) (set:$drogen to it + 1) (set:$friends to false) (set: $efollowup to "After sending Keith off with the gift, you head towards the cafeteria for lunch.") (go-to: "Encounter") }] (click:?face)[{ (set:$feir to it + 1) (set:$slyth to it + 1) (set: $efollowup to "(upperfirst:$they) should be at the cafeteria. You head over with the $gift in hand.") (go-to: "Encounter") }] (click:?change)[{ (set:$riskling to it + 1) (set: $efollowup to "You stuff the $gift back into your bag and move towards the cafeteria.") (go-to: "Encounter") }] (click:?leave)[{ (set: $alfollowup to "You head out to the cafeteria for lunch with a group of friends.") (if:$crush)[(go-to: "Encounter")](else:)[(go-to: "After Lunch")] }] }

$efollowup As you go down the hallway, you see $them at $their locker, looking for something. * |direct>[Greet $them and get straight to the point - you're here to confess to $them!] * |convo>[Begin a conversation with $them.] * |run>[Uhh...] { (click:?direct)[{ (set: $feir to it + 1) (go-to: "Confession") }] (click:?convo)[{ (go-to: "Conversation") }] (click:?run)[{ (set: $wisp to it + 1) (set: $alfollowup to "While you consider whether to meet $them, $they turn$s around and notice$s you. In a panic, you quickly turn back and escape to the cafeteria.") (go-to: "After Lunch") }] }

As you observe the $gift one last time, you realise that you didn't affix any sort of name or confession to it. * |anon>[Forgo the labelling and keep your identity secret.] * |name>[Write your name and confession to $them with your best handwriting.] * |face>[Decide to give the $gift to $them directly instead.] * |klutz>[You're such a klutz. Give up.] { (click:?anon)[{ (set: $wisp to it + 1) (set: $efollowup to "After carefully placing the $gift down, you head towards the cafeteria for lunch.") (go-to: "Encounter") }] (click:?name)[{ (set:$moonbeing to it + 1) (set: $efollowup to "You write your name and intention on a card and attach it onto the $gift. Content with your handiwork, you head towards the cafeteria for lunch.") (go-to: "Encounter") }] (click:?face)[{ (set:$feir to it + 1) (set:$slyth to it + 1) (set: $efollowup to "(upperfirst:$they) should be at the cafeteria. You head over with the $gift in hand.") (go-to: "Encounter") }] (click:?klutz)[{ (set:$riskling to it + 1) (set: $efollowup to "With an almost painful sigh, you stuff the $gift back into your bag and shuffle towards the cafeteria.") (go-to: "Encounter") }] }

You clear your throat. Courage is much needed for this. You try your best to meet your crush’s gaze. “So, listen,” you begin, “there’s something I actually wanted to tell you.” (upperfirst:$their) brows raise in question. “Oh?” (if:$friends)[(set: $slyth to it + 1)You raise a signal to Keith. He returns a thumbs up, then moves to the janitor’s closet, where old Mr Wayne stands guard with his broom, eyes scanning for a mess to attend to. You see Keith making frenzied gestures, then he points all the way over to the science lab. His hands make explosive motions. Mr Wayne dashes off in an instant. And you, desperate to be alone with your crush, takes $them by the arm and leads $them into the janitor’s closet, small-spaced and quiet. Keith idly waits on the outside, as you had planned. ]You take a deep breath. No going back now. “Since it’s Valentine’s day, I thought I’d finally share how I feel about you. You’re someone whom I have liked for a really, long time. You’re my type.” For a while, there is silence. Nothing but the ambience of a high school. You’re almost regretting your decision until $they suddenly release$s a soft chuckle, and relief cuts through your worries. “I get it,” $they (if:$s is '')[reply](else:)[replies], still grinning. “You like me,” $they say$s, turning the words over. “Yes,” and - feeling brave - you add, “do you?” (if:$friends)[(upperfirst:$they) look$s you in the eyes, and the world seems to pause for a minute. Eventually, $they whisper$s $their answer to your ears. "I do." Both of your smiles widen, but just then, you hear Keith knocking on the door - that's the signal to get out before Mr Wayne returns. |lunch>[Giggling, both of you leave for the cafeteria.] ](else:)[(upperfirst:$they) look$s you in the eyes. Right as $they open$s their mouth to speak, however, $their friends appear around the corner. “Ah, I've made you all wait!” After apologizing to $their friends, $they turn$s around and sighed. Is that disappointment you hear? “I'd rather answer your question when we’re alone,” $they (if:$s is "")[reply](else:)[replies] with a wink. "How about a dinner tonight?" You ask. "(if:$restaurant)[At the restaurant?](else:)[At the usual place?]" "Tonight? Sure!" And with that gleeful answer, $they leave$s with $their friends. |lunch>[With that, you head to lunch, giddy with anticipation.]] (click:?lunch)[{ (go-to: "Keith and Joan") }]

“Hey,” you call softly. (upperfirst:$they) turn$s around. “Oh, it’s you,” $they (if:$s is 's')[replies](else:)[reply] with a smile. You wonder if it’s out of politeness or sincerity. With luck, your mind reaches for a common topic of conversation. “Yeah. How was your weekend?” (upperfirst:$they) smile$s even brighter, $their eyes shimmering while the ghost of a dimple appears on $their cheek. “It was great. Got to eat at my favourite restaurant again. You know the place, right?” You nod, grateful for the eatery as your common interest shared with $them.(set: $restaurant to true) * |confess>[Confess now!] * |convo>[Continue the conversation.] * |run>[Leave before you mess it up.] { (click:?confess)[{ (set: $moonbeing to it + 1) (set: $drogen to it + 1) (set: $slyth to it + 1) (go-to: "Confession") }] (click:?convo)[{ (go-to: "Conversation Two") }] (click:?run)[{ (set: $wisp to it + 1) (set: $alfollowup to "<q>Yeah... sorry, I got to go prepare for the quiz! See you later.</q> You hastily leave $them and dashed to the cafeteria.") (go-to: "After Lunch") }] }

Your crush doesn’t say anything else, and your instincts tell you to quickly bring up something else before the conversation dies. “Are you ready for the test?” you blurt, then cringe inside. Was there even an upcoming test? But $they only raise$s $their brows in pleasant surprise. “Wait, you take History, too?” So there seems to be one for that subject. You regain your composure and manage a small shake of the head. “Nah, but I do know about the quiz.” (upperfirst:$they) nod$s approvingly, then breathe$s out a nervous laugh. “I really hope I am,” $they murmur$s, as if half-praying. “Wish me luck?” “Definitely.” (upperfirst:$they) look$s at the time and leave$s for the cafeteria. "Can't take the quiz with an empty stomach! See you later!" With that, both of you part ways. * |annoyed>[You messed up your only chance.] * |forward>[There's always more opportunities.] (click:?annoyed)[{ (set: $risklings to it + 1) (set: $alfollowup to "Feeling as if you botched your only chance of ever confessing to $them, you shuffle dejectedly to the cafeteria.") (go-to: "After Lunch") }] (click:?forward)[{ (set: $deity to it + 1) (set: $alfollowup to "You continue your way to the cafeteria.") (go-to: "After Lunch") }]

$alfollowup You finish your meal with a few minutes before lunch break is over - it's probably a good idea to prepare your reading materials for the next class. Fumbling around in your bag, however, you find that your Chemistry notebook is nowhere to be found. * |locker>[Check in your locker.] { (click:?locker)[{ (go-to: "Confession of Alex") }] }

"Is this a dare?" You ask suspiciously. "No! No, no one's making me do this." (upperfirst:$they) take$s a deep breath and continue$s. "I know it's very sudden... but it's Valentine's day, and I figured..." * |ok>[Accept?] * |other>["Sorry, but..."] { (click:?ok)[{ (if:$crush)[(set: $drogen to it + 1)] (set: $acmethod to "<q>I’ll definitely go out with you. Definitely.</q> You smile at $them. <q>It's just a little hard to believe that I'm being asked out by an amazing person like you.</q>") (go-to: "Accepted Alex") }] (click:?other)[{ (set: $slyth to it + 1) (set: $deity to it + 1) (set: $rjdialogue to "Sorry, but...") (if:$crush)[(set: $drogen to it + 1)] (else:)[(set: $moonbeing to it + 1)(set: $feir to it + 1)] (go-to: "Rejected Alex") }] }

In a panic, you try to hide behind the locker door, to no avail. "A-are you okay?" (upperfirst:$they) ask$s. "I know it's very sudden... but it's Valentine's day, and I figured..." You shyly peek out of the locker door, the both of you equally flushed. "So... would you..." * |ok>[Accept?] * |dare>["I-is this a dare?"] * |other>["S-sorry, but..."] { (click:?dare)[{ (set: $riskling to it + 1) (go-to: "It Is Not A Dare") }] (click:?ok)[{ (if:$crush)[(set: $drogen to it + 1)] (set: $acmethod to "<q>I would - I mean, I will.</q> You smile sheepishly at $them. <q>I’ll definitely go out with you.</q>") (go-to: "Accepted Alex") }] (click:?other)[{ (set: $slyth to it + 1) (set: $deity to it + 1) (set: $rjdialogue to "S-sorry, but...") (if:$crush)[(set: $drogen to it + 1)] (else:)[(set: $moonbeing to it + 1)(set: $feir to it + 1)] (go-to: "Rejected Alex") }] }

You ponder for a moment. Alex has always been a wonderful friend, (if:$crush is true)[and maybe $they might be a better shot with you than your crush](else:)[and maybe it’s time to take a shot with love]. (upperfirst:$they) even got you a box of chocolates! $acmethod Alex’s eyes light up, then $they go(if:$s is 's')[es] to hug you, right as the bell rings. “That’s great,” $they breathe$s before taking your hand. “Now, let’s walk to class together. Like a couple.” “Like a couple,” you repeat cheerily. * |continue>[Return to class together.] (click:?continue)[(go-to:"Keith and Joan")]

"$rjdialogue" (upperfirst:$their) head dips a little, shoulders sinking slightly. "I mean... it's okay. I respect your choice." (upperfirst:$they) sigh$s and leave$s you behind, heading towards the toilets. You may have heard a sniff or two...? * |continue>[Return to class.] (click:?continue)[(go-to:"Keith and Joan")]

(if: $keithscene)[Your mission being complete, you take the bus back home, leaving them alone.](else:)[The rest of the day passes uneventfully, and you finally return to your home, tired from all the lessons.] Right before collapsing in your bed, however, you notice that your computer is still active. You stare at the screen. It seems like you did some sort of personality quiz the night before... but fell asleep. * |results>[Look at the results of the quiz.] (click:?results)[{ { (set:$highestscore to (max: $wisp, $riskling, $feir, $moonbeing, $deity, $slyth, $drogen)) (set:$comparescore to (pow:($wisp * $riskling * $feir * $moonbeing * $deity * $slyth * $drogen / $highestscore),1/6)) (set:$percentage to (ceil:(1 - ($comparescore / $highestscore)) * 100)) (if: $highestscore is $wisp)[(set:$result to 'Wisp')] (else-if: $highestscore is $riskling)[(set:$result to 'Riskling')] (else-if: $highestscore is $feir)[(set:$result to 'Feir')] (else-if: $highestscore is $moonbeing)[(set:$result to 'Moon Being')] (else-if: $highestscore is $deity)[(set:$result to 'Deity')] (else-if: $highestscore is $slyth)[(set:$result to 'Slythe')] (else:)[(set:$result to 'Drogen')] (if: $result is 'Wisp')[(go-to:"Wisp Result")] (else-if: $result is 'Riskling')[(go-to:"Riskling Result")] (else-if: $result is 'Feir')[(go-to:"Feir Result")] (else-if: $result is 'Moon Being')[(go-to:"Moon Being Result")] (else-if: $result is 'Deity')[(go-to:"Deity Result")] (else-if: $result is 'Slythe')[(go-to:"Slythe Result")] (else:)[(go-to:"Drogen Result")] }]

=><= You're likely a **Wisp**! (css:"font-size: 50%;")[($percentage%)] <== <img class="portrait" src="images/valentine_avatar_wisp.png"> Like the non-metal elements they represent, Wisps are shy and subtle. They aren't really able to take the heat, but the right bonds in their relationship can bring out their loveliness! Wholesomeness is your virtue. When seeking a partner, you want someone whom you can be completely yourself around with. After all, you’re terribly shy, subtle and squeak at the thought of making personal conversation. But that also means you have the loudest thoughts. When your crush walks by in the hall, you go home and fantasize what would have happened if you said hi. You wonder a lot about them. You’re a little obsessive that way, but that’s just because you want to show how much love there is to give. You work hard in a relationship! “Love always cures people – both the ones who give it and the ones who receive it.” — Karl Menninger * |end>[End?] (click:?end)[(go-to:"D.C. al fine")]

=><= You're likely a **Riskling**! (css:"font-size: 50%;")[($percentage%)] <== <img class="portrait" src="images/valentine_avatar_riskling.png"> Like the "poor" metals they represent, Risklings may feel lacking, especially when comparing themselves with the popular people in the group. Risklings shine by embracing their uniqueness and honing their own specialties, not chasing after shadows. Confidence is over-confidence to you, but only because you don’t quite see what’s amazing about yourself! It’s better to stay in the safe zone rather than pour your heart out to the world. Therefore, you have a tendency to appreciate even the littlest of kind things that happen to you. You’re the humble friend and soft-spoken partner. All it takes is the acceptance of your unchangeable imperfections, and you will know for sure that someone will love you for who and all that you are. "You are a human being and are allowed to be imperfect, and you are allowed to be flawed. There is a lot of beauty in your imperfections, in your uniqueness." - Ileana D'Cruz * |end>[End?] (click:?end)[(go-to:"D.C. al fine")]

=><= You're likely a **Feir**! (css:"font-size: 50%;")[($percentage%)] <== <img class="portrait" src="images/valentine_avatar_feir.png"> Like the transition metals they represent, Feirs are strong and stable people, warrior-like; yet, they also have an artistic side, spreading colour and brilliance through their works of art. Art, love and battle are all different sides of the same coin - all requires steadfast confidence, being able to accept the outcome honourably, and a refusal to let dreams remain as they are. Heart of a warrior, soul of a poet. Your partner will be lucky to have someone as balanced as you. Self awareness is key in a relationship so you may harness those traits at the right moments. “Creativity takes courage.” — Henri Matisse * |end>[End?] (click:?end)[(go-to:"D.C. al fine")]

=><= You're likely a **Moon Being**! (css:"font-size: 50%;")[($percentage%)] <== <img class="portrait" src="images/valentine_avatar_Roub.png"> Like the reactive metals they represent, Moon Beings are soft and sensitive to their surroundings. Beneath their possibly oxidated cover is a shiny core personality. They are quick to move. But sometimes, taking a deep breath before plunging into something may be useful. Your empathy complements your intelligence. You’re book-smart, clever, and witty. Friends will rely on you to give the logical advice, while your partner is likely to love you because you consider their feelings and try to make the decision with its best outcome. Remember, when it comes to relationships, you may find that tuning out those loud thoughts sometimes and connecting to your heart instead, goes a long way. “I don't fancy colors of the face, I'm always attracted to colors of the brain.” — Michael Bassey Johnson * |end>[End?] (click:?end)[(go-to:"D.C. al fine")]

=><= You're likely a **Deity**! (css:"font-size: 50%;")[($percentage%)] <== <img class="portrait" src="images/valentine_avatar_anon.png"> Like the noble gases they represent, Deities are not easily distracted from their work by things like love. That doesn't mean something's wrong with them - love simply isn't a priority at the moment, given their self-sufficiency. You're only ankle-deep in romance, not because of your inability, but simply because there are other things that needs to be done. Love doesn’t want to be around until it is called for, after all. Make sure that being independent and the lone ranger doesn’t become a habit that it stops you from taking action when someone truly worthy comes along. "Become a whole being on your own. Do all things with love, but don’t romanticize life like you can’t survive without it. Live for yourself and be happy on your own. It isn’t any less beautiful, I promise." - Emery Allen * |end>[End?] (click:?end)[(go-to:"D.C. al fine")]

=><= You're likely a **Slythe**! (css:"font-size: 50%;")[($percentage%)] <== <img class="portrait" src="images/valentine_avatar_slythe.png"> Like the metalloids they represent, Slythes are personable people - they always find a way to bond and mix around with everyone. By working with their tools, or co-operating with others, they unleash their inner creativity and confidence. Innovating makes you alive. You’re not just idealistic; you actually get those plans going, and the inventions you cook up can probably sell for thousands of dollars. Your significant other is bound to be your best friend and just like you. Most of the time, your expression of love for them is through a handmade craft, because it’s never about the gift, isn’t it? For you, it’s all about the price of effort and affection it represents. No one is ever bored when they’re in a relationship with you. “The world always seems brighter when you’ve just made something that wasn’t there before.” — Neil Gaiman * |end>[End?] (click:?end)[(go-to:"D.C. al fine")]

=><= You're likely a **Drogen**! (css:"font-size: 50%;")[($percentage%)] <== <img class="portrait" src="images/valentine_avatar_drogen.png"> Like the hydrogen they represent, Drogens can be extremely unassuming. But beneath that lurks talents that are awe-inspiring or deadly... Either way, it’s a survival strategy that works really well, catching the unwary off-guard in a sudden burst of victory. Playing things low is always your strategy. Do you rarely post pictures of you and your partner? Maybe you prefer late-night texting. As everyone declares their love for one another, you’re the one outside looking in. You’re probably more interested in other people’s love lives than your own, and that’s why you have the tendency to fall into the background, running secret errands for couples and playing Cupid’s wingman; everyone can count on you! Should you decide to court someone though… they likely won’t see you coming. “Two people in love, alone, isolated from the world, that's beautiful.” ― Milan Kundera * |end>[End?] (click:?end)[(go-to:"D.C. al fine")]

You've reached the end of this $result's story! But wait... is it really over? Restart the game to attempt something different! There are 7 possible personalities you can get, and multiple branching paths to the end. Uncover them all! <table style="width:100%"> <tr> <td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Face-ed-venture-studio.itch.io%2Fa-valent-ines-tale" target="_blank" class="share-button share-facebook">Share </a></td> <td style="text-align:center; width:10%">or</td> <td><a href="https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Face-ed-venture-studio.itch.io%2Fa-valent-ines-tale&via=chemcaper&text=Check%20out%20this%20interactive%20fiction%20/%20personality%20quiz%20for%20Valentine%27s%21&hashtags=ValentinesDay%2Ctextadventures" target="_blank" class="share-button share-twitter">Share </a></td> </tr> </table> =><= 》 |restart>[Restart] <== (click:?restart)[(go-to:"Initialize")]

|wispresult>[Wisp Result] |feirresult>[Feir Result] |moonresult>[Moon Being Result] |riskresult>[Riskling Result] |deitresult>[Deity Result] |drogresult>[Drogen Result] |slytresult>[Slythe Result] [[Title Page]] { (set: $riskling to 1) (set: $moonbeing to 1) (set: $deity to 1) (set: $feir to 1) (set: $drogen to 1) (set: $slyth to 1) (set: $wisp to 1) (set: $gift to 'none') (set: $they to 'they') (set: $their to 'their') (set: $theirs to 'theirs') (set: $them to 'them') (set: $theyre to "they're") (set: $s to '') (set: $are to 'are') (set: $friends to false) (set: $crush to false) (set: $restaurant to false) (set: $keithscene to false) (set: $rsfollowup to "") (set: $brfollowup to "") (set: $efollowup to "") (set: $alfollowup to "") (set: $fcfollowup to "") (set: $btfollowup to "") (set: $rsdialogue to "") (set: $brdialogue to "") (set: $rjdialogue to "") (set: $acmethod to "") (set: $highestscore to 1) (set: $comparescore to 1) (set: $percentage to 0) (click:?wispresult)[(go-to:"Wisp Result")] (click:?feirresult)[(go-to:"Feir Result")] (click:?moonresult)[(go-to:"Moon Being Result")] (click:?riskresult)[(go-to:"Riskling Result")] (click:?deitresult)[(go-to:"Deity Result")] (click:?drogresult)[(go-to:"Drogen Result")] (click:?slytresult)[(go-to:"Slythe Result")] (go-to:"Title Page") }

(if: $gift is 'none')[You sprint towards the bus stop.](else:)[You gingerly keep the $gift into your bag, then sprint towards the bus stop.] You get into the bus just as it is about to leave, and Keith hollers at you from one of the back seats. "Jeez, you're exceptionally late today! Quick, I got a space reserved for you, right beside me." As you snuggle comfortably into your seat, Keith whispers in an almost conspiratorial manner, "you seem excited beyond reason today... I wonder why?" "Today's Valentine's." You reply. "Ah... I didn't know you have someone in mind. Is your crush a |him>[him], |her>[her] or |them>[them]?" { (click:?him)[{ (set:$they to 'he') (set:$their to 'his') (set:$theirs to 'his') (set:$them to 'him') (set:$theyre to "he's") (set:$s to 's') (set:$are to 'is') (set:$themselves to 'himself') (go-to:"I Have Someone")} ] (click:?her)[{ (set:$they to 'she') (set:$their to 'her') (set:$theirs to 'hers') (set:$them to 'her') (set:$theyre to "she's") (set:$s to 's') (set:$are to 'is') (set:$themselves to 'herself') (go-to:"I Have Someone")} ] (click:?them)[{ (set:$they to 'they') (set:$their to 'their') (set:$theirs to 'theirs') (set:$them to 'them') (set:$theyre to "they're") (set:$s to '') (set:$are to 'are') (set:$themselves to 'themselves') (go-to:"I Have Someone")} ] }

<img class="ace-logo" src="images/valentine_avatar_title.png"> =><= 》 |begin>[Begin] <== (click:?begin)[(go-to:"Waking Up")]

Time is ticking down as you rummage through your locker for the notebook. Your eye manages to catch a glimpse of its slime green cover just as someone taps you on the shoulder. (if:$crush)[It's your classmate, Alex, and - hold on.](else:)[It's Alex, yet again. You seem to be meeting $them very often toda- wait, what's that?] In $their trembling hands are what seems to be... a box of chocolates? "H-hey, I really - I gotta tell you something," $they stammer$s out. Alex glances back at the hallway clock and swallow$s deeply. "I... uh... the thing is..." $they turn$s away to mutter rapidly to $themselves, “Don’t chicken out don’t chicken out just say it - I really like you and I want to be with you and you’re really good-looking.” Alex winces. (upperfirst:$they) awkwardly thrust$s out the chocolates. (upperfirst:$they) clear$s $their throat. “I’m sorry. What I’m trying to say is, will you - will you... go out with me?” * |ok>[Accept?] * |dare>["Is this a dare?"] * |run>[Hide behind your locker door.] * |other>["Sorry... but my heart ponders for another."] * |sorry>["Sorry, but... I only see you as a friend."] { (click:?dare)[{ (set: $riskling to it + 1) (go-to: "It Is Not A Dare") }] (click:?run)[{ (set: $wisp to it + 2) (go-to: "Alex Presses On") }] (click:?ok)[{ (if:$crush)[(set: $drogen to it + 1)](else:)[(set: $feir to it + 1)] (set: $acmethod to "<q>On Valentine’s Day? That’s romantic.</q> You smile at $them. <q>I’ll definitely go out with you.</q>") (go-to: "Accepted Alex") }] (click:?other)[{ (set: $slyth to it + 1) (set: $rjdialogue to "Sorry... but my heart ponders for another.") (if:$crush is false)[(set: $drogen to it + 1)] (else:)[(set: $moonbeing to it + 1)(set: $feir to it + 1)] (go-to: "Rejected Alex") }] (click:?sorry)[{ (set: $deity to it + 2) (set: $feir to it + 1) (set: $rjdialogue to "Sorry, but... I only see you as a friend.") (go-to: "Rejected Alex") }] }

The remaining classes pass uneventfully, and the time to put everything into action for your dear friend is - now, as school ends. You head over to where Joan is writing her English essay, unfazed by the commotion of everyone leaving. "Hey Joan, I'm a little stuck with my assignment. You know, the one where you have to write a descriptive essay about a friend?" "Wait, hold on, let me finish this sentence... and done." She lifts her head, hand outstretched. "Let me take a look. Who are you writing about?" "Keith. I don’t really know how to connect this part to the next." She takes a look at where you're pointing at. Almost right on time, Keith appears at the door. "I'm here, let me know what you need me to - oh. Hi, Joan." Joan waves at him, and you pat the empty seat beside the table. "I'm writing this essay about you and I'm stuck. Joan's helping me with it, but I figure I should get the actual person to... help." You wink at him, and he flashes you a look of confusion and nervousness. Joan nods in agreement. “Okay, so... going from ‘a good friend’ to ‘dreams to be a chef’ is a bit of a jump. We need something to bridge them together. Anything, Keith?” asks Joan. He pauses. “Well… okay. We can talk about how we met, working at the restaurant?” You nod. “Me, the lowly dishwasher, and you, the highly esteemed cook.” “Oh, I didn’t you know you could cook, Keith.” Joan unexpectedly smiles and pauses, “which restaurant is it?” “The Imperial, Chinese cuisine. I work during the weekends,” answers Keith. “That’s really cool! Chinese food is super delicious, and I’ve always wanted to learn how to make them, but—wait, I’m getting too excited.” Joan quickly points at the offending paragraph, “there, you could write that.” You begin to rewrite the section, and taking the chance, you say, “Speaking of cooking, I can’t attend that class you’re holding on Friday. I have...stuff, going on. Oh, I know! Joan, why not you go in my stead? Get some lessons from the great chef himself.” “That… that sounds great! Can I?” Joan is practically beaming, while Keith is in wide-eyed surprise. You stuff your essay into your bag. That went a lot quicker than you’d thought it would. “Thanks a lot, both of you. Gotta rush!” * |leave>[Before they could protest, you dash out of the classroom. ] { (if:$keithscene is false)[(go-to:"Returning Home")] (click:?leave)[(go-to:"Returning Home")] }