Through the Waves

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<div class="main"> <nav> <<link "Resume Game">><<run Save.autosave.load()>><</link>> <<link "Load Game">><<run UI.saves();>><</link>> </nav> <div class="story-banner"> <div class="content">  <h1 class="story-title">Through the Waves</h1>  <img src="./images/wave.png" width="50px" position="center"/>  <h2 class="story-subtitle">An Interactive Fiction</h2> <span>✦</span>  <h3 class="story-author">By <a href="#"></a>Evie</h3> </div> </div> <nav> <<link "New Game" "Prologue">><</link>> <<link "Settings">><<run UI.settings();>><</link>> </nav> </div> <div class="credit">✦ Template by <a href="https://outoftheblue-if.tumblr.com" target="_blank">Vahnya</a> ✦</div>

<header> <div class="decoration-i">✦</div> <div class="decoration-ii">✦</div> <div class="decoration-iii">✦</div> <div class="decoration-v">✦</div> <div id="header-top">  <nav class="social-media" data-passage="social media"> </nav> <div class="middle">  <div class="title" data-passage="story title"> </div>  <span id="menu-toggle"> <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i> </span> </div>  <nav class="tools"> <span id="header-settings-button"><i class="fas fa-cog"></i></span> <span id="header-restart-button"><i class="fas fa-undo"></i></span> <span id="header-saves-button"><i class="fas fa-save"></i></span> <span id="header-fullscreen-button"><i class="fas fa-expand-arrows-alt"></i></span> </nav> </div> <div id="header-body"> <div class="content">  <nav class="tools"> <span id="menu-settings-button"><i class="fas fa-cog"></i></span> <span id="menu-restart-button"><i class="fas fa-undo"></i></span> <span id="menu-saves-button"><i class="fas fa-save"></i></span> <span id="menu-fullscreen-button"><i class="fas fa-expand-arrows-alt"></i></span> </nav>  <div class="logo-image" data-passage="story logo"> </div>  <ul id="story-menu" data-passage="story links"> </ul>  <div class="social-media" data-passage="social media"> </div> </div> <div class="credit">✦ Template by <a href="https://outoftheblue-if.tumblr.com" target="_blank">Vahnya</a> ✦</div> </div>  </header> <div id="main"> <div class="decoration-separator"> <span>✦</span> <span>✦</span> <span>✦</span> <span>✦</span> </div> <div id="passages"> </div> <div class="decoration-separator"> <span>✦</span> <span>✦</span> <span>✦</span> <span>✦</span> </div> </div>  <footer>  <span id="backwards-button"><i class="fas fa-chevron-left"></i></span> <span>✦</span> <span id="forwards-button"><i class="fas fa-chevron-right"></i></span> </footer>

<<set $friendly to 50>> <<set $aloof to 50>> <<set $emotional to 50>> <<set $detached to 50>> <<set $shy to 50>> <<set $bold to 50>> <<set $courageous to 50>> <<set $cowardly to 50>> <<set $parents to 50>> <<set $sister to 50>> <<cacheaudio "knock" "./audio/knock.mp3">> // R E L A T I O N S H I P S // <<set $slike to 50>> <<set $llike to 50>> <<set $tlike to 50>> <<set $sflirt to 0>> <<set $lflirt to 0>> <<set $tflirt to 0>> // P R O L O G U E // <<set $loveocean to false>> <<set $loveoceanvibe to false>> <<set $ehocean to false>> <<set $scaredocean to false>> <<set $hateocean to false>> <<set $hatekids to false>> // C H A P T E R O N E // <<set $yayparents to false>> <<set $parentsvalues to false>> <<set $parentsfought to false>> <<set $sisteryay to false>> <<set $sistervalues to false>> <<set $sisterfought to false>> <<set $coolclothes to false>> <<set $lightclothes to false>> <<set $hotclothes to false>> <<set $beach to false>> <<set $volcano to false>> <<set $shopping to false>> <<set $boat to false>> <<set $metl to false>> <<set $mett to false>> // B E A C H // <<set $beachswim to false>> <<set $beachsunbathe to false>> <<set $beachread to false>> <<set $beachseashell to false>>

<li> <<if visited ("Prologue 00.02")>><<link "Codex" "Codex">><</link>><<endif>> </li>

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<h1>Through the Waves</h1>  <img src="./images/wave.png" width="30px" position="center"/>  <h2>An Interactive Fiction</h2>

<div class="story-banner"> <div class="content">  <h1 class="story-title">Through the Waves</h1>  <img src="./images/seashell.png" width="40px" position="center"/>  <h2 class="story-subtitle">An Interactive Fiction</h2> <span>✦</span>  <h3 class="story-author">By <a href="#"></a>Evie</h3> </div> </div>

<div class="box header"> <h1>$name $lastname</h1> <h2>"You!"</h2> <span class="star">✦</span> <ul class="facts"> <li>$They/$Them</li> <li>23</li> <li>Human</li> </ul> </div> <div class="box"> <<if $appearance is true>><h3>Appearance</h3> <i><<if $bald is true>> You have $eyes eyes, and you are bald. Your skin is $skin and you are $height. <<elseif $buzzcut is true>> You have $eyes eyes, with $hair hair that is cut into a buzzcut. Your skin is $skin and you are $height. <<else>> You have $eyes eyes, with $hair hair that is $length. Your skin is $skin and you are $height. <</if>> </div></i> <<else>> Not available yet!<</if>> </div>  <div class="box">  <h3>Personality</h3> <div class="stat-group"> <div class="stat"> <div class="stat-labels"> <span>Friendly $friendly%</span> <span>✦</span> <span>Aloof $aloof%</span> </div> <div class="stat-bar-container"> <div class="stat-bar" id="friendly-stat"></div> </div> </div> <div class="stat"> <div class="stat-labels"> <span>Shy $shy%</span> <span>✦</span> <span>Bold $bold%</span> </div> <div class="stat-bar-container"> <div class="stat-bar" id="shy-stat"></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="stat-group"> <div class="stat"> <div class="stat-labels"> <span>Courageous $courageous%</span> <span>✦</span> <span>Cowardly $cowardly%</span> </div> <div class="stat-bar-container"> <div class="stat-bar" id="courageous-stat"></div> </div> </div> </div> </div>  <span style="display: block; text-align: center;"> <<link "« Return to game" $return>><</link>> </span>

!Prologue !!Content Warnings !!!Implications of depression !!!Mentions of death <<button "Next" "Prologue 00.00">><</button>>

You feel the car jolt as you safely park it in the driveway of your brand new beach house. It still looks the same as it did when you visited it a few weeks ago, after they had just finished building this part of the island. The house is three stories tall, and is painted a deep blue, a perfect color for a house next to a beach. Two wooden decks wrap around the upper floors, and a small wooden staircase is off to the side of the house, leading up to the second floor. You can also see a door on the ground floor which looks to be some kind of storage room for beach essentials, along with two empty spaces next to it, one of which is currently occupied by your car. You listen to the soft sounds of the ocean nearby; waves crash against the shore as the seagulls cackle and fly away in search of food. The salty smell of the sea air permeates your senses as you turn off your car. You lean back into the seat and breathe in a deep sigh. The house is a bit more modern than you would've hoped, but you suppose you may have been expecting too much. They only just started construction on this island a few years ago. Obviously, modern builders aren't going to focus on recreating the old-century aesthetics. You slowly step out of your car, startled at the sounds of a couple of seagulls fluttering away at the sound. Looking around, you see how clean the island looks. It's been a long time since you’ve ever seen grass so green, or trees so healthy. It's astonishing to think that this island only finished emerging five years ago. Looking into the distance, you can see the tall volcano, Mount Verbo, overlooking the entire island of Blue Mist. You allow yourself to stretch your legs as you lean against the car door, soaking in the soothing ocean breeze. The ferry that shipped you and your car here was nice for the first five minutes, but you ended up feeling uncomfortable pretty quickly. You’re just happy to be out of there. After grabbing all of your suitcases, you grab your keys out of your pocket and lock your car before hiking up the wooden steps to your front door. Once the door is unlocked, you find yourself stepping into a white mother's dream home. Many beach aesthetic items like seashells, anchors, sea animals, and even paintings of the sea decorate the front room. The front room is honestly a lot smaller than you expected it to be. The living room is to your left, and the kitchen and dining room are to your right, along with a white staircase in front of you which you assume leads to the third floor. There are two doors in the kitchen that appear to lead to the laundry room and a small downstairs bathroom. The house is very white. You suppose you didn't ask for much when moving here, but you did bring a bunch of your own stuff, so you’re certain you can make this fit your own aesthetic more as soon as you unpack. Before you can head up to the bedrooms, you hear the sound of heels clacking on the top floor. You jolt, backing towards the door as you watch the intruder descend the stairs. You calm down when you see it's none other than Maggie, the woman who sold you the house. Her blonde bob bounces as she makes a beeline for you, a bright, gummy smile playing on her lips as her blue eyes shine with recognition. "It's so good to see you again, ah..." She frowns as she shuffles through the papers on her clipboard. You decide to help her out. "My name is... <<textbox "$name" "Type Your Name Here">>\ <<textbox "$lastname" "Type Your Last Name Here">>\ <<button "Confirm">> <<set $lastname to $lastname.trim()>> <<if $lastname is "Type Your Name">> <<replace "#lastname-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>> <<elseif $lastname is "">> <<replace "#name-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>> <<else>> <<goto "Prologue 00.01">> <</if>> <</button>>    \ <span id="name-error"></span>

<<widget "are">><<switch $plural>><<case true>>are<<case false>>is<</switch>><</widget>> <<widget "were">><<switch $plural>><<case true>>were<<case false>>was<</switch>><</widget>> <<widget "s">><<switch $plural>><<case true>><<case false>>s<</switch>><</widget>> <<widget "es">><<switch $plural>><<case true>><<case false>>es<</switch>><</widget>> <<widget "re">><<switch $plural>><<case true>>re<<case false>>s<</switch>><</widget>> <<widget "ve">><<switch $plural>><<case true>>ve<<case false>>s<</switch>><</widget>> <<widget "fair_minus">><<fair_plus $args[0] -$args[1]>><</widget>> <<widget "opposed_stat">><<nobr>> <div class="statBar"> <div style="float:right"> $args[1] <<= 100-$args[2]>>% </div> <<= '<div class="statLeftBg" style="width:'+$args[2]+'%"> </div>'>> <div> $args[0] $args[2]%</div> </div> <</nobr>><</widget>> <<widget "percent_stat">><<nobr>> <div class="percentBar"> <<= '<div class="percentLeftBg" style="width:'+$args[0]+'%"> </div>'>> <div class="percentBarText">$args[1] $args[0]%</div> </div> <</nobr>><</widget>>

"$name $lastname." Maggie's smile returns when she finds your name on her clipboard, letting out a small 'ah' of recognition as she taps her finger on the paper. "I see, it's good to see you again, $name. It seems you've already completed all of the paperwork and regulations needed to move here, so thank you for that, you've certainly made my job easier. Anyway, I just finished my final examinations of the house, and everything seems fine. Pipes are in order, electricity has been connected, we found no signs of contamination... So, unless you had any questions or requests, I suppose I can be on my way!" You look around one last time before nodding. "I think you were pretty clear during my first visit here, I don't have any other questions." Maggie nods. "Understood. You have my number in case you need anything or notice anything wrong with the house, so please don't hesitate to call. I've also printed out this booklet with all of the phone numbers to any nearby establishments, as well as their hours. I hope you have a great time living in Blue Mist, $name. We're happy to have you here." You nod along as she hands you the booklet, you briefly flip through it and are quite shocked to find that there are already a lot of establishments built on this island. It's so new, you honestly thought you would be left to fend for yourself for a little while. Once you’re fully set, Maggie says her goodbyes and exits through the front door. The house returns to its regular silence, and you’re left alone to explore the rest of the house. Upon walking upstairs, you find two bedrooms with their own respective bathrooms attached. They seem to be decorated in a similar fashion, with two queen beds and a couple of necessary pieces of furniture for a bedroom. The walls being painted teal was an interesting choice, however. Perhaps you should get a painter to fix that, or do it yourself. You walk into the left bedroom, and begin unpacking. You didn't bring much, but you’re sure you’ll find a lot of trinkets to fill up your home with here. The island is so new, and all the hotels are already finding themselves to be completely booked, so you’re sure you can find all kinds of touristy shops around the island. The bathroom is a little cramped, and whoever painted this house clearly had a favorite color, because it is also painted teal. There's a small window near the door with blinds covering it for privacy. You can't imagine you’ll ever open those blinds. Unpacking takes a while, but you decided it was better to get it over with now than struggle with it later when you’re all burnt out from exploring the island. You turn on some music and make an attempt to quickly put everything away before you get too bored. You’re mostly moving on autopilot before your hands grab a frame from out of your suitcase. Your breath hitches as you feel a swarm of memories come back. Slowly pulling it out, you see that it's an old family photo of you, your parents, and your sister. You take a seat on the bed as you stare at it. You’ve been pushing these memories back all day. You’ve been so desperate to get out of the situation you’re in that you //almost// forgot about it. But it was a pointless effort, you know it. You feel the tears brim your eyes as you recall the memory of finding out about their passing. The red and blue police lights shining into your old childhood home as they broke the news. Then your mind recalls the memory of you researching new houses, and stumbling upon this new island that resurfaced and had only just now finished building liveable homes. The inheritance money from all three of them passing offered more than enough to afford it, and you thought you deserved the break. You were hoping you’d have an escape. Somewhere to go to just relax and allow yourself to grieve. You need this to work. You don't know what you’re supposed to do if it doesn't. You shake your head, opting to place the photo down on the top of your dresser as you return to unpacking. Sitting around dwelling on it is the last thing you need to do. This island is supposed to be your escape and the beginning of a new chapter. You need to focus on moving on. After a couple of grueling hours, you finish unpacking. You move to the window to look outside and you find it's still pretty bright out. You did arrive here early in the morning, so you decide to step out and head to the nearby grocery store to begin filling your fridge. You doubt you’ll be cooking much this first week, but you also don't want to spend your inheritance money at the expensive restaurants in the area for the entire time you’ll be living here. Quickly grabbing a bag and your wallet, you head back outside into the salty breeze. God, it's going to take you a while to get used to that smell. <<button "Next" "Prologue 00.02">><</button>>

<<notify>> Codex Unlocked! <</notify>> Getting into your car, you quickly pull up the route to the grocery store on your GPS. Only a few minutes away. This'll be a quick trip, which you’re //very// grateful for, because you are so tired of sitting in a car. The grocery store isn't anything interesting. You can see a lot of beach essentials from here—which is not shocking, you are on an island—but for now you’re mainly focusing on food and drinks. You have all the time in the world to swim, and you’ve learned that most people who live near the beach rarely ever visit it. You grab a cart and maneuver down the various aisles, grabbing ingredients that you think you’ll need or just ingredients you found your parents buying a lot as a child, along with some frozen dinners, just in case you don't feel like cooking or going out one night. The grocery store isn't //too// crowded, but there are still a lot of people. Not all of the boats have shipped in yet, so it seems you picked a good time to shop here. The cashier barely spares you a glance as they scan your stuff. Not that you mind, you’re all checked out before you know it, and you’re heading back outside to face the chill breezes and the sounds of the ocean. A few people walking by shoot you a kind 'hello' as you unpack the grocery bags and deliver the cart back to the cart station. As you pull out of the parking lot, you see a nice view of the ocean shore. It seems a few have taken the opportunity to swim earlier than others. Kids build sandcastles along the shore, ladies tan on towels with pretty designs, and families run out into the waves, laughing at how cold the water is. *<<link "You can't wait to join them, you’ve always loved the ocean." "Prologue 00.03a">><</link>> *<<link "You love the ocean... but from a distance." "Prologue 00.03b">><</link>> *<<link "Truthfully, you’ve never cared much for the ocean." "Prologue 00.03c">><</link>> *<<link "You’re terrified of the ocean." "Prologue 00.03d">><</link>> *<<link "You cannot //stand// the ocean." "Prologue 00.03e">><</link>>

<<if visited ("Prologue 00.06")>><<button "You!" "You!">><</button>><</if>> <<if visited ("Chapter 01.05")>><<button "Your family" "Your family">><</button>><</if>> <<button "Relationships" "Relationships">><</button>> <div class="choicetable"> <<button '<div class="returnbutton"><span>Return To Game</span></div>' $return>><</button>> </div>

The feeling of the salt water on your skin, the wide horizon, all of the cute sea animals... Nothing beats the ocean. It's definitely your favorite place on the entirety of planet Earth. When you were younger, your parents would take you and your sister to the beach every summer, they did their best to aim for beaches you two had never been to, they said it ‘encouraged curiosity’. You miss those times. You suppose it isn't much of a surprise you moved to an island. It was almost like destiny that you found this place. You really do feel at home here, despite just moving in. The house is quiet when you step outside of the car. It's going to take you a while to get used to living alone. You’ve lived with your family your entire life, and when you went to college, you had roommates. It’s so quiet, it almost makes you uncomfortable. You turn your head to look at the houses in the far distance, you wonder if any of them are particularly friendly people? Maybe it would help to go to some house parties, or even host one of your own. You open your truck and begin grabbing some grocery bags when a soft voice breaks you out of your thoughts. "Hello?" You turn and meet the eyes of a... <<set $s_he to "he">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_him to "him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_He to "He">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Him to "Him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $sp_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $sp_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_man to "man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Man to "Man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_himself to "himself">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Himself to "Himself">><<set $plural to true>>\ *<<link "Beautiful woman." "Prologue 00.04">><<set $s_he to "she">><<set $s_him to "her">><<set $s_He to "She">><<set $s_Him to "Her">><<set $s_his to "her">><<set $s_His to "Her">><<set $sp_His to "Hers">><<set $sp_his to "hers">><<set $s_man to "woman">><<set $s_Man to "Woman">><<set $s_himself to "herself">><<set $s_Himself to "Herself">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $sfemale to true>><<set $sname to "Sophia">><</link>> *<<link "Handsome man." "Prologue 00.04">><<set $s_he to "he">><<set $s_him to "him">><<set $s_He to "He">><<set $s_Him to "Him">><<set $s_his to "his">><<set $s_His to "His">><<set $sp_His to "His">><<set $sp_his to "his">><<set $s_man to "man">><<set $s_Man to "Man">><set $s_himself to "himself">><<set $s_Himself to "Himself">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $smale to true>><<set $sname to "Simon">><</link>> <<set $loveocean to true>>

You don't really like //swimming// in the ocean, but the breeze, the smells, the decor, and the tans are nice. When you were younger, your parents would take you and your sister to the beach every summer, they did their best to aim for beaches you two had never been to, they said it ‘encouraged curiosity’. Even though your sister would always get mad at you for never wanting to swim, you are very fond of those memories. You remember collecting all of the seashells along the shore, and staring out into the horizon, wondering what lies in the depths of that deep blue sea. You suppose it isn't much of a surprise you moved to an island. It was almost like destiny that you found this place. You really do feel at home here, despite just moving in. The house is quiet when you step outside of the car. It's going to take you a while to get used to living alone. You’ve lived with your family your entire life, and when you went to college, you had roommates. It’s so quiet, it almost makes you uncomfortable. You turn your head to look at the houses in the far distance, you wonder if any of them are particularly friendly people? Maybe it would help to go to some house parties, or even host one of your own. You open your truck and begin grabbing some grocery bags when a soft voice breaks you out of your thoughts. "Hello?" You turn and meet the eyes of a... <<set $s_he to "he">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_him to "him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_He to "He">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Him to "Him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $sp_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $sp_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_man to "man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Man to "Man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_himself to "himself">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Himself to "Himself">><<set $plural to true>>\ *<<link "Beautiful woman." "Prologue 00.04">><<set $s_he to "she">><<set $s_him to "her">><<set $s_He to "She">><<set $s_Him to "Her">><<set $s_his to "her">><<set $s_His to "Her">><<set $sp_His to "Hers">><<set $sp_his to "hers">><<set $s_man to "woman">><<set $s_Man to "Woman">><<set $s_himself to "herself">><<set $s_Himself to "Herself">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $sfemale to true>><<set $sname to "Sophia">><</link>> *<<link "Handsome man." "Prologue 00.04">><<set $s_he to "he">><<set $s_him to "him">><<set $s_He to "He">><<set $s_Him to "Him">><<set $s_his to "his">><<set $s_His to "His">><<set $sp_His to "His">><<set $sp_his to "his">><<set $s_man to "man">><<set $s_Man to "Man">><set $s_himself to "himself">><<set $s_Himself to "Himself">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $smale to true>><<set $sname to "Simon">><</link>> <<set $loveoceanvibe to true>>

It's pretty and kind of interesting, but you’ve never cared for the scary and mythical animals that might live there, or the way the water feels on your skin. It's a nice way to cool off, but that's about all it's good for. The ocean has never felt all that special to you. When you were younger, your parents would take you and your sister to the beach every summer, they did their best to aim for beaches you two had never been to, they said it ‘encouraged curiosity’. Your sister never understood your feelings towards the beach. She always adored the ocean, and she would always tell you about how in her next life, she'd be a mermaid. You smile to yourself at the memory. She would've loved it here. The house is quiet when you step outside of the car. It's going to take you a while to get used to living alone. You’ve lived with your family your entire life, and when you went to college, you had roommates. It’s so quiet, it almost makes you uncomfortable. You turn your head to look at the houses in the far distance, you wonder if any of them are particularly friendly people? Maybe it would help to go to some house parties, or even host one of your own. You open your truck and begin grabbing some grocery bags when a soft voice breaks you out of your thoughts. "Hello?" You turn and meet the eyes of a... <<set $s_he to "he">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_him to "him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_He to "He">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Him to "Him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $sp_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $sp_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_man to "man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Man to "Man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_himself to "himself">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Himself to "Himself">><<set $plural to true>>\ *<<link "Beautiful woman." "Prologue 00.04">><<set $s_he to "she">><<set $s_him to "her">><<set $s_He to "She">><<set $s_Him to "Her">><<set $s_his to "her">><<set $s_His to "Her">><<set $sp_His to "Hers">><<set $sp_his to "hers">><<set $s_man to "woman">><<set $s_Man to "Woman">><<set $s_himself to "herself">><<set $s_Himself to "Herself">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $sfemale to true>><<set $sname to "Sophia">><</link>> *<<link "Handsome man." "Prologue 00.04">><<set $s_he to "he">><<set $s_him to "him">><<set $s_He to "He">><<set $s_Him to "Him">><<set $s_his to "his">><<set $s_His to "His">><<set $sp_His to "His">><<set $sp_his to "his">><<set $s_man to "man">><<set $s_Man to "Man">><set $s_himself to "himself">><<set $s_Himself to "Himself">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $smale to true>><<set $sname to "Simon">><</link>> <<set $ehocean to true>>

<<set $cowardly to Math.clamp($cowardly + 5, 0, 100)>>All of the talk about what may lie in the deep blue sea, and how we've only discovered 5%, and how the 5% we //have// discovered contains things like sharks, blobfish, and those ugly anglerfish terrifies you. You don't care how 'rare' shark attacks are. They happen, and that's enough to make you terrified. Plus, it's so easy to drown in those waters, and have nobody be able to save you. Some beaches don't even have lifeguards, and think about how many boats have sunk in those waters. You don't care how 'romantic' they try to make the Titanic be, it will always be a horror story! When you were younger, your parents would take you and your sister to the beach every summer, they did their best to aim for beaches you two had never been to, they said it ‘encouraged curiosity’. Your sister never understood your fear of the ocean. She always reminded you that we went swimming there all the time, and nothing ever happened. You were just 'too paranoid about the what-if's'. Now she's the one lying down in the deep sand of the very same ocean she made fun of you for being terrified of. You hate being right, sometimes. The house is quiet when you step outside of the car. It's going to take you a while to get used to living alone. You’ve lived with your family your entire life, and when you went to college, you had roommates. It’s so quiet, it almost makes you uncomfortable. You turn your head to look at the houses in the far distance, you wonder if any of them are particularly friendly people? Maybe it would help to go to some house parties, or even host one of your own. You open your truck and begin grabbing some grocery bags when a soft voice breaks you out of your thoughts. "Hello?" You turn and meet the eyes of a... <<set $s_he to "he">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_him to "him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_He to "He">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Him to "Him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $sp_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $sp_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_man to "man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Man to "Man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_himself to "himself">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Himself to "Himself">><<set $plural to true>>\ *<<link "Beautiful woman." "Prologue 00.04">><<set $s_he to "she">><<set $s_him to "her">><<set $s_He to "She">><<set $s_Him to "Her">><<set $s_his to "her">><<set $s_His to "Her">><<set $sp_His to "Hers">><<set $sp_his to "hers">><<set $s_man to "woman">><<set $s_Man to "Woman">><<set $s_himself to "herself">><<set $s_Himself to "Herself">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $sfemale to true>><<set $sname to "Sophia">><</link>> *<<link "Handsome man." "Prologue 00.04">><<set $s_he to "he">><<set $s_him to "him">><<set $s_He to "He">><<set $s_Him to "Him">><<set $s_his to "his">><<set $s_His to "His">><<set $sp_His to "His">><<set $sp_his to "his">><<set $s_man to "man">><<set $s_Man to "Man">><set $s_himself to "himself">><<set $s_Himself to "Himself">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $smale to true>><<set $sname to "Simon">><</link>> <<set $scaredocean to true>>

You honestly don't know what you hate about it. You’re not scared of it, per se, but you just hate coming here. You hate the smell, you hate the sounds, and you hate the feeling of the water. And by God, you hate how bright the sun is here. When you were younger, your parents would take you and your sister to the beach every summer, they did their best to aim for beaches you two had never been to, they said it ‘encouraged curiosity’. Your sister always thought you were crazy for complaining about going, and you two got into a lot of arguments about it. She always tried to encourage you to play with her, but you refused every time. You just wanted to go home. You suppose it's kind of ironic that you were the one to end up moving to an island, huh? The house is quiet when you step outside of the car. It's going to take you a while to get used to living alone. You’ve lived with your family your entire life, and when you went to college, you had roommates. It’s so quiet, it almost makes you uncomfortable. You turn your head to look at the houses in the far distance, you wonder if any of them are particularly friendly people? Maybe it would help to go to some house parties, or even host one of your own. You open your truck and begin grabbing some grocery bags when a soft voice breaks you out of your thoughts. "Hello?" You turn and meet the eyes of a... <<set $s_he to "he">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_him to "him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_He to "He">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Him to "Him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $sp_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $sp_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_man to "man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Man to "Man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_himself to "himself">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $s_Himself to "Himself">><<set $plural to true>>\ *<<link "Beautiful woman." "Prologue 00.04">><<set $s_he to "she">><<set $s_him to "her">><<set $s_He to "She">><<set $s_Him to "Her">><<set $s_his to "her">><<set $s_His to "Her">><<set $sp_His to "Hers">><<set $sp_his to "hers">><<set $s_man to "woman">><<set $s_Man to "Woman">><<set $s_himself to "herself">><<set $s_Himself to "Herself">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $sfemale to true>><<set $sname to "Sophia">><</link>> *<<link "Handsome man." "Prologue 00.04">><<set $s_he to "he">><<set $s_him to "him">><<set $s_He to "He">><<set $s_Him to "Him">><<set $s_his to "his">><<set $s_His to "His">><<set $sp_His to "His">><<set $sp_his to "his">><<set $s_man to "man">><<set $s_Man to "Man">><set $s_himself to "himself">><<set $s_Himself to "Himself">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $smale to true>><<set $sname to "Simon">><</link>> <<set $hateocean to true>>

A young $s_man is standing in your driveway, a small, friendly smile on $s_his face. $s_His <<if $sfemale is true>> straight blonde hair is cut into a bob, and her piercing blue eyes meet yours, a cheerful glint in them. Her tanned skin shines under the bright sun, and she wears a blue sundress with small white polka dots and a white floppy hat to go with it. <<else>> straight blond hair is cut next to his jawline, and is slit back. His piercing blue eyes meet yours, a cheerful glint in them. His tanned skin shines under the bright sun, and he wears a plain white button-up shirt, with a few of the buttons undone to show a bit of his chest, he wears matching shorts, and black sunglasses to complete the look.<</if>> $s_He's definitely dressed for a beach day. "Sorry to bother you." $s_He walks closer, <<if $male is true>> taking off his sunglasses as he steps closer to you. <<else>> brushing a hair behind her ear as she steps closer to you. <</if>> "But I had notice you were home and I thought I'd introduce myself." You notice a slight French accent as $s_he speaks. $s_He holds out a hand to you. "I'm $sname, I live just over there." $s_He points to the house behind you, which is a few acres away from your own home. *<<link "Your eyes trail over $s_him. //Damn//. ♡" "Prologue 00.05a">><</link>> *<<link "Shake $s_his hand. 'I was planning to meet my neighbors sometime soon.'" "Prologue 00.05b">><</link>> *<<link "Don't respond. You kind of want $s_him to leave." "Prologue 00.05c">><</link>>

<<set $slike to Math.clamp($slike + 5, 0, 100)>> <<set $sflirt to Math.clamp($sflirt + 1, 0, 100)>> <<set $friendly to Math.clamp($friendly + 5, 0, 100)>> <<set $bold to Math.clamp($bold + 5, 0, 100)>> You can't help yourself. Your eyes trail over $s_his figure, eyeing the way $s_his clothes tighten in just the right places. $sname must have noticed your oogling, as a small blush appears on $s_his cheeks when you look back into $s_his eyes. "Ah... Well, I just thought I'd stop by to introduce myself. I want to get to know my neighbors, since we're all kind of new to this place. This island might be a little dangerous, I want to make sure we're all here for each other, you know?" "That's oddly kind of you." You smile, it's nice to know you have someone looking out for you. $sname shakes $s_his head. "It's nothing, really. Ah, may I ask your name, by the way?" "Oh, I completely forgot." You laugh. "I'm $name. It's nice to meet you." "You as well. I'm kind of happy to be meeting... <<set $they to "they">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $them to "them">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $They to "They">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $Them to "Them">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $theyre to "they're">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $Theyre to "They're">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $their to "their">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $Their to "Their">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $child to "child">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $sibling to "sibling">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $kid to "kid">><<set $plural to true>>\ *<<link "A woman my age." "Prologue 00.06">><<set $they to "she">><<set $them to "her">><<set $They to "She">><<set $Them to "Her">><<set $child to "daughter">><<set $theyre to "she's">><<set $Theyre to "She's">><<set $their to "she's">><<set $Their to "She's">><<set $sibling to "sister">><<set $kid to "girl">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $female to true>><</link>> *<<link "A man my age." "Prologue 00.06">><<set $they to "he">><<set $them to "him">><<set $They to "He">><<set $Them to "Him">><<set $child to "son">><<set $theyre to "he's">><<set $Theyre to "He's">><<set $their to "he's">><<set $Their to "He's">><<set $sibling to "brother">><<set $kid to "boy">><<<<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $male to true>><</link>> *<<link "Someone my age." "Prologue 00.06">><<set $they to "they">><<set $them to "them">><<set $They to "They">><<set $Them to "Them">><<set $child to "child">><<set $theyre to "they're">><<set $Theyre to "They're">><<set $their to "their">><<set $Their to "Their">><<set $sibling to "sibling">><<set $kid to "kid">><<<<set $plural to true>><<update>><<set $nb to true>><</link>>

<<set $friendly to Math.clamp($friendly + 5, 0, 100)>>\ $sname smiles as you shake $s_his hand. "I just thought I'd stop by to introduce myself. I want to get to know my neighbors, since we're all kind of new to this place. This island might be a little dangerous, I want to make sure we're all here for each other, you know?" "That's oddly kind of you." You smile, it's nice to know you have someone looking out for you. $sname shakes $s_his head. "It's nothing, really. Ah, may I ask your name, by the way?" "Oh, I completely forgot." You laugh. "I'm $name. It's nice to meet you." "You as well. I'm kind of happy to be meeting... <<set $they to "they">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $them to "them">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $They to "They">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $Them to "Them">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $theyre to "they're">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $Theyre to "They're">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $their to "their">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $Their to "Their">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $child to "child">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $sibling to "sibling">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $kid to "kid">><<set $plural to true>>\ *<<link "A woman my age." "Prologue 00.06">><<set $they to "she">><<set $them to "her">><<set $They to "She">><<set $Them to "Her">><<set $child to "daughter">><<set $theyre to "she's">><<set $Theyre to "She's">><<set $their to "she's">><<set $Their to "She's">><<set $sibling to "sister">><<set $kid to "girl">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $female to true>><</link>> *<<link "A man my age." "Prologue 00.06">><<set $they to "he">><<set $them to "him">><<set $They to "He">><<set $Them to "Him">><<set $child to "son">><<set $theyre to "he's">><<set $Theyre to "He's">><<set $their to "he's">><<set $Their to "He's">><<set $sibling to "brother">><<set $kid to "boy">><<<<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $male to true>><</link>> *<<link "Someone my age." "Prologue 00.06">><<set $they to "they">><<set $them to "them">><<set $They to "They">><<set $Them to "Them">><<set $child to "child">><<set $theyre to "they're">><<set $Theyre to "They're">><<set $their to "their">><<set $Their to "Their">><<set $sibling to "sibling">><<set $kid to "kid">><<<<set $plural to true>><<update>><<set $nb to true>><</link>>

<<set $aloof to Math.clamp($aloof + 5, 0, 100)>>\ $sname drops $s_his hand when you don't shake it, but doesn't seem bothered by your lack of enthusiasm to meet $s_him. "I just thought I'd stop by to introduce myself. I want to get to know my neighbors, since we're all kind of new to this place. This island might be a little dangerous, I want to make sure we're all here for each other, you know?" "That's oddly kind of you." You say. $sname shakes $s_his head. "It's nothing, really. Ah, may I ask your name, by the way?" "Oh, I completely forgot." You shake your head. "I'm $name. It's nice to meet you." "You as well. I'm kind of happy to be meeting... <<set $they to "they">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $them to "them">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $They to "They">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $Them to "Them">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $theyre to "they're">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $Theyre to "They're">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $their to "their">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $Their to "Their">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $child to "child">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $sibling to "sibling">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $kid to "kid">><<set $plural to true>>\ *<<link "A woman my age." "Prologue 00.06">><<set $they to "she">><<set $them to "her">><<set $They to "She">><<set $Them to "Her">><<set $child to "daughter">><<set $theyre to "she's">><<set $Theyre to "She's">><<set $their to "she's">><<set $Their to "She's">><<set $sibling to "sister">><<set $kid to "girl">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $female to true>><</link>> *<<link "A man my age." "Prologue 00.06">><<set $they to "he">><<set $them to "him">><<set $They to "He">><<set $Them to "Him">><<set $child to "son">><<set $theyre to "he's">><<set $Theyre to "He's">><<set $their to "he's">><<set $Their to "He's">><<set $sibling to "brother">><<set $kid to "boy">><<<<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $male to true>><</link>> *<<link "Someone my age." "Prologue 00.06">><<set $they to "they">><<set $them to "them">><<set $They to "They">><<set $Them to "Them">><<set $child to "child">><<set $theyre to "they're">><<set $Theyre to "They're">><<set $their to "their">><<set $Their to "Their">><<set $sibling to "sibling">><<set $kid to "kid">><<<<set $plural to true>><<update>><<set $nb to true>><</link>>

<<notify>> Codex Updated: $sname! <</notify>>"Everyone here is really old or around my age but with a large family themselves. I guess that's kind of to be expected when you're among the elites, though, huh?" $sname shrugs. $s_His eyes scan over your driveway, before returning to yours. "Do you live alone?" You nod. $sname tilts $s_his head. "Wow, you're able to afford to live here all by yourself? I just moved in with my mom." "If it's any consolation, I bought this with inheritance money." $sname frowns. "Oh, I'm sorry for your loss. Who died, if I may ask?" "My parents and sister." $sname's eyes widen even more, and $s_he places a hand over $s_his mouth. "Oh my God, all of them? At the same time?" You rub your neck, already feeling uncomfortable. $sname swallows. "I'm so sorry, I can't even imagine." You shrug, unsure of what else to say. "I came here to help myself grieve, and I think it might be working already. At least a little. I felt more at peace when I first arrived here." $sname nods, giving you a soft smile. "I understand, it's important to go to a safe place when you're grieving. But if you ever need someone to talk to, I'm right next door. I don't want you to feel alone..." "Thank you, $sname. I appreciate it." It's a little surprising that $sname was willing to offer you support despite barely knowing you, but considering that $s_he came over here to just to tell you $s_he wanted you to be safe, you guess that's just the type of person $s_he is. "Of course. I'm glad to have spoken with you, $name. You're a very kind person. I don't want to keep you out here any longer, since you just got groceries, so I'll get out of your hair. But I hope we can talk again soon." You nod and wave goodbye to $sname as $s_he turns around, returning to $s_his own home. It was a nice encounter, you think to yourself as you return to your groceries. A little awkward, but $sname seems genuine. Once you finish putting away your groceries, you look outside and see the sun has started to move to the other side of the sky. You’ll have to figure out what else to do to pass the time. <<button "Some time passes..." "Prologue 00.07">><</button>>

Well, you didn't get up to much. You went out to eat for dinner and lunch. Both were delicious, and you had the opportunity to try some dishes that you’d never even heard of before. You suppose the restaurant owners are trying to create a culture for Blue Mist, so they started inventing some new dishes using the island plants that the locals could say are native to Blue Mist. Some were better than others. Now, you’re relaxing on the couch. You want to enjoy the time you have where you //can// relax before you need to go and get a job. And maybe a therapist. You were a little disappointed to find that the TV offered no island-exclusive stations. But as far as you know, there aren't any filming studios on the island. You don't even think there's any celebrities on the island. If there was, it probably would've been all over the news and you would've seen some paparazzi around. As the clock begins to reach 9:00, you yawn and feel yourself getting sleepy. It's an odd time for you to fall asleep, but today was moving day, it’s only natural you’re exhausted. You turn the TV off and begin to walk towards the stairs when something in your peripheral vision catches your eye. Turning your head, you can see something shining in the distance. You can't make out what it is from here, but you can tell that whatever it is, it's on the docks. Your legs start moving on their own, walking towards the window as you press your hands against the glass, attempting to see through the blaring ceiling light that obstructs your view. You still can't make out what it is, but it seems to glow brighter the more you look at it. You want to go find out what it is. You almost snort at the thought. You almost think you’re about to walk onto a horror movie set. But for some reason, you feel an odd sense of tranquility washing over you when you look at the glowing orb. You turn your head to go look at the staircase leading to your room. You could so easily just ignore it... *<<link "Go check it out." "Prologue 00.08">><</link>> *<<link "Go to sleep.">><</link>>

<<if visited ("Prologue 00.06")>><<button "$sname" "$sname">><</button>><</if>> <<if visited ("Chapter 01.09b")>><<button "$lname" "$lname">><</button>><</if>> <<if visited ("Chapter 01.08c")>><<button "$tname" "$tname">><</button>><</if>> <div class="choicetable"> <<button '<div class="returnbutton"><span>Return To Game</span></div>' $return>><</button>> </div> chapter 01.08c

Your feet are moving before you’ve even made up your mind. You quickly grab your keys off the hook and walk out the door. Shoving the keys into your pockets, you march down the wooden steps and make a beeline for the beach. The sand sinks underneath your weight, and your steps slow as you’re forced to comply with the lack of support for your feet. You can see your house fading away in your periphery. *<<link "Keep walking." "Prologue 00.09">><</link>> *<<link "What are you doing? Turn around!">><</link>>

As you step closer to the docks, the glow dims. You can hear your feet tapping against the wooden planks as you walk closer to the item. The entire beach is silent, save for the waves crashing against the shore. There's no one else here, not even the seagulls. You can make out a shape at the end of the dock, and as you step closer, you can see it's a bracelet. It's a rusted copper bracelet with many seashell shapes carved into it, and a single turquoise gem in the middle. It's beautiful, but you can't tell why you felt so drawn to it. It doesn't look like anything special. It's not even glowing anymore. You wonder if you just hallucinated it as you slide it onto your arm. You wait by the docks, as if expecting something to happen. The breeze from the waves chills you to your core, and your body screams at you to return to the warmth of your home. But in the distance of the dark atmosphere, you can see something floating above the waves, not too far away from where you’re standing. You tilt your head and take a step closer, trying to see through the darkness. The distinct shape almost looks like the upper half of a human body, and for a second, you almost see it tilting its head back at you. But as you take another step closer, you watch it dive under the waves, succumbing back into the ocean waters. You don't miss the large fin that surfaces above the water, before it disappears along with the head. <<button "Next" "Chapter One">><</button>>

!Chapter One !!Content Warnings !!!Slight kidnapping !!!Mentions of death !!!Grief !!!Minimal implied possession <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.00">><</button>>

<<audio "knock" volume 0.25 fadeout>><<timed 3s t8n>> A knock at your door. <</timed>> <<timed 5s t8n>> You slowly rise out of bed, rubbing your forehead as you blearily blink your eyes open, shielding your face from the sunlight pouring into your room. You jolt at a sudden cool touch against your wrist, only to find the bracelet from last night that you had apparently left on, the turquoise jewel glistens in the sunlight. The knock continues, bringing you back to the present. You rub a hand over your face before willing yourself to get up and answer the door. When you open the door, you find the $s_man you met yesterday, $sname, standing on your porch with a small box in $s_his hand. "Ah, hello!" $s_He says with a smile, before $s_his eyes trail down to your clothing, and $s_his smile softens. "Oh, sorry, I didn't realize you were still sleeping. I can come back later?" You wave a hand. "It's fine, I was probably going to wake up soon, anyways. Do you want to come in?" $s_He nods. "Sure!" You open the door for $s_him and $sname saunters in, placing the box on your dining table before looking around. "There's homemade cookies in there, I've been going around the neighborhood and gifting them to everyone. I thought since everyone's new to this island, we should all be friendly and courteous to one another, and help keep each other safe." "That's nice of you," You comment as you walk over to the dining table. In the box, you find chocolate chip cookies, peanut butter blossoms, and sugar cookies. *<<link "You love cookies!" "Chapter 01.01a">><</link>> *<<link "Cookies are okay, you’re sure you’ll enjoy these as a nice snack when you’re not feeling hungry enough for a meal." "Chapter 01.01b">><</link>> *<<link "Ugh, you hate cookies." "Chapter 01.01c">><</link>><</timed>>

Mom used to bake you and your sister cookies all of the time, hers were always the best. You can't stop yourself from reaching into the box and picking up one of the chocolate chip ones, the flavors melt into your mouth, making the perfect blend of chocolate and cookie. You let out a small 'mm' as you eat. $sname turns to look at you, a smile on $s_his face. "Good, right? I've always loved baking, it's calms me down. I also love seeing others' reactions when I gift them a small batch. It always seems to make someone's day." You nod, finishing your cookie. "My mom would bake me some whenever I was having a particularly stressful week, it always cheered me up." "Ah, right... Your mother. How have you been holding up? I know it's only been a day since we talked, but..." $sname looks at you with a sympathetic expression, $s_his eyes now having softened as $s_he examines your features. As you look back into $s_his eyes, it slowly dawns on you that you haven't given yourself a lot of time to process your grief. Even before moving here, you found yourself pushing those feelings away and distracting yourself with school or activities. *<<link "Tears begin to well up as the feelings of grief and depression come spiraling towards you, finally catching up after all this time." "Chapter 01.02a">><</link>> *<<link "You find yourself feeling...nothing. You can't bring yourself to feel anything about their death." "Chapter 01.02b">><</link>> *<<link "A blind hot rage suddenly flashes in your head as you start to feel an incredible anger take over you." "Chapter 01.02c">><</link>> *<<link "Rather than feeling //grief// per se, you find yourself fearing for the future. You’ll have to navigate the rest of your life alone, there's no one here to guide you anymore." "Chapter 01.02d">><</link>> *<<link "Instead of feeling any kind of grief, you’ve come to find yourself at peace with their death. You’ve accepted and have slowly begun to move on." "Chapter 01.02e">><</link>>

You’re not the biggest fan of cookies, but you suppose they'll be a nice snack whenever you’re craving something small and sweet. You reach into the box and pick out a chocolate chip cookie. Biting into it, the flavors melt into your mouth, making the perfect blend of chocolate and cookie. $sname turns to look at you, a smile on $s_his face. "Good, right? I've always loved baking, it's calms me down, and I love seeing other's reactions when I gift them a small batch. It always seems to make someone's day." You nod, finishing your cookie. "My mom would bake me some whenever I was having a particularly stressful week. Cookies aren't my favorite, but I always appreciated the gesture." "Ah, right... Your mother. How have you been holding up? I know it's only been a day since we talked, but..." $sname looks at you with a sympathetic expression, $s_his eyes now having softened as $s_he examines your features. As you look back into $s_his eyes, it slowly dawns on you that you haven't given yourself a lot of time to process your grief. Even before moving here, you found yourself pushing those feelings away and distracting yourself with school or activities. *<<link "Tears begin to well up as the feelings of grief and depression come spiraling towards you, finally catching up after all this time." "Chapter 01.02a">><</link>> *<<link "You find yourself feeling...nothing. You can't bring yourself to feel anything about their death." "Chapter 01.02b">><</link>> *<<link "A blind hot rage suddenly flashes in your head as you start to feel an incredible anger take over you." "Chapter 01.02c">><</link>> *<<link "Rather than feeling //grief// per se, you find yourself fearing for the future. You’ll have to navigate the rest of your life alone, there's no one here to guide you anymore." "Chapter 01.02d">><</link>> *<<link "Instead of feeling any kind of grief, you’ve come to find yourself at peace with their death. You’ve accepted and have slowly begun to move on." "Chapter 01.02e">><</link>>

You wrinkle your nose at the box, and subtly push it away. You don't want to seem rude, so you don't tell $sname that you don't want them. You’re sure one of your other neighbors wouldn't mind some extra cookies... $sname turns to look at you, a smile on $s_his face. "Everyone in the neighborhood seems to like them, which I appreciate. I love seeing other's reactions when I gift them a small batch. It always seems to make someone's day." You nod, giving $s_him a smile. "My mom used to bake cookies whenever my sister was having a bad week, it always seemed to cheer her up." You nod, finishing your cookie. "My mom would bake me some whenever I was having a particularly stressful week. Cookies aren't my favorite, but I always appreciated the gesture." "Ah, right... Your mother. How have you been holding up? I know it's only been a day since we talked, but..." $sname looks at you with a sympathetic expression, $s_his eyes now having softened as $s_he examines your features. As you look back into $s_his eyes, it slowly dawns on you that you haven't given yourself a lot of time to process your grief. Even before moving here, you found yourself pushing those feelings away and distracting yourself with school or activities. *<<link "Tears begin to well up as the feelings of grief and depression come spiraling towards you, finally catching up after all this time." "Chapter 01.02a">><</link>> *<<link "You find yourself feeling...nothing. You can't bring yourself to feel anything about their death." "Chapter 01.02b">><</link>> *<<link "A blind hot rage suddenly flashes in your head as you start to feel an incredible anger take over you." "Chapter 01.02c">><</link>> *<<link "Rather than feeling //grief// per se, you find yourself fearing for the future. You’ll have to navigate the rest of your life alone, there's no one here to guide you anymore." "Chapter 01.02d">><</link>> *<<link "Instead of feeling any kind of grief, you’ve come to find yourself at peace with their death. You’ve accepted and have slowly begun to move on." "Chapter 01.02e">><</link>>

<<set $emotional to Math.clamp($emotional + 3, 0, 100)>>You break down into tears in front of $sname before you can stop yourself. $s_He quickly moves to stand next to you, placing a hesitant hand on your arm. You feel horrible about it, crying in front of a $s_man you don't even know, but if $sname finds it weird, $s_he's certainly good at hiding it. "Maybe it'll help to talk about them?" $sname suddenly says, causing you to look up at $s_him. $s_He shrugs. "Sometimes it's comforting to talk about the dead, I guess as long as their memory stays alive, it's like they're still here." You ponder over that for a moment, before nodding. *<<link "Talk about your parents." "Chapter 01.03a">><</link>> *<<link "Talk about your sister." "Chapter 01.03b">><</link>>

<<set $detached to Math.clamp($detached + 3, 0, 100)>>You stare back at $s_him with a blank expression before shrugging. "I don't know, I guess the emotions haven't kicked in yet." "I get it, sometimes it takes a minute to process everything. "Maybe it'll help to talk about them? Sometimes it's comforting to talk about the dead, I guess as long as their memory stays alive, it's like they're still here." $sname gives you an encouraging smile and nods for you to talk. You ponder over that for a moment, before nodding. *<<link "Talk about your parents." "Chapter 01.03a">><</link>> *<<link "Talk about your sister." "Chapter 01.03b">><</link>>

<<set $emotional to Math.clamp($emotional + 2, 0, 100)>>You feel your face turn into a scowl, which causes $sname to raise their eyebrows. "Sorry, I just... It makes me so //mad//. How is it fair that the universe can just take the people you love at random? Like, one moment, everything's fine, life is better than it has ever been, you're finally finding your purpose, and then it just crashes all around you. Just because the universe said it should." You feel bad about ranting about grief and life to a $s_man you just met, but if $sname finds it weird, $s_he's certainly good at hiding it. "Maybe it'll help to talk about them?" $sname suddenly says, causing you to look up at $s_him. $s_He shrugs. "Sometimes it's comforting to talk about the dead, I guess as long as their memory stays alive, it's like they're still here." You ponder over that for a moment, before nodding. *<<link "Talk about your parents." "Chapter 01.03a">><</link>> *<<link "Talk about your sister." "Chapter 01.03b">><</link>>

<<set $emotional to Math.clamp($emotional + 1, 0, 100)>>A wave of fear washes over you, as the reality of your new reality settles in. Your eyes widen and you take a step back, grabbing the air to try and find some support as the world feels like it's spinning. $sname runs over and helps you sit down as you breathe a deep sigh. "God, it feels like my life has fallen apart." "You're not wrong to feel that way." $sname says, leaning against the table as $s_he stares down at you. "I'm not a therapist or anything, so I can't fix your life, but... Maybe it'll help to talk about them?" You look up at $sname and $s_he shrugs. "Sometimes it's comforting to talk about the dead, I guess as long as their memory stays alive, it's like they're still here." You ponder over that for a moment, before nodding. *<<link "Talk about your parents." "Chapter 01.03a">><</link>> *<<link "Talk about your sister." "Chapter 01.03b">><</link>>

<<set $detached to Math.clamp($detached + 2, 0, 100)>> "I don't know." You say. "I feel like I've kind of... accepted it. But I feel horrible about that. It's only been a few months and I've already come to terms and moved on? That doesn't seem normal." You sigh, running a hand over your forehead. "Hm..." $sname stares at the box of cookies in thought, before $s_his eyes meet yours again. "I don't think there's a right or wrong way to grieve. Well, I mean, there might be wrong ways, but I doubt there's a right way. I don't think being able to overcome grief faster than others means you're weird or insane. It just means you're able to cope better than others." $sname isn't qualified to determine if that's true or not, but it helps to know $s_he doesn't think you’re insane. "Maybe it'll help to talk about them?" $sname suddenly says, causing you to look up at $s_him. $s_He shrugs. "I know you said you're not feeling emotional about it, but I don't know, maybe it'll help some things make sense?" You ponder over that for a moment, before nodding. *<<link "Talk about your parents." "Chapter 01.03a">><</link>> *<<link "Talk about your sister." "Chapter 01.03b">><</link>>

*<<link "'My parents and I were inseparable.'" "Chapter 01.04a">><</link>> *<<link "'My parents and I didn't always see eye-to-eye, but we still got along pretty well.'" "Chapter 01.04b">><</link>> *<<link "'I wasn't an easy child, but my parents were always very patient and caring towards me.'" "Chapter 01.04c">><</link>>

*<<link "'My sister and I were inseparable.'" "Chapter 01.04d">><</link>> *<<link "'My sister and I didn't always see eye-to-eye, but we still got along pretty well.'" "Chapter 01.04e">><</link>> *<<link "'I wasn't an easy $sibling, so my sister and I fought a lot. But we always made up. Eventually.'" "Chapter 01.04f">><</link>>

<<set $parents to Math.clamp($parents + 3, 0, 100)>><<set $yayparents to true>>"I was a really clingy kid, so anytime you saw one of my parents, you could guarantee I wasn't too far away. Even when I went off to university, I would call them at least seven times a week. The conversations would last //hours//." You chuckle. $sname nods, a small smile appearing on $s_his lips. "My mum and I are the same way. I couldn't live without her." $s_His eyes dart back to you. "Wait, I-" You laugh, waving a hand towards $s_him. "It's fine, I get it." You two sit in silence for a moment before $sname asks the question you were anticipating. "How did they die? If you're okay with telling me about it." "Do you remember the news of that plane crash? The one flying across the ocean that killed all of the passengers?" You ask, subtly preparing yourself to tell this story without breaking down into tears. "Uh... Yes, what was it called... Brightrush?" "Yeah, they were on that one. All three of them." You respond. "You weren't?" You shake your head. "I can't explain it, but I had this really bad feeling when they announced the trip. I remember begging them not to go because this feeling was only getting worse as they got closer to the date of its departure. We got into a big fight over it, and they decided they were going without me." You purse your lips. "I couldn't sleep that night, and demanded they stay in touch with me as much as they could. When they told me they had to put their phones on airplane mode, my heart sank. I tried to convince myself that nothing was going to happen, that they were fine. When I got the call from the airlines, I wasn't even surprised. I just felt... empty." "I felt that way for the past few months, it probably doesn't help that I've been pushing these feelings away most of the time. I moved to Blue Mist using the inheritance money I got after their death, and am just trying to figure everything out." You sigh after you finish, your eyes search $sname's face as $s_he mulls over your words. $sname doesn't add anything to the conversation, so you decide to move onto my sister. *<<link "'My sister and I were inseparable.'" "Chapter 01.04g">><</link>> *<<link "'My sister and I didn't always see eye-to-eye, but we still got along pretty well.'" "Chapter 01.04h">><</link>> *<<link "'I wasn't an easy $sibling, so my sister and I fought a lot. But we always made up. Eventually.'" "Chapter 01.04i">><</link>>

<<set $parents to Math.clamp($parents + 2, 0, 100)>><<set $parentsvalues to true>>"My parents and I have pretty different values, so we got into disagreements a lot. But we always made up and came to a conclusion on our own terms. They always said I was really mature for my age, which pissed them off." You laugh, reminiscing about all of your pointless arguments that seemed like such a big deal when you were young. Despite what your parents said, looking back, you think you were pretty immature. $sname laughs along with you. "My mum and I usually agree on a lot, so I unfortunately cannot relate. Though, even in moments I do disagree with her, I usually am too afraid to argue." "Yeah, I think a lot of teenagers feel that way. Especially since they're not known to provide good, logical arguments against their parents." You comment. You two sit in silence for a moment before $sname asks the question you were anticipating. "How did they die? If you're okay with telling me about it." "Do you remember the news of that plane crash? The one flying across the ocean that killed all of the passengers?" You ask, subtly preparing yourself to tell this story without breaking down into tears. "Uh... Yes, what was it called... Brightrush?" "Yeah, they were on that one. All three of them." You respond. "You weren't?" You shake your head. "I can't explain it, but I had this really bad feeling when they announced the trip. I remember begging them not to go because this feeling was only getting worse as they got closer to the date of its departure. We got into a big fight over it, and they decided they were going without me." You purse your lips. "I couldn't sleep that night, and demanded they stay in touch with me as much as they could. When they told me they had to put their phones on airplane mode, my heart sank. I tried to convince myself that nothing was going to happen, that they were fine. When I got the call from the airlines, I wasn't even surprised. I just felt... empty." "I felt that way for the past few months, it probably doesn't help that I've been pushing these feelings away most of the time. I moved to Blue Mist using the inheritance money I got after their death, and am just trying to figure everything out." You sigh after you finish, your eyes search $sname's face as $s_he mulls over your words. $sname doesn't add anything to the conversation, so you decide to move onto my sister. *<<link "'My sister and I were inseparable.'" "Chapter 01.04g">><</link>> *<<link "'My sister and I didn't always see eye-to-eye, but we still got along pretty well.'" "Chapter 01.04h">><</link>> *<<link "'I wasn't an easy $sibling, so my sister and I fought a lot. But we always made up. Eventually.'" "Chapter 01.04i">><</link>>

<<set $parents to Math.clamp($parents + 1, 0, 100)>><<set $parentsfought to true>>"My parents and I fought a lot, and most of that was my fault. I had a pretty bad rebellious phase when I was a teenager." You smile sheepishly. $sname laughs. "Most people have been there, I'm sure. I had my rebellious moments, too." "My parents were really patient, though. Even when I could see them holding back the urge to flip the table, they always spoke calmly but sternly, and I honestly appreciate that. I feel like yelling would have made me worse." You shrug. $sname nods. "I agree, my mother wasn't always the yelling type, but she had her moments. I always listened better when she was calm." You two sit in silence for a moment before $sname asks the question you were anticipating. "How did they die? If you're okay with telling me about it." "Do you remember the news of that plane crash? The one flying across the ocean that killed all of the passengers?" You ask, subtly preparing yourself to tell this story without breaking down into tears. "Uh... Yes, what was it called... Brightrush?" "Yeah, they were on that one. All three of them." You respond. "You weren't?" You shake your head. "I can't explain it, but I had this really bad feeling when they announced the trip. I remember begging them not to go because this feeling was only getting worse as they got closer to the date of its departure. We got into a big fight over it, and they decided they were going without me." You purse your lips. "I couldn't sleep that night, and demanded they stay in touch with me as much as they could. When they told me they had to put their phones on airplane mode, my heart sank. I tried to convince myself that nothing was going to happen, that they were fine. When I got the call from the airlines, I wasn't even surprised. I just felt... empty." "I felt that way for the past few months, it probably doesn't help that I've been pushing these feelings away most of the time. I moved to Blue Mist using the inheritance money I got after their death, and am just trying to figure everything out." You sigh after you finish, your eyes search $sname's face as $s_he mulls over your words. $sname doesn't add anything to the conversation, so you decide to move onto my sister. *<<link "'My sister and I were inseparable.'" "Chapter 01.04g">><</link>> *<<link "'My sister and I didn't always see eye-to-eye, but we still got along pretty well.'" "Chapter 01.04h">><</link>> *<<link "'I wasn't an easy $sibling, so my sister and I fought a lot. But we always made up. Eventually.'" "Chapter 01.04i">><</link>>

<<set $sister to Math.clamp($sister + 3, 0, 100)>><<set $sisteryay to true>>"My sister was my favorite person in the entire world." You chuckle. "I was practically stapled to her hip." "Aw, that's sweet." $sname smiles. "I'm an only-child, but I remember being jealous of all my friends who had siblings. I've always wanted a little sibling myself. What was your sister's name?" <<textbox "$sisname" "Type Your Sister's Name Here">>\ <<button "Confirm">> <<set $sisname to $sisname.trim()>> <<if $sisname is "Type Your Sister's Name Here">> <<replace "#sisname-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>> <<elseif $sisname is "">> <<replace "#name-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>> <<else>> <<goto "Chapter 01.04.00">> <</if>> <</button>>    \ <span id="name-error"></span>

<<set $sister to Math.clamp($sister + 2, 0, 100)>><<set $sistervalues to true>>"My sister and I had pretty different goals and aspirations in life, and we didn't always see eye-to-eye. Still, we always made up after our petty disagreements. I don't think she always meant her apologies, though. She always hated being wrong, and she hated having to admit to being wrong even more." You chuckle. "Mm, it's pretty common for siblings to fight, huh?" $sname smiles. "I'm an only-child, but I remember being jealous of all my friends who had siblings. I've always wanted a little sibling myself. What was your sister's name?" <<textbox "$sisname" "Type Your Sister's Name Here">>\ <<button "Confirm">> <<set $sisname to $sisname.trim()>> <<if $sisname is "Type Your Sister's Name Here">> <<replace "#sisname-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>> <<elseif $sisname is "">> <<replace "#name-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>> <<else>> <<goto "Chapter 01.04.00">> <</if>> <</button>>    \ <span id="name-error"></span>

<<set $sister to Math.clamp($sister + 1, 0, 100)>><<set $sisterfought to true>>"I wasn't the easiest sibling, I'm sure. We had a lot of arguments growing up, ranging from issues with sharing to school drama, you name it. Our parents were so tired of us." You chuckle. "Mm, it's pretty common for siblings to fight, huh?" $sname smiles. "I'm an only-child, but I remember being jealous of all my friends who had siblings. I've always wanted a little sibling myself. What was your sister's name?" <<textbox "$sisname" "Type Your Sister's Name Here">>\ <<button "Confirm">> <<set $sisname to $sisname.trim()>> <<if $sisname is "Type Your Sister's Name Here">> <<replace "#sisname-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>> <<elseif $sisname is "">> <<replace "#name-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>> <<else>> <<goto "Chapter 01.04.00">> <</if>> <</button>>    \ <span id="name-error"></span>

<<notify>> Codex Updated: Your family! <</notify>><<set $slike to Math.clamp($slike + 3, 0, 100)>> You decided to cook something small for breakfast, it's already pretty late in the morning and you really want to get around to exploring some of the island. You doubt you’ll have time to do everything this island has to offer, especially since you’re sure new activities will be come up every once in a while, but you do at least want to try and complete some parts of your bucket list before you’re busying yourself with whatever job you end up in. Before you go get ready for your activities, you look at your phone to see what's available. *<<link "You’re on an island. It's time to go to the beach!" "Chapter 01.06a">><</link>> *<<link "Get a view of that volcano!" "Chapter 01.06b">><</link>> *<<link "The website you’re looking at says there's a boat tour nearby that's entirely free for the first week of the island opening." "Chapter 01.06c">><</link>> <<set $beach to false>> <<set $volcano to false>> <<set $boat to false>>

<<set $sister to Math.clamp($sister + 3, 0, 100)>><<set $sisteryay to true>>"My sister was my favorite person in the entire world." You chuckle. "I was practically stapled to her hip." "Aw, that's sweet." $sname smiles. "I'm an only-child, but I remember being jealous of all my friends who had siblings. I've always wanted a little sibling myself. What was your sister's name?" <<textbox "$sisname" "Type Your Sister's Name Here">>\ <<button "Confirm">> <<set $sisname to $sisname.trim()>> <<if $sisname is "Type Your Sister's Name Here">> <<replace "#sisname-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>> <<elseif $sisname is "">> <<replace "#name-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>> <<else>> <<goto "Chapter 01.04.01">> <</if>> <</button>>    \ <span id="name-error"></span>

<<set $sister to Math.clamp($sister + 2, 0, 100)>><<set $sistervalues to true>>"My sister and I had pretty different goals and aspirations in life, and we didn't always see eye-to-eye. Still, we always made up after our petty disagreements. I don't think she always meant her apologies, though. She always hated being wrong, and she hated having to admit to being wrong even more." You chuckle. "Mm, it's pretty common for siblings to fight, huh?" $sname smiles. "I'm an only-child, but I remember being jealous of all my friends who had siblings. I've always wanted a little sibling myself. What was your sister's name?" <<textbox "$sisname" "Type Your Sister's Name Here">>\ <<button "Confirm">> <<set $sisname to $sisname.trim()>> <<if $sisname is "Type Your Sister's Name Here">> <<replace "#sisname-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>> <<elseif $sisname is "">> <<replace "#name-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>> <<else>> <<goto "Chapter 01.04.01">> <</if>> <</button>>    \ <span id="name-error"></span>

<<set $parents to Math.clamp($parents + 3, 0, 100)>><<set $yayparents to true>>"I was a really clingy kid, so anytime you saw one of my parents, you could guarantee I wasn't too far away. Even when I went off to university, I would call them at least seven times a week. The conversations would last //hours//." You chuckle. $sname nods, a small smile appearing on $s_his lips. "My mum and I are the same way. I couldn't live without her." $s_His eyes dart back to you. "Wait, I-" You laugh, waving a hand towards $s_him. "It's fine, I get it." It takes a few moments of awkward silence before $sname finally speaks. "Grief is a mysterious concept. I can't imagine being as young as you are and having to move through your adulthood by yourself." "I had just graduated college, too. As if my situation couldn't be any worse. Fuck, I still need to start looking for a job, the inheritance won't last forever..." You mumble the last part, but $sname seems to have heard you. "My mum and I would be happy to help in any way we can." The kind smile that $s_he had on when $s_he walked in returns to $sname's face. "I can't promise we can give you everything you need, but I'd hate to leave you to fend for yourself. As I said, I want this community to be supportive and friendly. I sincerely hope you find peace here, $name. You seem like you really need it." "Yeah, thanks." You say back. "I feel a little bad about dumping all this onto you when we don't know each other, though." "Nonsense!" $sname laughs. "I don't mind, I appreciate you telling me. I think this has helped strengthen our relationship, which is what I intended to do by bringing the cookies." "Well, glad it worked out, I guess." You give an awkward smile, still feeling a bit weird about trauma-dumping on a stranger. But $sname doesn't seem bothered by it, so you don't push the issue. $sname pushes $s_himself off the table and walks over to the door. You follow $s_him, intending to say goodbye. "Well, this interaction was nice, $name. I'm glad we talked. I'm going to go deliver the rest of the cookies, but if you don't want to be alone, you can join me?" $sname offers. You shake your head. "No, thank you. I was planning on exploring some of the island today, anyways." Not entirely a lie, you were planning on exploring, but you don't think you’re ready for all of that social interaction yet. You have all the time in the world to make new friends, you’ll do it when you’re comfortable. "Alright, then I'll be seeing you again soon, be safe!" $sname says $s_his final goodbyes before exiting your home. You linger near the door as you listen to $s_his fading footsteps. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.05">><</button>>

"$sisname." You respond. "She's my older sister." "That's a pretty name." $sname comments, and you nod in agreement. You two sit in silence for a moment before $sname asks the question you were anticipating. "How did they die? If you're okay with telling me about it." "Do you remember the news of that plane crash? The one flying across the ocean that killed all of the passengers?" You ask, subtly preparing yourself to tell this story without breaking down into tears. "Uh... Yes, what was it called... Brightrush?" "Yeah, they were on that one. All three of them." You respond. "You weren't?" You shake your head. "I can't explain it, but I had this really bad feeling when they announced the trip. I remember begging them not to go because this feeling was only getting worse as they got closer to the date of its departure. We got into a big fight over it, and they decided they were going without me." You purse your lips. "I couldn't sleep that night, and demanded they stay in touch with me as much as they could. When they told me they had to put their phones on airplane mode, my heart sank. I tried to convince myself that nothing was going to happen, that they were fine. When I got the call from the airlines, I wasn't even surprised. I just felt... empty." "I felt that way for the past few months, it probably doesn't help that I've been pushing these feelings away most of the time. I moved to Blue Mist using the inheritance money I got after their death, and am just trying to figure everything out." You sigh after you finish, your eyes search $sname's face as $s_he mulls over your words. $sname doesn't add anything to the conversation, so you decide to move onto your parents. *<<link "'My parents and I were inseparable.'" "Chapter 01.04j">><</link>> *<<link "'My parents and I didn't always see eye-to-eye, but we still got along pretty well.'" "Chapter 01.04k">><</link>> *<<link "'I wasn't an easy child, but my parents were always very patient and caring towards me.'" "Chapter 01.04l">><</link>>

<<set $parents to Math.clamp($parents + 2, 0, 100)>><<set $parentsvalues to true>>"My parents and I have pretty different values, so we got into disagreements a lot. But we always made up and came to a conclusion on our own terms. They always said I was really mature for my age, which pissed them off." You laugh, reminiscing about all of your pointless arguments that seemed like such a big deal when you were young. Despite what your parents said, looking back, you think you were pretty immature. $sname laughs along with you. "My mum and I usually agree on a lot, so I unfortunately cannot relate. Though, even in moments I do disagree with her, I usually am too afraid to argue." "Yeah, I think a lot of teenagers feel that way. Especially since they're not known to provide good, logical arguments against their parents." You comment. It takes a few moments of awkward silence before $sname finally speaks. "Grief is a mysterious concept. I can't imagine being as young as you are and having to move through your adulthood by yourself." "I had just graduated college, too. As if my situation couldn't be any worse. Fuck, I still need to start looking for a job, the inheritance won't last forever..." You mumble the last part, but $sname seems to have heard you. "My mum and I would be happy to help in any way we can." The kind smile that $s_he had on when $s_he walked in returns to $sname's face. "I can't promise we can give you everything you need, but I'd hate to leave you to fend for yourself. As I said, I want this community to be supportive and friendly. I sincerely hope you find peace here, $name. You seem like you really need it." "Yeah, thanks." You say back. "I feel a little bad about dumping all this onto you when we don't know each other, though." "Nonsense!" $sname laughs. "I don't mind, I appreciate you telling me. I think this has helped strengthen our relationship, which is what I intended to do by bringing the cookies." "Well, glad it worked out, I guess." You give an awkward smile, still feeling a bit weird about trauma-dumping on a stranger. But $sname doesn't seem bothered by it, so you don't push the issue. $sname pushes $s_himself off the table and walks over to the door. You follow $s_him, intending to say goodbye. "Well, this interaction was nice, $name. I'm glad we talked. I'm going to go deliver the rest of the cookies, but if you don't want to be alone, you can join me?" $sname offers. You shake your head. "No, thank you. I was planning on exploring some of the island today, anyways." Not entirely a lie, you were planning on exploring, but you don't think you’re ready for all of that social interaction yet. You have all the time in the world to make new friends, you’ll do it when you’re comfortable. "Alright, then I'll be seeing you again soon, be safe!" $sname says $s_his final goodbyes before exiting your home. You linger near the door as you listen to $s_his fading footsteps. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.05">><</button>>

<<set $parents to Math.clamp($parents + 1, 0, 100)>><<set $parentsfought to true>>"My parents and I fought a lot, and most of that was my fault. I had a pretty bad rebellious phase when I was a teenager." You smile sheepishly. $sname laughs. "Most people have been there, I'm sure. I had my rebellious moments, too." "My parents were really patient, though. Even when I could see them holding back the urge to flip the table, they always spoke calmly but sternly, and I honestly appreciate that. I feel like yelling would have made me worse." You shrug. $sname nods. "I agree, my mother wasn't always the yelling type, but she had her moments. I always listened better when she was calm." It takes a few moments of awkward silence before $sname finally speaks. "Grief is a mysterious concept. I can't imagine being as young as you are and having to move through your adulthood by yourself." "I had just graduated college, too. As if my situation couldn't be any worse. Fuck, I still need to start looking for a job, the inheritance won't last forever..." You mumble the last part, but $sname seems to have heard you. "My mum and I would be happy to help in any way we can." The kind smile that $s_he had on when $s_he walked in returns to $sname's face. "I can't promise we can give you everything you need, but I'd hate to leave you to fend for yourself. As I said, I want this community to be supportive and friendly. I sincerely hope you find peace here, $name. You seem like you really need it." "Yeah, thanks." You say back. "I feel a little bad about dumping all this onto you when we don't know each other, though." "Nonsense!" $sname laughs. "I don't mind, I appreciate you telling me. I think this has helped strengthen our relationship, which is what I intended to do by bringing the cookies." "Well, glad it worked out, I guess." You give an awkward smile, still feeling a bit weird about trauma-dumping on a stranger. But $sname doesn't seem bothered by it, so you don't push the issue. $sname pushes $s_himself off the table and walks over to the door. You follow $s_him, intending to say goodbye. "Well, this interaction was nice, $name. I'm glad we talked. I'm going to go deliver the rest of the cookies, but if you don't want to be alone, you can join me?" $sname offers. You shake your head. "No, thank you. I was planning on exploring some of the island today, anyways." Not entirely a lie, you were planning on exploring, but you don't think you’re ready for all of that social interaction yet. You have all the time in the world to make new friends, you’ll do it when you’re comfortable. "Alright, then I'll be seeing you again soon, be safe!" $sname says $s_his final goodbyes before exiting your home. You linger near the door as you listen to $s_his fading footsteps. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.05">><</button>>

"$sisname." You respond. "She's my older sister." "That's a pretty name." $sname comments, and you nod in agreement. It takes a few moments of awkward silence before $sname finally speaks. "Grief is a mysterious concept. I can't imagine being as young as you are and having to move through your adulthood by yourself." "I had just graduated college, too. As if my situation couldn't be any worse. Fuck, I still need to start looking for a job, the inheritance won't last forever..." You mumble the last part, but $sname seems to have heard you. "My mum and I would be happy to help in any way we can." The kind smile that $s_he had on when $s_he walked in returns to $sname's face. "I can't promise we can give you everything you need, but I'd hate to leave you to fend for yourself. As I said, I want this community to be supportive and friendly. I sincerely hope you find peace here, $name. You seem like you really need it." "Yeah, thanks." You say back. "I feel a little bad about dumping all this onto you when we don't know each other, though." "Nonsense!" $sname laughs. "I don't mind, I appreciate you telling me. I think this has helped strengthen our relationship, which is what I intended to do by bringing the cookies." "Well, glad it worked out, I guess." You give an awkward smile, still feeling a bit weird about trauma-dumping on a stranger. But $sname doesn't seem bothered by it, so you don't push the issue. $sname pushes $s_himself off the table and walks over to the door. You follow $s_him, intending to say goodbye. "Well, this interaction was nice, $name. I'm glad we talked. I'm going to go deliver the rest of the cookies, but if you don't want to be alone, you can join me?" $sname offers. You shake your head. "No, thank you. I was planning on exploring some of the island today, anyways." Not entirely a lie, you were planning on exploring, but you don't think you’re ready for all of that social interaction yet. You have all the time in the world to make new friends, you’ll do it when you’re comfortable. "Alright, then I'll be seeing you again soon, be safe!" $sname says $s_his final goodbyes before exiting your home. You linger near the door as you listen to $s_his fading footsteps. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.05">><</button>>

<<set $sister to Math.clamp($sister + 1, 0, 100)>><<set $sisterfought to true>>"I wasn't the easiest sibling, I'm sure. We had a lot of arguments growing up, ranging from issues with sharing to school drama, you name it. Our parents were so tired of us." You chuckle. "Mm, it's pretty common for siblings to fight, huh?" $sname smiles. "I'm an only-child, but I remember being jealous of all my friends who had siblings. I've always wanted a little sibling myself. What was your sister's name?" <<textbox "$sisname" "Type Your Sister's Name Here">>\ <<button "Confirm">> <<set $sisname to $sisname.trim()>> <<if $sisname is "Type Your Sister's Name Here">> <<replace "#sisname-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>> <<elseif $sisname is "">> <<replace "#name-error">>Please enter a name!<</replace>> <<else>> <<goto "Chapter 01.04.01">> <</if>> <</button>>    \ <span id="name-error"></span>

<div class="box header"> <h1>$sname Laurent</h1> <h2>"Your friendly neighbor"</h2> <span class="star">✦</span> <ul class="facts"> <li>$s_He/$s_Him</li> <li>23</li> <li>Human</li> <li>Flirt: $sflirt</li> </ul> </div> <div class="box"> <h3>Relationship</h3> <div class="stat-group"> <div class="stat"> <div class="stat-labels"> <span>$sname</span> <span>✦</span> <span>$slike%</span> </div> <div class="stat-bar-container"> <div class="stat-bar" id="slike-stat"></div> </div> </div> <div class="choicetable"> <<button '<div class="returnbutton"><span>Return To Game</span></div>' $return>><</button>> </div>

<div class="box header"> <h1>Mom & Dad</h1> <h2>"Your parents"</h2> <span class="star">✦</span> <div class="box"> <h3>Description</h3> <i><<if $parentsyay is true>> You and your parents got along quite well in your upbringing, you were raised with positivity and kindness. However, this had made it hard for you to adjust to a life without them. <<elseif $parentsvalues is true>> While you and your parents got along fine, you were always mature and independent growing up. While this irritated your parents, you've found it to be quite helpful in your newfound lonely adulthood. <<else>> You and your parents fought a lot in your childhood, and while you are already quite independent, you're starting to wish you paid more attention to the lessons they were trying to teach you. <</if>></i> </div> <div class="box"> <h3>Relationship</h3> <div class="stat-group"> <div class="stat"> <div class="stat-labels"> <span>Your parents</span> <span>✦</span> <span>$parents</span> </div> <div class="stat-bar-container"> <div class="stat-bar" id="parents-stat"></div> </div> </div> <div class="choicetable"> <<button '<div class="returnbutton"><span>Return To Game</span></div>' $return>><</button>> </div>

<div class="box header"> <h1>$sisname $lastname</h1> <h2>"Your older sister"</h2> <span class="star">✦</span> <div class="box"> <h3>Description</h3> <i><<if $sisteryay is true>> You and your sister were inseparable as children, quite a lucky sight to see when it comes to siblings. You miss her every day. <<elseif $sistervalues is true>> You and your sister had different views of life as children, and this continued into adulthood. Depsite that, you always made up in the end, and you think that strengthened your relationship as siblings. <<else>> You and your sister fought a lot, as siblings do. This put a slight strain on your relationship, as it was hard to talk to her without one of you starting a fight. Still, you two always made up eventually, and sometimes you two were able to come to a compromise in order to avoid another argument.<</if>></i> </div> <div class="box"> <h3>Relationship</h3> <div class="stat-group"> <div class="stat"> <div class="stat-labels"> <span>$sisname</span> <span>✦</span> <span>$sister</span> </div> <div class="stat-bar-container"> <div class="stat-bar" id="sister-stat"></div> </div> </div> <div class="choicetable"> <<button '<div class="returnbutton"><span>Return To Game</span></div>' $return>><</button>> </div>

<<button "Your parents" "Parents">><</button>> <<button "Your sister, $sisname" "$sisname">><</button>> <div class="choicetable"> <<button '<div class="returnbutton"><span>Return To Game</span></div>' $return>><</button>> </div>

<<set $beach to true>><<set $metl to true>><<if $volcano is true>> After a grueling hike, a trip to the beach is a perfect way to relax. After stopping by the grocery store (again...) to buy a towel, you get back into your car and begin your drive to the ocean shore. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08a">><</button>> <<elseif $boat is true>> Taking a boat ride along the waves has given you the desire to feel the beautiful sea water on your skin. After stopping by the grocery store (again...) to buy a towel, you get back into your car and begin your drive to the ocean shore. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08a">><</button>> <<else>> Obviously, you’re visiting the beach first. It's basically an obligation when you're living on an island. <<if $loveoceanvibe is true>> Even if you don't particularly like going in the water, there are so many other fun beach activities to do instead. <<elseif $ehocean is true>> Even if you don't particularly care for the ocean, you still kind of want to see it. The water is probably a lot different here than anywhere else. You don't want to miss out. <<elseif $scaredocean is true>> But you can't deny that you’re kind of terrified of going near those waters. This island is so //new//, and kind of far from any other land. What if all of the commotion brought in new, never-seen-before sea creatures? Still, you’d feel more safe if you went and scoped it out yourself, so you can reassure yourself that everything is fine. <<else>> Even if you can't stand the ocean, you can't deny it's a pretty big part of the island. It would be pointless to try and avoid it. <</if>> You run upstairs and begin getting ready for the day. For an outfit, you decide to go with... *<<link "Short sleeves, shorts, and sandals. Perfect for the hot island weather." "Chapter 01.07a">><</link>> *<<link "Long but lighter clothing that covers more but will still help you stay cool in the hot island weather." "Chapter 01.07b">><</link>> *<<link "Long sleeves, pants, and closed-toed shoes. You don't care if it's hot, you’ll live." "Chapter 01.07c">><</link>><</if>>

<<set $volcano to true>><<if $beach is true>> The beach was the perfect way to relax, and you find yourself having a lot of energy, and feeling incredibly optimistic. You quickly run down to the grocery store (again...) to buy some hiking essentials. You want to //try// to avoid injury while you’re up there. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08b">><</button>> <<elseif $boat is true>> You got quite a view of the volcano from the boat ride, and the boat ride didn't take any energy to do, so you feel more than ready to hike up the volcano and see the inside. You quickly run down to the grocery store (again...) to buy some hiking essentials. You want to //try// to avoid injury while you’re up there. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08b">><</button>> <<else>>You’ve been eyeing it since you first arrived here. Mount Verbo stands pretty tall at 3,447 meters, which you only remember because it was on an advertisement the ferry was displaying on the way here. Since this island just resurfaced, the volcano is active. However, estimates on when it's going to erupt are skewed, since volcano eruptions are already hard to study as it is, a volcano that hasn't even erupted yet is probably close to impossible to predict. Still, you can't help but be curious about the large murder weapon sitting on top of the island right now. Maybe you’re staring death in the face, but you think this will be worth it. You run upstairs and begin getting ready for the day. For an outfit, you decide to go with... *<<link "Short sleeves, shorts, and sandals. Perfect for the hot island weather." "Chapter 01.07d">><</link>> *<<link "Long but lighter clothing that covers more but will still help you stay cool in the hot island weather." "Chapter 01.07e">><</link>> *<<link "Long sleeves, pants, and closed-toed shoes. You don't care if it's hot, you’ll live." "Chapter 01.07f">><</link>><</if>>

<<set $boat to true>><<if $beach is true>> Though you were just among the waves, you're interested in seeing what this island tour has to offer. Besides, the breeze will dry you off. You set your GPS' location to the docks where the website says the tour is located, and begin driving. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08c">><</button>> <<elseif $volcano is true>> Riding in a boat is a perfect way to relax after a long hike. The breeze will help you cool off, and you may even learn more about the island. You set your GPS' location to the docks where the website says the tour is located, and begin driving. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08c">><</button>> <<else>> A short boat tour of the island will not only let you see some parts of it that might intrigue you, but you’ll also get to enjoy a nice relaxing boat ride while you learn a little about your new home. It's the perfect activity to do first. You run upstairs and begin getting ready for the day. For an outfit, you decide to go with... *<<link "Short sleeves, shorts, and sandals. Perfect for the hot island weather." "Chapter 01.07j">><</link>> *<<link "Long but lighter clothing that covers more but will still help you stay cool in the hot island weather." "Chapter 01.07h">><</link>> *<<link "Long sleeves, pants, and closed-toed shoes. You don't care if it's hot, you’ll live." "Chapter 01.07i">><</link>><</if>>

<<set $coolclothes to true>><<set $appearance to true>>After putting on your outfit, you turn to the full-length mirror and get a good look at yourself. Your <<cycle "$skin">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "umber">><<option "tanned">><<option "beige">><<option "pale">><</cycle>> skin is slightly darkened from being in the sun all day yesterday. Your <<cycle "$hair">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blond">><<option "ginger">><<option "grey">><<option "dyed">><</cycle>> <<cycle "$length">><<option "coily">><<option "curly">><<option "wavy">><<option "straight">><</cycle>> hair is a little messy from sleep. You then make eye contact with your reflection, your <<cycle "$eyes">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blue">><<option "green">><<option "hazel">><<option "gray">><</cycle>> eyes stare back at you and you assess your <<cycle "$height">><<option "very tall">><<option "tall">><<option "average">><<option "short">><<option "very short">><</cycle>> figure. After deciding that you look great for a beach day, you head out to your car to stop by the grocery store for some beach essentials. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08a">><</button>>

<<set $lightclothes to true>><<set $appearance to true>> After putting on your outfit, you turn to the full-length mirror and get a good look at yourself. Your <<cycle "$skin">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "umber">><<option "tanned">><<option "beige">><<option "pale">><</cycle>> skin is slightly darkened from being in the sun all day yesterday. Your <<cycle "$hair">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blond">><<option "ginger">><<option "grey">><<option "dyed">><</cycle>> <<cycle "$length">><<option "coily">><<option "curly">><<option "wavy">><<option "straight">><</cycle>> hair is a little messy from sleep. You then make eye contact with your reflection, your <<cycle "$eyes">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blue">><<option "green">><<option "hazel">><<option "gray">><</cycle>> eyes stare back at you and you assess your <<cycle "$height">><<option "very tall">><<option "tall">><<option "average height">><<option "short">><<option "very short">><</cycle>> figure. After deciding that you look great for a beach day, you head out to your car to stop by the grocery store for some beach essentials. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08a">><</button>>

<<set $hotclothes to true>><<set $appearance to true>> After putting on your outfit, you turn to the full-length mirror and get a good look at yourself. Your <<cycle "$skin">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "umber">><<option "tanned">><<option "beige">><<option "pale">><</cycle>> skin is slightly darkened from being in the sun all day yesterday. Your <<cycle "$hair">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blond">><<option "ginger">><<option "grey">><<option "dyed">><</cycle>> <<cycle "$length">><<option "coily">><<option "curly">><<option "wavy">><<option "straight">><</cycle>> hair is a little messy from sleep. You then make eye contact with your reflection, your <<cycle "$eyes">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blue">><<option "green">><<option "hazel">><<option "gray">><</cycle>> eyes stare back at you and you assess your <<cycle "$height">><<option "very tall">><<option "tall">><<option "average height">><<option "short">><<option "very short">><</cycle>> figure. After deciding that you look great for a beach day, you head out to your car to stop by the grocery store for some beach essentials. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08a">><</button>>

<<set $coolclothes to true>><<set $appearance to true>> After putting on your outfit, you turn to the full-length mirror and get a good look at yourself. Your <<cycle "$skin">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "umber">><<option "tanned">><<option "beige">><<option "pale">><</cycle>> skin is slightly darkened from being in the sun all day yesterday. Your <<cycle "$hair">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blond">><<option "ginger">><<option "grey">><<option "dyed">><</cycle>> <<cycle "$length">><<option "coily">><<option "curly">><<option "wavy">><<option "straight">><</cycle>> hair is a little messy from sleep. You then make eye contact with your reflection, your <<cycle "$eyes">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blue">><<option "green">><<option "hazel">><<option "gray">><</cycle>> eyes stare back at you and you assess your <<cycle "$height">><<option "very tall">><<option "tall">><<option "average height">><<option "short">><<option "very short">><</cycle>> figure. After deciding that you look great for a hike, you head out to your car to stop by the grocery store for some hiking essentials. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08b">><</button>>

<<set $lightclothes to true>><<set $appearance to true>> After putting on your outfit, you turn to the full-length mirror and get a good look at yourself. Your <<cycle "$skin">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "umber">><<option "tanned">><<option "beige">><<option "pale">><</cycle>> skin is slightly darkened from being in the sun all day yesterday. Your <<cycle "$hair">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blond">><<option "ginger">><<option "grey">><<option "dyed">><</cycle>> <<cycle "$length">><<option "coily">><<option "curly">><<option "wavy">><<option "straight">><</cycle>> hair is a little messy from sleep. You then make eye contact with your reflection, your <<cycle "$eyes">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blue">><<option "green">><<option "hazel">><<option "gray">><</cycle>> eyes stare back at you and you assess your <<cycle "$height">><<option "very tall">><<option "tall">><<option "average height">><<option "short">><<option "very short">><</cycle>> figure. After deciding that you look great for a hike, you head out to your car to stop by the grocery store for some hiking essentials. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08b">><</button>>

<<set $hotclothes to true>><<set $appearance to true>> After putting on your outfit, you turn to the full-length mirror and get a good look at yourself. Your <<cycle "$skin">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "umber">><<option "tanned">><<option "beige">><<option "pale">><</cycle>> skin is slightly darkened from being in the sun all day yesterday. Your <<cycle "$hair">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blond">><<option "ginger">><<option "grey">><<option "dyed">><</cycle>> <<cycle "$length">><<option "coily">><<option "curly">><<option "wavy">><<option "straight">><</cycle>> hair is a little messy from sleep. You then make eye contact with your reflection, your <<cycle "$eyes">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blue">><<option "green">><<option "hazel">><<option "gray">><</cycle>> eyes stare back at you and you assess your <<cycle "$height">><<option "very tall">><<option "tall">><<option "average height">><<option "short">><<option "very short">><</cycle>> figure. After deciding that you look great for a hike, you head out to your car to stop by the grocery store for some hiking essentials. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08b">><</button>>

<<set $lightclothes to true>><<set $appearance to true>> After putting on your outfit, you turn to the full-length mirror and get a good look at yourself. Your <<cycle "$skin">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "umber">><<option "tanned">><<option "beige">><<option "pale">><</cycle>> skin is slightly darkened from being in the sun all day yesterday. Your <<cycle "$hair">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blond">><<option "ginger">><<option "grey">><<option "dyed">><</cycle>> <<cycle "$length">><<option "coily">><<option "curly">><<option "wavy">><<option "straight">><</cycle>> hair is a little messy from sleep. You then make eye contact with your reflection, your <<cycle "$eyes">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blue">><<option "green">><<option "hazel">><<option "gray">><</cycle>> eyes stare back at you and you assess your <<cycle "$height">><<option "very tall">><<option "tall">><<option "average height">><<option "short">><<option "very short">><</cycle>> figure. After deciding that you look great for a boat ride, you head out to your car to begin driving to the docks where the website states the tour is located. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08c">><</button>>

<<set $hotclothes to true>><<set $appearance to true>> After putting on your outfit, you turn to the full-length mirror and get a good look at yourself. Your <<cycle "$skin">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "umber">><<option "tanned">><<option "beige">><<option "pale">><</cycle>> skin is slightly darkened from being in the sun all day yesterday. Your <<cycle "$hair">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blond">><<option "ginger">><<option "grey">><<option "dyed">><</cycle>> <<cycle "$length">><<option "coily">><<option "curly">><<option "wavy">><<option "straight">><</cycle>> hair is a little messy from sleep. You then make eye contact with your reflection, your <<cycle "$eyes">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blue">><<option "green">><<option "hazel">><<option "gray">><</cycle>> eyes stare back at you and you assess your <<cycle "$height">><<option "very tall">><<option "tall">><<option "average height">><<option "short">><<option "very short">><</cycle>> figure. After deciding that you look great for a boat ride, you head out to your car to begin driving to the docks where the website states the tour is located. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08c">><</button>>

<<set $coolclothes to true>><<set $appearance to true>> After putting on your outfit, you turn to the full-length mirror and get a good look at yourself. Your <<cycle "$skin">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "umber">><<option "tanned">><<option "beige">><<option "pale">><</cycle>> skin is slightly darkened from being in the sun all day yesterday. Your <<cycle "$hair">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blond">><<option "ginger">><<option "grey">><<option "dyed">><</cycle>> <<cycle "$length">><<option "coily">><<option "curly">><<option "wavy">><<option "straight">><</cycle>> hair is a little messy from sleep. You then make eye contact with your reflection, your <<cycle "$eyes">><<option "black">><<option "brown">><<option "blue">><<option "green">><<option "hazel">><<option "gray">><</cycle>> eyes stare back at you and you assess your <<cycle "$height">><<option "very tall">><<option "tall">><<option "average height">><<option "short">><<option "very short">><</cycle>> figure. After deciding that you look great for a boat ride, you head out to your car to begin driving to the docks where the website states the tour is located. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.08c">><</button>>

Sunscreen, a towel, sunglasses, a sunhat, a large enough beach bag... Everything is sitting in the backseat of your car as you drive into the small parking lot next to a small section of the beach. There are a lot of people occupying the sand right now, which is to be expected since it's almost mid-day. You quickly get changed into your bathing suit in the nearby changing rooms, which you find to be surprisingly clean with the scent of various fruits in the air, rather than the ocean and sweaty bodies. You suppose not too many people have used it yet, or perhaps the janitors are just really good at keeping it clean. Nonetheless, after you’re finished changing, you walk onto the warm sand and manage to find the perfect spot not too far from the parking lot. It's nice and sunny, but there's a shady spot from one of the beachhouses overlooking the ocean that you can move under if you get too hot. You lay out your towel and place some sand on top of the corners so it doesn't fly away, and then you begin slathering sunscreen on yourself. It's important to slather some on when you know you’re going to be out in the sun too long. Skin cancer doesn't sound very fun. After you’re finished putting on sunscreen, you stare out at the ocean, thinking about what to do while you’re here. *<<link "...Go swim. Duh." "Chapter 01.09a">><</link>> *<<link "Lay out on your towel and enjoy the rays." "Chapter 01.09b">><</link>> *<<link "Move to the shady spot and read." "Chapter 01.09c">><</link>> *<<link "Look for seashells!" "Chapter 01.09d">><</link>> <<set $beachswim to false>> <<set $beachsunbathe to false>> <<set $beachread to false>> <<set $beachseashell to false>>

A first aid kit, some boots, a jacket, a water bottle, some sunscreen... Everything you thought you needed for a hiking trip is packed away in a large black bookbag currently sitting in the passenger seat of your car. The drive to the volcano is shockingly short and uneventful. You suppose there's still quite a small population on this island, so there's not too much traffic to deal with. You decided to treasure that while you could, since you’re certain this will be the only summer when you can appreciate the lack of traffic. When you arrive at the beginning of the hiking trail, you see a few other families have already arrived before you, and are putting on sunscreen, filling up their water bottles, and making sure they've gone to the bathroom before they start their hikes. You decide to follow their lead, quickly putting on some sunscreen and using the bathroom before snugly putting on your bookbag and beginning your hike. There was an option to take an easy route or a more treacherous route, and you chose the easy route. The harder one said it could take a few hours or so to complete, and you have other stuff you want to do today. Along the hike, you witness some of the wildlife this island has to offer. The trees aren’t very tall, which makes sense, they’ve only had five years to grow. Still, you’re seeing all kinds of new flowers that you’ve never seen before. There's one that caught your eye, and you find yourself crouching near it, delicately touching its soft petals. It looks like a pink rose, but there's a large white pearl in the middle of it. It jostles around as you poke at the flower. You think about taking it, but stop yourself. You’ve always heard rumors about taking from an island and not giving anything back. The island would turn on you in an instant, and curse you with bad luck for as long as you remained there. You don't really want to anger your new home, but, then again, they might just be rumors... *<<link "Take the pearl." "Chapter 01.15a">><</link>> *<<link "Don't take the pearl" "Chapter 01.15b">><</link>>

You can already see someone leaning on a boat, gazing out into the sea when your car pulls into the parking lot. The person perks up when they hear you shut your door, and nods to you. "You here for the tour?" You give them a slow nod as your eyes wander over to their boat. It's a speedboat, made to fit only a few people. When you look around, you find you're the only one here. As if sensing your confusion, the boat tour guide shakes their head. "The tour is pretty short, there's no need to fit a huge group in one boat. Besides, there aren't many people interested in a tour." You return your gaze to the tour guide, allowing yourself to fully assess them. Reading their nametag, you find their name and pronouns, which are... <<set $t_he to "he">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $t_him to "him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $t_He to "He">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $t_Him to "Him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $t_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $t_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $tp_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $tp_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $t_man to "man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $t_Man to "Man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $t_boy to "boy">><<set $plural to true>> <<set $t_Boy to "Boy">><<set $plural to true>> *<<link "Thalia, she/her" "Chapter 01.22a">><<set $t_he to "she">><<set $t_him to "her">><<set $t_He to "She">><<set $t_Him to "Her">><<set $t_his to "her">><<set $t_His to "Her">><<set $tp_His to "Hers">><<set $tp_his to "hers">><<set $t_man to "woman">><<set $t_Man to "Woman">><<set $l_boy to "girl">><<set $t_Boy to "Girl">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $tfemale to true>><<set $tname to "Thalia">><</link>> *<<link "Theodore, he/him." "Chapter 01.22a">><<set $t_he to "he">><<set $t_him to "him">><<set $t_He to "He">><<set $t_Him to "Him">><<set $t_his to "his">><<set $t_His to "His">><<set $tp_His to "His">><<set $tp_his to "his">><<set $t_man to "man">><<set $t_Man to "Man">><<set $t_boy to "boy">><<set $t_Boy to "Boy">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $tmale to true>><<set $tname to "Theodore">><</link>>

<<if $hatebeach is true>> Even though you hate the beach, you find yourself wanting to enjoy the cool waters. You suppose your mind just wants to feel what these mostly unused waters are like. <<elseif $scaredocean is true>> Even though you’re terrified of the ocean, you find yourself wanting to enjoy the cool waters. You suppose your mind just wants to feel what these mostly unused waters are like. You’ll just have to keep on the lookout for any monsters lurking in the deep. <<elseif $ehocean is true>> While you don't usually care much for the ocean, you find yourself wanting to enjoy the cool waters. You suppose your mind just wants to feel what these mostly unused waters are like. <<elseif $loveoceanvibe is true>> While you usually don't care much for swimming, you find yourself wanting to enjoy the cool waters. You suppose your mind just wants to feel what these mostly unused waters are like. <<else>> The ocean is probably your favorite thing in the whole world! You’ve been itching to go for a swim. <</if>> The waves don't seem to be very rough today, meaning you’ll probably get a nice and calm swim. *<<link "Run out into the water." "Chapter 01.10a">><</link>> *<<link "Slowly walk into the water." "Chapter 01.10b">><</link>> <<set $beachswim to true>>

The sun is known to raise serotonin levels and supply one with lots of vitamin D, so of course you take up the opportunity to soak up some rays. <<if $beachswim is true>> Plus, it'll help you dry off better. <</if>> You make sure your towel is flat on the sand before you lie back on it and close your eyes. The sun feels warm and inviting on your skin, you can almost feel it sighing in relief. You’re sure your body has been craving the golden light since you started college, you haven't been going out much since you’ve been so focused on your studies these past few years. It brings a smile to your face, it feels nice to relax. Unfortunately, your calm tanning experience is interrupted when you suddenly feel a small wave of water hit you. You shoot up and open your eyes, instinctively shielding yourself from the water. You look up and see the cause of the wave is a surfer who's washed up on shore, right in front of you. It's a... <<set $l_he to "he">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $l_him to "him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $l_He to "He">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $l_Him to "Him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $l_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $l_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $lp_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $lp_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $l_man to "man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $l_Man to "Man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $l_boy to "boy">><<set $plural to true>> <<set $l_Boy to "Boy">><<set $plural to true>> <<set $l_himself to "himself">><<set $plural to true>> <<set $l_Himself to "Himself">><<set $plural to true>> *<<link "...woman." "Chapter 01.10c">><<set $l_he to "she">><<set $l_him to "her">><<set $l_He to "She">><<set $l_Him to "Her">><<set $l_his to "her">><<set $l_His to "Her">><<set $lp_His to "Hers">><<set $lp_his to "hers">><<set $l_man to "woman">><<set $l_Man to "Woman">><<set $l_boy to "girl">><<set $l_Boy to "Girl">><<set $l_himself to "herself">><<set $l_Himself to "Herself">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $lfemale to true>><<set $lname to "Leilani">><</link>> *<<link "...man." "Chapter 01.10c">><<set $l_he to "he">><<set $l_him to "him">><<set $l_He to "He">><<set $l_Him to "Him">><<set $l_his to "his">><<set $l_His to "His">><<set $lp_His to "His">><<set $lp_his to "his">><<set $l_man to "man">><<set $l_Man to "Man">><<set $l_boy to "boy">><<set $l_Boy to "Boy">><<set $l_himself to "himself">><<set $l_Himself to "Himself">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $lmale to true>><<set $lname to "Luca">><</link>> <<set $beachsunbathe to true>>

<<set $beachread to true>> Deciding that you’ve had enough of the sun, you pick up your towel and move it towards the shadier spot to read. Picking out one of your favorite books, you curl up on your towel and begin to read the first chapter. But as you read further into the pages, you find it hard to pay attention to anything happening in the story. Your mind keeps listening in on the conversations going on around you. The conversations are mundane, mostly consisting of mothers telling their children to be careful or to stand still while she applies sunscreen, or couples flirting with each other while they lie on their towels. But one particular conversation catches your attention, two lifeguards who seem to be off duty stand nearby. You hold your book closer to yourself and listen in. "-Another sighting. We've already had like, ten reports, and it's barely even been a week since we opened to the public." One lifeguard says, his arms getting very animated as he talks. The other lifeguard next to him shrugs, clearly not as alarmed as he is. "I mean, why are you surprised? They're literally right below us. It's alright, though, Auclair said they'd deal with it." "I don't know, do you really agree with that operation?" The lifeguard sighs. "I know that they can be hostile but... they're still living creatures, you know? Can't we just... drive them away?" "They're right below the island." His partner deadpans, and you hear her groan with frustration. "But I do agree. Wish they would keep away from the surface." <<if $boat is true>> ...They weren't referring to those mermaids $tname mentioned, were they? <<else>> The lifeguards begin walking away, and their voices fade away. What a strange conversation. What sightings have been reported? You haven't seen anything. Are there dangerous animals present on the island, or around it? Should we even be here...? <</if>> You look out at all the families running along the sand and swimming through the waves. If it was dangerous, you all wouldn't be allowed to be on the beach, right? You look back over to where the lifeguards previously stood. You should keep an eye out. You have no desire to meet your family again so soon. Nonetheless, you have lost the desire to read, so you bookmark your page and gently place your book back in your bag. Then, you get up to find something else to do. <<if $beachswim is false>>*<<link "...Go swim. Duh." "Chapter 01.09a">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachsunbathe is false>>*<<link "Lay out on your towel and enjoy the rays." "Chapter 01.09b">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachseashell is false>>*<<link "Look for seashells!" "Chapter 01.09d">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachswim and $beachsunbathe and $beachread and $beachseashell is true>>*<<link "You think you’re done with the beach." "Chapter 01.14">><</link>><</if>>

<<set $beachseashell to true>> Maybe it's a little childish, but you like seashells, and this is a new island! You’re sure there's all kinds of seashells you’ve never found before to discover. You walk along the shore, feeling the cold water surround your ankles and the nice breeze rush through your hair. You feel incredibly calm and happy right now, a feeling you’ve been craving since you first saw the ad for this island. You find a couple of small common seashells, but put them in your bag nonetheless. It's so rare for you to find intact seashells, most of the time when you go seashell hunting, the seashells are in pieces, but most of these have barely even a scratch on them. As you’re walking, something bright and pink catches your eye. You turn and find a small pink seashell buried into the sand, a chunk of it just large enough for you to easily pull it out. <img src="./images/pinky.png" width="200px" position="center"/> You don't think you’ve ever seen a seashell that was this color. It's beautiful, and you put it gently into your bag to examine later, then continue with your scavenging. The rest of your seashell adventure is uneventful, you find seashells that you’ve already seen a thousand times by now, but you still take some of them with you. You’re sure you can find a way to decorate with these little things. You return to your spot and place the bag down, then turn towards the ocean to find something else to do. <<if $beachswim is false>>*<<link "...Go swim. Duh." "Chapter 01.09a">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachsunbathe is false>>*<<link "Lay out on your towel and enjoy the rays." "Chapter 01.09b">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachread is false>>*<<link "Move to the shady spot and read." "Chapter 01.09c">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachswim and $beachsunbathe and $beachread and $beachseashell is true>>*<<link "You think you’re done with the beach." "Chapter 01.14">><</link>><</if>>

You run straight towards the waves, not even stopping for a second, lest you risk falling on your face. You have to stop yourself from letting out a shriek due to how cold it is. You slowly go deeper into the water until the waves are up to your chest. The water is a pretty greenish blue, and the waves lift you and place you back down on the sand with surprising gentleness. You lean back and allow yourself to float on the water. The mix of the coolness of the ocean with the warm sun shining on your skin creates a feeling of pure serotonin, which you’ve really been needing lately. <<if $hateocean or $scaredocean or $ehocean or $loveoceanvibe is true>> You suppose that's one benefit to the ocean. Maybe that's why your mind really wanted you to swim. It knew what you were craving. <</if>> You find yourself relaxing in the water for about twenty minutes or so before you get out and dry off. Time to find something else to do in the meantime... <<if $beachsunbathe is false>>*<<link "Lay out on your towel and enjoy the rays." "Chapter 01.09b">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachread is false>>*<<link "Move to the shady spot and read." "Chapter 01.09c">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachseashell is false>>*<<link "Look for seashells!" "Chapter 01.09d">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachswim and $beachsunbathe and $beachread and $beachseashell is true>>*<<link "You think you’re done with the beach." "Chapter 01.14">><</link>><</if>>

You slowly walk into the water, careful not to trip in the sand that's constantly wriggling around under your feet. You have to stop yourself from letting out a shriek due to how cold it is. You slowly go deeper into the water until the waves are up to your chest. The water is a pretty greenish blue, and the waves lift you and place you back down on the sand with surprising gentleness. You lean back and allow yourself to float on the water. The mix of the coolness of the ocean with the warm sun shining on your skin creates a feeling of pure serotonin, which you’ve really been needing lately. <<if $hateocean or $scaredocean or $ehocean or $loveoceanvibe is true>> You suppose that's one benefit to the ocean. Maybe that's why your mind really wanted you to swim. It knew what you were craving. <</if>> You find yourself relaxing in the water for about twenty minutes or so before you get out and dry off. Time to find something else to do in the meantime... <<if $beachsunbathe is false>>*<<link "Lay out on your towel and enjoy the rays." "Chapter 01.09b">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachread is false>>*<<link "Move to the shady spot and read." "Chapter 01.09c">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachseashell is false>>*<<link "Look for seashells!" "Chapter 01.09d">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachswim and $beachsunbathe and $beachread and $beachseashell is true>>*<<link "You think you’re done with the beach." "Chapter 01.14">><</link>><</if>>

"Sorry!" $l_He yells out. $l_He quickly grabs $l_his surfboard before it can be taken in by the waves, and turns to you. "I'm sorry, I messed up trying to pull off a trick. Are you okay?" *<<link "Give $l_him a smile. 'I'm fine.'" "Chapter 01.11a">><</link>> *<<link "'It's just water...'" "Chapter 01.11b">><</link>> *<<link "'You could at least help me dry off.' ♡" "Chapter 01.11c">><</link>> *<<link "'Watch where you're going next time.'" "Chapter 01.11d">><</link>>

<<set $llike to Math.clamp($llike + 5, 0, 100)>><<set $friendly to Math.clamp($friendly + 5, 0, 100)>>"Good." $l_He says. "I'm $lname, by the way. It's nice to meet you, though I would've preferred for my first impression to be less humiliating. <<if $lmale is true>> I swear I'm a gentleman." <<elseif $lfemale is true>> I swear I'm capable of being ladylike." <</if>> "It's nice to meet you as well, I'm $name." "That's a pretty name. It really compliments its owner." $lname winks at you before plopping down on the sand next to your towel. At least $l_he has the decency to not get your towel wet. You take a moment to examine $l_his features. <<if $lmale is true>> He wears a plain white long-sleeved shirt with purple floral swimshorts, his teal surfboard is sticking out of the sand next to him, and you can almost see the reflection of the waves crashing on the shore through his mint-colored eyes. There's still visible water droplets on his beige skin and his shaggy brown hair. When you meet his eyes again, you startle to find him looking back at you. <<elseif $lfemale is true>> She wears a plain red one-piece bathing suit, her teal surfboard is sticking out of the sand next to her, and you can almost see the reflection of the waves crashing on the shore through her mint-colored eyes. There's still visible water droplets on her beige skin and her shoulder-length brown hair. When you meet her eyes again, you startle to find her looking back at you. <</if>> To your surprise, $l_he doesn't take the chance to inflate $l_his ego by calling you out on your examination. Maybe you shouldn't base your knowledge on surfer $l_boy's off of bad teen movies. "Do you surf?" *<<link "'Yeah, but I haven't bought a board yet.'" "Chapter 01.12a">><</link>> *<<link "'I used to.'" "Chapter 01.12b">><</link>> *<<link "'I tried once, but it didn't go well.'" "Chapter 01.12c">><</link>> *<<link "'No, I've never tried learning, either.'" "Chapter 01.12d">><</link>> *<<link "'I'm scared of surfing.'" "Chapter 01.12e">><</link>>

<<set $llike to Math.clamp($llike + 5, 0, 100)>><<set $friendly to Math.clamp($friendly + 3, 0, 100)>> "Still, getting splashed when you're trying to relax isn't fun." $l_He says. "I'm $lname, by the way. It's nice to meet you, though I would've preferred for my first impression to be less humiliating. <<if $lmale is true>> I swear I'm a gentleman." <<elseif $lfemale is true>> I swear I'm capable of being ladylike." <</if>> "It's nice to meet you as well, I'm $name." "That's a pretty name. It really compliments its owner." $lname winks at you before plopping down on the sand next to your towel. At least $l_he has the decency to not get your towel wet. You take a moment to examine $l_his features. <<if $lmale is true>> He wears a plain white long-sleeved shirt with purple floral swimshorts, his teal surfboard is sticking out of the sand next to him, and you can almost see the reflection of the waves crashing on the shore through his mint-colored eyes. There's still visible water droplets on his beige skin and his shaggy brown hair. When you meet his eyes again, you startle to find him looking back at you. <<elseif $lfemale is true>> She wears a plain red one-piece bathing suit, her teal surfboard is sticking out of the sand next to her, and you can almost see the reflection of the waves crashing on the shore through her mint-colored eyes. There's still visible water droplets on her beige skin and her shoulder-length brown hair. When you meet her eyes again, you startle to find her looking back at you. <</if>> To your surprise, $l_he doesn't take the chance to inflate $l_his ego by calling you out on your examination. Maybe you shouldn't base your knowledge on surfer $l_boy's off of bad teen movies. "Do you surf?" *<<link "'Yeah, but I haven't bought a board yet.'" "Chapter 01.12a">><</link>> *<<link "'I used to.'" "Chapter 01.12b">><</link>> *<<link "'I tried once, but it didn't go well.'" "Chapter 01.12c">><</link>> *<<link "'No, I've never tried learning, either.'" "Chapter 01.12d">><</link>> *<<link "'I'm scared of surfing.'" "Chapter 01.12e">><</link>>

<<set $llike to Math.clamp($llike + 5, 0, 100)>><<set $lflirt to Math.clamp($lflirt + 1, 0, 100)>><<set $bold to Math.clamp($bold + 5, 0, 100)>> $l_He seems a little taken aback, but obliges anyway, gesturing to your bag. "I'd be happy to, did you have another towel? Or maybe I could fan you." "What a <<if $lmale is true>> gentleman. <<elseif $lfemale is true>> kind woman you are. <</if>> I was joking, I didn't get that wet." You chuckle. $l_He laughs along with you. "It's the least I can do, truly. I swear I'm usually more polite than this. I'm $lname, by the way. I'm sorry again for splashing you." "It's nice to meet you, I'm $name." "That's a pretty name. It really compliments its owner." $lname winks at you before plopping down on the sand next to your towel. At least $l_he has the decency to not get your towel wet. You take a moment to examine $l_his features. <<if $lmale is true>> He wears a plain white long-sleeved shirt with purple floral swimshorts, his teal surfboard is sticking out of the sand next to him, and you can almost see the reflection of the waves crashing on the shore through his mint-colored eyes. There's still visible water droplets on his beige skin and his shaggy brown hair. When you meet his eyes again, you startle to find him looking back at you. <<elseif $lfemale is true>> She wears a plain red one-piece bathing suit, her teal surfboard is sticking out of the sand next to her, and you can almost see the reflection of the waves crashing on the shore through her mint-colored eyes. There's still visible water droplets on her beige skin and her shoulder-length brown hair. When you meet her eyes again, you startle to find her looking back at you. <</if>> To your surprise, $l_he doesn't take the chance to inflate $l_his ego by calling you out on your examination. Maybe you shouldn't base your knowledge on surfer $l_boy's off of bad teen movies. "Do you surf?" *<<link "'Yeah, but I haven't bought a board yet.'" "Chapter 01.12a">><</link>> *<<link "'I used to.'" "Chapter 01.12b">><</link>> *<<link "'I tried once, but it didn't go well.'" "Chapter 01.12c">><</link>> *<<link "'No, I've never tried learning, either.'" "Chapter 01.12d">><</link>> *<<link "'I'm scared of surfing.'" "Chapter 01.12e">><</link>>

<<set $llike to Math.clamp($llike - 2, 0, 100)>><<set $aloof to Math.clamp($aloof + 5, 0, 100)>> "Of course, I'll try to be less adventurous next time." $l_He laughs. "I'm $lname, by the way. It's nice to meet you, though I would've preferred for my first impression to be less humiliating. <<if $lmale is true>> I swear I'm a gentleman." <<elseif $lfemale is true>> I swear I'm capable of being ladylike." <</if>> "It's nice to meet you as well, I'm $name." "That's a pretty name. It really compliments its owner." $lname winks at you before plopping down on the sand next to your towel. At least $l_he has the decency to not get your towel wet. You take a moment to examine $l_his features. <<if $lmale is true>> He wears a plain white long-sleeved shirt with purple floral swimshorts, his teal surfboard is sticking out of the sand next to him, and you can almost see the reflection of the waves crashing on the shore through his mint-colored eyes. There's still visible water droplets on his beige skin and his shaggy brown hair. When you meet his eyes again, you startle to find him looking back at you. <<elseif $lfemale is true>> She wears a plain red one-piece bathing suit, her teal surfboard is sticking out of the sand next to her, and you can almost see the reflection of the waves crashing on the shore through her mint-colored eyes. There's still visible water droplets on her beige skin and her shoulder-length brown hair. When you meet her eyes again, you startle to find her looking back at you. <</if>> To your surprise, $l_he doesn't take the chance to inflate $l_his ego by calling you out on your examination. Maybe you shouldn't base your knowledge on surfer $l_boy's off of bad teen movies. "Do you surf?" *<<link "'Yeah, but I haven't bought a board yet.'" "Chapter 01.12a">><</link>> *<<link "'I used to.'" "Chapter 01.12b">><</link>> *<<link "'I tried once, but it didn't go well.'" "Chapter 01.12c">><</link>> *<<link "'No, I've never tried learning, either.'" "Chapter 01.12d">><</link>> *<<link "'I'm scared of surfing.'" "Chapter 01.12e">><</link>>

<<set $llike to Math.clamp($llike + 5, 0, 100)>><<set $courageous to Math.clamp($courageous + 5, 0, 100)>> "Oh, nice! Let me know when you have one, I'd love to surf with you. You seem like great company. Though, I'm not sure what place is best to buy boards from, I brought my own. But I'm sure an experienced surfer like yourself will have no problem finding the perfect one." $lname shoots you a wink. "Are these waters good for surfing?" You ask. The waves seem pretty calm, you can't imagine it's very easy to surf out here. $lname shrugs. "Eh, they're alright. Not the most fun I've ever had, but they're great for beginners. Which is perfect, because I'm planning on holding surfing classes here." "Has anyone signed up to them?" "Yes! I've got a few students ready to meet with me sometime this week. Mostly kids, but I don't mind." $lname smiles at you. "You can sign up to be a teacher as well, if you want. I can give you the number." "Hm... Do I get paid?" $lname nods. "Enough to help you survive the summer. You'll have to find something else to do during winter, though." *<<link "'I'll think about it.'" "Chapter 01.13a">><</link>> *<<link "'No thanks, I'm not interested in doing that.'" "Chapter 01.13b">><</link>> *<<link "'No thanks, I don't like kids.'" "Chapter 01.13c">><</link>> <<set $cansurf to true>>

<<set $llike to Math.clamp($llike + 5, 0, 100)>><<set $courageous to Math.clamp($courageous + 3, 0, 100)>> "I stopped when I went off to college, though." "You should pick it back up again. These waters are perfect for the inexperienced, so you'll get used to it quickly." $lname says. "Actually, I was about to comment on that." You look back to the waves, which are calmly smashing against the shore, creating a soothing sound. "Are these waters good for surfing?" $lname shrugs. "Eh, they're alright. Not the most fun I've ever had, but they're great for beginners. Which is perfect, because I'm planning on holding surfing classes here." "Has anyone signed up to them?" "Yes! I've got a few students ready to meet with me sometime this week. Mostly kids, but I don't mind." $lname smiles at you. "If you decide to pick up surfing again, you can sign up to be a teacher as well. I can give you the number." "Hm... Do I get paid?" $lname nods. "Enough to help you survive the summer. You'll have to find something else to do during winter, though." *<<link "'I'll think about it.'" "Chapter 01.13a">><</link>> *<<link "'No thanks, I'm not interested in doing that.'" "Chapter 01.13b">><</link>> *<<link "'No thanks, I don't like kids.'" "Chapter 01.13c">><</link>> <<set $usedtosurf to true>>

<<set $llike to Math.clamp($llike + 3, 0, 100)>><<set $courageous to Math.clamp($courageous + 5, 0, 100)>> $lname gives you a soft smile. "Aw, I'm sorry. If you want to learn, though, these waves are very calm, it's perfect for beginners. I'm planning to start coaching classes, soon. I can give you the number and get you signed up." "Do I have to pay for them?" $lname sucks a breath through $l_his teeth. "It's a small price, but yes. I need to earn money somehow, you know?" "I get it." You chuckle. *<<link "'I'll think about it.'" "Chapter 01.13d">><</link>> *<<link "'No thanks, I'm not interested in learning to surf.'" "Chapter 01.13e">><</link>> <<set $triedsurfingonce to true>>

$lname nods. "It's not for everyone, I get it. But if you //did// want to learn, these waters are perfect for beginners. Nice and calm. I'm planning to teach some surfing classes, I can give you the number to sign up for them." "Do I have to pay for them?" $lname sucks a breath through $l_his teeth. "It's a small price, but yes. I need to earn money somehow, you know?" "I get it." You chuckle. *<<link "'I'll think about it.'" "Chapter 01.13d">><</link>> *<<link "'No thanks, I'm not interested in learning to surf.'" "Chapter 01.13e">><</link>> <<set $neversurfed to true>>

<<set $cowardly to Math.clamp($cowardly + 5, 0, 100)>>$lname shoots you a bewildered look. "Scared? Of what?" "I don't know, I hear about a lot of the accidents surfers get into, like their boards knocking them out or getting caught in a big wave... It's kind of intimidating," You shrug. "Hm... I guess that's a pretty valid fear. But these waters are pretty tame, perfect for beginners. I'm planning on teaching some surfing lessons this summer, and you're free to sign up. I can help you get over that fear." $lname smiles. "Do I have to pay for them?" $lname sucks a breath through $l_his teeth. "It's a small price, but yes. I need to earn money somehow, you know?" "I get it." You chuckle. *<<link "'I'll think about it.'" "Chapter 01.13d">><</link>> *<<link "'No thanks, I'm not interested in learning to surf.'" "Chapter 01.13e">><</link>> <<set $scaredofsurfing to true>>

<<notify>> Codex Updated: $lname! <</notify>><<set $llike to Math.clamp($llike + 5, 0, 100)>> "I don't want to make a decision yet, though. I'm still trying to get used to everything." $lname nods. "I get it. I'll give you the number, anyway. Call whenever you decide, we're open all summer." $lname inputs the number on your phone before standing up and brushing $l_himself off. "Well, sorry for bothering you. It was great meeting you though, I hope I'll get to see you again at some point, whether it's during teaching or not." "Don't tell me you only continued talking to me to advertise your class," You smirk. $lname rubs the back of $l_his neck, chuckling. "I //did// actually feel bad about scaring ya, I swear! But it //would// be nice to have an extra hand with the kids." You laugh and wave $lname goodbye. The conversation was nice, and you do want to try to make some friends. You think you deserve some company after everything that's happened. You decide to continue relaxing under the sun for a few minutes before getting up to do something else. <<if $beachswim is false>>*<<link "...Go swim. Duh." "Chapter 01.09a">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachread is false>>*<<link "Move to the shady spot and read." "Chapter 01.09c">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachseashell is false>>*<<link "Look for seashells!" "Chapter 01.09d">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachswim and $beachsunbathe and $beachread and $beachseashell is true>>*<<link "You think you’re done with the beach." "Chapter 01.14">><</link>><</if>> <<set $surfnumber to true>>

<<notify>> Codex Updated: $lname! <</notify>>$lname nods. "Alright, just thought I'd ask. Feel free to let me know if you change your mind." Then, $lname stands up and brushes $l_himself off. "Sorry for bothering you. It was great meeting you though, I hope I'll get to see you again at some point, whether it's during teaching or not." "Don't tell me you only continued talking to me to advertise your class," You smirk. $lname rubs the back of $l_his neck, chuckling. "I //did// actually feel bad about scaring ya, I swear! But it //would// be nice to have an extra hand with the kids." You laugh and wave $lname goodbye. The conversation was nice, and you do want to try to make some friends. You think you deserve some company after everything that's happened. You decide to continue relaxing under the sun for a few minutes before getting up to do something else. <<if $beachswim is false>>*<<link "...Go swim. Duh." "Chapter 01.09a">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachread is false>>*<<link "Move to the shady spot and read." "Chapter 01.09c">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachseashell is false>>*<<link "Look for seashells!" "Chapter 01.09d">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachswim and $beachsunbathe and $beachread and $beachseashell is true>>*<<link "You think you’re done with the beach." "Chapter 01.14">><</link>><</if>> <<set $surfnumber to false>>

<<notify>> Codex Updated: $lname! <</notify>>$lname nods. "I get it, they can be a little much sometimes. Feel free to let me know if you change your mind." Then, $lname stands up and brushes $l_himself off. "Sorry for bothering you. It was great meeting you though, I hope I'll get to see you again at some point, whether it's during teaching or not." "Don't tell me you only continued talking to me to advertise your class," You smirk. $lname rubs the back of $l_his neck, chuckling. "I //did// actually feel bad about scaring ya, I swear! But it //would// be nice to have an extra hand with the kids." You laugh and wave $lname goodbye. The conversation was nice, and you do want to try to make some friends. You think you deserve some company after everything that's happened. You decide to continue relaxing under the sun for a few minutes before getting up to do something else. <<if $beachswim is false>>*<<link "...Go swim. Duh." "Chapter 01.09a">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachread is false>>*<<link "Move to the shady spot and read." "Chapter 01.09c">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachseashell is false>>*<<link "Look for seashells!" "Chapter 01.09d">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachswim and $beachsunbathe and $beachread and $beachseashell is true>>*<<link "You think you’re done with the beach." "Chapter 01.14">><</link>><</if>> <<set $surfnumber to false>><<set $hatekids to true>>

<<notify>> Codex Updated: $lname! <</notify>><<set $llike to Math.clamp($llike + 5, 0, 100)>> <<set $courageous to Math.clamp($courageous + 5, 0, 100)>> "I don't want to make a decision yet, though. I'm not sure if I'll have time." $lname nods. "I get it. I'll give you the number, anyway. Call whenever you decide, we're open all summer." $lname inputs the number on your phone before standing up and brushing $l_himself off. "Well, sorry for bothering you. It was great meeting you though, I hope I'll get to see you again at some point, whether it's during teaching or not." "Don't tell me you only continued talking to me to advertise your class," You smirk. $lname rubs the back of $l_his neck, chuckling. "I //did// actually feel bad about scaring ya, I swear! But it //would// be nice to earn some more cash, you know?" You laugh and wave $lname goodbye. The conversation was nice, and you do want to try to make some friends. You think you deserve some company after everything that's happened. You decide to continue relaxing under the sun for a few minutes before getting up to do something else. <<if $beachswim is false>>*<<link "...Go swim. Duh." "Chapter 01.09a">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachread is false>>*<<link "Move to the shady spot and read." "Chapter 01.09c">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachseashell is false>>*<<link "Look for seashells!" "Chapter 01.09d">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachswim and $beachsunbathe and $beachread and $beachseashell is true>>*<<link "Yo think you’re done with the beach." "Chapter 01.14">><</link>><</if>> <<set $surfnumber to true>><<set $learning to true>>

<<notify>> Codex Updated: $lname! <</notify>>$lname nods. "Alright, just thought I'd ask. Feel free to let me know if you change your mind." Then, $lname stands up and brushes $l_himself off. "Sorry for bothering you. It was great meeting you though, I hope I'll get to see you again at some point, whether it's during teaching or not." "Don't tell me you only continued talking to me to advertise your class," You smirk. $lname rubs the back of $l_his neck, chuckling. "I //did// actually feel bad about scaring ya, I swear! But it //would// be nice to earn some more cash, you know?" You laugh and wave $lname goodbye. The conversation was nice, and you do want to try to make some friends. You think you deserve some company after everything that's happened. You decide to continue relaxing under the sun for a few minutes before getting up to do something else. <<if $beachswim is false>>*<<link "...Go swim. Duh." "Chapter 01.09a">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachread is false>>*<<link "Move to the shady spot and read." "Chapter 01.09c">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachseashell is false>>*<<link "Look for seashells!" "Chapter 01.09d">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beachswim and $beachsunbathe and $beachread and $beachseashell is true>>*<<link "You think you’re done with the beach." "Chapter 01.14">><</link>><</if>> <<set $surfnumber to false>>

You’ve done all you can do here, and it's been a couple hours. You want to try and get as much done as you can today. You pick up your towel and air it out to get all the sand off, before rolling it up and placing it into your bag. Then, you return to the changing rooms, which are a lot more packed than before, and then return to your car and unlock your phone to remind yourself of the other attractions on the island. <<if $volcano is false>>*<<link "Get a view of that volcano!" "Chapter 01.06b">><</link>><</if>> <<if $boat is false>>*<<link "The website you’re looking at says there's a boat tour nearby that's entirely free for the first week of the island opening." "Chapter 01.06c">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beach and $volcano and $boat is true>>*<<link "You’re done adventuring for today." "Chapter 01.29">><</link>><</if>>

<<set $tookpearl to true>> You delicately pluck the pearl out of the inside of the flower, careful not to accidentally damage a petal. It's probably one of the biggest pearls you’ve ever seen, it takes up almost your entire palm. It's nice and cold in your hands, and shines under the bright sun overlooking Blue Mist. You carefully put it into one of the pockets in your bookbag, away from all of your other items, then you continue your journey up the volcano. After a couple more minutes of walking alone, you hear the distant sound of voices behind you, quickly catching up. You turn and see two young ladies talking and giggling, one holding a camera and taking pictures of the scenery. The other looks up and meets your eyes, and then excitedly waves to you. *<<link "You wave back and slow down, matching pace with them." "Chapter 01.16a">><</link>> *<<link "You wave back but keep your pace." "Chapter 01.16b">><</link>> *<<link "You turn away, not wanting to interact with them." "Chapter 01.16c">><</link>>

<<set $tookpearl to false>> You take a step away from the pearl, and turn around to continue your walk. You don't want to put yourself in danger in case those island rumors are true, and you also don't need a pearl. It's too big to style with any kind of jewelry, so the only option would be to keep it as a keepsake or sell it. You’re sure you’ll find other interesting keepsakes, anyway, so it's nothing to be disappointed about. After a couple more minutes of walking alone, you hear the distant sound of voices behind you, quickly catching up. You turn and see two young ladies talking and giggling, one holding a camera and taking pictures of the scenery. The other looks up and meets your eyes, and then excitedly waves to you. *<<link "You wave back and slow down, matching pace with them." "Chapter 01.16a">><</link>> *<<link "You wave back but keep your pace." "Chapter 01.16b">><</link>> *<<link "You turn away, not wanting to interact with them." "Chapter 01.16c">><</link>>

<<set $friendly to Math.clamp($friendly + 5, 0, 100)>> The girls' smile grows as you get closer to her. "Hi there! I'm Alyssa, and this is my friend Stephanie!" She gestures to her friend with the camera, who gives an excited wave before turning back towards the edge of the mountain to take more photos. From their accents and the way they dress, you assume they're from the United States, somewhere in the west. "I'm $name. Are you two here on summer vacation?" Alyssa nods. "Just finished our last year of High School." They're just a few years younger than you, then. It's nice to meet some other people around your age. $sname wasn't lying about most of the people here being parents and grandparents. "Ah, I just graduated university before coming here." "Oh, do you live here?" Alyssa asks. You nod. "Just moved in yesterday. I thought it would be a good idea to explore the island, since I'll be here a while." "Wow! I hope I'll be able to live here when I graduate. I've already passed by some houses I want to live in." Alyssa's gaze moves to your neighborhood, which seems so tiny from up here. Stephanie turns to the two of you. "Aly and I are gonna be roomies when we move here!" "We're also gonna be roomies in uni! I'm so excited." The two let out a high-pitched squeal, and you resist the urge to cover your ears as you give them a strained smile. "Sounds fun. I wish you two the best in university. It was definitely a memorable experience." "Thank youuu! I'm a little nervous for the future, but I know it's gonna be great." Alyssa giggles. You continue talking with the two ladies for the rest of the hike. They're a little tiresome at times, but you actually find yourself warming up to them as you walk. You see a lot more of those pearl flowers from before, along with some other new ones. You wonder if any environmentalists have started studying these plants? You’d love to learn about them. Maybe they have pamphlets somewhere at the bottom of the mountain... <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.17">><</button>>

<<set $aloof to Math.clamp($aloof + 2, 0, 100)>> You wave back to be polite, but turn back around and keep up your normal pace. She unfortunately does not seem to get the hint, because you hear her and her friend running closer to walk alongside you. "Hi there! I'm Alyssa, and this is my friend Stephanie!" She gestures to her friend with the camera, who gives an excited wave before turning back towards the edge of the mountain to take more photos. From their accents and the way they dress, you assume they're from the United States, somewhere in the west. You let out an internal sigh before responding. "I'm $name. Are you two here on summer vacation?" Alyssa nods. "Just finished our last year of High School." They're just a few years younger than you, then. It's nice to meet some other people around your age. $sname wasn't lying about most of the people here being parents and grandparents. "Ah, I just graduated university before coming here." "Oh, do you live here?" Alyssa asks. You nod. "Just moved in yesterday. I thought it would be a good idea to explore the island, since I'll be here a while." "Wow! I hope I'll be able to live here when I graduate. I've already passed by some houses I want to live in." Alyssa's gaze moves to your neighborhood, which seems so tiny from up here. Stephanie turns to the two of you. "Aly and I are gonna be roomies when we move here!" "We're also gonna be roomies in uni! I'm so excited." The two let out a high-pitched squeal, and you resist the urge to cover your ears as you give them a strained smile. "Sounds fun. I wish you two the best in university. It was definitely a memorable experience." "Thank youuu! I'm a little nervous for the future, but I know it's gonna be great." Alyssa giggles. You continue talking with the two ladies for the rest of the hike. They're a little tiresome at times, but you actually find yourself warming up to them as you walk. You see a lot more of those pearl flowers from before, along with some other new ones. You wonder if any environmentalists have started studying these plants? You’d love to learn about them. Maybe they have pamphlets somewhere at the bottom of the mountain... <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.17">><</button>>

<<set $aloof to Math.clamp($aloof + 5, 0, 100)>> You quickly turn around and try to speed up, not wanting to interact with anyone on this hiking trip. She unfortunately does not seem to get the hint, because you hear her and her friend running closer to walk alongside you. "Hi there! I'm Alyssa, and this is my friend Stephanie!" She gestures to her friend with the camera, who gives an excited wave before turning back towards the edge of the mountain to take more photos. From their accents and the way they dress, you assume they're from the United States, somewhere in the west. You let out an internal sigh before responding. "I'm $name. Are you two here on Summer vacation?" Alyssa nods. "Just finished our last year of High School." They're just a few years younger than you, then. It's nice to meet some other people around your age. $sname wasn't lying about most of the people here being parents and grandparents. "Ah, I just graduated university before coming here." "Oh, do you live here?" Alyssa asks. You nod. "Just moved in yesterday. I thought it would be a good idea to explore the island, since I'll be here a while." "Wow! I hope I'll be able to live here when I graduate. I've already passed by some houses I want to live in." Alyssa's gaze moves to your neighborhood, which seems so tiny from up here. Stephanie turns to the two of you. "Aly and I are gonna be roomies when we move here!" "We're also gonna be roomies in uni! I'm so excited." The two let out a high-pitched squeal, and you resist the urge to cover your ears as you give them a strained smile. "Sounds fun. I wish you two the best in university. It was definitely a memorable experience." "Thank youuu! I'm a little nervous for the future, but I know it's gonna be great." Alyssa giggles. You continue talking with the two ladies for the rest of the hike. They're a little tiresome at times, but you actually find yourself warming up to them as you walk. You see a lot more of those pearl flowers from before, along with some other new ones. You wonder if any environmentalists have started studying these plants? You’d love to learn about them. Maybe they have pamphlets somewhere at the bottom of the mountain... <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.17">><</button>>

After an hour or so of grueling labor, the three of us reach the top of the volcano. You can hear the lava sloshing around inside, and the black lava rocks surrounding the top give the volcano a foreboding vibe. You lean over the edge to get a peek inside, and sure enough, there's lava at the bottom, oozing around, waiting for the perfect moment to spill over the edge and destroy any and all life the land worked so hard to create. Including you. *<<link "This is terrifying and you’re ready to head back down." "Chapter 01.18a">><</link>> *<<link "This is the coolest thing ever." "Chapter 01.18b">><</link>> *<<link "This is alright, certainly not the craziest thing I've ever experienced, but the inside of a volcano is definitely an interesting sight." "Chapter 01.18c">><</link>> *<<link "This is...kind of boring, to be honest." "Chapter 01.18d">><</link>>

<<set $volcanoscared to true>> You take a step back, inching towards the trail. You weren’t expecting to be this scared of Mount Verbo when walking up here, but now that you’re looking at it, you’re slowly realizing how much damage this thing could cause. You jolt at the feeling of an arm around your shoulders, and turn to see Alyssa smiling at you. "Hey, it's okay! I doubt it's erupting anytime soon, and I'm sure they have preparations available, anyway." Easy for her to say, she doesn’t even live here... Alyssa lets go of you and you watch her and Stephanie take some more pictures of the volcano, along with some selfies, before we decide to turn back. You’re not sure why you waited for them, but you felt weird about just walking away. The hike back is uneventful, the conversation dwindles, most likely the result of the amount of energy this hike took. But when you arrive back at the entrance, Alyssa and Stephanie turn to you with a smile. "Thanks for keeping us company. We'll be staying here a few more months, so hopefully we'll see each other again!" Alyssa shouts, waving enthusiastically as they turn back to the parking lot, most likely heading for their next adventure. You doubt they meant that, but you can’t deny the company was kind of nice. You turn over to the small shop next to the entrance and decide to head inside. Maybe you’ll find those pamphlets you were curious about. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.19">><</button>>

<<set $courageous to Math.clamp($courageous + 5, 0, 100)>> You step a little closer, watching the lava move throughout the bottom of the volcano, even opting to pull out your phone and take some pictures. You jolt at the feeling of an arm around your shoulders, and turn to see Alyssa smiling at you. "It's so cool, right? I hiked up Kīlauea a couple years ago, and it was amazing. I can't decide which one is my favorite." "This is my first time seeing a volcano," You admit. "Oh, I love islands. You're not going to regret moving here, I promise." Alyssa sighs, her gaze returning to the little neighborhood a ways away from the top of Mount Verbo. Alyssa lets go of you and you watch her and Stephanie take some more pictures of the volcano, along with some selfies, before you decide to turn back. You’re not sure why you waited for them, but you felt weird about just walking away. The hike back is uneventful, the conversation dwindles, most likely the result of the amount of energy this hike took. But when you arrive back at the entrance, Alyssa and Stephanie turn to you with a smile. "Thanks for keeping us company. We'll be staying here a few more months, so hopefully we'll see each other again!" Alyssa shouts, waving enthusiastically as they turn back to the parking lot, most likely heading for their next adventure. You doubt they meant that, but you can’t deny the company was kind of nice. You turn over to the small shop next to the entrance and decide to head inside. Maybe you’ll find those pamphlets you were curious about. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.19">><</button>>

You continue staring at the lava below, and take a few photos with your cellphone. Being up here is kind of nice, you suppose. It's nice and cool up here, but warm enough that you don't need your jacket. Not to mention the scenery is amazing, you can still see your neighborhood from here, it's even tinier than before. People always forget how tiny they are until they're practically on top of the world. You jolt at the feeling of an arm around your shoulders, and turn to see Alyssa smiling at you. "It's so cool, right? I hiked up Kīlauea a couple years ago, and it was amazing. I can't decide which one is my favorite." "It's alright." You shrug. "I've been on cooler adventures." "Is this your first time seeing a volcano?" Alyssa asks. "Yeah, this is all new to me." "Oh, I love islands. You're not going to regret moving here, I promise." Alyssa sighs, her gaze returning to the little neighborhood a ways away from the top of Mount Verbo. Alyssa lets go of you and you watch her and Stephanie take some more pictures of the volcano, along with some selfies, before you decide to turn back. You’re not sure why you waited for them, but you felt weird about just walking away. The hike back is uneventful, the conversation dwindles, most likely the result of the amount of energy this hike took. But when you arrive back at the entrance, Alyssa and Stephanie turn to you with a smile. "Thanks for keeping us company. We'll be staying here a few more months, so hopefully we'll see each other again!" Alyssa shouts, waving enthusiastically as they turn back to the parking lot, most likely heading for their next adventure. You doubt they meant that, but you can’t deny the company was kind of nice. You turn over to the small shop next to the entrance and decide to head inside. Maybe you’ll find those pamphlets you were curious about. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.19">><</button>>

You take a few photos, just so you don't feel like you missed out in the future, but then you walk away from the opening and look out at the landscape surrounding Mount Verbo. You can still see my neighborhood from here, it's even tinier than before. People always forget how tiny they are until they're practically on top of the world. You jolt at the feeling of an arm around your shoulders, and turn to see Alyssa smiling at you. "It's so cool, right? I hiked up Kīlauea a couple years ago, and it was amazing. I can't decide which one is my favorite." "I don't know, I'm kind of bored." You sigh. Alyssa chuckles. "Yeah, I don't know anything about volcanoes, I only did this because I knew I could get some good selfies. Is this your first time seeing a volcano?" "Yeah, this is all new to me." "Oh, I love islands. You're not going to regret moving here, I promise." Alyssa sighs, her gaze returning to the little neighborhood a ways away from the top of Mount Verbo. Alyssa lets go of you and you watch her and Stephanie take some more pictures of the volcano, along with some selfies, before you decide to turn back. You’re not sure why you waited for them, but you felt weird about just walking away. The hike back is uneventful, the conversation dwindles, most likely the result of the amount of energy this hike took. But when you arrive back at the entrance, Alyssa and Stephanie turn to you with a smile. "Thanks for keeping us company. We'll be staying here a few more months, so hopefully we'll see each other again!" Alyssa shouts, waving enthusiastically as they turn back to the parking lot, most likely heading for their next adventure. You doubt they meant that, but you can’t deny the company was kind of nice. You turn over to the small shop next to the entrance and decide to head inside. Maybe you’ll find those pamphlets you were curious about. <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.19">><</button>>

The building is a little cramped, but it's covered in all kinds of merchandise. There are some articles of clothing like hats, jewelry, sunglasses. There's also some useful tools for hiking like binoculars, cameras, maps, sunscreen, water bottles, etc... You walk to the stand near the door and take out a pamphlet. Skimming through it, you're able to find adequate information about the mountain and some of the plants. "//Nestled deep in the dangerous edges of Mount Verbo, a rare and otherworldly flower that has captivated the imagination of the few fortunate enough to behold it: the Enchanted Pearl Rose. This magnificent blossom resembles the familiar elegance of a rose but with a mystical twist—its soft, velvety petals cradle a luminous pearl at the heart of the bloom, glistening like a hidden gem in the morning light. The petals themselves radiate an iridescent sheen, shifting in color from delicate lavender to a deep twilight blue, depending on the angle of the sunlight. The central pearl, large and lustrous, is said to symbolize the harmony between land and sea, an enigmatic gift from nature itself. Legend has it that those who find the Enchanted Pearl Rose are granted good fortune and serenity, making it a sought-after wonder for adventurers and botanists alike.//" Well, this is just superstition, and doesn't answer any of your questions about the flower. But given that this island is still being explored, you assume that any questions you currently have are the same questions biologists currently have. You'll just have to wait for the article to come out. The pamphlets are free, so you tuck it away into your bag and move throughout the store. Some of the merchandise is interesting, and seems to be original to the island of Blue Mist. There's a lot that intrigues you, but you don't want to spend too much here, so you narrow it down to three items. *<<link "A tiny version of Mount Verbo in a glass ball." "Chapter 01.20a">><</link>> *<<link "Lava jewelry." "Chapter 01.20b">><</link>> *<<link "Volcano-inspired pottery." "Chapter 01.20c">><</link>> *<<link "None of these." "Chapter 01.20d">><</link>>

You pick up the small crystal ball, containing a tiny version of Mount Verbo. Upon swishing it around, you find the volcano spills out red sand, kind of like a snowglobe—or a lavaglobe, in this instance. Do you want this item? *<<link "Yes" "Chapter 01.21a">><</link>> *<<link "No." "Chapter 01.nope">><</link>>

You pick up a silver necklace with an amber pendant. You can't imagine it's real lava inside, but it's still a pretty sight. You feel the pendant, which to your surprise, is a little warm. Do you want this item? *<<link "Yes" "Chapter 01.21b">><</link>> *<<link "No." "Chapter 01.nope">><</link>>

You pick up a vase that displays a volcanic eruption. The bottom of it is completely black, while the top is orange and is made to look like it's running down the vase. It's a beautiful piece of art that you think would compliment your home nicely. Do you want this item? *<<link "Yes" "Chapter 01.21c">><</link>> *<<link "No." "Chapter 01.nope">><</link>>

You put it back down and take a look at the other items you set your eyes on. *<<link "A tiny version of Mount Verbo in a glass ball." "Chapter 01.20a">><</link>> *<<link "Lava jewelry." "Chapter 01.20b">><</link>> *<<link "Volcano-inspired pottery." "Chapter 01.20c">><</link>> *<<link "None of these." "Chapter 01.20d">><</link>>

Holding the item close, you walk over to the counter and place the lavaglobe on the counter. The cashier gives you their best customer service smile as they grab the item and scan the barcode. "Will that be all?" You nod, and the cashier gives you the total. After paying, they shout out a quick "have a nice day!" and you step out of the shop. After stepping back into your car, you sit back and ruminate over where you should go next. <<if $beach is false>>*<<link "You’re on an island. It's time to go to the beach!" "Chapter 01.06a">><</link>><</if>> <<if $boat is false>>*<<link "The website you’re looking at says there's a boat tour nearby that's entirely free for the first week of the island opening." "Chapter 01.06c">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beach and $volcano and $boat is true>>*<<link "You’re done adventuring for today." "Chapter 01.29">><</link>><</if>> <<set $lavaglobe to true>>

Holding the item close, you walk over to the counter and place the necklace on the counter. The cashier gives you their best customer service smile as they grab the item and scan the barcode. "Will that be all?" You nod, and the cashier gives you the total. After paying, they shout out a quick "have a nice day!" and you step out of the shop. After stepping back into your car, you tear off the tag on the necklace and ruminate over where you should go next. <<if $beach is false>>*<<link "You’re on an island. It's time to go to the beach!" "Chapter 01.06a">><</link>><</if>> <<if $boat is false>>*<<link "The website you’re looking at says there's a boat tour nearby that's entirely free for the first week of the island opening." "Chapter 01.06c">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beach and $volcano and $boat is true>>*<<link "You’re done adventuring for today." "Chapter 01.29">><</link>><</if>> <<set $ambernecklace to true>>

Holding the item close, you walk over to the counter and place the vase on the counter. The cashier gives you their best customer service smile as they grab the item and scan the barcode. "Will that be all?" You nod, and the cashier gives you the total. After paying, they shout out a quick "have a nice day!" and you step out of the shop. After stepping back into your car, you sit back and ruminate over where you should go next. <<if $beach is false>>*<<link "You’re on an island. It's time to go to the beach!" "Chapter 01.06a">><</link>><</if>> <<if $boat is false>>*<<link "The website you’re looking at says there's a boat tour nearby that's entirely free for the first week of the island opening." "Chapter 01.06c">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beach and $volcano and $boat is true>>*<<link "You’re done adventuring for today." "Chapter 01.29">><</link>><</if>> <<set $lavavase to true>>

You decide against buying anything and walk out of the small shop. The cashier dismisses you with a polite "have a nice day!" and you're on your way back to the car. It's time to decide the next spot for your adventure. <<if $beach is false>>*<<link "You’re on an island. It's time to go to the beach!" "Chapter 01.06a">><</link>><</if>> <<if $boat is false>>*<<link "The website you’re looking at says there's a boat tour nearby that's entirely free for the first week of the island opening." "Chapter 01.06c">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beach and $volcano and $boat is true>>*<<link "You’re done adventuring for today." "Chapter 01.29">><</link>><</if>> <<set $boughtnothing to true>>

<<if $tmale is true>> He wears a black and white horizontal striped shirt, with the buttons at the top left unbuttoned, showing a bit of his umber-toned chest, along with plain white shirts and sandals. His coily hair is cut close to his scalp, giving it a neat and well-maintained look, and his brown eyes are heavy with exhaustion. He looks quite a bit older than you, as well, at least in his mid to late 30s. <<elseif $tfemale is true>> She wears a loose black and white vertical striped shirt that is tied together at the front, showing a bit of her umber chest. She completes the outfit with plain white shorts and sandals. Her coily hair reaches her jawline and is left as an afro, and her brown eyes are heavy with exhaustion. She looks quite a bit older than you, as well, at least in her mid to late 30s. <</if>> You startle at the sound of $t_him clearing $t_his throat. "You ready to start?" *<<link "You blush and quickly avert your eyes before giving a short nod in response. ♡" "Chapter 01.23">><<set $flirtshy to true>><</link>> *<<link "'Sorry, just enjoying the view.' ♡" "Chapter 01.23">><<set $flirtbold to true>><</link>> *<<link "'Yep!'" "Chapter 01.23">><</link>>

$tname nods before turning the key in the ignition, and the boat roars. $t_He then turns back to you and holds a hand out. "Hop in." <<nobr>><<if $flirtbold is true>><<set $tflirt to Math.clamp($tflirt + 1, 0, 100)>><<set $bold to Math.clamp($bold + 5, 0, 100)>> You suppose $t_he didn't notice you flirting with $t_him. <</if>><</nobr>> *<<link "You take $t_his hand" "Chapter 01.24a">><</link>> *<<link "You shake your head and get into the boat by yourself." "Chapter 01.24b">><</link>> <<if $flirtshy is true>> <<set $tflirt to Math.clamp($tflirt + 1, 0, 100)>><<set $shy to Math.clamp($shy + 5, 0, 100)>><</if>>

$tname's hand is comfortably warm, and the smell of sea salt fills your nose as you step closer to $t_him. The boat rocks as you step inside, and you feel $t_him grip your arm tighter as you step off the dock. $t_He lets you go when you sit down and turns around to rev the ignition. The boat begins to move slowly as $t_he turns the steering wheel to the left, and then begins on the introductory monologue. "Welcome to Blue Mist's extravagant oceanic tour." $tname's voice is monotone and bored. "That's how they wanted me to start the tour. I'm not sure why I had to use the word 'extravagant'. You're on a speedboat, not a cruise ship." "Anyway..." $tname draws out. "If you look to your left, you'll see the boardwalk, filled to the brim with various shops that fulfill your every need. Clothes, food, souvenir shops... They've even got benches when you need a break." $tname shakes $t_his head. "The script might sound like it's over exaggerating it, but I //did// get a nice couch from that furniture shop." $t_He points to a shop called "Callie's Furnishings". "Why is the furniture shop on the boardwalk?" You blurt out. Isn’t the boardwalk mostly for tourists looking to spend some money? "They'll move it when more space opens up, but there's no tourists yet, so I guess they thought it wouldn't matter for now." $tname shrugs. "And of course, probably the most interesting thing here..." $tname points to the towering mountain. "Mount Verbo. The smoke's not an illusion. That's an active volcano you're looking at." <<if $volcano is true>> "I hiked up there earlier." You mention. "Nice. I've been meaning to do it, but well..." $t_He gestures to the boat. "I've got other stuff I need to take care of." <</if>> "While up there, you may find these flowers with pearls in them. They're called 'Enchanting Pearl Roses'... I guess Blue Mist's researchers aren't very creative." $tname chuckles. "Nobody really knows anything about them, or how they even produce a pearl, but some conspiracy theorists think that you'll be cursed if you take the pearl. Others believe that the pearl brings good luck, I guess it depends on whether you ask a pessimist or an optimist." <<if $tookpearl is true>> You swallow, feeling the pearl in your pocket. It's just theories, there's no proof... <</if>> "You believe in superstitions like that?" $tname asks. *<<link "Yes." "Chapter 01.25a">><</link>> *<<link "Nah." "Chapter 01.25b">><</link>> *<<link "You find them intriguing, but don't personally believe in them." "Chapter 01.25c">><</link>> *<<link "To be honest, you've never really looked into them." "Chapter 01.25d">><</link>>

The boat rocks as you step inside and your hand shoots out to grip the edge, once you find your balance, you safely step inside and sit down on the small bench. Once $tname confirms you're safely inside, $t_he turns around to rev the ignition. The boat begins to move slowly as $t_he turns the steering wheel to the left, and then begins on the introductory monologue. "Welcome to Blue Mist's extravagant oceanic tour." $tname's voice is monotone and bored. "That's how they wanted me to start the tour. I'm not sure why I had to use the word 'extravagant'. You're on a speedboat, not a cruise ship." "Anyway..." $tname draws out. "If you look to your left, you'll see the boardwalk, filled to the brim with various shops that fulfill your every need. Clothes, food, souvenir shops... They've even got benches when you need a break." $tname shakes his head. "The script might sound like it's over exaggerating it, but I //did// get a nice couch from that furniture shop." $t_He points to a shop called "Callie's Furnishings". "Why is the furniture shop on the boardwalk?" You blurt out. Isn’t the boardwalk mostly for tourists looking to spend some money? "They'll move it when more space opens up, but there's no tourists yet, so I guess they just thought it wouldn't matter for now." $tname shrugs. "And of course, probably the most interesting thing here..." $tname points to the towering mountain. "Mount Verbo. The smoke's not an illusion. That's an active volcano you're looking at." <<if $volcano is true>> "I hiked up there earlier." You mention. "Nice. I've been meaning to do it, but well..." $t_He gestures to the boat. "I've got other stuff I need to take care of." <</if>> "While up there, you may find these flowers with pearls in them. They're called 'Enchanting Pearl Roses'... I guess Blue Mist's researchers aren't very creative." $tname chuckles. "Nobody really knows anything about them, or how they even produce a pearl, but some conspiracy theorists think that you'll be cursed if you take the pearl. Others believe that the pearl brings good luck, I guess it depends on whether you ask a pessimist or an optimist." <<if $tookpearl is true>> You swallow, feeling the pearl in your pocket. It's just theories, there's no proof... <</if>> "You believe in superstitions like that?" $tname asks. *<<link "Yes." "Chapter 01.25a">><</link>> *<<link "Nah." "Chapter 01.25b">><</link>> *<<link "You find them intriguing, but don't personally believe in them." "Chapter 01.25c">><</link>> *<<link "To be honest, you've never really looked into them." "Chapter 01.25d">><</link>>

<<set $superstitious to true>> You nod. "Obviously some are absurd, but I think it's okay to be cautious." $tname nods. "I don't believe any of them. Honestly, I don't even believe in luck. We all suffer in life, some just suffer more than others. Avoiding black cats and ladders won't change that." "A pretty gloomy view of life." You voice. $tname shrugs. "Are superstitions not gloomy?" Well, you can't argue with that. "So, what's your reason for moving all the way out here?" $tname asks. "Everyone seems to have their own, though they're rarely interesting. Most of them are old couples who retired recently. You're quite young, though." *<<link "I’m…coping." "Chapter 01.26a">><</link>> *<<link "'I wanted to get away from the world.'" "Chapter 01.26b">><</link>> *<<link "'I like the beach.'" "Chapter 01.26c">><</link>> *<<link "'I... have family here.'" "Chapter 01.26d">><</link>> *<<link "'It's personal.'" "Chapter 01.26e">><</link>>

<<set $superstitious to false>> You shake your head. "Nope." $tname nods. "Me neither. I don't even believe in luck. We all suffer in life, some just suffer more than others. Avoiding black cats and ladders won't change that." "A pretty gloomy view of life." You voice. $tname shrugs. "Are superstitions not gloomy?" Well, you can't argue with that. "So, what's your reason for moving all the way out here?" $tname asks. "Everyone seems to have their own, though they're rarely interesting. Most of them are old couples who retired recently. You're quite young, though." *<<link "I’m…coping." "Chapter 01.26a">><</link>> *<<link "'I wanted to get away from the world.'" "Chapter 01.26b">><</link>> *<<link "'I like the beach.'" "Chapter 01.26c">><</link>> *<<link "'I... have family here.'" "Chapter 01.26d">><</link>> *<<link "'It's personal.'" "Chapter 01.26e">><</link>>

<<set $superstitious to false>> You shrug. "I think some of them are interesting, but no, I don't personally believe in them." "Which ones?" $tname asks. "Hm... The ones to do with numbers. 'Unlucky' numbers are different in every culture, and sometimes they're different based on the individual. One of the most common ones, though, are the numbers 13, 4, 7, 17, and probably even more than those." You answer. $tname chuckles. "At that point, every number can be an unlucky number. So none of us are safe." You laugh. "That's why I don't personally believe in them. But I like learning about their origins and things like that." $tname nods. "I can get behind that." "So, what's your reason for moving all the way out here?" $tname asks. "Everyone seems to have their own, though they're rarely interesting. Most of them are old couples who retired recently. You're quite young, though." *<<link "I’m…coping." "Chapter 01.26a">><</link>> *<<link "'I wanted to get away from the world.'" "Chapter 01.26b">><</link>> *<<link "'I like the beach.'" "Chapter 01.26c">><</link>> *<<link "'I... have family here.'" "Chapter 01.26d">><</link>> *<<link "'It's personal.'" "Chapter 01.26e">><</link>>

<<set $superstitious to false>> "I've never really looked into them, to be honest." "Really? You haven't heard of black cats, breaking mirrors, four leaf clovers, none of it?" $tname inquires. "Eh, I guess? I mean, I'm sure they've been mentioned to me, but honestly I've never looked into them or had anyone go into depth about them." You shrug. "Huh. Well, that'll change now that you're living here, I guarantee it. Superstitions and scary stories seem to be all anyone here talks about." $tname scoffs. "Noted..." You mumble. "So, what's your reason for moving all the way out here?" $tname asks. "Everyone seems to have their own, though they're rarely interesting. Most of them are old couples who retired recently. You're quite young, though." *<<link "I’m…coping." "Chapter 01.26a">><</link>> *<<link "'I wanted to get away from the world.'" "Chapter 01.26b">><</link>> *<<link "'I like the beach.'" "Chapter 01.26c">><</link>> *<<link "'I... have family here.'" "Chapter 01.26d">><</link>> *<<link "'It's personal.'" "Chapter 01.26e">><</link>>

<<set $tlike to Math.clamp($tlike + 4, 0, 100)>> "Ah... It's a bit personal, but I came here to cope with loss." $tname nods. "Blue Mist isn't a bad move in that situation. I hope you'll find some happiness here." You thank $t_him, before the two of you fall into silence, neither having much to add. It's not an uncomfortable silence. Just a silence between two people in parallel situations. After a while, $tname pulls the boat further out to sea, before stopping. You look back to $t_him, confused. "Don't worry, this is a part of the script." $t_He states before clearing $t_his throat. "Speaking of superstitions..." "It's believed that beneath us lies a kingdom. Not for humans, but for another species." You lean in, slightly intrigued. <<if $beachread is true>> Is this what those lifeguards were talking about? <</if>> "Mermaids. There's not a lot of evidence, but people have been reporting sightings of alien-like creatures throughout the sea, and I mean, it wouldn't be that surprising, right? All kinds of new types of species have been seen throughout the island, mermaids would just top it all off, wouldn't they?" $tname leans over and threads $t_his hand through the waves. "Have you noticed anything?" You question. $t_He looks back at you. "I've seen a few strange sightings, but as I said, that's expected on Blue Mist." "Honestly, though? I admit, I'm intrigued by this belief. Mostly about how we react to these mermaids, and how they'll react to us." $tname moves to sit back in the driving seat. "Humans have a tendency to react violently against things we don't understand, I doubt mermaids would be excluded, and I can't help but wonder if they work the same way." "You think a species war could happen or something?" You ask. "Maybe. But I wonder if they think we've intruded on their territory or something." $tname shrugs. "I don't think they're all that true, though. I mean, why would it take an island rising for us to find mermaids? Wouldn't we have found them earlier?" You ponder the question, it's a fair assessment, and you can kind of see both sides of the argument. $tname eyes you as you think, before shrugging again. "Just some food for thought." <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.27">><</button>>

<<set $tlike to Math.clamp($tlike + 2, 0, 100)>> "I just needed to get away from the rest of the world for a while." You decide to leave it at that. $tname nods. "Yeah, I get it." $t_He didn't need to elaborate. It seems you two are in a similar boat. Quite literally. You two remain silent, neither having much to add. It's not an uncomfortable silence. Just a silence between two people in parallel situations. After a while, $tname pulls the boat further out to sea, before stopping. You look back to $t_him, confused. "Don't worry, this is a part of the script." $t_He states before clearing $t_his throat. "Speaking of superstitions..." "It's believed that beneath us lies a kingdom. Not for humans, but for another species." You lean in, slightly intrigued. <<if $beachread is true>> Is this what those lifeguards were talking about? <</if>> "Mermaids. There's not a lot of evidence, but people have been reporting sightings of alien-like creatures throughout the sea, and I mean, it wouldn't be that surprising, right? All kinds of new types of species have been seen throughout the island, mermaids would just top it all off, wouldn't they?" $tname leans over and threads $t_his hand through the waves. "Have you noticed anything?" You question. $t_He looks back at you. "I've seen a few strange sightings, but as I said, that's expected on Blue Mist." "Honestly, though? I admit, I'm intrigued by this belief. Mostly about how we react to these mermaids, and how they'll react to us." $tname moves to sit back in the driving seat. "Humans have a tendency to react violently against things we don't understand, I doubt mermaids would be excluded, and I can't help but wonder if they work the same way." "You think a species war could happen or something?" You ask. "Maybe. But I wonder if they think we've intruded on their territory or something." $tname shrugs. "I don't think they're all that true, though. I mean, why would it take an island rising for us to find mermaids? Wouldn't we have found them earlier?" You ponder the question, it's a fair assessment, and you can kind of see both sides of the argument. $tname eyes you as you think, before shrugging again. "Just some food for thought." <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.27">><</button>>

"I like the beach." You respond. <<if $loveocean is true>> It's not a lie, just not the entire truth. <<elseif $hateocean is true>> It's a lie, but it's not like $t_he knows that. <<else>> It's not entirely a lie, just maybe not the full truth. <</if>> "Well, that’s obvious, who moves to an island and doesn't like the beach?" $tname chuckles. <<if $hateocean is true>> You would. <</if>> "Maybe, but it's a valid reason, and this island won't be overwhelmed with tourists. At least not for the time being." You argue. "Fair." $tname relents. After a while, $tname pulls the boat further out to sea, before stopping. You look back to $t_him, confused. "Don't worry, this is a part of the script." $t_He states before clearing $t_his throat. "Speaking of superstitions..." "It's believed that beneath us lies a kingdom. Not for humans, but for another species." You lean in, slightly intrigued. <<if $beachread is true>> Is this what those lifeguards were talking about? <</if>> "Mermaids. There's not a lot of evidence, but people have been reporting sightings of alien-like creatures throughout the sea, and I mean, it wouldn't be that surprising, right? All kinds of new types of species have been seen throughout the island, mermaids would just top it all off, wouldn't they?" $tname leans over and threads $t_his hand through the waves. "Have you noticed anything?" You question. $t_He looks back at you. "I've seen a few strange sightings, but as I said, that's expected on Blue Mist." "Honestly, though? I admit, I'm intrigued by this belief. Mostly about how we react to these mermaids, and how they'll react to us." $tname moves to sit back in the driving seat. "Humans have a tendency to react violently against things we don't understand, I doubt mermaids would be excluded, and I can't help but wonder if they work the same way." "You think a species war could happen or something?" You ask. "Maybe. But I wonder if they think we've intruded on their territory or something." $tname shrugs. "I don't think they're all that true, though. I mean, why would it take an island rising for us to find mermaids? Wouldn't we have found them earlier?" You ponder the question, it's a fair assessment, and you can kind of see both sides of the argument. $tname eyes you as you think, before shrugging again. "Just some food for thought." <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.27">><</button>>

<<set $tlike to Math.clamp($tlike + 2, 0, 100)>> "I...have family here. They're out doing other activities, though." You lie. $tname eyes you for a moment before nodding. "Alright. It's the perfect island for families." You don't respond. Neither does $t_he. It's obvious $t_he doesn't believe you, but you don't feel pity from $t_him, rather understanding. It seems you two might be in a similar boat. Quite literally. After a while, $tname pulls the boat further out to sea, before stopping. You look back to $t_him, confused. "Don't worry, this is apart of the script." $t_He states before clearing $t_his throat. "Speaking of superstitions..." "It's believed that beneath us lies a kingdom. Not for humans, but for another species." You lean in, slightly intrigued. <<if $beachread is true>> Is this what those lifeguards were talking about? <</if>> "Mermaids. There's not a lot of evidence, but people have been reporting sightings of alien-like creatures throughout the sea, and I mean, it wouldn't be that surprising, right? All kinds of new types of species have been seen throughout the island, mermaids would just top it all off, wouldn't they?" $tname leans over and threads $t_his hand through the waves. "Have you noticed anything?" You question. $t_He looks back at you. "I've seen a few strange sightings, but as I said, that's expected on Blue Mist." "Honestly, though? I admit, I'm intrigued by this belief. Mostly about how we react to these mermaids, and how they'll react to us." $tname moves to sit back in the driving seat. "Humans have a tendency to react violently against things we don't understand, I doubt mermaids would be excluded, and I can't help but wonder if they work the same way." "You think a species war could happen or something?" You ask. "Maybe. But I wonder if they think we've intruded on their territory or something." $tname shrugs. "I don't think they're all that true, though. I mean, why would it take an island rising for us to find mermaids? Wouldn't we have found them earlier?" You ponder the question, it's a fair assessment, and you can kind of see both sides of the argument. $tname eyes you as you think, before shrugging again. "Just some food for thought." <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.27">><</button>>

<<set $tlike to Math.clamp($tlike + 4, 0, 100)>> "It's personal." Blunt and simple. No need for anything more. $tname nods. "I get it." He doesn't say anything more. Neither do you. After a while, $tname pulls the boat further out to sea, before stopping. You look back to $t_him, confused. "Don't worry, this is a part of the script." $t_He states before clearing $t_his throat. "Speaking of superstitions..." "It's believed that beneath us lies a kingdom. Not for humans, but for another species." You lean in, slightly intrigued. <<if $beachread is true>> Is this what those lifeguards were talking about? <</if>> "Mermaids. There's not a lot of evidence, but people have been reporting sightings of alien-like creatures throughout the sea, and I mean, it wouldn't be that surprising, right? All kinds of new types of species have been seen throughout the island, mermaids would just top it all off, wouldn't they?" $tname leans over and threads $t_his hand through the waves. "Have you noticed anything?" You question. $t_He looks back at you. "I've seen a few strange sightings, but as I said, that's expected on Blue Mist." "Honestly, though? I admit, I'm intrigued by this belief. Mostly about how we react to these mermaids, and how they'll react to us." $tname moves to sit back in the driving seat. "Humans have a tendency to react violently against things we don't understand, I doubt mermaids would be excluded, and I can't help but wonder if they work the same way." "You think a species war could happen or something?" You ask. "Maybe. But I wonder if they think we've intruded on their territory or something." $tname shrugs. "I don't think they're all that true, though. I mean, why would it take an island rising for us to find mermaids? Wouldn't we have found them earlier?" You ponder the question, it's a fair assessment, and you can kind of see both sides of the argument. $tname eyes you as you think, before shrugging again. "Just some food for thought." <<button "Next" "Chapter 01.27">><</button>>

Once you return to the dock, $tname stands up and stretches. "I hope you enjoyed the Blue Mist extravagant oceanic tour. Feel free to leave a review on our website and throw a coin into the tip jar." As $t_he talks, he opens a small compartment and pulls out a jar, setting it down on the bench next to you. You look down at the tip jar, the tour was abnormally short, but you suppose there's not a lot to say about the island yet. You're also not sure what to make of the tour guide. *<<link "Leave a tip." "Chapter 01.28">><<set $ttip to true>><</link>> *<<link "Don't." "Chapter 01.28">><<set $ttip to false>><</link>>

<<notify>> Codex Updated: $tname! <</notify>><<if $ttip is true>> You pull out your wallet and drop a $10 bill in the jar. It was a free tour, but you're sure $tname could use the extra money. $tname shoots you a small smile. "Thanks. Feel free to come back, maybe I'll have more things to talk about." <<else>> You thank $t_him for the tour and stand up. $tname nods and grabs the jar. "Feel free to come back, maybe I'll have more things to talk about." <</if>> The boat wobbles as you step out, but you manage to safely stand on the dock. Time to figure out what else you're going to do today... <<if $beach is false>>*<<link "I'm on an island. It's time to go to the beach!" "Chapter 01.06a">><</link>><</if>> <<if $volcano is false>>*<<link "Get a view of that volcano!" "Chapter 01.06b">><</link>><</if>> <<if $beach and $volcano and $boat is true>>*<<link "I'm done adventuring for today." "Chapter 01.29">><</link>><</if>>

You look over at the setting sun, and decide that's enough for the day. Thankfully, the drive back home is easy and uneventful. With how exhausted you are from the day's events, you don’t think you’d be safe trying to navigate severe traffic right now. However, it seems the universe has chosen a different path than what your mind wants, and you suddenly feel a vibration on your wrist, breaking you out of your stupor. Looking down, you see the bracelet you found yesterday is...glowing. Just like it was when you first saw it. Before your dazed mind can fully comprehend the phenomenon, your arm jerks. Out of alarm, you grip the railing to keep yourself from tumbling down the stairs, but the bracelet does not relent. No. You're not doing this again, your mind chants as you feel your heart skip a beat. Fear and frustration taking over, you desperately try to yank the bracelet off of your wrist, but it only pulls itself further down your arm, and continues to tug you down the steps. Your body, seeming to be in an argument with your mind, tiredly relents and you are unwillingly forced to follow where the bracelet is pulling you towards. It appears to be leading you towards the same dock you found it. Once stepping reaching the end of the dock, it's light dims and it stills on your wrists. Your breathing and heartbeat have noticeably increased after the strange encounter, and you rip the bracelet off of you, throwing it down onto the dock. You rub your wrist and take a step back, bewildered. "That's no way to treat a gift." You practically jolt out of your skin at the sound of a voice, and you whip your head around as your eyes scan the beach. "Down here!" The voice giggles, you obey, and look down to see... <<set $i_he to "he">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $i_him to "him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $i_He to "He">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $i_Him to "Him">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $i_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $i_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $ip_His to "His">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $ip_his to "his">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $i_man to "man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $i_Man to "Man">><<set $plural to true>>\ <<set $i_boy to "boy">><<set $plural to true>> <<set $i_Boy to "Boy">><<set $plural to true>> *<<link "A man in the water below you." "Chapter 01.30a">><<set $i_he to "he">><<set $i_him to "him">><<set $i_He to "He">><<set $i_Him to "Him">><<set $i_his to "his">><<set $i_His to "His">><<set $ip_His to "His">><<set $ip_his to "his">><<set $i_man to "man">><<set $i_Man to "Man">><<set $i_boy to "boy">><<set $i_Boy to "Boy">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $imale to true>><<set $iname to "Idris">><</link>> *<<link "A woman in the water below you." "Chapter 01.30b">><<set $i_he to "she">><<set $i_him to "her">><<set $i_He to "She">><<set $i_Him to "Her">><<set $i_his to "her">><<set $i_His to "Her">><<set $ip_His to "Hers">><<set $ip_his to "hers">><<set $i_man to "woman">><<set $i_Man to "Woman">><<set $al_boy to "girl">><<set $i_Boy to "Girl">><<set $plural to false>><<update>><<set $ifemale to true>><<set $iname to "Iris">><</link>>

He's shirtless, a bronze tone that truly stands out in this golden hour. His hair is coily, brown, and short, reaching just past his shoulders. But what sticks out about him is his purple eyes. At first you think it's a trick of the light, but how could the sun cause your eyes to change to such a deep purple color? It couldn't be... Could it? The <<if $tmale is true>> boatman’s <<else>> boatwoman’s <</if>> words echo in your mind. He reaches over and grasps the bracelet, threading it through his fingers. "I didn't believe it when I came up and saw it was gone. You humans are kind of gullible. ‘’'You humans'...’’ "You're a..." He smiles, before placing the bracelet safely on the side and placing either hand on the dock, then pulling himself out of the water and sitting on the dock. A long, purple tail trails behind him, threading through the water. "A mermaid.” Your jaw is stuck in place, your eyes are so wide you're afraid they might pop out. But something he said finally clicks, and your eyes trail back down to the bracelet next to him. His eyes follow yours, and he picks the bracelet back up before presenting it to you. "It was a trap, sorry. But I hope you liked anyway." Before you can stop yourself, you take the bracelet from him and put it back on your wrist. You're not sure why you did that. You feel woozy. "I'm Idris." He smiles up at you. You take a moment before responding. "$name." "$name..." He rolls it off his tongue, as if tasting. "I like it. Say, $name, do you like mysteries?" "Huh?" You can’t concentrate on anything he's saying, let alone comprehend it. You're mind is swirling. You need sleep. This must be a hallucination. "I've got just the one for you. Take my hand?" He holds his hand out to you. You stare at it, confused. You're not sure what he's trying to say. The bracelet vibrates. *<<link "Take $his hand." "Chapter 01.31">><</link>> *<<link "Refuse.">><</link>>

She wears a purple seashell bikini top with various shells and pearls covering the bottom portion, her skin is a bronze tone that truly stands out in this golden hour. Her hair is coily, brown, and short, reaching just past her shoulders. But what sticks out about her is her purple eyes, and the scales running up her torso and arms. At first you think it's a trick of the light, but how could the sun cause your eyes to change to such a deep purple color? It couldn't be... Could it? The <<if $tmale is true>> boatman’s <<else>> boatwoman’s <</if>> words echo in your mind. She reaches over and grasps the bracelet, threading it through her fingers. "I didn't believe it when I came up and saw it was gone. You humans are kind of gullible. ‘’'You humans'...’’ "You're a..." She smiles, before placing the bracelet safely on the side and placing either hand on the dock, then pulling herself out of the water and sitting on the dock. A long, purple tail trails behind her, threading through the water. "A mermaid.” Your jaw is stuck in place, your eyes are so wide you're afraid they might pop out. But something she said finally clicks, and your eyes trail back down to the bracelet next to her. Her eyes follow yours, and she picks the bracelet back up before presenting it to you. "It was a trap, sorry. But I hope you liked anyway." Before you can stop yourself, you take the bracelet from her and put it back on your wrist. You're not sure why you did that. You feel woozy. "I'm Iris." She smiles up at you. You take a moment before responding. "$name." "$name..." She rolls it off his tongue, as if tasting. "I like it. Say, $name, do you like mysteries?" "Huh?" You can’t concentrate on anything she's saying, let alone comprehend it. You're mind is swirling. You need sleep. This must be a hallucination. "I've got just the one for you. Take my hand?" She holds her hand out to you. You stare at it, confused. You're not sure what she's trying to say. The bracelet vibrates. <<link "Take her hand." "Chapter 01.31">><</link>> <<link "Refuse.">><</link>>

Your hand threads through $i_his before you can fully think about what you're doing. In fact, you're not thinking at all. Your mind is hazy, you feel like you're spectating as someone else takes the reins from your hands. The vibration from the bracelet is unbearable. $iname simply offers you what you think is supposed to be a comforting smile, pulling you closer to $i_him. $i_He wraps you in a hug, you attempt to reach up with your arms, to hug back? To push $i_him off? You're not sure. They don't move. You can feel $i_him smiling against your shoulder. "I've been waiting..." The mermaid's voice fades in and out, the sentences are incomprehensible Time feels like it's moving in slow motion, the dreamlike feeling growing so strong you're able to tune out the bracelet. You feel... safe. Warm and safe. The ocean waves are muffled and soothing, the air around you is warm and soft, you can almost feel the softness of your bed beneath you. You feel your consciousness slowly fading away. You have the distant feeling you should be fighting back, but you're too delirious to pay attention to it. You're in no state of panic as you feel the air leave your lungs, replaced by something much heavier. A pair of arms wrap around you, and you smile. You've always slept the best in your sister's arms. Everything is blurry, and your eyes begin to sting, so you close them, and allow yourself to unwind. Perhaps the mind's most dangerous state is when it is in no state at all. <<button "Next" "Coming Soon">><</button>>

Thank you for playing Through The Waves <3. Feel free to follow my tumblr @throughthewaves-if for updates, as well as information about the lore and the RO's. You can also follow my main if @aquarii-if if you want something else to play while you wait for the next chapter. I hope you enjoyed! If you ran into any bugs along the way, feel free to alert me of them through the google form- https://forms.gle/4MJY6XKWY24Cv2nK7

<div class="box header"> <h1>$lname Ingram</h1> <h2>"An Impulsive Surfer"</h2> <span class="star">✦</span> <ul class="facts"> <li>$l_He/$l_Him</li> <li>21</li> <li>Human</li> <li>Flirt: $lflirt</li> </ul> </div> <div class="box"> <h3>Relationship</h3> <div class="stat-group"> <div class="stat"> <div class="stat-labels"> <span>$lname</span> <span>✦</span> <span>$llike%</span> </div> <div class="stat-bar-container"> <div class="stat-bar" id="llike-stat"></div> </div> </div> <div class="choicetable"> <<button '<div class="returnbutton"><span>Return To Game</span></div>' $return>><</button>> </div>

<div class="box header"> <h1>$tname Gallagher</h1> <h2>"The Crabby <<if $tmale is true>> Boatsman <<else>> Boatswoman <</if>>"</h2> <span class="star">✦</span> <ul class="facts"> <li>$t_He/$t_Him</li> <li>30</li> <li>Human</li> <li>Flirt: $tflirt</li> </ul> </div> <div class="box"> <h3>Relationship</h3> <div class="stat-group"> <div class="stat"> <div class="stat-labels"> <span>$tname</span> <span>✦</span> <span>$tlike%</span> </div> <div class="stat-bar-container"> <div class="stat-bar" id="tlike-stat"></div> </div> </div> <div class="choicetable"> <<button '<div class="returnbutton"><span>Return To Game</span></div>' $return>><</button>> </div>