Light Of My Life

(text-colour:magenta)["Hey."] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ [[...]]]] (set: $fail to 0)

(set:$Vida to 1) (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Vida appreciates that you responded quickly~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)["W-What? Is something wrong,, Vida?"]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Click to continue dialogue~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I feel the familiar warmth of my sister's hand as she gently touches the top of my fingers.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:magenta)["Nothing's wrong. You just spaced out. What's up?" ]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:purple)["Oh, yeah... It's just... I coulda sworn I heard rustling. I wanted to determine where it was coming from."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:magenta)["Did you?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:purple)["Well, no - because, as usual, you interrupted me."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:magenta)["I thought you were, like, catatonic. No need to be freakin' rude."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:purple)["If we get mauled by some animal in the bushes, I'm telling Mom."]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Keep on walking->1]]]]]] (set:$bunny to 2)

(set:$Vida to 0) (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Vida feels hurt that you ignored her~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[I listen even more closely, not to the whining voice of my ever annoying sister, but to the rustling sound I hear coming from the bushes... It sounds like it's to our right.] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Click to continue dialogue~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:magenta)["Hellooooooooooo?????"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:purple)["Oh my god, will you be quiet for just one second!?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:magenta)["Wow, rude. What's your deal?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:purple)["My deal is I'm trying to determine from which direction an ominous rustle sound is coming from to protect us from possible danger, and as always, you think your absent-minded boredom and whims are more important than our survival."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:magenta)["I thought you were, like, catatonic. Sorry I cared."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:purple)["Don't be dramatic, Vida. Thankfully, I found out the sound was to our right before you interrupted me - so should we check it out?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))+(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:magenta)["Okayyyy, but if we get mauled to death, I'm telling."]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"outline")[(text-style:"bold")+(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Check the bush]]]]]

(text-colour:magenta)["Are you listening?"] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ [[...->.....]]]]

(text-colour:magenta)["Earth to Audrey!"] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ [[Snap out of it]] [[Block them out]]]] (set:$sacrifice to 0)

(set:$Vida to $Vida +1) (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Vida is relieved that you listened to her~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I put my knife away, placing a hand on the whimpering bunny's head. It flinches, and then relaxes as I gently pet it.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I can't help it though. It's days are numbered.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:purple)["You realize it'll probably die on it's own anyway, right? So, not eating it... it's a waste."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I turn to Vida. I can tell that her brows are furrowed with a determined, stubborn passion I'm all too familiar with.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:magenta)["It deserves a chance. Even if we can't help it. Maybe someone else will."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[She's always so idealistic...]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:purple)["Fine, but you better not whine when you're hungry later."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:magenta)["I won't!"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Liar...]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))+(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Leaving the defenseless creature to live out the rest of it's days in agony, we continue onwards - through the dense forest.] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[...->1]]]]] (set:$bunny to 0)

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[I walk towards the bush, reaching my hand out cautiously. Without warning, an emaciated rabbit jumps out. It's legs snapping under it's weight upon landing, causing it to topple over.] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:magenta)["Oh my gosh! Oh no... Poor bunny."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:purple)["It's so thin... I suppose it is hard to find food nowadays."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:magenta)["Unless you like chargrilled." ]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:purple)["You're so morbid..."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Speaking of morbid, I know I cannot pass up the oppurtunity. I pull out my swiss knife. And prepare to skin the defenseless animal.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:magenta)["Wait! Don't hurt it... It's already in enough pain."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:purple)["So you can joke about it's suffering but we can't cause it?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:magenta)["It just... Mom's favorite animal was rabbits."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I hesitate, my eyes wandering down, at the mention of a woman I've tried not to think about for years. But in this present moment, I need to feed my sister...]] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ [[Skin the animal]] [[Leave it alone]]]]]

(set:$Vida to $Vida -1) (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Vida is sad to see the animal die~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I press my knife against the tired, whimpering bunny's throat and insert it into the fluffy jugular. Blood spurts. I hate that it makes me salivate.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[With it dead, I proceed to skin it, leaving only it's meat, which I encase in my satchel for later consumption.] ] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.2))+(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[//~Rabbit Meat added to your inventory~//](set: $inv to $inv + (a: "Rabbit Meat"))] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I turn to Vida, and she doesn't look at me. Her eyes downturned and her lips pouty.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[She'll be happy when she gets a meal tonight.] ] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[With the job done, we continue onwards - through the dense forest.]] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ [[...->1]]]]] (set:$bunny to 1) (set:$sacrifice to $sacrifice +1) (set:$skin to 1)

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[We continue forwards, lamenting the scorched trees either side of us as they do little to protect us from the harsh, hot winds.] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Even at night, ever since The Glow, the world has sat at a constant 60 degrees celcius.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Trees are burned up, foliage is almost nonexistant anymore.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Because of this, herbivores struggle to stay alive.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Which means carnivores have less to eat.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[So we all starve.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Some humans have managed to remain alive by avoiding direct sunlight during the day, roaming at night, and scavenging from the scraps of past civilisation.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Me and my sister are one of those humans. But it's hard to keep things light in a world of darkness. Especially when light itself is our greatest threat.]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[[[...->2]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//~Scan the screen with your mouse until you find the exit by lighting it up with your match!~//]] (text-size: 2)+(text-style:"expand")[(text-colour:transparent)[(hover-style:(text-color:white))[ [[E x i t]]]]] ////

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[Besides the suns rays proving hot enough to melt human skin, it also has become so bright that looking up at it is enough to kill you. Hence why the incident was initially named The Glow. Most people were wiped out in the first few hours from looking up alone.] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I wonder if I would've been one of those people, too. A curious kid like me, only 13 at the time. I probably would've looked. Thankfully, Mom took care of me, of us. And now she's gone, it's up to me.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I'm not used to being the caretaker. But, my sister's relying on me now. She was only 8 when all this started. 3 years later, she's still just a kid. So, I have made her my responsibility. Though, I suppose I'm just a kid, too.]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[[[...->3]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)["Ahh... Home, shit, home."]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[We arrive safely back at our bunker.. An old nuclear fallout shelter, I guess. We found it one day, and have been hiding out down here during the day ever since. It's been a long day, so I'm going to unpack, make sure everything's in order, and then check the radio before bed.] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//~Actions with >>> after them will advance the story and end exploration, so choose these only when you wish to move on~//]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(align:"<==")+(box:"=X")[(align:"<==")+(box:"XXXXXXXXX=")[ [[Look At Shelves]]]](align:"==>")[(align:"<==")+(box:"===============XXXXXXX")[ [[Examine Stove]]]] (align:"<==>")+(box:"===========================================================XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX===")[ [[Inspect Coat Rack]]] (align:"<==>")+(box:"===========================XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX===")[ [[Sit On Bed]]] (align:"<==>")+(box:"======XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX===") [ [[Turn On Fan]]] (align:"<==>")+(box:"======================================================================================================XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX===") [ [[Check Radio>>>]]] [[Talk To Vida]] ]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[Shelves line the walls, but only a few cans of food sit upon them. The situation is pretty dire.] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[We go out scavenging every night in nearby towns and cities, but our food supply is still dwindling. We can't keep living like this forever.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[But with the sun as dangerous as it is, nearly all the natural sources of food like plants, fruits, crops and farms all dried up and went extinct.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Remnants of past civilisation are the only food left a lot of the time.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[What will we do when it runs out?]] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[[[Back->3]]]]]

(if: $bunny is 0)[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[It's so helpful we were able to get this stove working, turns out exposing water to the sun is enough to bring it to a boil nowadays. ] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[So we made this handy little contraption in the ceiling. Slide the panel over, and it lets the sun above shine down through a hole we drilled - right onto the stovepot.] ] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[Looking at this kind of makes me wish I would've brought that bunny back with us though... Been a while since we've had some cooked animal meat.]] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ [[Back->3]]]]]] (if: $bunny is 1)[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[It's so helpful we were able to get this stove working, turns out exposing water to the sun is enough to bring it to a boil nowadays. ] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[So we made this handy little contraption in the ceiling. Slide the panel over, and it lets the sun above shine down through a hole we drilled - right onto the stovepot.]] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[That's right! We actually managed to catch an animal today... Guess I should cook it.]] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[I slide the panel over, and soon enough the sun begins to rise. I take the rabbit meat out from my satchel and place it into a pot of boiling water, watching the meat cook in record time.]] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[Cooked meat!!!]] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[Do I treat Vida to a homecooked meal tonight to make up for the pretty tiring day, or should I hold onto it in case of an emergency?]] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ [[Eat It Now]] [[Save It For Later]]]]]] (if: $bunny is 2)[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[It's so helpful we were able to get this stove working, turns out exposing water to the sun is enough to bring it to a boil nowadays. ] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[So we made this handy little contraption in the ceiling. Slide the panel over, and it lets the sun above shine down through a hole we drilled - right onto the stovepot.] ] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[Too bad we didn't find any animals out today we could hunt. Maybe if I'd figured out where that rustling was coming from...]] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ [[Back->3]]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[On the coat rack is a large sun hat, and a dark purple umbrella.] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Beside it, on a nightstand is a big bottle of SPF50 Sunscreen.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I never leave home without them. Not during the day, anyway.] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ [[Back->3]]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(if: $Vida > 0)["Today was pretty fun, even if we didn't really find all that much."]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(if: $Vida < 1)["Ugh... I'm so tired. Today was kinda lame."]]] (if: $bunny is not 2)[ (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ [["Agreed"]]]]] (if: $bunny is 2)[ (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ [["Agreed"->Vida lies down]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[I plop my butt onto the hard and springy bed. These things were clearly made for military manly types.] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Not the comfiest night's sleep in the world. Well, day's sleep I guess. We are pretty much nocturnal creatures. But, it gets the job done.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I rarely sleep with covers on anyway, so I put them underneath me for extra padding.]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Back->3]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[I turn on the large mechanical fan and smile gleefully as the wind caresses my face, cooling my skin, and causing my hair to flutter behind me.] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Thanks to the solar panels above the bunker, we get more than enough power for this fan. Thank God too, I used to get restless trying to sleep dyring the summer. I can't imagine trying to sleep with the temperatures being what they are, even underground.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Vida notices the active fan and skips on over, sitting on her knees in front of it, butting me out of the way.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["A-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-h-h-h-h-h-h-h-hh-"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[She makes noise into the fan's blades, giggling at the robotic sound it creates.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I roll my eyes. Typical routine for us.]] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ [[Back->3]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[I cut up the meat into digestible chunks, and serve it to Vida on our only plate.] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.2))+(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[//~Rabbit Meat removed from your inventory~//] (set: $inv to $inv - (a: "Rabbit Meat, "))] (set:$bunny to 0) (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["...I still think we should've let it live, ya know."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Uh-huh."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["...A-And... You still suck."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I'm aware."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["But... GOSH, THIS LOOKS SO GOOD!"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Vida digs in, forking it down (without the fork), stuffing her chubby child cheeks with as much food as she can in each bite.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")+(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Vida is excited to enjoy a big dinner~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[After, she lets out a big sigh of satisfaction, and pats her belly.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I'm gonna call this food baby Bugs, in memoriam of the bunny who bravely sacrificed himself for our dinner."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["What happened to all the regret?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["His tastiness changed my mind!"]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Back->3]]] ]] (set:$Vida to $Vida +1)

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[No, we ate okay earlier. Plus, we still have some cans left. There has been days where I thought we might starve to death before. I would've given anything to have had a reserve rabbit meal in those moments.] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I place the cooked meat into a air-sealed container to preserve it, and into my satchel.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Aww, what? Are we not having it tonight?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["What happened to "We shouldn't kill it in the first place!"?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Well, like always, you didn't care what I said and did it anyway. So... Might as well get a nice meal out of it."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["We will, but not tonight. When the time is right."]] ] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Ugh, you never let us have any fun. It's always survival, survival, survival... You gotta just live in the moment sometimes too, ya know."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["If you live in the moment in a world like this, a moment is the longest you'll live. I have to look out for our futures, so we have them."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Whatever. I got all hyped when you started cooking it, and now I'm even hungrier than before... So, I'm gonna distract myself with coloring."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Vida is dissapointed about going to bed hungry~*//]] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[ [[Back->3]]]]]] (set:$Vida to $Vida -1)

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[I sit down at the desk and fiddle with the radio. My nightly routine.] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[It's been 114 days since we last made any contact with another human being. And those people didn't end up lasting very long.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[But, still I try. Every night. Thinking things will be different.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Why? I'm not sure. Hope, I guess.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I love my sister, and I'd be happy to spend the rest of my life alone with her. She's family.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[But... I have to believe in a future where we can find a community again.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Where Vida can make friends again, and fall in love.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Where I can talk to someone who wasn't raised on an iPad!]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[But every night is the same... I mess with the frequency, for an hour, sometimes two... And nobody responds.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Until now.]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [["Hello?"]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)["That being said, I'm glad to be home for sure. Can't wait to sleep. I just hope I don't have any bad dreams."] ] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["If you do, just crawl in with me like you always do."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I don't always!!-- ... Yeah, thanks Sis."]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Back->3]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)["H...ee...ll..oo... **Ahem**"]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Some radio static follows, and then clears up, revealing the clear sound of an old man's voice.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Do you read me? I repeat, do you read me?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I pick up the receiver and cautiously speak into it, unprepared for contact, despite my years of trying.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I read you... So, who exactly am I speaking to?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["The name's Artie. Arthur, if you're fancy."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["My name is Audrey. I'm with my sister, who is called Vida."]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [["We are part of an armed community."]] [["We're alone out here."]] [["Are you by yourself?"]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Artie is saddened by your hurtful comment~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Heheh... Perhaps you're right about that. But alleviating my loneliness is secondary to my true obejctive."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Which is?"]] ] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["...Once upon a time, I used to be a researcher. An archeologist. I can recall an expedition of mine where I stumbled upon an old inscription deep underneath an ancient Egyptian tomb."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Okay, and?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["It was cuniform. I spent weeks, maybe months, trying to translate the glyphs. And eventually, I did... It was a prophecy. And it foretold of an apocalypse caused by a burning sun. The Glow."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Hold on... You're seriously trying to tell me that you think some ancient Egyptians saw this whole thing coming?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I am. But not only that. These manuscripts also spoke of a mystical item, some sort of idol named the 'Ramenta' - with the power to reverse such an apocalypse. The power to combat the sun's rays and return it to a safe temperature... Humanity could live normally once again."]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [["You're insane."]] [["Why are you telling us this?"]] [["We could save the world?"]]]]] (set:$Artie to $Artie -1)

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Artie is relieved by your openmindedness~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Thank you for hearing me out. The few times I've been able to speak to others about this, mostly early on, they call called me crazy."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Jury's still out on that, but... I'm willing to hear what you have to say."]] ] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Very well, then let me begin...Once upon a time, I used to be a researcher. An archeologist. I can recall an expedition of mine where I stumbled upon an old inscription deep underneath an ancient Egyptian tomb."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["What was the inscription?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["It was cuniform. I spent weeks, maybe months, trying to translate the glyphs. And eventually, I did... It was a prophecy. And it foretold of an apocalypse caused by a burning sun. The Glow."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Oh, my God... Are you saying that you think the ancient Egyptians saw this whole thing coming?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I am. But not only that. These manuscripts also spoke of a mystical item, some sort of idol named the 'Ramenta' - with the power to reverse such an apocalypse. The power to combat the sun's rays and return it to a safe temperature... Humanity could live normally once again."]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [["You're insane."]] [["Why are you telling us this?"]] [["We could save the world?"]]]]] (set:$Artie to $Artie +1)

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(if: $bunny is 0)["Thanks for not hurting that bunny, by the way. It's nice when you actually listen to me, for a change."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)+(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(if: $bunny is 0)["It was too cute to hurt. Unlike you, sassy pants. "For a change"... You're lucky I listen to you at all. But, yes... Just this once, I think you made the right call. Even if the second your stomach grumbles, you'll probably be groaning to me about it."]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Vida lies down]]]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(if: $bunny is 1)["It didn't help seeing you kill that poor bunny... I wish just once you would listen to what I have to say. You always ignore me."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)+(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(if: $bunny is 1)["Sorry for not letting you starve to death. I'm such a bad big sister. Grow up, Vida. As cute as the bunny was, it was doomed to die no matter what. All we did was make sure it's death wasn't in vain."]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Vida lies down]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)["Really? Impressive keeping a big group alive for this long."]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["We're tough and can defend ourselves."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Before I could react, Vida wanders over and totally ruins things... as always.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["What? No, we're not."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Vida!--"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I dunno what my sis is saying this for, but it's actually just me and her! We haven't even seen another person in forevs!"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Artie is disheartened that you lied to him~*//]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I see... Can't say I blame a duo of young girls for attempting to puff their chest when faced with an older male survivor in a lawless land, but... The lack of trust still stings. I haven't spoken to another human being in a long time, either... And unlike you two, I'm a lone wolf. I've missed... connecting."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Well, me and my sister aren't really looking for a 'connection' right now, sir. I wish you the best of luck in your survival."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Wait! Don't hang up... What if I told you I know something that could save humanity?"]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [["I'd say... Go on."]] [["Sounds like a lonely old man who is desperate to keep us talking."]]]]] (set:$Artie to -1)

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)["You're not the only ones who are alone."]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["You are the first human being we've spoken to since... Well, a long time."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Before I could react, Vida wanders over and totally ruins things... as always.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["OMG, let's be besties!"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Vida!--"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["You're lonely, we're lonely. Like, we have each other, but Audrey can be supes annoying sometimes ya know? Like, it's boring always talking to a girl all the time! It'd be cool to have someone new to chat to!]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I'm... SO sorry for her, she's socially inept. She was raised post-Glow hehehe, she understands little of human customs."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Artie is moved that you told him the truth~*//]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Heheh, be at ease, little ones. She's a charming young lady. You must be proud. Though, I'm sure she grinds your gears sometimes too, haha... **Sigh** I haven't spoken to another human being in a long time, either... And unlike you two, I'm a lone wolf. I've missed... connecting."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Well, I appreciate the kind words, sir... But me and my sister aren't really looking for a 'connection' with a man of your age. I wish you the best of luck in your survival."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Wait! Don't hang up... What if I told you I know something that could save humanity?"]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [["I'd say... Go on."]] [["Sounds like a lonely old man who is desperate to keep us talking."]]]]] (set:$Artie to 1)

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Artie noticed that you avoided his question~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:blue)["Yes... For many years now."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I understand the feeling. You are the first human being we've spoken to since... Well, a long time."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Before I could react, Vida wanders over and totally ruins things... as always.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["OMG, let's be besties!"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Vida!--"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["You're lonely, we're lonely. Like, we have each other, but Audrey can be supes annoying sometimes ya know? Like, it's boring always talking to a girl all the time! It'd be cool to have someone new to chat to!]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I'm... SO sorry for her, she's socially inept. She was raised post-Glow hehehe, she understands little of human customs."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Heheh, be at ease, little ones. She's a charming young lady. You must be proud. Though, I'm sure she grinds your gears sometimes too, haha... **Sigh** I haven't spoken to another human being in a long time, either... And unlike you two, I'm a lone wolf. I've missed... connecting."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Well, I appreciate the kind words, sir... But me and my sister aren't really looking for a 'connection' with a man of your age. I wish you the best of luck in your survival."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Wait! Don't hang up... What if I told you I know something that could save humanity?"]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [["I'd say... Go on."]] [["Sounds like a lonely old man who is desperate to keep us talking."]]]]] (set:$Artie to 0)

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Artie is frustrated that you don't believe him~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["After all these years of isolation, I very well might be. But that doesn't change that what I'm saying is the truth. Whether you believe me or not is up to you. All I can do is try."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Vida tugs at my sleeve.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Sis... What if he's being for real? W-we could really make the world like it was before!"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["That's impossible... What is done cannot be undone. This is some mystical voodoo people crap. Magic isn't real."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["It's not magic. At least, I don't believe it is. I think... It's certainly hard to believe, but so is the sun becoming deadly to life on Earth. At least let me tell you where this item is supposedly located. Then, you can decide if you wish to pursue it or not. I will leave the fate of humanity to you... I have nobody else to ask."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Why can't you go and find this thing yourself?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I'm an old man... During an attack by looters, I also was injured to the point of being unable to walk. I'd never survive such a perilous trek to the Ramenta's burial place."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["But you're fine with us going on this perilous trek!?... Where exactly is this thing buried?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Several states away from me. I'm up in Juneau, Alaska. Thanks to us only having 30% sunshine before The Glow, I've remained relatively safe and able to find food by fishing, despite my disabilities. The Ramenta, however, is down in Arizona. Hence why I've been trying to contact Arizonian frequences all this time."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["We're in Arizona! Where abouts is this thing?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["A city called Yuma. It must've traveled on a piece of land during a continental drift or tectonic plate event from Egypt to the Americas. Now, it is said to be buried in a labyrinth underneath the Imperial Sand Dunes."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["That's only a few cities away! We could totally go there, right sis?"]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [["...I don't know."]] [["Let's do it."]]]]] (set:$Artie to $Artie -1)

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Artie notices your neutral questioning~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Because I have nothing left to lose. You can think I'm crazy or believe me if you'd like. It matters not to me. I simply cannot let myself die without sharing this knowledge with someone who might be able to achieve what I cannot."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Vida tugs at my sleeve.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Sis... What if he's being for real? W-we could really make the world like it was before!"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I'm not sure... It wouldn't be possible, right? I mean... This sounds like something from a magical fairy tale."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["It's not magic. At least, I don't believe it is. I think... It's certainly hard to believe, but so is the sun becoming deadly to life on Earth. At least let me tell you where this item is supposedly located. Then, you can decide if you wish to pursue it or not. I will leave the fate of humanity to you... I have nobody else to ask."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Is there any reason why you haven't gone to find it yourself?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I'm an old man... During an attack by looters, I also was injured to the point of being unable to walk. I'd never survive such a perilous trek to the Ramenta's burial place."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Perilous trek?... Where exactly is this thing buried?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Several states away from me. I'm up in Juneau, Alaska. Thanks to us only having 30% sunshine before The Glow, I've remained relatively safe and able to find food by fishing, despite my disabilities. The Ramenta, however, is down in Arizona. Hence why I've been trying to contact Arizonian frequences all this time."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["We're in Arizona! Where abouts is this thing?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["A city called Yuma. It must've traveled on a piece of land during a continental drift or tectonic plate event from Egypt to the Americas. Now, it is said to be buried in a labyrinth underneath the Imperial Sand Dunes."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["That's only a few cities away! We could totally go there, right sis?"]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [["...I don't know."]] [["Let's do it."]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Artie is delighted that you share his hope~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I truly believe we could! What's left of it, anyway. I'm glad to see young people these days are still willing to chase a better future."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Vida tugs at my sleeve.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Is this for real? C-Could we really make the world like it was before?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["It sounds like we might be able to! Though, I... I almost don't want to believe it. It sounds too good to be true. Like something from a magical fairy tale."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["It's not magic. At least, I don't believe it is. I think... It's certainly hard to believe, but so is the sun becoming deadly to life on Earth. At least let me tell you where this item is supposedly located. Then, you can decide if you wish to pursue it or not. I will leave the fate of humanity to you... I have nobody else to ask."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["You seem like you know a lot about this thing. If we were to go and find it, would you come with us?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I'm an old man... During an attack by looters, I also was injured to the point of being unable to walk. I'd never survive such a perilous trek to the Ramenta's burial place."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Ah, I see... I'm sorry to hear that. So... Where exactly is this thing buried?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Several states away from me. I'm up in Juneau, Alaska. Thanks to us only having 30% sunshine before The Glow, I've remained relatively safe and able to find food by fishing, despite my disabilities. The Ramenta, however, is down in Arizona. Hence why I've been trying to contact Arizonian frequences all this time."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["We're in Arizona! Where abouts is this thing?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["A city called Yuma. It must've traveled on a piece of land during a continental drift or tectonic plate event from Egypt to the Americas. Now, it is said to be buried in a labyrinth underneath the Imperial Sand Dunes."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["That's only a few cities away! We could totally go there, right sis?"]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [["...I don't know."]] [["Let's do it."]]] ]] (set:$Artie to $Artie +1)

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Artie is concerned that his last hope might be ignored~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Awwww, c'mon Audrey! If we don't do something, the world will stay like this forever! Aren't you at least a bit curious to see if what he said could be true?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Of course... I'd love to live in a world like the one we used to have. But... It's too dangerous a journey for just a possibility. Especially one so outlandish!"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Whether it exists or works, who's to say, but it's the last chance humanity has. Do you really think you can live the rest of your life wondering 'what if?'"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I feel the intense, wide-eyed stare of my sister looking up at me. She needs this hope of a better tomorrow. Whether it's true or not... I guess we won't find out until we see for ourselves. But... Such a journey... Will we make it? I don't wanna risk her life for a hope that's not even guaranteed. But, I guess hope is all about believing in the unpromised.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Fine, fine... Pack your stuff. Make sure to bring water and all the usual supplies. It'll take at least a few days to reach Yuma. We'll leave first thing at dusk."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Really!? We're gonna go for it?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I've been convinced. But if you end up dead, you better not come crying to me."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Vida crosses her heart, vowing that she won't. I smile, but my own heart aches with anxiety about the danger to come, and the risk I'm taking.]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[...->4]]]]] (set:$Artie to $Artie -1)

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:(hsl:0,0,0.5333,0.15))[//*~Artie is grateful to you for pursuing his last hope~*//]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Woooo!!!! We're goin' on an adventure!"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["It's NOT an adventure. Don't take this lightly, Vida. It's going to be extremely scary and I might not be able to protect you. We've never left the bunker for more than a day or two."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I wish I could assure you of whether it exists or works. But I can't. All I can say is... it's the last chance humanity has. And I think, like me, you can't live the rest of your life wondering 'what if?'"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Vida dances around the room, celebrating. The most excited she's been in a long time. She needs this hope of a better tomorrow. Whether it's true or not... I guess we won't find out until we see for ourselves. But... Such a journey... Will we make it? I don't wanna risk her life for a hope that's not even guaranteed. But, I guess hope is all about believing in the unpromised.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Stop dancing around and start packing your stuff. Make sure to bring water and all the usual supplies. It'll take at least a few days to reach Yuma. We'll leave first thing at dusk."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["I will! You're the best, Sis."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Yeah, yeah... But if you end up dead, you better not come crying to me."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Vida crosses her heart, vowing that she won't. I smile, but my own heart aches with anxiety about the danger to come, and the risk I'm taking.]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[...->4]]]]] (set:$Artie to $Artie +1)

(if: $Artie < 0)[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)["I don't think I have much time left. So, I'm relieved that my knowledge has been passed down and will hopefully result in a better world. Even if it's all a hoax... At least, I did my best."] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:blue)["I do wish you could've been kinder to this dying old man, but I suppose you're not only a member of the snowflake generation, but you were also left without parents to teach you right from wrong. This well may be the last conversation I ever have with another human being, and... You spent it giving me flashbacks to my highschool bullying. In a weird way, I was glad to be reminded of such long-eroded memories. But... It hurts. I just wanted to connect, one last time. Suppose I was askin' too much, eh? I can't say I'm confident in a brat like you being humanity's last hope. But, you're all I have. You better not let me down. I'll haunt your radio if I have to."]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[I'm sorry. I was just trying to protect my sister.]] [[Maybe you should have been less creepy.]]]]]]]] (if: $Artie > 0)[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)["I don't think I have much time left. So, I'm relieved that my knowledge has been passed down and will hopefully result in a better world. Even if it's all a hoax... At least, I did my best."] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:blue)["I want to thank you, by the way... For being kind to this dying old man. For a member of the snowflake generation, you sure were polite. Your parents, however soon they left you, must've raised you well in the time they had. This well may be the last conversation I ever have with another human being, and... You were able to make me chuckle a few times. Just like my own daughters used to. Two girls, sisters, just like you. They fought like you too, heheheh. I was glad to be reminded of such long-eroded memories. I think I accomplished my dream... To connect, one last time. I have you to thank for that. I believe in you, and your sister. I know you'll be able to save humanity. I just know it. I trust in your passion and competence. So, go... Don't let my belief be in vain. I'll haunt your radio if you fail, now!"](set:$sacrifice to $sacrifice +1) (set:$Artkind to 1)]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Thank you, Artie. It was nice connecting with you.]] [[We won't let you down.]]]]]]] (if: $Artie is 0)[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)["I don't think I have much time left. So, I'm relieved that my knowledge has been passed down and will hopefully result in a better world. Even if it's all a hoax... At least, I did my best."]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(text-colour:blue)["I can tell that you were on the fence of whether to trust this dying old man. For a member of the snowflake generation, you sure are quite the diplomat. Your parents, however soon they left you, must've instilled some healthy skepticism before they left. This well may be the last conversation I ever have with another human being, and... Regretfully, I feel as though it wasn't very special. I don't think we quite managed to connect, like I had hoped. It gave me flashbacks to when I'd write letters to my best friend after we moved far away from each other after school. Eventually, they found a new life out there, and their letters became more and more civil, and neutral. I could sense their enthusiasm for me waning. On one hand, I was glad to be reminded of such long-eroded memories. But on the other... I would've been okay forgetting it. I'm not sure how confident I am about you being humanity's last hope. But, you're all I have. Try not to let me down. I'll haunt your radio if I have to!"]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[I'm sorry. I couldn't get a read on you.]] [[We won't let you down.]]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)["I suppose I can understand that. Unfortunately, it's been a long time since I had one I ought to protect... Regardless, I've said what I came to say. I wish you luck on your journey. I hope you'll be able create a tomorrow that can inspire this futureless man... Over."]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Radio static as he hangs up.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["We're really leaving tomorrow, at dusk? Guess we should prolly get some sleep, huh?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["That sounds wise. Do you need a story tonight?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Nah... I think my nightmares won't be here tonight. Because I know we can finally make things better."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Vida beams widely as she rests her head on the pillow. I get into bed myself, staring at the ceiling with uncertainty. I hope I'm making the right decision...]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Go to sleep]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)["Forgive me for coming across that way. As I said, I haven't interacted with people in a while... Starting to remember that people aren't all I cracked them up to be in my years of solitute. What a shame the world's fate rests in the hands of such a heartless hero. Regardless, I've said what I came to say. I wish you luck on your journey. I hope you'll be able create a tomorrow that can inspire this futureless man... Over."]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Radio static as he hangs up.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["We're really leaving tomorrow, at dusk? Guess we should prolly get some sleep, huh?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["That sounds wise. Do you need a story tonight?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Nah... I think my nightmares won't be here tonight. Because I know we can finally make things better."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Vida beams widely as she rests her head on the pillow. I get into bed myself, staring at the ceiling with uncertainty. I hope I'm making the right decision...]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Go to sleep]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)["It really was. I'll never be able to thank you enough for giving me the chance to end my life with one, last, pleasant conversation. For such a mundane request, I sure did resign myself to never getting it... I'm glad that the fate of humanity rests in the hands of such brave heroes. Regardless, I've said what I came to say. I wish you luck on your journey. I hope you'll be able create a tomorrow that can inspire this futureless man... Over."]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Radio static as he hangs up.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["We're really leaving tomorrow, at dusk? Guess we should prolly get some sleep, huh?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["That sounds wise. Do you need a story tonight?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Nah... I think my nightmares won't be here tonight. Because I know we can finally make things better."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Vida beams widely as she rests her head on the pillow. I get into bed myself, staring at the ceiling with uncertainty. I hope I'm making the right decision...]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Go to sleep]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)["I like your assuredness. I'm glad that the fate of humanity rests in the hands of such brave heroes. Regardless, I've said what I came to say. I wish you luck on your journey. I hope you'll be able create a tomorrow that can inspire this futureless man... Over."]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Radio static as he hangs up.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["We're really leaving tomorrow, at dusk? Guess we should prolly get some sleep, huh?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["That sounds wise. Do you need a story tonight?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Nah... I think my nightmares won't be here tonight. Because I know we can finally make things better."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Vida beams widely as she rests her head on the pillow. I get into bed myself, staring at the ceiling with uncertainty. I hope I'm making the right decision...]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Go to sleep]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:blue)["I suppose I can understand that. I've been told I'm hard to read. My late wife used to say I was quite taciturn, which got in our way more than once, heheh. Regardless, I've said what I came to say. I wish you luck on your journey. I hope you'll be able create a tomorrow that can inspire this futureless man... Over."]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Radio static as he hangs up.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["We're really leaving tomorrow, at dusk? Guess we should prolly get some sleep, huh?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["That sounds wise. Do you need a story tonight?"]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:magenta)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Nah... I think my nightmares won't be here tonight. Because I know we can finally make things better."]]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Vida beams widely as she rests her head on the pillow. I get into bed myself, staring at the ceiling with uncertainty. I hope I'm making the right decision...]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Go to sleep]]]]]

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[A new dusk approaches. Which means it's our cue to wake up.] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))+(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I spread a map over the desk, and trace the fastest route to Yuma. I'm sure to avoid any paths with snow or sand, due to their reflective nature intesnifying the sun's beams. On the way are several spots that might be good to scavenge supplies from. Where to first?] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ (align:"<==")+(box:"===XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX========")[ [[Hospital]] ] (align:"<==")+(box:"==========XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX========")[ [[Supermarket]] ] (align:"<==")+(box:"===============================XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX========")[ [[School]]] ]]] (set:$place to 0)

(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[I failed...] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[The looter tackles me to the ground, knocking the satchel out of my hand.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[He aims the barrel of the gun right against my forehead...]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I close my eyes.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[...]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[But nothing happens?]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[I look up and Vida has tackled the looter back!? I jump to my feet and rush over to her, pulling her off the attacker and standing defensively in front of her.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[The man, panicking, grabs his gun and aims it at us.]] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(text-colour:purple)[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")["Stop! Please... Just... Just take it all. We'll let you go."]]] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[(bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[The man stares incredulously for a few seconds, before emptying the contents of my satchel onto the ground, and taking all of our food and water. I pick the empty backpack up.] (bg:(hsl:0,0,0,0.1))[(if:$bunny is 1)[//~Rabbit Meat removed from your inventory~// (set: $inv to $inv - (a: "Rabbit Meat, "))] (if:$spam is 1)[//~Spam removed from your inventory~// (set: $inv to $inv - (a: "Spam, "))] (if:$water is 1)[//~Water Bottle removed from your inventory~// (set: $inv to $inv - (a: "Water Bottle, "))]]] (text-colour:blue)[(text-style:"bold","outline")[(click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[Thank Vida for saving you]] [[Chastise Vida for putting herself in danger]]]]] (set:$bunny to 0) (set:$water to 0) (set:$spam to 0) (set:$gun to 0)

(set: $counter to 5) Click X within |amount>[$counter] seconds! (live: 1s)[(set: $counter to it -1) (if: $counter is 0)[(go-to: "Fail")] (replace: ?amount)[$counter]] Click!!! (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Click!!!] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Click!!!] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Click!!!] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Click!!!] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Click!!!] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Click!!!] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Click!!!] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Click!!!] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[Click!!!] (click:?page)+(t8n:"dissolve")[ [[X]]]

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