The Trials and Tribulations of Edward Harcourt

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MelS & manonamora

<h1>The Trials and Tribulations of Edward Harcourt</h1> <center> <<if Save.browser.size > 0>><<link "Resume Game">><<run Save.browser.continue();Engine.show();>><</link>> | <</if>><<link "New Game" "P1">><</link>> | <<link "Load Game">><<run UI.saves()>><</link>> <<link "Settings">><<run UI.settings()>><</link>> | <<link "Content Warnings">><<popup "Content Warnings" "Content Warnings">><</link>> | <<link "Key Binding">><<popup "Key Binding" "Key Binding">><</link>> </center> <<if State.length == State.size>> <<silently>> <<timed 1.5s>> <<run $("#splash-screen-start").show()>> <<next 0.1s>> <<run $("#splash-screen-start") .append($('<img src="img/title.png">').hide()) .append($('<img id="sug-logo" src="img/SugarCube.png">').hide()) .append($('<img id="twine-logo" src="img/twine.svg">').hide()) .find('img') .fadeIn(1500).end()>> <<next 4s>><<run $('#splash-screen-start').fadeOut(4000).css('pointer-events', 'none');>> <</timed>> <</silently>><div id="splash-screen-start"></div> <</if>>

<<if not tags().includesAny("first", "dark-empty")>><h1> <<if tags().includes("credits")>> Credits <<elseif tags().includes("codex")>> <<do>><<if $journal is 999>>Achievements<<elseif $journal is 99>>Past Lives<<else>>Journal<</if>><</do>> <<else>> $chapter <</if>> </h1><</if>>

<<if ["maze", "m-extra"].includesAny(tags())>> <div id="hint"> <<if $difficulty isnot "extreme">><hr> <<link "Map">> <<if $chapter is "Chapter 3">><<popup "Map" "Map" "map-popup">><<else>><<popup "Map2" "Map" "map-popup">><</if>> <<if !$achievements.mapChecker>> <<set $achievements.mapChecker to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Not Lost, Just need a Peek!">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</link>> | <</if>> <<link "Restart Maze">><<popup "RestartMaze" "Are you sure?">><</link>> </div> <</if>>

<<link "">><<popup "Bug Report" "Bug Report">><</link>>

<<if State.length gte 2>><<link "Back">><<run Engine.backward()>><</link>><</if>> <<if not ["maze", "m-extra"].includesAny(tags())>> <<if $name is true>><<link "Character">> <<popup "Character" "Character">> <<if navigator.userAgent.includes('Mobile')>><<run UIBar.stow()>><</if>> <<if !$achievements.playerPage>> <<set $achievements.playerPage to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Who Am I?">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</link>><</if>> <<if $entry > 0>><<link [[Journal]]>> <<if navigator.userAgent.includes('Mobile')>><<run UIBar.stow()>><</if>> <<if !$achievements.codexReader>> <<set $achievements.codexReader to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Some Light Reading">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</link>><</if>> <<elseif ["maze", "m-extra"].includesAny(tags()) && $difficulty isnot "extreme">> <<link "Map">> <<if $chapter is "Chapter 5">><<popup "Map2" "Map" "map-popup">><<else>><<popup "Map" "Map" "map-popup">><</if>><<if navigator.userAgent.includes('Mobile')>><<run UIBar.stow()>><</if>> <<if !$achievements.mapChecker>> <<set $achievements.mapChecker to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Not Lost, Just Need a Peek!">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</link>> <</if>> <<link "Saves">><<run UI.saves()>><<if navigator.userAgent.includes('Mobile')>><<run UIBar.stow()>><</if>><</link>> <<link "Settings">><<run UI.settings()>><<if navigator.userAgent.includes('Mobile')>><<run UIBar.stow()>><</if>><</link>> <<link "Restart">><<popup "Restart" "Restart">><<if navigator.userAgent.includes('Mobile')>><<run UIBar.stow()>><</if>><</link>> <<link "Credits">><<popup "Credits" "Credits">><<if navigator.userAgent.includes('Mobile')>><<run UIBar.stow()>><</if>><</link>>

Did you encounter an bug, error message, or typo while playing? You can help send me a report by [[filling this form|https://forms.gle/SZqVcSad2qipu7zAA]], or post it in the [[Discord server|https://discord.gg/6arc3tDfen]], and let me know what went wrong! <center>Thank you!</center> <ul> <li> ''Game Version:'' 4.2.0 (beta)</li> <li> ''Current Passage:'' <<print passage()>></li> </ul> ''Are you on mobile?'' Then please join the Discord server and send me screenshots of the issue. Thank you!

<<set $run to 1>> <<set $EndedGames to []>> /* Interface */ <<set $chapter to "Prologue">> /*ID-Card*/ <<set setup.letter to ["A", "B", "C", "D", "E", "F", "G", "H", "I", "J", "K", "L", "M", "N", "O", "P", "Q", "R", "S", "T", "U", "V", "W", "X", "Y", "Z"]>> <<set $player to {fam : random(200, 530), no : random(200, 530), id1 : random(200, 530), id2 : either(setup.letter)}>> /* Player Character */ <<set $mc to {}>> <<set $pronoun to {}>> /* Other variables $background : noble, student, vice, soldier $relationship : acquaintance, lover, friend $sober (true,false) -> unset in Chapter 1 $dress : fancy, modern, drifter -> unset in Chapter 4 $belief : no, skeptic, occult $talks (unset in Chapter 3) $chesswin (codex) $rekindle -< need to check chapter 5 $culley (unset in Chapter 5) $idol (used during maze , maybe could be used during Chapter 6?) $prepare: knife, cloth, poker $stone -> if seen the slab in hidden church */ /* Stats */ <<set $feeling to 0>> <<set $insanity to 0>> /* Codex */ <<set $entry to 0>> <<set $dream to {}>> /* the book and picture */ <<set $clue to {}>> /* darge, cove, mouchoir, churchtrapdoor, storetrapdoor, dust, village, meeting, ledger, letters, sleep -> used in text or codex */ <<set $destination to {}>> /* morning and afternoon store, pub, docks, church */ /* Second Maze */ <<set $rooms = { a : 0, b : 0, c : 0, d : 0, e : 0, f : 0, g : 0, h : 0, i : 0, j : 0, k : 0, l : 0, m : 0, n : 0, o : 0, p : 0, q : 0, r : 0, s : 0, t : 0, u : 0, v : 0, w : 0, x : 0, y : 0, z : 0, lab : false, lib : false, chap : false, doorseen: false, doorthrough : 0, doorunlock : false, unlockVW : false, unlockDG : false, end : false }>> <<set $visited = { pql : false, pqa : false, pq1 : false, pq2 : false, pq3 : false, p12b: false, chOne6 : false, chTwoPM1b: false, chTwo10: false, chTwoC1a : false, chTwoC1b : false, chTwoC1c : false, chThree6gs: false, chThree6d: false, chThree6p: false, chThree6c: false, chFourCulley2b1: false }>> /* Achievements */ <<set $achievements to { firstPlay:false, newPlaythrough: false, useRandomiser: false, allNames: false, mapChecker: false, codexReader: false, playerPage: false, wentInsane: false, becameLovers: false, keptIdol: false, leftIdol: false, kindSoul: false, metGod: false, mazeNoDeath: false, mazeOneHard: false, mazeTwoHard: false, restartMaze: false, mazeTwoAllThreeRoomsOneRun: false, finalEscape: { throughChapel: false, throughBoat: false, backTunnels: false, checked: false }, allMazeOne: false, allMazeTwo: false, allVillage: false, allClues: { picture: false, book: false, darge: false, cove: false, mouchoir: false, churchTrapDoor: false, storeTrapDoor: false, dust: false, village: false, meeting: false, ledger: false, letters: false, sleep: false, checked: false }, allOutfits: { tramp: false, mid: false, fancy: false, checked: false }, allEndings: { nopedOut:false, diedMaze: false, bestEnding: false, uncertainFuture: false, deadEdward: false, youDied: false, checked: false }, allBackgrounds: { checked: false, noble: false, student: false, soldier: false, vice: false }, allRelationships: { oldFriend: false, formerLover: false, justAcquaintance: false, checked: false }, meta: false }>> /* Key Binding */ <<on 'keyup'>> <<which 72>>/*H -> Help Menu*/ <<popup 'KeyHelp' "Help Menu">> <<which 83>>/*S -> Saves*/ <<run UI.saves()>> <<which 81>> /*Q -> Settings*/ <<run UI.settings()>> <<which 82>> /*R -> Restart */ <<popup "Restart" "Restart">> <<which 69>> /*E -> Endings */ <<popup 'Credits' 'Credits'>> <<which 80>> /*P -> Player*/ <<popup "Character" "Character">> <<which 74>> /*J -> Journal*/ <<goto "Journal">> <<which 66>> /*B -> Bugs*/ <<popup "Bug Report" "Bug Report">> <</on>> <<on 'keydown'>> <<which 27>> /*ESC -> Close Dialog */ <<trigger 'click' '#ui-dialog-close'>> <</on>>

/* 1st Maze Timer */ <<if tags().includes("maze") && passage() isnot "Ending Maze" && $timing is true && $timer > 0>> <<if $timer lte 10>> <<set _dead to random(0,100)>> <<if _dead lte 3>> <<goto "Ending Maze">> <</if>> <<elseif $timer lte 15>> <<set _dead to random(0,100)>> <<if _dead lte 6>> <<goto "Ending Maze">> <</if>> <<elseif $timer lte 20>> <<set _dead to random(0,100)>> <<if _dead lte 15>> <<goto "Ending Maze">> <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> /* Helper current/previous room for mazes*/ <<if tags().includes("maze")>> <<set $lastRoom to $currentRoom, $currentRoom to passage() >> <</if>>

/* Checker for the Achievements */ <<if tags().includes("maze")>> <<if $chapter is "Chapter 3">> <<AllMazeOne>> <<else>> <<AllMazeTwo>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $chapter is "Prologue">> <<CheckBackground>> <<CheckRelationship>> <<elseif $chapter is "Chapter 2">> <<AllVillage>> <</if>> <<AllClues>> <<if $insanity > 15 && !$achievements.wentInsane>> <<set $achievements.wentInsane to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Totally Batty">> <<Achievement>> <</if>>

<div class="menu"> This game is ''rated 16+'' on the [[PEGI Rating System|https://pegi.info/]] for: <ul> <li> Cosmic/Psychological/Body Horror</li> <li> Mention of cults.</li> <li> Mention of death and suicide.</li> <li> Mention of violence and threats.</li> <li> Mention of illnesses and impairments (mental, physical).</li> <li> Mention and depiction of wounds.</li> <li> Mention of bodily fluids (blood, spit).</li> <li> Mention of war.</li> <li> Mention and use of alcohol and drugs.</li> <li> Swearing and insults.</li> </ul> </div>

<h3>Key Binding</h3> Shortcuts for keyboard, available in this game. ''Menu'' <table> <tr><th>S</th><td>Saves Slots</td></tr> <tr><th>R</th><td>Restart</td></tr> <tr><th>Q</th><td>Settings</td></tr> <tr><th>E</th><td>Credits</td></tr> <tr><th>P</th><td>Player Page</td></tr> <tr><th>J</th><td>Journal</td></tr> <tr><th>B</th><td>Bug Report</td></tr> <tr><th>H</th><td>Help Menu</td></tr> <tr><th>ESC</th><td>Close Dialog Box</td></tr> </table> ''Navigation'' <table> <tr><th>⟵</th><td>Go Back</td></tr> <tr><th>⟶</th><td>Go Forward</td></tr> <tr><th>1 to 0</th><td>Advance Story (Multiple Links)</td></tr> <tr><th>TAB ⭾</th><td>Leave TextBox, Toggle List Option, Reach Buttons Options</td></tr> <tr><th>SHIFT ⇧ + TAB ⭾</th><td>Leave TextBox, Toggle List Option, Reach Buttons Options</td></tr> </table>

<div class="menu"> <h1>The Trials and Tribulations of Edward Harcourt</h1> This game is an original idea and written by MelS, edited and coded by manonamora, on SugarCube(Twine)/Tweego. <ul> <li> [[manonamora on Neocities |https://manonamora.neocities.org/]]</li> <li> [[@manonamora on itch.io|https://manonamora.itch.io/]]</li> <li> [[Discord server|https://discord.gg/6arc3tDfen]]</li> /*<li> [[@manonamora |https://ko-fi.com/manonamora]]</li>*/ </ul> <h5>[[Last patch notes |https://manonamora.itch.io/ttatoeh/devlog]] //The Trials and Tribulations of Edward Harcourt// is a work of fiction. Names, characters, events and incidents are the products of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.</h5> <hr> <h1>Macros and code:</h1> <ul> <li> [[Chapel |https://twinelab.net/custom-macros-for-sugarcube-2/demo/]]</li> <li> [[Maliface |https://github.com/MalifaciousGames/Mali-s-Macros]]</li> <li> [[Nyehilism |https://nyehilism.itch.io/sugarcube-template]]</li> <li> [[HiEv |https://qjzhvmqlzvoo5lqnrvuhmg-on.drv.tw/UInv/Sample_Code.html]]</li> <li> [[SjoerdHekking |https://github.com/SjoerdHekking/custom-macros-sugarcube2]]</li> </ul> <h1>Assets:</h1> <h2>Illustrations:</h2> <ul>  <li> [[Freepik |https://www.freepik.com/author/freepik]]: lineart + textures</li> <li> [[Canva |https://www.canva.com/]]: sidebar decoration</li> </ul> <h2>Fonts: </h2> <ul>  <li> [[FontAwesome |https://fontawesome.com/]] (icons)</li> <li> [[GoogleFonts |https://fonts.google.com]]: <ul> <li> //Atkinson Hyperlegible// by Braille Institute, Applied Design Works, Elliott Scott, Megan Eiswerth, Linus Boman and Theodore Petrosky</li> <li> //Baskervville// by ARNT</li> <li> //Cormorant Garamond// by Christian Thalmann</li> <li> //Courier Prime// by Alan Dague-Greene</li> <li> //Cutive Mono// by Vernon Adams</li> <li> //Give You Glory// and //Shadows Into Light// by Kimberly Geswein</li> <li> //Italianno// by Robert Leuschke</li> <li> //IM Fell English SC// by Igino Marini</li> <li> //Inconsolata// by Raph Levien</li> <li> //Montserrat// by Julieta Ulanovsky, Sol Matas, Juan Pablo del Peral and Jacques Le Bailly</li> <li> //Playfair Display// and //Playfair Display SC// by Claus Eggers Sørensen</li> <li> //Special Elite// by Astigmatic</li> </ul></li> <li> //[[OpenDyslexic |https://opendyslexic.org]]// by Abbie Gonzalez</li> </ul> <h1>Twine:</h1> <ul> <li> [[Twinery.org |https://twinery.org/]]</li> <li> [[Sugarcube 2 Documentation |https://www.motoslave.net/sugarcube/2/docs/]]</li> <li> [[Twine Resources List |https://intfiction.org/t/twine-resource-masterlist-wiki/65903]]</li> <li> [[Intfiction.org Forum |https://intfiction.org/c/authoring/twine]]</li> <li> [[Reddit r/twinegames |https://www.reddit.com/r/twinegames/]]</li> <li> [[Twine Discord |https://discordapp.com/invite/n5dJvPp]]</li> </ul> </div>

<<LoadingPreSet>> <<if $achievements.allEndings>> //Congratulations on reaching every end of this story ...// //... but is it truly the end?// <<else>> //You have reached the end of this story ...// //... but there are other paths to discover.// <</if>> <center><<button "New Run">><<NewGamePlus>><</button>> | <<button "Save Run">><<run UI.saves()>><</button>></center>> You have reached the end of this path. We hope you’ve enjoyed it! If you have any feedback or comments about the demo, please post them on the [[itch.io page|https://manonamora.itch.io/ttatoeh]], share them on the author’s [[Discord server|https://discord.gg/6arc3tDfen]], or through [[Tumblr |https://manonamora-if.tumblr.com/ask]] or by email at: manonamora.games@gmail.com

<<LoadingPreSet>> //You are about to restart the game.// This game contains a NewGame+ feature, allowing you to play through the story more than once and keep track of all endings found, all in one save. Do you want to start a new run on the same save? or restart the whole game? <center><<button "Start NewGame+">><<NewGamePlus>><<dialogclose>><</button>> | <<button "Restart Game">><<run Engine.restart()>><</button>> Any unsaved progress will be lost. </center>

/**** MC WIDGETS ****/ <<widget "CycleGender">> <<cycle "$mc.gender" autoselect>> <<option "a man" 1>> <<option "a woman" 2>> <<option "one who cares not for the dominant labels of your era" 3>> <</cycle>> <</widget>> <<widget "CyclePronoun">> <<cycle "$mc.pronoun" autoselect>> <<option "He/Him" "he">> <<option "She/Her" "she">> <<option "They/Them" "they">> <<option "Ae/Aer" "ae">> <<option "E/Em" "e">> <<option "Custom" "custom">> <</cycle>> <</widget>> <<widget "CycleEye">> <<cycle "$mc.eyec" autoselect>> <<option "brown">> <<option "hazel">> <<option "green">> <<option "blue">> <<option "grey">> <</cycle>> <</widget>> <<widget "CycleSkin">> <<cycle "$mc.skin" autoselect>> <<option "pale ivory">> <<option "gilded bronze">> <<option "rich mahogany">> <<option "dark onyx">> <</cycle>> <</widget>> <<widget "CycleHairC">> <<cycle "$mc.hairc" autoselect>> <<option "black">> <<option "dark brown">> <<option "light brown">> <<option "ginger">> <<option "blond">> <</cycle>> <</widget>> <<widget "CycleHairT">> <<cycle "$mc.hairt" autoselect>> <<option "straight">> <<option "wavy">> <<option "curly">> <<option "kinky">> <</cycle>> <</widget>> <<widget "CycleHairL">> <<cycle "$mc.hairl" autoselect>> <<option "shaved">> <<option "short">> <<option "medium-short">> <<option "shoulder length">> <<option "in a ponytail">> <<option "in a braid">> <<option "waist length">> <<option "done up">> <</cycle>> <</widget>> <<widget "CycleFacial">> <<cycle "$mc.facial" autoselect>> <<option "a full moustache">> <<option "a thin moustache">> <<option "a goatee">> <<option "a full beard">> <<option "some sideburns">> <<option "a beauty mark">> <<option "freckles">> <<option "a facial scar">> <<option "multiple facial scars">> <<option "an eyepatch">> <<option "a nose piercing">> <<option "an earring">> <</cycle>> <</widget>> /* Check which options used, removed unnecessary (only he/him, maybe his?) Will need to check which actual pronouns are used in the game */ <<widget "SetPro">> <<if $mc.pronoun is "he">> <<set $pronoun.they to "he", $pronoun.them to "him", $pronoun.their to "his" >> <<elseif $mc.pronoun is "she">> <<set $pronoun.they to "she", $pronoun.them to "her", $pronoun.their to "her" >> <<elseif $mc.pronoun is "they">> <<set $pronoun.they to "they", $pronoun.them to "them", $pronoun.their to "their" >> <<elseif $mc.pronoun is "ae">> <<set $pronoun.they to "ae", $pronoun.them to "aer", $pronoun.their to "aer" >> <<elseif $mc.pronoun is "e">> <<set $pronoun.they to "e", $pronoun.them to "em", $pronoun.their to "eir" >> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "LinkPronouns">> <<if $mc.pronoun isnot "custom">> <<if $mc.pronoun isnot "they">> <<set $mc.plural to false>> <<else>> <<set $mc.plural to true>> <</if>> <<goto "P3b">> <<else>> <<PRONOUNS>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "RandomiseTraits">> <<set $mc.gender to either(1, 2, 3), $mc.pronoun to either("he", "she", "they", "ae", "e"), $mc.eyec to either("brown", "hazel", "green", "blue", "grey"), $mc.skin to either("pale ivory", "gilded bronze", "rich mahogany", "dark onyx"), $mc.hairc to either("black", "dark brown", "light brown", "ginger", "blond"), $mc.hairt to either("straight", "wavy", "curly", "kinky"), $mc.hairl to either("shaved", "short", "medium-short", "shoulder length", "in a ponytail", "in a braid", "waist length", "done up"), $mc.facial to either("a full moustache", "a thin moustache", "a goatee", "a full beard", "some sideburns", "a beauty mark", "freckles", "a facial scar", "multiple facial scars", "an eyepatch", "a nose piercing", "an earring") >> <</widget>> /**** OTHER CYCLES ****/ <<widget "TMADrink">> <<cycle "_temp">> <<option "cup of tea">> <<option "draft beer">> <<option "tumbler of whiskey">> <<option "glass of milk">> <</cycle>> <</widget>> <<widget "TAADrink">> <<cycle "_temp">> <<option "brown ale">> <<option "stout">> <<option "single malt">> <<option "glass of milk">> <</cycle>> <</widget>> /* Puzzle cycles */ <<widget "CycleUpperRing">> <<cycle "_upperring">> <<option "Auriga, the Charioteer" false>> <<option "Cassiopeia, the Queen" true>> <<option "Cepheus, the King" false>> <<option "Draco, the Dragon" false>> <<option "Pegasus, the Winged Horse" false>> <</cycle>> <</widget>> <<widget "CycleMiddleRing">> <<cycle "_middlering">> <<option "Full" false>> <<option "Waning" false>> <<option "New" true>> <<option "Waxing" false>> <</cycle>> <</widget>> <<widget "CycleLowerRing">> <<cycle "_lowerring">> <<option "a single star gazing at you like an evil eye" false>> <<option "five stars positioned like a human hand" false>> <<option "no stars, just an inky blackness" true>> <</cycle>> <</widget>> /**** TEXT WIDGETS ****/ <<widget "picture">> You pick up the picture. Upon closer inspection, it seems to be a family portrait of an aristocratic family; a woman, a man, who both have placed a hand on the shoulders of their young son. This picture must be at least two decades old, but you recognise the boy’s brilliant emerald green eyes almost instantly. This must be a portrait of Edward’s family when he was but a wee lad. You notice that the family is dressed in what used to be highly fashionable clothing; they must have been rather affluent. Edward’s father looks rather unremarkable, apart from an exquisitely groomed moustache. Still, it is the mother who draws your attention. She is —or was—an elegant and handsome woman, with Edward’s signature pronounced cheekbones. Her hair is a beautiful golden blond, done up in an expert fashion. You imagine she must have been sitting in a chair for at least an hour while the servants took care of it for her. To all appearances, she looks to possess everything any woman in the British Empire aspires to. Yet, there is something unsettling about her. At first you cannot quite place it, and it is merely a gut feeling that something is ‘off’ about how she looks. The longer you look at the picture, however, the more you notice issues with her appearance. It starts with her smile, which seems just a tad too forced, showing the gums as well as the teeth. Similarly, you notice her eyes are bulging, seemingly too large for her delicate face. Finally, your attention is drawn to the hand she has placed on the young Edward’s shoulder; it does not look like a human hand whatsoever. It bears more resemblance to the taloned claws of a raven… <</widget>> <<widget "book">> You picked up a little Arabic <<if $background is "noble">>from your private tutors<<elseif $background is "student">>while at Oxford<<elseif $background is "vice">>dealing with smugglers of hashish<<else>>while fighting in the Middle East during the war<</if>>. You believe you can make out the title as //Book of the Dead//, while you believe the author to be one ‘Abd al-Qudama’, or ‘Slave of the Ancient Ones’. Both sound rather ominous, and you open the leather-bound manuscript with trepidation. To your surprise, the writing on the inside is neither Arabic, nor any other script you understand or even recognise. It seems rather jagged and sharp, a far cry from the flowing waves of Arabic. The pages are yellowish, and brittle; clearly this is an ancient tome. The only other thing standing out about it is the colour of the writing; a rusty brown, grown faint with the years, as if the author wrote it in blood. <</widget>> <<widget "DialogName">> <ul><li> <<link "What is your name?">><<script>> Dialog.create("What is your name?", "popup-name") .wikiPassage("Name") .open(); <</script>> <</link>></li></ul> <</widget>> <<widget "PRONOUNS">> <<script>> Dialog.create("What are your pronouns?", "popup-pronoun") .wikiPassage("Pronoun") .open(); <</script>> <</widget>> <<widget "MazeMonster">> <<if $timer is 0>>You have not heard those monstrous growls since entering these enclosed hallways. Maybe it was just a figment of your imagination? You can only hope so. <<elseif $timer is 1>>You can hear no sound, but the faint, distant dripping of water. There is something soothing to it, yet something ominous as well. It is as if the drips count the seconds on some sort of abyssal clock. <<elseif $timer gt 1 && $timer lt 5>>The faint dripping noise continues… <<elseif $timer is 5>>You can hear another bestial snarl from deeper inside the passage. Its echoes bounce off the ancient brickwork, making it impossible to identify the direction. It was definitely not your imagination then. All the more reason to make your way out of here quickly. <<elseif $timer gt 5 && $timer lt 10>>//Drip, drip, drip…// <<elseif $timer is 10>>Another howl, this time louder… closer. It is faintly wolfish, but deeper and throatier. There is a primal hunger to it, which chills you to your very core… You notice that the dripping noise has stopped. <<elseif $timer gt 10 && $timer lt 15>>You can hear an occasional low growl, or a loud sniffing noise. <<elseif $timer is 15>>The predator that stalks these halls is close… you can hear its lumbering footsteps echo through the stone. You could swear it is getting warmer down here. Your imagination? Or the body heat of the hunter closing in on you? <<elseif $timer gt 15 && $timer lt 20>>You can hear scratching and sniffing noises reverberate through the halls. You need to get out of here… //quickly//. <<elseif $timer is 20>>The creature is so close, you can hear claws scrape over the stone floors. You can feel the heat of its breath on the back of your neck. It is so close, it must be toying with you, like a cat would with a mildly amusing quarry. <<else>>The hunter is on your tail. It is only a matter of time until it decides to stop toying with its prey, and finish you off. <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "GoToQResp">> <<replace "#meatlocker" t8n>> Edward puts a gentle, but firm hand on your shoulder. “$FirstName, we probably should not head that way again. Can you not feel that chill? Up ahead is the cold storage of this maze. There is no path leading further from there, and I would rather not revisit that gruesome charnel house.” <</replace>> <</widget>> <<widget "GoToZResp">> <<replace "#meatlocker" t8n>> Edward puts a gentle, but firm hand on your shoulder. “$FirstName, we probably should not head that way again. The room up ahead is filled with implements of torture and death. There is no path leading further from there, and I would rather not revisit that gruesome place of malice and fear.” <</replace>> <</widget>> <<widget "LostPage1">> <<dialog>> <div class="journal"> <date>Sixteenth of January, 1881.</date> They laughed me away at the Royal Society. Me! They dared insinuate that my proofs were no more than mere baseless theories, the insolent fools. Fine. I shall pursue the study of the occult with my own resources. And they shall see eventually, the brilliance that was staring them in the face all along! Thanks to the village waif I hired to be my housemaid, I have managed to delve deep into the secret passages of the estate. She believes she has misled me successfully, but she failed to notice that I snatched an item of great power. I regret to have to demean myself to such base, roguish tactics, but even the great must stoop on occasion to make their dreams come true. Now, to commit myself to uncovering the mysteries of the universe… </div> <</dialog>> <</widget>> /**** CHOICE WIDGETS ****/ <<widget "PrologueQuestions">> <ul> <<if $relationship is "lover" && !$visited.pql>> <li> [[“Why the false pretence? I thought our love meant something to you!”|PQL][$visited.pql to true]]</li> <</if>> <<if $relationship is "acquaintance" && !$visited.pqa>> <li> [[“Why claim friendship between us? We are acquaintances at best, nothing more.”|PQA][$visited.pqa to true]]</li> <</if>> <<if !$visited.pq1>><li> [[“Why not use my name in your correspondence?”|PQ1][$visited.pq1 to true]]</li><</if>> <<if !$visited.pq2>><li> [[“Why the secrecy?”|PQ2][$visited.pq2 to true]]</li><</if>> <<if !$visited.pq3>><li> [[“Your housekeeper was extremely rude. Why keep her around?”|PQ3][$visited.pq3 to true]]</li><</if>> <li> <<if $visited.p12b>>[[All your questions are satisfied, and you feel more than ready to go to bed after a long day of travel.|P13]]<<else>>[[All your questions are satisfied, and you allow Edward to continue his story.|P12b]]<</if>></li> </ul> <</widget>> <<widget "ChTwoChurch">> <ul> <<if !$visited.chTwoC1a>><li> [[Investigate the left group of box pews.|Ch2-C1a][$visited.chTwoC1a to true]]</li><</if>> <<if !$visited.chTwoC1b>><li> [[Investigate the right group of box pews.|Ch2-C1b][$visited.chTwoC1b to true]]</li><</if>> <<if !$visited.chTwoC1c>><li> [[Investigate the elevated area.|Ch2-C1c][$visited.chTwoC1c to true]]</li><</if>> <li> [[You have seen enough here. Time to go back to the village square.|Ch2-C2]]</li> </ul> <</widget>> <<widget "ChThreeEdwardTalk">> <ul> <<if (!$visited.chThree6gs) and ($destination.morning is "store" or $destination.afternoon is "store")>><li> [[Tell Edward about your trip to the general store.|Ch3-6gs][$talks ++, $visited.chThree6gs to true]]</li><</if>> <<if (!$visited.chThree6d) and ($destination.morning is "docks" or $destination.afternoon is "docks")>><li> [[Tell Edward about your visit to the docks.|Ch3-6d][$talks ++, $visited.chThree6d to true]]</li><</if>> <<if (!$visited.chThree6p) and ($destination.morning is "pub" or $destination.afternoon is "pub")>><li> [[Tell Edward about your encounter in the pub.|Ch3-6p][$talks ++, $visited.chThree6p to true]]</li><</if>> <<if (!$visited.chThree6c) and ($destination.morning is "church" or $destination.afternoon is "church")>><li> [[Tell Edward about what you discovered in the church.|Ch3-6c][$talks ++, $visited.chThree6c to true]]</li><</if>> <<if $talks is 2>><li> <<link [[You have told Edward all there was to tell.|Ch3-7]]>><<unset $talks>><</link>></li><</if>> </ul> <</widget>> <<widget "Ch5HDirections">> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-G">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-M][$rooms.m ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-L][$rooms.l ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-L">> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-M][$rooms.m ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-G][$rooms.g ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-M*/ <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-L][$rooms.l ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-G][$rooms.g ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <</widget>> <<widget "Ch5DDirections">> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-A">> <li>[[Head left|Ch5-E][$rooms.e ++]]</li> <li>[[Head straight|Ch5-F][$rooms.f ++]]</li> <<if $rooms.unlockDG>> <li>[[Head right, through the door.|Ch5-G][$rooms.g ++, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <<elseif $idol>> <li>[[Head right, unlocking the door before entering it.|Ch5-G][$rooms.g ++, $rooms.unlockDG to true, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <</if>> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-E">> <li>[[Head left|Ch5-F][$rooms.f ++]]</li> <<if $rooms.unlockDG>> <li>[[Head straight, through the door.|Ch5-G][$rooms.g ++, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <<elseif $idol>> <li>[[Head straight, unlocking the door before entering it.|Ch5-G][$rooms.g ++, $rooms.unlockDG to true, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <</if>> <li>[[Head right|Ch5-A][$rooms.a ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-F */ <<if $rooms.unlockDG>> <li>[[Head left, through the door.|Ch5-G][$rooms.g ++, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <<elseif $idol>> <li>[[Head left, unlocking the door before entering it.|Ch5-G][$rooms.g ++, $rooms.unlockDG to true, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <</if>> <li>[[Head straight|Ch5-A][$rooms.a ++]]</li> <li>[[Head right|Ch5-E][$rooms.e ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <</widget>> <<widget "Ch5GDirections">> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-H">> <li>[[Head left|Ch5-I][$rooms.i ++]]</li> <<if $rooms.unlockDG>> <li>[[Head right, through the door.|Ch5-D][$rooms.d ++, $rooms.doorthrough ++]] <<elseif $idol>> <li>[[Head right, unlocking the door before entering it.|Ch5-D][$rooms.d ++, $rooms.unlockDG to true, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> </li> <</if>> <<else>> /* previous is "Ch5-I" */ <<if $rooms.unlockDG>> <li>[[Head straight, through the door.|Ch5-D][$rooms.d ++, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <<elseif $idol>> <li>[[Head straight, unlocking the door before entering it.|Ch5-D][$rooms.d ++, $rooms.unlockDG to true, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <</if>> <li>[[Head right|Ch5-H][$rooms.h ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <</widget>> <<widget "Ch5VDirections">> <ul> <<if $rooms.unlockVW>> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-W][$rooms.w ++, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <<elseif $idol>> <li>[[Head left, unlocking the door before entering it.|Ch5-W][$rooms.w ++, $rooms.unlockVW to true, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <</if>> <li> [[Return from whence you came.|Ch5-S][$rooms.s ++]]</li> </ul> <</widget>> <<widget "Ch5WDirections">> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-U">> <li>[[Head left|Ch5-Y][$rooms.y ++]]</li> <li>[[Head straight|Ch5-X][$rooms.x ++]]</li> <<if $rooms.unlockVW>> <li>[[Head right, through the door.|Ch5-V][$rooms.v ++, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <<elseif $idol>> <li>[[Head right, unlocking the door before entering it.|Ch5-V][$rooms.v ++, $rooms.unlockVW to true, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <</if>> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-Y">> <li>[[Head left|Ch5-X][$rooms.x ++]]</li> <<if $rooms.unlockVW>> <li>[[Head straight, through the door.|Ch5-V][$rooms.v ++, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <<elseif $idol>> <li>[[Head straight, unlocking the door before entering it.|Ch5-V][$rooms.v ++, $rooms.unlockVW to true, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <</if>> <li>[[Head right|Ch5-U][$rooms.u ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-X */ <<if $rooms.unlockVW>> <li>[[Head left, through the door.|Ch5-V][$rooms.v ++, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <<elseif $idol>> <li>[[Head left, unlocking the door before entering it.|Ch5-V][$rooms.v ++, $rooms.unlockVW to true, $rooms.doorthrough ++]]</li> <</if>> <li>[[Head straight|Ch5-U][$rooms.u ++]]</li> <li>[[Head right|Ch5-Y][$rooms.y ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <</widget>> /**** NOTIFICATION WIDGETS ****/ <<widget "JournalUpdate">> <<if settings.notif>> <<flash "Journal Updated">> <<Timeout 4000>> <<Layout 'middle-top'>> <</flash>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "Achievement">> <<if settings.notif>> <<flash _AchievementAnnouncement>> <<Timeout 4000>> <<Layout 'middle-top'>> <</flash>> <</if>> <</widget>> /**** CSS WIDGETS ****/ /* Maze Chapter 3 */ <<widget "RemoveMask">> <<if $FirstMazeMap>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("markings")>> <style>#markings{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("lake")>> <style>#lake{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("altar")>> <style>#altar{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("collapse")>> <style>#collapse{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("drop")>> <style>#drop{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("oval")>> <style>#oval{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("moonlight")>> <style>#moonlight{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("tight")>> <style>#tight{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("skeleton")>> <style>#skeleton{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("furniture")>> <style>#furniture{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("rats")>> <style>#rats{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("pit")>> <style>#pit{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("more")>> <style>#more{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("roots")>> <style>#roots{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("almost")>> <style>#almost{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("beetle")>> <style>#beetle{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("pillar")>> <style>#pillar{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("glimmer")>> <style>#glimmer{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("end")>> <style>#end{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap.includes("tapestry")>> <style>#tapestry{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "RemoveMaskSecond">> <<if $rooms.a > 0>> <style>#seaweed{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.b > 0>> <style>#culley{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.c > 0>> <style>#idolatry{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.d > 0>> <style>#cross-west{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.e > 0>> <style>#bones{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.f > 0>> <style>#loosebook{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.g > 0>> <style>#round{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.h > 0>> <style>#rats-2{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.i > 0>> <style>#moonglow{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.j > 0>> <style>#moth{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.k > 0>> <style>#tapestry-2{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.l > 0>> <style>#torture{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.m > 0>> <style>#nothing{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.n > 0>> <style>#portrait{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.o > 0>> <style>#trail{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.p > 0>> <style>#sulphur{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.q > 0>> <style>#meat{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.r > 0>> <style>#telescope{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.s > 0>> <style>#dark{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.t > 0>> <style>#dist-west{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.u > 0>> <style>#baptism{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.v > 0>> <style>#mutant{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.w > 0>> <style>#cross-east{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.x > 0>> <style>#forge{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.y > 0>> <style>#dist-east{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.z > 0>> <style>#armory{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.lib > 0>> <style>#library{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.lap > 0>> <style>#lab{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <<if $rooms.chap > 0>> <style>#chapel{background:unset}</style> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "PositionXMapOne">> <<if passage() is "Ch3-L-A">> <style>#here{top: 3.5%;left: 26.8%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-B">> <style>#here{top: 18.2%;left: 26.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-C">> <style>#here{top: 3.5%;left: 46.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-D">> <style>#here{top: 18.2%;left: 26.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-E">> <style>#here{top: 18.2%;left: 6.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-F">> <style>#here{top: 3.5%;left: 66.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-G">> <style>#here{top: 3.5%;left: 86.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-H">> <style>#here{top: 18.2%;left: 66.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-I">> <style>#here{top: 33.2%;left: 66.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-J">> <style>#here{top: 33.2%;left: 46.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-K">> <style>#here{top: 33.2%;left: 86.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-L">> <style>#here{top: 48.5%;left: 46.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-M">> <style>#here{top: 33.5%;left: 26.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-N">> <style>#here{top: 48.5%;left: 26.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-O">> <style>#here{top: 48.5%;left: 6.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-P">> <style>#here{top: 63.5%;left: 26.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-Q">> <style>#here{top: 63.5%;left: 46.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-R">> <style>#here{top: 78.5%;left: 46.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch3-L-S">> <style>#here{top: 58.5%;left: 66.5%;}</style> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "PositionXMapTwo">> <<if passage() is "Ch5-Start">> <style>#here{bottom: 13%;left: 22%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-A">> <style>#here{bottom: 27%;left: 16.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-B">> <style>#here{bottom: 13%;left: 41%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-C">> <style>#here{bottom: 27%;left: 4%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-D">> <style>#here{bottom: 40%;left: 16.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-E">> <style>#here{bottom: 40%;left: 4%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-F">> <style>#here{bottom: 54%;left: 4%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-G">> <style>#here{bottom: 40%;left: 25.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-H">> <style>#here{bottom: 58.5%;left: 28.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-I">> <style>#here{bottom: 40.5%;left: 38%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-J">> <style>#here{bottom: 26.8%;left: 41.3%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-K">> <style>#here{bottom: 63%;left: 41%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-L">> <style>#here{bottom: 72%;left: 29%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-M">> <style>#here{bottom: 63%;left: 16.3%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-N" || passage() is "Ch5-NExtra">> <style>#here{bottom: 26.8%;left: 53.8%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-O">> <style>#here{bottom: 12.8%;left: 53.8%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-P">> <style>#here{bottom: 13%;left: 66%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-Q" || passage() is "Ch5-Q2">> <style>#here{bottom: -1%;left: 53.8%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-R">> <style>#here{bottom: 63%;left: 53.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-S">> <style>#here{bottom: 26.8%;left: 66.2%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-T">> <style>#here{bottom: 67.5%;left: 66%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-U">> <style>#here{bottom: 54%;left: 66%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-V">> <style>#here{bottom: 31%;left: 78.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-W">> <style>#here{bottom: 45%;left: 78.5%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-X">> <style>#here{bottom: 54%;left: 91%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-Y">> <style>#here{bottom: 67.5%;left: 78.8%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-Z">> <style>#here{bottom: 40.5%;left: 91%;}</style> <<elseif ["Ch5-Lab", "Ch5-Lab2", "Ch5-Lab3a", "Ch5-Lab3b", "Ch5-Lab4", "Ch5-LabQ1", "Ch5-Lab5", "Ch5-Lab6"].includes(passage())>> <style>#here{bottom: 13%;left: 83%;}</style> <<elseif ["Ch5-Library", "Ch5-Library2a", "Ch5-Library2b", "Ch5-Library3", "Ch5-Library4", "Ch5-LibraryW1", "Ch5-LibraryW2", "Ch5-LibraryW3", "Ch5-LibB1", "Ch5-LibB2", "Ch5-LibB3", "Ch5-LibB4", "Ch5-LibB5", "Ch5-LibB6", "Ch5-LibB7", "Ch5-LibB8", "Ch5-LibB9"].includes(passage())>> <style>#here{bottom: 72.3%;left: 5.3%;}</style> <<elseif ["Ch5-Chapel", "Ch5-Chapel2", "Ch5-Chapel3", "ChapelExtra1", "ChapelExtra2", "ChapelExtra3"].includes(passage())>> <style>#here{bottom: 40.2%;left: 65%;}</style> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-Exit">> <style>#here{bottom: 81.5%;left: 72%;}</style> <</if>> <</widget>> /**** The NewGame + widgets ****/ <<widget "NewGamePlus">> <<FinishedPlaythrough>> <<ResetVariables>> <<ReloadAnimation>> <<goto "P1">> <</widget>> <<widget "FinishedPlaythrough">> <<if $MiddleName>> <<set _name to $FirstName + " " + $MiddleName + " " + $LastName>> <<else>> <<set _name to $FirstName + " " + $LastName>> <</if>> <<switch passage()>> <<case "Ending 1-2">> <<set _ending to "Short Visit">> <<case "Ending Maze">> <<set _ending to "Dead Prey">> <<case "Ending 2-4">> <<set _ending to "The Light After The Darkness">> <<case "Ending 3-4">> <<set _ending to "Alive, But At What Cost?">> <<case "Ending 4-4">> <<set _ending to "Everything Went Wrong">> <<case "Ending 5-2">> <<set _ending to "The Ultimate Sacrifice">> <<default>> <<set _ending to "-Unfinished Story-">> <</switch>> <<if $rekindle && $relationship is "lover">> <<set _relationship to "a rekindled lover">> <<elseif $rekindle>> <<set _relationship to "a new lover">> <<elseif $relationship is "lover">> <<set _relationship to "a former lover">> <<elseif $relationship is "friend" && $feeling > 6>> <<set _relationship to "an old friend">> <<elseif $feeling > 6 >> <<set _relationship to "a newfound friend">> <<elseif $relationship is "friend">> <<set _relationship to "a distant friend">> <<else>> <<set _relationship to "an acquaintance">> <</if>> <<if $background is "noble">> <<set _background to "of a noble background">> <<elseif $background is "student">> <<set _background to "a former Oxford student">> <<elseif $background is "vice">> <<set _background to "London's Vice Royalty">> <<elseif $background is "soldier">> <<set _background to "a veteran of the Great War">> <</if>> <<set _NewEnding to { name : _name, ending : _ending, background: _background, relationship: _relationship, feeling: $feeling, insanity: $insanity }>> <<set $EndedGames.push(_NewEnding)>> <</widget>> <<widget "ResetVariables">> <<unset $relationship, $name, $FirstName, $MiddleName, $LastName, $background, $choice, $belief, $chesswin, $rekindle, $prepare, $libEntry, $path, $suicide, $attack, $fist, $weapon, $failed, $difficulty, $mazeDeath, $journal>> <<set $run to ++, $entry to 0, $feeling to 0, $insanity to 0, $mc to {}, $pronoun to {}, $dream to {}, $destination to {}, $clue to {}, $chapter to "Prologue", $rooms to {a : 0, b : 0, c : 0, d : 0, e : 0, f : 0, g : 0, h : 0, i : 0, j : 0, k : 0, l : 0, m : 0, n : 0, o : 0, p : 0, q : 0, r : 0, s : 0, t : 0, u : 0, v : 0, w : 0, x : 0, y : 0, z : 0, lab : false, lib : false, chap : false, doorseen: false, doorthrough : 0, doorunlock : false, unlockVW : false, unlockDG : false}, $visited = { pql : false, pqa : false, pq1 : false, pq2 : false, pq3 : false, p12b: false, chOne6 : false, chTwoPM1b: false, chTwo10: false, chTwoC1a : false, chTwoC1b : false, chTwoC1c : false, chThree6gs: false, chThree6d: false, chThree6p: false, chThree6c: false, chFourCulley2b1: false } $player to {fam : random(200, 530), no : random(200, 530), id1 : random(200, 530), id2 : either(setup.letter)} >> <</widget>> <<widget "CheckAllEndings">> <<if $achievements.allEndings.nopedOut is true && $achievements.allEndings.diedMaze is true && $achievements.allEndings.bestEnding is true && $achievements.allEndings.uncertainFuture is true && $achievements.allEndings.deadEdward is true && $achievements.allEndings.youDied is true>> <<set $achievements.allEndings.checked to true>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "CheckFinalEscape">> <<if $achievements.finalEscape.throughChapel is true && $achievements.finalEscape.throughBoat is true && $achievements.finalEscape.backTunnels is true >> <<set $achievements.finalEscape.checked to true>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "AllMazeOne">> <<if !$achievements.allMazeOne>> <<if hasVisited("Ch3-L-A") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-B") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-C") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-D") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-E") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-F") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-G") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-H") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-I") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-J") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-K") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-L") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-M") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-N") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-O") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-P") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-Q") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-R") && hasVisited("Ch3-L-S")>> <<set $achievements.allMazeOne to true>> <</if>> <<if $achievements.allMazeOne is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Dungeon Delver">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "AllMazeTwo">> <<if !$achievements.allMazeTwo>> <<if hasVisited("Ch5-A") && hasVisited("Ch5-B") && hasVisited("Ch5-C") && hasVisited("Ch5-D") && hasVisited("Ch5-E") && hasVisited("Ch5-F") && hasVisited("Ch5-G") && hasVisited("Ch5-H") && hasVisited("Ch5-I") && hasVisited("Ch5-J") && hasVisited("Ch5-K") && hasVisited("Ch5-L") && hasVisited("Ch5-M") && hasVisited("Ch5-N") && hasVisited("Ch5-O") && hasVisited("Ch5-P") && hasVisited("Ch5-Q") && hasVisited("Ch5-R") && hasVisited("Ch5-S") && hasVisited("Ch5-T") && hasVisited("Ch5-U") && hasVisited("Ch5-V") && hasVisited("Ch5-W") && hasVisited("Ch5-X") && hasVisited("Ch5-Y") && hasVisited("Ch5-Z") && hasVisited("Ch5-Lab") && hasVisited("Ch5-Library") && hasVisited("Ch5-Chapel")>> <<set $achievements.allMazeTwo to true>> <</if>> <<if $achievements.allMazeTwo is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Explorer of Gairbuie">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "AllVillage">> <<if !$achievements.allVillage>> <<if (hasVisited("Ch2-SM1") || hasVisited("Ch2-SA1")) && (hasVisited("Ch2-PM1") || hasVisited("Ch2-PA1")) && hasVisited("Ch2-C1") && (hasVisited("Ch2-TM1") || hasVisited("Ch2-TA1"))>> <<set $achievements.allVillage to true>> <</if>> <<if $achievements.allVillage is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Meeting the Locals">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "AllClues">> <<if !$achievements.allClues.checked>> <<if $achievements.allClues.darge is true && $achievements.allClues.cove is true && $achievements.allClues.mouchoir is true && $achievements.allClues.churchTrapDoor is true && $achievements.allClues.storeTrapDoor is true && $achievements.allClues.dust is true && $achievements.allClues.village is true && $achievements.allClues.meeting is true && $achievements.allClues.ledger is true && $achievements.allClues.sleep is true && $achievements.allClues.picture is true && $achievements.allClues.book is true>> <<set $achievements.allClues.checked to true>> <</if>> <<if $achievements.allClues.checked is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Regular Sherlock">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "CheckAllOutfits">> <<if !$achievements.allOutfits.checked>> <<if $achievements.allOutfits.fancy is true && $achievements.allOutfits.mid is true && $achievements.allOutfits.tramp is true>> <<set $achievements.allOutfits.checked to true>> <</if>> <<if $achievements.allOutfits.checked is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Dress-Up Party">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "CheckBackground">> <<if !$achievements.allBackgrounds.checked>> <<if $achievements.allBackgrounds.noble is true && $achievements.allBackgrounds.student is true && $achievements.allBackgrounds.soldier is true && $achievements.allBackgrounds.vice is true>> <<set $achievements.allBackgrounds.checked to true>> <</if>> <<if $achievements.allBackgrounds.checked is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Walker of Many Ways">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "CheckRelationship">> <<if !$achievements.allRelationships.checked>> <<if $achievements.allRelationships.oldFriend is true && $achievements.allRelationships.formerLover is true && $achievements.allRelationships.justAcquaintance is true>> <<set $achievements.allRelationships.checked to true>> <</if>> <<if $achievements.allRelationships.checked is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Personal Issues">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "LastNote">><<dialog>> <div id="letter"> The Offices of Angell and Son, Temple, London, 26th of May, Edward Oberon Harcourt </div> <</dialog>><</widget>> <<widget "LoadingPreSet">> <style> #init-loading { animation: rotation 2s infinite linear; background: url("img/logo.png") no-repeat center center; background-size: contain; border: none; height: 5em; width: 5em; top: 0; bottom: 0; left: 0; right: 0; position: absolute; margin: auto; border-radius: unset; } #init-screen { background: #0a0a0a; } .rev #init-screen { background: #a1a1a1; } #init-screen { transition: opacity 1s ease-out; opacity: 0; } </style> <</widget>> <<widget "ReloadAnimation">> <<append "#loads-it">> <style> #init-screen, #init-screen > div { display: block; } </style> <<timed 0.1s>> <style> #init-screen { opacity: 1; } </style> <<next 1.5s>> <style> #init-screen { opacity: 0; } </style> <<next 1s>> <style> #init-screen { display: none; } </style> <</timed>> <</append>> <</widget>> <<widget "ScrollABit">> <<script>> document.querySelector('#passages').scrollBy({ top: 100, behavior: 'smooth', }); <</script>> <</widget>>

<center><h3>First Name:</h3> @@.textbox-name;<<textbox "$FirstName" "" autofocus>>@@ <h3>Middle Name (optional):</h3> @@.textbox-name;<<textbox "$MiddleName" "">>@@ <h3>Last Name:</h3> @@.textbox-name;<<textbox "$LastName" "">>@@ @@#not-right;@@ <<button "Confirm">> <<if $FirstName is "Edward" && $LastName is "Harcourt">> <<replace '#not-right' t8n>> Please enter another name, as you cannot be //Edward Oberon Harcourt// in this story. <</replace>> <<elseif $LastName is "Harcourt">> <<replace '#not-right' t8n>> Please enter another name, as you are not a relative of //Edward Oberon Harcourt// in this story. <</replace>> <<elseif $FirstName.replace(/\s/g,'') is "">> <<replace '#not-right' t8n>> Please //enter// a first name. <</replace>> <<elseif $LastName.replace(/\s/g,'') is "">> <<replace '#not-right' t8n>> Please //enter// a last name. <</replace>> <<elseif $FirstName && $LastName>> <<if $MiddleName.replace(/\s/g,'') is "">><<unset $MiddleName>><</if>> <<set $name to true>> <<redo>><<dialogclose>> <<else>> <<replace '#not-right' t8n>> Please enter a <<if !$FirstName && !$LastName>>First and Last Name<<elseif !$FirstName>>First Name<<else>>Last Name<</if>>. <</replace>> <</if>> <</button>></center> <<done>><<run $(".textbox-name input").prop("placeholder", "Enter here")>><</done>>

@@#not-right;@@ <center><h3>''Subject:'' //It was nighttime when ''they'' returned.//</h3> @@.textbox-pronoun;<<textbox "$they" "they">>@@ <h3>''Object:'' //I keep seeing ''them'' in random places.//</h3> @@.textbox-pronoun;<<textbox"$them" "them">>@@ <h3>''Possessive Adjective:'' //What is ''their'' new address?//</h3> @@.textbox-pronoun;<<textbox "$their" "their">>@@ /* <h3>''Possessive:'' //This coat is actually ''theirs''.//</h3> @@#textbox;<<textbox "$theirs" "theirs">>@@ <h3>''Reflexive:'' //They preferred to work by ''themself''.//</h3> @@#textbox;<<textbox "$themself" "themself">>@@</center> */ <h3>What verb tense do these pronouns use?</h3> <ul><label><<radiobutton "$mc.plural" "true" checked>> Plural (they ''are'')</label></ul> <ul><label><<radiobutton "$mc.plural" "false">> Singular (<<print either("she","he","ae","e")>> ''is'')</label></ul> <<button "Confirm">> <<if $they.replace(/\s/g,'') is "">> <<replace '#not-right' t8n>> Please //enter// a subject pronoun. <</replace>> <<elseif $them.replace(/\s/g,'') is "">> <<replace '#not-right' t8n>> Please //enter// an object pronoun. <</replace>> <<elseif $their.replace(/\s/g,'') is "">> <<replace '#not-right' t8n>> Please //enter// a possessive adjective pronoun. <</replace>> <<else>> <<set $pronoun.they to $they.toLowerCase(), $pronoun.them to $them.toLowerCase(), $pronoun.their to $their.toLowerCase()>> <<unset $they, $them, $their>> <<dialogclose>><<goto "P3b">> <</if>> <</button>></center> <<done>><<run $(".textbox-pronoun input").prop("placeholder", "Enter here")>><</done>>

You will be sent back to the start of the maze, undoing your current progress. You will also be able to select a new difficulty. <center> <<button "Confirm">> <<if !$achievements.restartMaze>> <<set $achievements.restartMaze to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Let's Try This Again">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <<if $chapter is "Chapter 3">> <<unset $FirstMazeMap>> <<set $mazeDeath to true>> <<goto "Ch3-13b">> <<else>> <<set $rooms = {a : 0, b : 0, c : 0, d : 0, e : 0, f : 0, g : 0, h : 0, i : 0, j : 0, k : 0, l : 0, m : 0, n : 0, o : 0, p : 0, q : 0, r : 0, s : 0, t : 0, u : 0, v : 0, w : 0, x : 0, y : 0, z : 0, lab : false, lib : false, chap : false, doorseen: false, doorthrough : 0, doorunlock : false, unlockVW : false, unlockDG : false}>> <<goto "Ch4-12">> <</if>> <<dialogclose>> <</button>> <<button "Cancel">><<dialogclose>><</button>> </center>

<<fadein 5s>> You look outside the window of your carriage to the Scottish countryside, or how much of it you can make out this late in the evening with rain pouring down. As the coachman hits another hole in the road, you curse the fact that you could not reach your destination by train. As it stands, you were lucky to convince anyone to bring you this far. As soon as you uttered the name of your destination, most folks at Inverness Railway Station had rejected your money without explanation. The cretin responsible for the current soreness in your buttocks merely grinned a crooked smile and muttered: “Sure, I can take ye to that accursed place, but it’ll cost ye.” You mutter under your breath words you are certain your mother would not approve of, as the carriage hits yet another bump. You take out the missive that brought you to this forsaken corner of Britain, and read it over for what must be the thousandth time. <ul><li> [[Continue|P2]]</li></ul> <</fadein>> <<if !$achievements.firstPlay>> <<timed 5s>> <<set $achievements.firstPlay to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: And so, the Adventure Commences...">> <<Achievement>> <</timed>> <<elseif !$achievements.newPlaythrough>> <<timed 5s>> <<set $achievements.newPlaythrough to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Here we go again...">> <<Achievement>> <</timed>> <</if>>

<<set $entry to 1>><<JournalUpdate>> <div class="letter"><date>Friday February 2nd, 1923</date> My dearest friend, Such good fortune has befallen me, that I scarcely dare write to you in case it is merely some joke played on me by fate. Lord knows Fortuna has not been kind to me in this life. Yet fortune is fickle, and it seems the Lady has finally deigned to smile on me. My late uncle Cornelius has bequeathed me his castle and lands in far off Gairbuie, on the North-Western coast of fair Scotland, as well as a sizeable stipend to ensure me a leisurely life. You should have seen the shock on my cousins’ faces as their late father’s will was read; you would think they had seen the devil himself! I do not forget my true friends easily. You, who knew and cared for me before I was the heir to a princely fortune. As such, I would like to reward you for your loyal friendship. I would kindly request you join me at Gairbuie Castle post-haste, so that we may make a toast to my new life! Yours faithfully, His Lordship Edward Oberon Harcourt </div> <ul><li> [[Continue|P3]]</li></ul>

<<LoadingPreSet>> <<do>>You force yourself to put the letter away again, and look out of the window of your carriage. It is now so dark outside that you can only see your own reflection on the rain covered glass. The reflected features belong to <<CycleGender>> (<<CyclePronoun>>). Your <<CycleEye>> eyes do not show just how tired you really feel after your long trip north. Your skin is a shade reminiscent of <<CycleSkin>>. Your hair is <<CycleHairC>> and <<CycleHairT>>, and you try to keep it <<CycleHairL>>. The only other notable feature you carry on your face is <<CycleFacial>>.<</do>> <ul><li> <<link [[Continue|P3b]]>><<LinkPronouns>><</link>></li></ul> <hr> <center>//<<link "Randomise Traits">> <<timed 2s>> <<if !$achievements.useRandomiser>> <<set $achievements.useRandomiser to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Choose for me!">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</timed>> <<ReloadAnimation>> <<RandomiseTraits>> <<timed 1s>><<redo>><</timed>> <</link>>//</center>

You contemplate the contents of Edward’s letter, hoping to perhaps find some meaning in it that has escaped you before now. <ul> <li> [[It is strange that he called you his “dearest friend”: you would call him an acquaintance at best given your history, and you had not heard from him for some time.|P4][$relationship to "acquaintance", $achievements.allRelationships.justAcquaintance to true]]</li> <li> <<link "It is strange that he called you his “dearest friend”: there was a time were you considered each other to be much, //much// more than mere friends." "P4">><<set $relationship to "lover", $feeling += 2, $achievements.allRelationships.formerLover to true>><</link>></li> <li> [[It was not strange that he called you his “dearest friend”, but something else bothers you.|P4][$relationship to "friend", $feeling ++, $achievements.allRelationships.oldFriend to true]]</li> </ul>

<<SetPro>> <<switch $relationship>> <<case "acquaintance">> You know Edward Harcourt, but you wouldn’t go so far as to call him a true friend, and you are surprised that he referred to you as such. You wonder whether the young Lord might have some ulterior motive, and tried to charm you. Perhaps the letter was not meant for you. You must admit it is very peculiar that you were not addressed by your name: <<case "lover">> You used to be romantically involved with Edward, and you have spent many a night and day laying down entwined in one another’s arms. Even if those days are long gone, you had expected he would remember you as more than merely a dear friend. It strikes you as particularly odd that your former lover did not use your name: <<default>> His salutation sounded about right: ever since you first met him, you have considered him one of your closest friends, and you have kept in frequent correspondence. Yet you cannot escape an ominous feeling of unease. Perhaps the problem is that Edward did not use your name: <</switch>> <<do>><<if !$name>> <<DialogName>> <<else>> <<if !$achievements.allNames>> <<set $achievements.allNames to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Extended Name">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> ''$FirstName<<if $MiddleName>> $MiddleName<</if>> $LastName''. Reflecting on the nature of your relationship with Edward, you find yourself thinking back to when you first met him… <ul> <li> [[As a young boy growing up on the estate of his parents. Both of you were born into well-known noble families.|P5][$background to "noble", $achievements.allBackgrounds.noble to true]]</li> <li> [[As a student at Oxford. You joined the same societies and read in the same subjects: History and Archaeology.|P5][$background to "student", $achievements.allBackgrounds.student to true]]</li> <li> [[As a young nobleman in London. He was looking for all manners of vice, and you were all too happy to point him in the right direction.|P5][$background to "vice", $achievements.allBackgrounds.vice to true]]</li> <li> [[As a soldier at Gallipoli. You were both in the army, and fought side-by-side, even if you would rather forget about those days.|P5][$background to "soldier", $achievements.allBackgrounds.soldier to true]]</li> </ul> <</if>><</do>>

<<switch $background>> <<case "noble">> Since your two families were the only ones to have estates in the region, the two of you naturally spent a lot of time together as children. You played make-belief games, went fishing and horse-riding in the countryside, and spent hours in the study of Edward’s father, reading his books. You recall that Edward’s mother was a sickly woman, prone to spending days in bed, and raving like a lunatic. It was some source of scandal for the whole family. You wonder what has become of her… <<case "student">> Edward was a brilliant student, and well-liked by both his professors and his peers. The two of you both joined the secretive Society of the Scarlet Hand, and studied History and Archaeology under the most astute minds of their generation: he specialised in Ancient History, and you in Medieval Scriptures. You recall Edward wrote his dissertation on an obscure pre-Islamic, Arab grimoire, though the details escape you. //What was the name of the supposed prophet that wrote it? Al-something…// <<case "vice">> Like many young men of that time, Edward was in need of some escapism, and being familiar with the London underworld, you gave him all the best addresses. Absinth, opioids, and the company of men and women that carry the red lantern: you showed them all to the young Lord. Yet, you seem to remember that his descent into vice was not merely due to boredom, but rather because of some trauma. Did Edward not one day confide in you some story about his mother’s insanity? It is difficult to remember through the haze of the opium pipe… <<default>> You served side-by-side on the front-lines in one of the worst defeats of the Allies during the Great War. You are uncertain either of you would have made it out alive without the help of the other. War was hell, but comrades like Edward made the horrors you had to endure just a little more bearable. You think of the time that Edward volunteered for a dangerous reconnaissance assignment in an old pre-Ottoman ruin. There was little to gain, and a lot of danger involved with the assignment, but Edward thought he might find something of interest, some sort of book… <</switch>> The uncouth shriek of the coachman roughly wakes you from your musings. “We have arrived!” <ul><li> [[Continue|P6]]</li></ul>

The driver brings your luggage down from the roof of the coach as you climb out into the downpour. Ahead on a cliff overlooking the stormy sea, you can see the outline of Edward’s new abode: Gairbuie Castle. Though it is now almost pitch black outside, and the rain makes it nigh impossible to look further than 20 feet, you can vaguely see lights flickering behind some of the windows. You hope Edward has a warm meal and a good glass of brandy set ready for you. The coachman puts down the last of your coffers and offers you a scoundrel’s smile. You can see a few of his teeth are missing, and the ones that remain will likely fall out within a few years or so. “This is as far as I’ll go, <<if $mc.gender is 2>>madam<<elseif $mc.gender is 1>>sir<<else>>skipper<</if>>. That there castle is Gairbuie. Shouldn’t take ye much more than 10 minutes to get up there. I would wish ye a good evening, but I doubt it would make a difference if ye plan on spending the night in that hellhole.” “Actually, I plan on staying here a few days,” you retort. The wretch that brought you here chuckles gleefully and shakes his head. “Well then, I hope ye have made funeral arrangements before ye left the big city, hahaha!” With that, he gets back on the coach, and goes back via the road you came from. <ul><li> [[Continue|P7]]</li></ul>

<<set $entry to 2>><<JournalUpdate>> You don’t stick around long enough to see the coach vanish in the inky blackness of the night’s rain. The castle is still about a quarter mile ahead, and you will have to carry your heavy suitcase up to the top of the cliff. You amp yourself up, exhale once, pick up your luggage, grasp your hat, and make for Gairbuie. The pouring rain chills you to the bone within moments of starting off. Even if it is not a long walk, the cold yet oppressive weather makes it seem like it takes an eternity. Still, you could swear that the distance to the castle does not seem to decrease as you keep on walking. Perhaps the darkness and rain are simply playing tricks on your sleep deprived mind, but you cannot escape an ominous feeling of dread. On one occasion, you could swear you see a shadow flitting away from the corner of your eye. Something on all fours, about the size of a large dog, crawling, creeping closely behind you. Yet, when you turn your head, you can see nothing: the rain and darkness obfuscate everything. You shake your head, and try to focus on the road ahead. It does no good standing around in this downpour. <ul><li> [[Continue|P8]]</li></ul>

You finally make it to the castle on top of the cliff. The ancient, massive edifice of stone makes you feel small and insignificant. The front door is massive; 9 feet high, made of solid oak, and reinforced by cast-iron rails. You pull the bell and hear its deep metallic ringing sound reverberate in the hallway. Soon after, the door slowly opens, creaking on its hinges as it does so. An old woman stands in the doorway and sizes you up in your soaked clothes. She is dressed conservatively in a heavy, grey dress, and her salt and pepper hair is done up in a single tight bun. Her eyes are sunken and hollow, and her bloated, puffy face and sickly complexion give her somewhat of a toadish appearance. You imagine she must be some sort of elderly housekeeper in Edward’s employ. “Who are you?” she rasps in a shrewish, unpleasant tone. <ul> <li> <<link "“$FirstName $LastName. I am a friend of Edward’s. Could you please let me in?”" "P9">><</link>></li> <li> <<link "“$LastName, here by invitation of Lord Harcourt. Do please let me in, good woman; the weather is rather dreadful.”" "P9">><</link>></li> <li> <<link '“$LastName.” //Give her a stony glare.//' "P9">><</link>></li> </ul>

The toadish housekeeper gives you a look over. You get the distinct impression that she is attempting to make you suffer as long as possible in the ice cold rain. Eventually, she steps aside to let you in. “Young master Harcourt is expecting you. Up the stairs, then right, first door on the left. Try not to dirty the halls too much, as I shall have to clean them up.” With that, she leaves into an adjacent room, which you presume is part of the servant’s quarters. You are left standing in the hallway, drenched and chilled to the bone, your suitcase standing next to you. You sigh deeply, take off your hat, grab your suitcase, and head upstairs as you mutter under your breath: <ul> <li> [[“Edward could stand to teach his servants some better manners.” You imagine it cannot be easy to find good help in these remote parts of the country.|P10]]</li> <li> [[“What a goddamn bitch.” You hope Edward can be convinced to fire the old hag before the night is over.|P10]]</li> <li> [[“I do suppose she had to stay up this late just to let me in.” You are certain that the housekeeper will be more amiable tomorrow.|P10]]</li> </ul>

You lug your heavy suitcase up to the first floor. The ancient wooden stairs creak with every step you take, their protestations being made all the more eerie by the echoes reverberating through the hall. When you make it up to the next floor, you turn right, then enter the first door on your left, as the housekeeper instructed. You find yourself in a spacious room. Straight ahead, across from the door, are several large windows, the curtains drawn back giving you a view of the rainstorm still going on outside. To your left, an enormous fireplace is roaring. You find yourself appreciating the warmth it generates. Above the fireplace hangs a large painting of an elderly Caucasian man with white hair, piercing eyes, and a well-groomed beard; presumably Edward’s late uncle. To your right is another door, leading to some other room. In the middle of the room is a long table, with space enough for about sixteen seats and plenty of dishes. At the head of the table, his back towards the roaring fire, sits your <<switch $relationship>><<case "acquaintance">>acquaintance<<case "lover">>former lover<<default>>dear friend<</switch>>, Lord Edward Oberon Harcourt. He turns his head when he notices your entrance, and the fireplace illuminates the right-hand side of his ruggedly handsome face. His cheekbones are pronounced, but balanced out by a strong jawline. His mouth is firm, with thick lips that are yet to show a sign of aging. His hair is a gorgeous chestnut brown, wavy and kept at shoulder length. He keeps a tight, daily shave, but this late at night you can see just a hint of stubble across the lower half of his face. The thing that stands out about him most, however, are his eyes. They are set fairly deeply in his face, yet their emerald green colour makes them stand out, regardless. When you look into them just long enough, you can see hints of gold among the green, like a field of grass with flowering dandelions. And when he smiles, he gets just a few wrinkles on the sides of his eyes. “Please, come in, $FirstName. You look famished. I am afraid it has cooled down considerably, but the roasted hen is still formidable. Care for a glass of brandy? Or maybe scotch?” <ul> <li> [[You accept Edward’s offer of chicken and brandy.|P11]]</li> <li> [[You accept Edward’s offer of chicken and whiskey.|P11]]</li> <li> [[You accept Edward’s offer of chicken, but decline to have a drink.|P11][$sober to true]]</li> </ul>

You dig into your repast. Cold roast might not be your choice of last meal, but, given your hunger, it goes down well enough. You help yourself to a second serving with taters and greens. Edward stays silent as you satisfy yourself. When you are finished with your second plate, he pours himself a glass of brandy, rises from his chair, and turns around, facing the portrait of the man who bestowed Gairbuie on him. “I am glad you chose to come, $FirstName. There were very few people who were there for me back in the day, and I feel, among them, you alone are truly trustworthy. I suppose you might have guessed already that I did not divulge my true motives for bringing you here. Please, allow me to explain. All shall be clear soon enough.” <ul> <li> <<link "Interrupt him. You have questions, and you’re not content to let him string you along any longer.">><<replace "#choice" t8n>><<include "P12a">><</replace>><</link>></li> <li> [[Let him tell his story uninterrupted.|P12b][$visited.p12b to true]]</li> </ul>

“Of course. Whatever I can answer, I will be happy to do so.” <<PrologueQuestions>>

Edward does not look you in the face. Perhaps he cannot bear to, or perhaps he really does not care. “I am very sorry for hurting you. Our relationship… what we had… it meant the world to me, but that was a lifetime ago, and fortune brought us down different paths.” An uncomfortable silence settles between the two of you, broken only by the crackling of the fire and the howling of the storm outside. <<PrologueQuestions>>

Lord Harcourt swirls his brandy in its glass, sips it, and then turns away from the fire to face you. His response is all business. “I could not risk my letter being seen as suspicious, for reasons that shall soon become evident. Suffice to say for now that, despite our shallow relationship, I consider you a <<if $mc.gender is 2>>woman<<elseif $mc.gender is 1>>man<<else>>person<</if>> of unparalleled skill and merit. You are the only person I know who can help me.” <<PrologueQuestions>>

Edward sighs. “A regrettable necessity. I deliberately did not use your name or address, as I wanted to save you any unwanted trouble, should you choose not to accept my invitation. <<if !$visited.p12b>>As I shall explain shortly<<else>>As I just explained<</if>>, there are certain forces at work that are dangerous to your health.” <<PrologueQuestions>>

Edward’s face goes dark. Even his handsome features cannot stop a chill from crawling up your spine. “A necessary precaution. There are… undesirable elements in town, which would seek to stop me from seeking aid with my current predicament. I was afraid that my letter would never arrive, had I been more explicit.” <<PrologueQuestions>>

Edward chuckles. “Alas, keeping the staff employed until their deaths was a precondition for my inheritance, as stipulated in my late uncle’s will. I agree, their manners are abominable, but they are competent enough, I suppose.” <<PrologueQuestions>>

“Make yourself comfortable. This might take a while. As I said in my letter, I inherited this place and a sizeable sum from my late uncle Cornelius. As you may have surmised, there’s a bit more to the story. A letter from the late Cornelius was also included in my inheritance. — “You may remember my <<if $background is "noble" or $background is "vice">>unfortunate mother<<else>>interest in the occult<</if>>. I pursued my study into ancient knowledge to seek a cure for Mother’s insanity. Its cause has always been a mystery to my family. No doctor in the country could arrive at a satisfactory diagnosis, and Father sought out many. In her ravings, she would scream in a language unknown to me, and so I ventured to learn it, hoping to find answers in her madness. — “Cornelius was the brother of my mother, although I cannot recall him ever visiting her. Nevertheless, he claimed in his letter to hold the key to saving her. According to his writing, I must venture into the bowels of Gairbuie castle itself, where I may find a cure. I have cautiously enquired about the existence of some sort of underground passage with the servants and locals, but always came up short. — “Hence why I requested your presence. I know you to be an individual of singular quality and skill. Your charm, your inquisitiveness, your persistence… I would be glad to have your aid, but I acknowledge you are under no obligation to provide it. In any event, you do not need to provide me with your answer tonight. Undoubtedly you are tired, and in need of a rest. I had the servants ready a guest room. Please, allow me to carry your luggage there.” <ul> <<if $visited.p12b>><li> <<link "You have questions, and you’re not content to let him string you along any longer.">><<replace "#choice" t8n>><<include "P12a">><</replace>><</link>></li><</if>> <li> [[You feel more than ready to go to bed after a long day of travel. Follow Edward.|P13]]</li> </ul>

You don’t realise how tired you are until you get up from your chair. Your legs are shaking and your knees nearly buckle under the weight of your body. You gladly accept Edward’s <<if $visited.p12b>>previous <</if>>offer to carry your luggage to your room. The two of you leave through the same door you entered, and make your way down the hall towards a different wing of the castle. Away from the roaring fire of the dining hall, the castle feels icy cold, though not in the way the rain did just earlier. Rather than drenching you to the bone, this drains you. Every step you take saps your strength further. The hallway seems to grow longer, its end obscured by a darkness that seems to draw you in against your will. As if someone had pierced your gut with a harpoon made of ice, and was slowly dragging you forward… <ul><li> <<link "//“$FirstName?”//" "P14">><</link>></li></ul>

You make a small involuntary jump. You had been so absorbed by the eerie feeling that you hadn’t realized Edward was still beside you. He gives you a roguish smirk as he opens a door that you would have walked right past if he hadn’t called out to you. “This is the room I had the servants prepare for you. I hope it will be to your liking; you look like you could use a good night’s rest.” You try to muster the strength to return his smile, but you only manage to get halfway judging by Edward’s response. “Do not worry my friend. I shall give the servants notice that you are not to be disturbed tonight or tomorrow morning. Feel free to sleep in a tad. We will need to keep our wits about us in the days to come.” The Lord of Gairbuie puts down your luggage in a corner of the room, and places the candle he had been carrying on your nightstand. The candlelight highlights his handsome features, but you cannot help but notice that it also gives him an aberrant eerie look. “Ask a servant to show you to my study when you are ready tomorrow. We can discuss our plan of action further then. Sleep well my friend.” <ul><li> [[Continue|P15]]</li></ul>

<<set $entry to 3>><<JournalUpdate>> With that, Edward leaves you to your own affairs. The room is spacious, with an antique drum writing desk against one wall with a window, and a tall dresser against another wall. There is a porcelain chamber pot sitting next to a simple bed, which has been recently made. The room’s ceiling is tall. It makes you feel small, like a child lost in the dark. Not knowing where to go to get out. Scared. You shake the feeling and strip down. As you get in the bed, you mull over Edward’s words in your head. They only give you more questions, no answers. //He believes that a cure to his mother’s illness is somewhere underneath the castle?// Does he have any reason for doing so, besides the will of an estranged family member? And what of your role in this? Were you convinced by his plea? Will you help Edward Harcourt? Finally, the fatigue catches up with your mind running wild. Your eyes slowly close, your mind hazy with the need to sleep. Gradually, you feel yourself falling into oblivion, the land of dreams… <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-1][$chapter to "Chapter 1"]]</li></ul> /* END OF PROLOGUE */

<<fadein 5s>> <<if $sober is true>>Tired by your long trek up the cliffs<<else>>Not quite intoxicated, but definitely under the influence of the alcohol you imbibed<</if>>, your dreams are restless. You had hoped your fatigue would deliver you a deep sleep, free of the influence of the creepy mansion, or Edward’s ominous stories. //No such luck. No rest for the wicked.// You are standing in a long hallway. The architecture matches that of Gairbuie castle, but you cannot recall walking here. There are no doors, no windows, and no candles. Instead, the stone walls are illuminated by the flickering lights of torches. They are barely enough to light the entire hallway, but you can vaguely distinguish a door at the end of the hall. It is difficult to see, however. It dawns on you that something is off about the light emanating from the torches. The shadows are oppressive, as if they yield their domain to the light only to play tricks on your eyes, before reclaiming this world as theirs. The light does not truly dispel the darkness. It is as if the darkness were trying to entice you, making you feel you can see just enough to walk through. Is it trying to trick you into walking further? You feel a force in your stomach tugging you towards the door. It feels like a hook latched into your abdomen, gently pulling you along the hallway. <ul><li> <<link [[Continue|Ch1-2]]>><<unset $sober>><</link>></li></ul> <</fadein>>

You let the tugging feeling lead you down the hall. //It is only a dream, you tell yourself. It has to be…// As you walk further, the hallway grows darker. You venture a look backwards and understand why. Every torch you passed by has extinguished. Or maybe it disappeared. Only an inky blackness exists where you stood a moment ago. You continue walking. The flames from the torches flicker as you walk by, their tongues licking the stale air, extending toward you like an eldritch, orange tentacle, before being consumed by the darkness as you pass. Are you bringing this darkness forward, or are you running away from it? Will you make it to the door before you are swallowed? But is what can be found behind the door better than the ominous darkness in the hallway? These questions fill your heart with anxiety… <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-3]]</li></ul>

Before you even realise you have made it to the end of the hallway, your hand is on the ironclad door. The tugging feeling in your stomach is making you positively queasy. Your hands fumble around the door, before you find its handle. The metal feels cold against your skin, like dry ice. You give it a shake. Nothing. The handle won’t turn, and the door will not budge. You chance a quick glance behind you. The darkness is now visibly encroaching, slithering towards you like a shadow come alive. The inky blackness seems to gobble up the hallway like a voracious animal. You guess you may have twenty seconds before it would reach you. You try the door handle once more. Again, nothing. <ul> <li> [[Look around. Perhaps there’s a key, or some tool to help you bust open the door!|Ch1-4a]]</li> <li> [[Attempt to kick in the door. Throw your body weight against it. Whatever it takes, you have to open that door before the darkness comes!|Ch1-4b]]</li> <li> [[Panic.|Ch1-4c][$insanity ++]]</li> <li> [[The darkness will inevitably catch up to you. There is no escaping it. You turn away from the door, and deliberately face your fear.|Ch1-4d]]</li> </ul>

You madly survey the area around the door for a key, or, better yet, an axe or some other tool to force open the door. Perhaps it is because it is too dark, but you can find nothing in the flickering orange light of the few remaining torches. You quickly survey the hallway behind you as well. And there… //Could it be? Yes!// It is a large dull grey iron key lying on the floor! But the shadows keep inching closer. Will you be able to grab it in time? <ul><li> [[Grab the key.|Ch1-4a2]]</li></ul>

You figure you might as well try. You gasp and make a mad dash for the key. In mere moments, it is within your grasp. Your hand reaches out for it. It is so close, you can almost feel the cool metal reassuringly in your hand. //It will be alright//, you think to yourself. You’ll make it after all! You grab the key, and turn around to dash back towards the door. Something trips you up. You have only a moment to realise your foot got stuck before your face becomes intimately acquainted with the cold stone floor. A sharp pain shoots through your cheek, and you can feel your eyes start to water. You look down at your feet, wanting to see what tripped you up. What you find chills you to your very bone marrow… Out of the still advancing darkness, a single shadowy tentacle comes forth. Having grabbed you by your ankle, it is now holding you down. You kick towards the umbrous appendage, but try as you might, you cannot break free. You are too far away from the door, your key now useless. In mere seconds, the rest of the shadowy mass will have reached you. You try to scream, but the shadows engulf you before you do, slip inside you through your open mouth, colder than even the stone floor you are lying on. Then all goes to black. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-5]]</li></ul>

You won’t go down without a fight! You start banging on the door. First with your balled fists, hoping that someone on the other side will let you in. When you get no response, you try to break the door down in earnest. You bring your whole body weight to bear. The door seems solid, made of thick wood and reinforced by metal bands. It might be futile, but you cannot sit still. Not now! You have to try something. //Damn it all to hell!// With the rage and strength of a cornered animal, you keep smashing into the door. You try to numb out the pain that throbs in your shoulder and arm. A primal fear, inherited from the darkest days of humanity’s first steps into the world, clouds your vision; a bloody haze in front of your eyes. You smash into the hard wood one last time. With a crunching //thud//, you collide. The door still has not moved an inch. You hold your shoulder, painful from your attempts to break down the door. Splinters are stuck all over your arm, and a few thin trickles of blood run down your limb, slowly amassing on the floor next to your now limp body. You wonder whether you’ll live to regret your hasty decision to break down an iron clad door with only your soft, fleshy body. You slide down to the floor, back against the door, holding your shoulder. The shadows are now so close, they almost touch your feet. You can feel a coldness radiating from the encroaching darkness, like a pool of dark icy water at night. Without really thinking about it, you hurl a gob of phlegm at the darkness. For just a second, it seems to pause its advance, almost in response. Before you have time to react to this surprising behaviour, the shadows suddenly speed up, hurling themselves at you like a liquid swarm of angry hornets. You strangely do not feel their impact. You feel only an all-encompassing cold, permeating your very being, before all around you goes dark. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-5]]</li></ul>

You start sobbing, tears and snot streaming down your face. You are afraid. So very afraid, like you haven’t been in years. That childlike fear of the unknown, the uncertainty of what your next breathing moment will bring. You curl up on the floor in a foetal position, the cold stone feeling hard against your cheek. You cannot look away from the darkness, like a deer hypnotised by the eyes of the wolf before it strikes. Your eyes have gone wide, your breathing fast, inconsistent with the sobs. Your body shakes, and your skin feels hot and prickly. With your head on the floor, you see the encroaching shadows. Its tendrils slowly inch towards you, closely followed by the dark mass behind it. It seems to toy with you; sometimes speeding up, sometimes slowing down to a crawl. One of the shadowy tendrils shoots towards you. You flinch instinctively. When you open your eyes again, you realise it stopped just shy of your face. This thing, whatever it is, seems to take perverse pleasure in prolonging your agony and suffering. <ul><li> [[It is pure agony.|Ch1-4c2]]</li></ul>

What you see next chills you to your very core. Part of the shadow seems to detach from its tenebrous womb. A malformed blob slithers towards, then leans over you. It has got so close to your face, mere inches away, and you can feel an icy cold radiate from its slick, black surface. The smooth mass contorts. Still unable to look away, you see it start to ripple, slowly taking the shape of a human face: your own. The visage that stares back at your terrified self is most definitely your own, yet twisted into a warped, sadistic mockery of you. It lets out a hoarse, unnatural laugh, before speaking in a voice that isn’t your own, in a language you cannot comprehend: “//Qrrribol’edt pycewtac ghrymidrzeo hhirchvcult…//” Then, your shadow self opens its mouth wide — like its jaw suddenly became unlocked at its base — and swallows you whole. Darkness envelopes you. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-5]]</li></ul>

You steel yourself. You draw a deep breath, centre yourself, then turn around to face the darkness. The tenebrous tendrils are still advancing towards you. Fear of the unknown clasps your heart, but you shall not be deterred. You take an intrepid step forward. To your great surprise, the darkness seems to stop moving. As soon as you started walking towards it, it seemed to freeze. It is not merely a predator waiting for you to take your next move. No, it is completely frozen, as if time had stopped all around. You stop as well, baffled at this development. For what feels like an eternity, the impasse lasts. Then, slowly but surely, the inky blackness advances once more. It is not what you may have hoped for, but it is too late to back down now. You will not be intimidated or deterred! Again, you move forward. The shadows are now so close, you can feel their icy cold through your clothes. Your skin crawls with goosebumps. In anticipation of the darkness enveloping you, you close your eyes. You can feel the cold engulf you, like being submerged in an ice bath, but somehow more viscous. <ul><li> [[Then, nothing.|Ch1-4d2]]</li></ul>

You had expected… //something//? Not this, at the very least. You’re not entirely certain you should open your eyes, but you do so anyway; nothing else to be done. Though you are surrounded by darkness, you can still see your own torso and limbs. As you walk forward, you can vaguely make out what seems to be a room. It seems oddly familiar to you. Then, a sharp pain passes through your head, and you let yourself fall into sweet oblivion. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-5]]</li></ul>

<<if !$visited.chOne6>>When you come to, you are still sore. Looking around, you observe you are in a room with a single door and no windows. The room’s upholstery and furniture undoubtedly make it seem like you would be in Gairbuie, although you are certain you have not visited a room this small in your limited time in the castle.<</if>> The room feels cold, and wet, although not quite as cold as the shadows from your dream, nor as wet as you were outside. A single low coffee table stands in the room, on which lie a small picture portrait of three people, and a dusty, leather-bound book with Arab lettering on it. <ul> <li> <<if $dream.picture>> You already looked at the picture. <<else>> <<link "Investigate the picture.">> <<replace "#look" t8n>> <<set $dream.picture to true, $achievements.allClues.picture to true>> <<picture>> <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-6][$visited.chOne6 to true]]</li></ul> <</replace>> <</link>> <</if>></li> <li> <<if $dream.book>> You already looked through the book. <<else>> <<link "Investigate the book.">> <<replace "#look" t8n>> <<set $dream.book to true, $achievements.allClues.book to true>> <<book>> <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-6][$visited.chOne6 to true]]</li></ul> <</replace>> <</link>> <</if>></li> </ul>

You move your attention from the coffee table to the door. It is a far cry from the door you tried to use earlier in your dream. It is not reinforced by metal, and it seems lighter and smaller, more like the doors you encountered in the actual castle of Gairbuie. You gather it should not be a problem to open it and step through. You carefully open the door. Beyond it is not just another room or hallway. Rather, a milky mist swirls behind the passageway. “Guess I’m still dreaming,” you mutter to yourself. <ul> <<if !$dream.picture or !$dream.book>><li> [[Have one more look in the room.|Ch1-5]]</li><</if>> <li> <<link "Brace yourself and step through the mist.">> <<switch $background>> <<case "noble">><<goto "Ch1-N1">> <<case "student">><<goto "Ch1-S1">> <<case "vice">><<goto "Ch1-V1">> <<default>><<goto "Ch1-W1">> /* Soldier path */ <</switch>> <</link>></li> </ul>

“//$FirstName//!” Edward yells out to you from across the garden. “Come look what I found!” The summer of 1904 is a hot one, and so your parents are all too happy to let you play with Edward on his parents’ estate, as theirs is next to a small creek. You’ve known Edward for two years now. Your family, which normally resides in London, bought an estate in the countryside to spend holidays away from the big city. The land holdings of the Harcourts and <<print $LastName>>s are adjacent to one another. Edward lives here all year round, and with no other children of your age, you naturally gravitated towards one another. You can only imagine how bored Edward must be when you’re not around. You run over to where Edward's voice came from. He stands in the creek, his trouser legs rolled up to about his knees, his sleeves just above his elbows. He left his shoes and socks on the shore. He seems to be holding something small and round in his hand, turning it over, and admiring it. <ul> <li> [[“What’re you holding there, Edward?” You try to snoop a look at what he’s holding. Maybe it’s some sort of treasure?|Ch1-N2][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“Let me see! Let me see!” You try to get Edward to show you what he’s fingering. Friends should share their secrets after all!|Ch1-N2][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> [[Take off your shoes, jump into the creek, and try to snatch whatever Edward is holding from his hands.|Ch1-N2][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> The lad grins, and says: “I can’t tell you, it’s a secret, don’t ya know? That’s how secrets work, silly!” “Then why did you call me over to have a look at it then, huh?” You put on your best disappointed pout. “Don’t sound to me like you wanna keep it a secret!” Edward lets out a hearty laugh, then saunters over towards where you’re standing. “Okay, okay, stop heckling me already! I was gonna show it to you later, alright? Here, have a look. Isn’t it pretty?” <<case 2>> Edward holds his treasure above his head protectively. “Hold on, you’ll get your turn to hold it! I just wanna hold it a little longer is all. I found it, so it’s only fair!” You put your finger to your upper lip while you ponder that. He may have a point, but you still really wanna sneak a peek at what he’s holding. You position yourself behind Edward in just the right way to see without him noticing. First you try to peek over his right shoulder, then his left, but you cannot get a good look. After about a minute or so, Edward turns around, and shows you his wide, roguish grin. He knows he’s left you dangling long enough. <<default>> Edward seems to have caught onto your idea by the time you noisily splash towards him. He lets out a gleeful shriek, and starts to splash further along the creek, away from you. The two of you go about this game for a few minutes, running, yelling, and splashing water at one another, as children are wont to do. When you've exhausted yourself , the two of you set down by the shore of the creek, panting and sweating. “Anyway, have a look at what I found earlier, isn’t it neat?” <</switch>> Edward holds out his hands and shows you what he’s holding. It’s a stone. There might be hundreds of rocks lying on the floor of the creek, but this one is unusually smooth, and its colour is not a dull grey like any regular rock, it’s an opaque salmon pink. It must have been made of wax and sculpted by some underwater fairy, then enchanted to become hard as a rock! Proud of your brilliance, you share your insights with Edward. “Haha! Your mum is still telling you fairy tales like that? Don’t tell me you actually believe them, $FirstName?” You can feel your cheeks flush, and shame prickles your skin uncomfortably. You rather thought your ideas weren’t all //that// silly. Edward notices he hit a nerve, and goes a little red himself. “Look, I, uh… I didn’t mean nuthin’ by it and all…” “ ’S okay,” you mutter. “But if it ain’t the river fairies, then how come it gets so nice ‘n round ‘n shiny?” Edward’s grin returns to his face, his former mishap seemingly behind him already. “I read about this in one of my father’s books the other day! Stones like these, they are scraped and shaped by like, smaller stones and the water flowing over it! But it takes //forever// to get them that pretty, though.” “How long’s forever?” you ask curiously. Edward takes an overly pensive expression. “I ain’t sure. I guess it would have to be a really long time, or there would be a lot more stones like this around.” “Yeah, I guess it must take a really long time,” you agree with Edward. “That’s actually pretty boring when you think about it. I liked my idea better.” Edward shrugs. “S’pose so. Not everything can get solved with fairies and such, though. If only magic were real, huh?” <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-N3]]</li></ul>

The two of you spend the rest of the afternoon trying to catch small fish with makeshift nets, climbing an old oak in the yard, and swapping stories. When you tell Edward about life in the big city, his eyes go wide with excitement. You illustrate the new multi-story warehouses, the rapid explosion of automobiles in the city, and the crowds of people that swarm the parks of London on the weekends. “Life in the big city sure does sound neat,” he sighs. “When I’m old enough to go on my own, I’ll visit you there!” “Why doesn’t your family visit every now and then?” you wonder out loud. Your friend gets gloomy. He absentmindedly picks up a pebble and tosses it into the creek. “Dad says the air here ought to be good for my mum. She hasn’t been feeling all well for a good long while now…” You stare at your feet, unsure about how to respond, and feeling perhaps a little ashamed at having brought this up in the first place. Although you’ve entered Edward’s family’s house a handful of time over the past few years, your interactions with his mother have been limited. When you do see her, she seems absent, and mutters to herself. You cannot really imagine what it must be like for Edward, being exposed to her like that every single day. <<switch $relationship>> <<case "friend">> There has got to be some way to put your friend at ease. Although you only see Edward when your family comes here during the summer, the two of you have grown close as friends. You spend a lot of time together; and even when you’re not there, you write to each other regularly. You know exactly what will cheer him up! You shoot Edward a sly grin, punch him on the shoulder, and lean in to whisper: “Wanna go steal some fruit from old man Chamberlain’s orchard?” The orchard is just a few minutes walking or so down the creek. You and Edward have nicked some of his cherries, strawberries, and peaches before. //They’re delicious!// Edward still looks a little sullen when the two of you start walking, but by the time the two of you sneak through the rows of fruit trees, the excitement has made him forget about it all. You pick the fruit, while Edward hides them beneath his shirt. On your way back home, you laugh and jeer at old man Chamberlain’s demise, while biting into the juicy sweetness of two big, fuzzy peaches. The two of you are, as always, thick as thieves! <<case "acquaintance">> Hanging out with the young Harcourt scion is more a matter of practicality than friendship. There are no other children your age in the neighbourhood, and so you and Edward naturally hang out. Yet, for whatever reason, the two of you have never grown to be good friends. The two of you hung out, sure, but you would never tell him about that one time you accidentally broke your grandmother’s vase, for example! You spend the rest of the afternoon in uncomfortable silence. At one point, you stand up, collect some pebbles, and start skipping rocks in the creek. Edward remains by the shore, lost in his own thoughts. By the time it is time for supper, you are well and truly bored. //Maybe Edward will feel more like playing tomorrow?// You’ve considered building a treehouse around here, but you would need someone to share the load with. You greet Edward as you are about to get back home. “See you t’morrow?” “Sure. Whatever.” Seems like he’s still upset. You shrug and head home. <<default>> You want to make Edward feel better, but you don’t quite know how. Whenever you are about to get this close to him, see his vulnerable side, either you or him or both of you clamp up. Seeing him sad like this hurts you more than it should. You shyly extend your hand across to where he’s sitting, trying to look the other way to make it seem like an accident. You don’t really want to think about him recoiling when you touch him, ruining this great friendship you’ve built up over the past couple of years. Your hand finds his, and you give it a soft squeeze. Both of you turn your heads towards one another and stare into each other’s eyes. You’ve looked at each other before, but it was never this real. He leans in and gives you a soft peck on the cheek. Your cheeks flush, and you try to look away, but Edward lowers his head into your lap. “Thanks for being here for me.” The two of you spend the rest of the afternoon until supper in silence, simply enjoying one another’s company. When you bid your goodbyes, it is your turn to plant a kiss on Edward’s cheek, and his turn to turn red as a beet. Although you do not realise it, you will spend many a summer afternoon like this in the years to come. Gradually, the puppy love you have as children will grow into something deeper, something even more meaningful. For now, you know only that you like like him, and that it is all you could ever want. <</switch>> <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-N4]]</li></ul>

It seems Summer passes faster this year than last. Barely two weeks after your afternoon at the creek with Edward, your suitcases are packed, and you’re waiting for the coach with your family. It will take you to the nearest station, where you will board the next train to London. The sun is hidden behind layers of grey clouds, and you hug your coat closer to yourself. There’s a chilliness in the air, which dampens your mood even further. //If only summer would never end!// You stand aside a little from the rest of the family, looking wistfully at your summer home. Suddenly, from the bushes, you can hear a voice. “Psst, hey $FirstName, come here!” Edward has hidden himself in the bush, and motions for you to join him. You quickly shoot a glance back at your family. They’re still waiting for the coach, and seem to be paying you no attention. You put down your suitcase, and head over to where your friend is waiting. He leans conspiratorially towards you and whispers: “I need you to come along! I think I’ve found a solution to mother’s problem! But my dad can’t know. He wouldn’t understand, c’mon!” You again shoot a glance towards your family, who still haven’t noticed you. The coach seems to be taking its sweet time. Still, can you afford to miss it by helping your <<if $relationship isnot "lover">>friend<<else>>sweet<</if>> Edward? <ul> <li> [[“Sounds like an adventure, I’m in!”|Ch1-N5][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“’Kay, but let’s be quick about it, yeah?”|Ch1-N5][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> [[“I can’t miss the coach, can’t you do it yourself?”|Ch1-N5][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> Edward shoots you his signature roguish grin. “I knew I could count on you! Let’s go, quick and silent like so your folks don’t notice!” <<case 2>> “Yeah, of course. Wouldn’t want them to leave you behind, would we?” Your reaction must have shown your shock at the very idea, as Edward quickly shoots you a wink to let you know he was just joking. <<case 3>> Edward’s face goes a little gloomy, but he remains resolved. “Don’t be like that! I really need your help. C’mon!” He drags you on by your arm, and eventually you relent. <</switch>> The two of you make your way back to the mansion of Edward’s parents using a shortcut, which runs through the woods. Your nice city clothes, put on specifically to show off your family’s opulence while on the train, are getting ruffled and dirty with mud and twigs. Edward is looking for something among the shrubbery. “Look for a plant with black berries, but don’t eat them!” You start looking among the greenery, further besmudging your Sunday’s best. “What’s this about Edward?” He doesn’t look up when he responds to you. All of his attention seems occupied by his quest for this mysterious plant. “Last night, I was up late reading in my father’s library. I think I finally found something to cure my mother! If I leave the root of this plant under her sickbed, she’s supposed to get better!” The two of you continue looking and making your way towards Edward’s house. About a minute or so later, you hear a cry of joy behind you. “Found it! Come, help me get it out of the ground!” The two of you tug at a smallish bush with black berries. You really put your back into it, and you can feel your shirt starting to tear at the seams under the strain. Slowly but surely, you can feel the plant give way under your combined weight. //Just a little longer and then…// <<linkreplace "Plop!" t8n>>''Plop!'' With a loud rustling noise, the plant’s roots come loose from the ground. Both you and Edward lose your balance, and fall into the dirt. Your coat and pants are fully covered in it. You really won’t be able to hide that you slipped away from your family now! Edward doesn’t seem to care about the state of his attire. Triumphantly, he holds up your hard earned trophy. “Got it! Thanks a million $FirstName! I really owe you one.” <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-N6]]</li></ul> <</linkreplace>>

In the distance, you hear your family calling your name. They must have noticed you had gone missing; it was bound to happen sooner or later. You quickly make your excuses to Edward, who seems too absorbed in this strange root to notice. You hasten back to your family, dreading what they’ll make of your ruined, expensive clothes. Excuses won’t even really matter at this point; you’re in for it no matter what. When your mother sees you, she gasps, and nearly faints at the look of you. She hurries you along, shouting ‘//I found $pronoun.them!//’, supposedly to let the rest of the family know to gather back by the coach. She kneels beside you, trying to get the worst of the smudges from your clothes with her handkerchief. It makes little difference, however. Your father’s reaction is decidedly less caring than hers when he sees you. The entire ride to the station, you’re getting an earful about ruining your finest clothes. He even threatens to have you ride in the back coach, so you don’t dirty the family’s coupé in first class. Thankfully, your mother convinces him not to go through with it, and the trip back in the train is merely quiet and awkward, rather than scary and away from your family. Your dirty clothes land you in the metaphorical doghouse for a week or so, but the whole affair is swiftly forgotten as the family gets back to the busy life of the London metropole. About a month after your little venture into the woods, you receive a letter from Edward. You can almost see the disappointment drip from the paper. The root stayed under his mother’s bed for about a week with no discernible effect, before it was found by a cleaning maid, who threw it away. This is when you are lurchingly pulled from this dream of the past… <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-1][$chapter to "Chapter 2"]]</li></ul>

“$LastName, up studying late again I see!” A rough hand slaps you on the back, and you are shook awake from your half-studying, half-… //well let’s be honest//, you were taking a nap on yet another volume of essays on the writings of Francis of Assisi. You readjust your cravat in an ultimately futile attempt to seem more composed. Then, you draw back your chair and look behind you to whom slapped you on the back. The hand is attached to a bright youth, with broad shoulders, and an almost intoxicating smile. Edward Harcourt is considered one of the rising stars of Jesus College, Oxford anno 1911. Of course, this is not the first time you have interacted with the young aristocrat. Somewhat relieved that you weren’t caught drooling on such a priceless volume by one of the librarians, you make yourself somewhat more comfortable. You are nearing the final examinations of your first year. As such, you spend nearly every waking hour you have in the library. Edward is in a similar boat as you, although his attitude is far more cavalier than your own. You guess his apparent confidence belies a more deeply held anxiety, that this ‘the-world-is-my-oyster’ aura of his is a mere act. At least, you damn well hope so, if you want to have any shot at measuring up to him. You realise Edward has been waiting for a response as you gathered your wits. He keeps smiling and gives you a curt nod with the head, as if to invite you to respond. In all likelihood, there’s something he wishes to discuss with you. <ul> <li> [[“Why I do say, my dear Edward, this book is far more comfortable than my dormitory pillow. You should give it a try yourself!” Give him a taste of his own carefree attitude for once!|Ch1-S2][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“I’m afraid my reputation will not be enough to pass my examinations. Unlike some other young bucks in Jesus, I could mention…” You’re tired, hungry, and not quite in the mood, and you let your frustration bubble over a little.|Ch1-S2][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> [[“Uhm… yes, well I have been rather busy I suppose… In any event, was there something you wanted from me, Harcourt?” Speaking with handsome, confident, and intellectual men has never been your strong suit, and you stumble over your words.|Ch1-S2][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> Edward lets out a hearty, roaring laugh, which draws a murderous glance from the head librarian. He ignores the old master of the bookshelves, and congratulates you on your wittiness, his bright green eyes twinkling with barely contained joy. “My good <<if $mc.gender is 1>>man<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>madam<<else>>fellow<</if>>, you are positively correct! One would imagine that the future leaders of the British Empire would merit better lodgings, would one not? In any event, the plight of the residents of Jesus College is not what I wanted to discuss with you this evening.” <<case 2>> The grin remains on Edward’s face, but it seems decidedly less genuine as he gives you a playful shove on the shoulder. “Hah! Humbug! Come on, do not be a bad sport now, my good <<if $mc.gender is 1>>man<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>madam<<else>>fellow<</if>>. Of course, if you are as belligerent with your professors as you are with your fellow students, it should come as no surprise they are ill inclined to be generous to you. But let us not quibble about such trifling things. I have come to share good tidings, not trade infantile barbs with one so promising as yourself.” <<default>> Edward immediately picks up on your apparent unease. He lets his teethy grin slip into a more reassuring smile. “No need to worry, my good <<if $mc.gender is 1>>man<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>madam<<else>>fellow<</if>>. I’m not here to play some infantile prank on your persona. I am well aware of my reputation as somewhat of a carefree youth. But rest assured, I take the process of learning of my fellow students and I quite seriously. As a matter of fact, I believe that what I have to tell you may — in the long run — aid you in your scholarly endeavours as well.” <</switch>> Edward looks around furtively for potential snoops. Besides the head librarian, his vulture-like face buried in a weighty ledger, there is no one else in the library at this hour. He then pulls back the chair closest to yours, leans forward conspiratorially, and starts speaking in a hushed voice. “I have managed to secure two invitations to a rather exclusive event. Have you ever heard of the Society of the Scarlet Hand?” You shake your head. Oxford has many ancient fraternities and clubs, but you have never heard of any referring to itself with the moniker ‘Scarlet Hand’. Edward drops his voice to a mere whisper, and you have to lean in yourself to continue listening to what he has to say. “They are a group of open-minded archaeologists and historians drawn from both the faculty and the student body. I know precious little else about them, safe that the Society has access to fabulous intellectual and financial wealth. The manuscripts they are supposed to have access to are among the rarest in the world. You can peruse all the libraries in Great Britain before finding some of the items they are purported to possess.” You raise a sceptical eyebrow. “If they’re so secretive, my dear Edward, then how is it that you seem to be an expert on their book collection?” Again, he shoots you that infectious grin. “A representative dropped off an invitation to an event of theirs at my dormitory this afternoon. She had one for you too, but since you weren’t there, she requested I hand you yours. Interested?” <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-S3]]</li></ul>

Perhaps you care about the powerful connections, the forbidden knowledge, or maybe you just imagine that joining a secret society will make your time at Oxford exponentially more interesting and fun. In any case, you give Edward your affirmation that you are indeed interested in this event organised by the Society of the Scarlet Hand. The twinkle in his eyes intensifies. “I knew you were smart enough to accept! Best leave now then. The location is a few streets away, and we would not wish to be late to this party, now would we?” You return the volume you had been studying to the head librarian. He does not look up from his ledger, but makes a sound akin to two pieces of pumice scraping past one another as an acknowledgement of your return of the book. You are quite happy you do not have to share a room, even one as spacious as the library, with that cretin this evening. When you get outside, you breathe in the fresh air. Although it is now late in the evening, it is June, and the temperature is far from uncomfortable. Edward and you stroll over the rolling green grounds of the University. Since most students have impending examinations, it is a quiet evening, with nary a sound of merriment coming from the many dormitory buildings around. Two young men, whom you do not know, give Edward a quick greeting, which he returns with a jovial nod of the head. <<switch $relationship>> <<case "friend">> “You do really know everyone here, don’t you, old chap? Surely, your acquaintance is as cheap as a half-pint at the lowliest drinking establishment of the worst repute!”, you quip. “Ah my dearest friend,” Edward gives you a wide, yet somewhat melancholic smile, “if my acquaintance is as cheap as you jest, then let my friendship be as expensive as the finest single malt Scotch! You are in exceedingly rare company $FirstName.” “A fine compliment indeed.” You chuckle. “I am most glad to count myself as your friend, Edward Harcourt.” Until you reach that secret location, Edward and you point out locations of shared memories to one another. Although you have only got to truly know one another over the past year, there are plenty of locations that the two of you have a good laugh about on the way. Over there is the inn, where Edward got so drunk he got into a heated discussion about the veracity of Schliemann’s excavations with a grandfather clock. There, the alleyway where you received your first snog, while Edward kept watch. A bit further that dingy antique store where Edward keeps taking you, looking for strange tomes on occult history. Eventually, you arrive where you have been instructed to go by the invitation. <<case "acquaintance">> You realise that, although you have taken a few classes with Harcourt, you barely know the man. It is clear he is generally well liked by both the faculty and student bodies, but you would hazard a bet that, all things considered, he is somewhat of a private and secluded person. Perhaps now is a good time to see if you can get him to come out of his shell. “I have noticed your presence in several of the seminars I attend,” you venture. “I take it you are interested in history yourself?” “Indeed, you are correct. I confess, however, that my own interests are somewhat more esoteric than yours. High Medieval scriptures, correct? I am more enticed by the ancients myself, especially from the Orient. Recently, I have tried to delve into pre-Islamic religious writings of the Arab peninsula. Truly fascinating stuff, although precious little information remains. I imagine it was my exploration into such an obscure topic that first drew the attention of the Society. Ah, it is this alleyway, I believe. Let us continue this conversation some other time!” <<default>> As there is no one else out and about at this time of the day, you loop your arm through Edward’s, and rest your head on his shoulder. He caresses your cheek with the back of his hand. Your relationship is not prohibited per se, but the both of you agree to keep it private, lest the two of you become a target of gossip in the academic hallways. Due to the impending examinations, you have had precious little time to spend together, and you are grateful to have a brief moment for yourselves. Words are unnecessary. Merely being together like this fills you with an otherworldly serenity: a feeling that you will always be there for one another. Although you cannot even imagine the heartbreak that awaits you now, only a few years together like this remain. Edward will join the Great War against your wishes, and the two of you will drift apart, although you will always look back on these days with fondness. For now, the love and affection you feel for one another is enough to make even the stress of your examinations vanish like snow before the sun. Too soon for your liking, you arrive at your destination, and you are awoken from your blissful reverie. <</switch>> <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-S4]]</li></ul>

The two of you make your way through a narrow side-alley, until you reach a short, thick, wooden door. Edward knocks on it in a peculiar pattern, obviously a code meant to signal your arrival. <<linkreplace "//Knock. Knock-knock… Knock.//" t8n>>//Knock. Knock-knock… Knock.// A peephole slides open. Behind it are two large brown eyes, set into a wrinkled, bronzed face. Edward holds up your invitations, and the peephole closes. A brief moment later, you hear the heavy thud of the door being unbolted, and it swings open. When you enter, you find yourself in a far more spacious and warmly lit room than you imagined based on the exterior. It is rectangular, longer than it is wide, with multiple torches lining the walls, and a roaring fireplace at the far end of the room. Several paintings in the symbolist style line the walls, depicting mythological scenes from a variety of cultures, from the wild hunt of Gwyn ap Nudd, to the consuming of Raktabija by Kali. Besides the two of you and the individual who opened the door, there are nine people in the room. They are lined up in the middle of the room, and all of them wear hooded robes of a deep red hue, which completely obscure their faces: you cannot make out their gender, race, or age. You realise now the one who opened the door is not hooded and has scurried off through a different door. You presume him to be some kind of servant. Now alone with the hooded figures, the one standing in the middle speaks. Their voice is husky, probably belonging to an elderly person, yet firm and resolute. “The Society of the Scarlet Hand needs eleven members. Never more, never less. $FirstName <<if $MiddleName>>$MiddleName <</if>>$LastName, Edward Oberon Harcourt. The two of thee have been chosen to complete our ranks. We already know of thine intellectual capabilities. Those are not in question. However, we need to know the ideals of our future siblings. I ask thee: what in this world would thee risk thy sanity for?” <ul> <li> [[“Knowledge,” you answer assuredly.|Ch1-S5][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“Family,” you say without thinking twice.|Ch1-S5][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> [[“Justice,” you respond after a split second.|Ch1-S5][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul> <</linkreplace>>

<<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> Edward nods approvingly at your answer. “Knowledge allows one to regain what has been lost, including what has been sacrificed to achieve it. It can never be lost, yet one can exchange it for anything. I fully concur with my <<if $mc.gender is 1>>brother<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>sister<<else>>sibling<</if>>.” <<case 2>> Is it just your imagination, or do you see Edward’s bright green eyes go opaque with an unshed tear? He says: “One’s Family is where one comes from, and what they shall leave behind in this world. My <<if $mc.gender is 1>>brother<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>sister<<else>>sibling<</if>> is correct, and $pronoun.their answer is mine.” <<default>> Edward thinks about his own answer for a moment, and then speaks clearly and firmly. “My <<if $mc.gender is 1>>brother<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>sister<<else>>sibling<</if>>’s answer speaks well of $pronoun.them, but one cannot achieve Justice without knowing what is just. My answer is Knowledge, and I would use it to help $pronoun.them achieve Justice.” <</switch>> The hooded figure betrays neither approval nor disapproval as they take note of your responses. “The Society has taken note of thine ideals. I ask our members: are thou ready to welcome these promising individuals into our midst?” One by one, going right to left, the other eight robed figures raise their right hands, gloved in scarlet satin. The central figure speaks again. “Then let it be known among those gathered here this night that $FirstName <<if $MiddleName>>$MiddleName <</if>>$LastName and Edward Oberon Harcourt are henceforth members of the Society of the Scarlet Hand!” They throw off their hood, shortly followed by the other members, revealing a grandmotherly face. “And I’ll bloody well be able to talk normally for the rest o’ the evening. Enjoy yourselves children, meet the other members. I’ll arrange for some refreshments to be brought.” <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-S6]]</li></ul>

You and Edward spend the rest of the evening mingling with your new ‘siblings’. They include a few of your professors, two other students, a local artist, whom you speculate painted the art in the room, and the wife of the provost of Queen’s College — the lady who spoke to you earlier. That night, the finest wines flow liberally, and for the first time in many weeks, you feel energised and exuberant. However, you cannot help but notice that a certain someone has slipped away… You find Edward seated in a small, yet stacked library, reading from a book clad in black leather. He does not look up from it as you enter. “Shouldn’t you come get to know the other members of the Society, Edward?” Still, he does not look up from the grimoire. “I know most of them already, although I would not have guessed them to be members of a secret society. Did you see Bernard Haversham? I could do without the vapid conversation that old coot brings to the table. My time is better spent in this exquisite library. Go ahead and enjoy the festivities, however, my <<switch $relationship>><<case "friend">>friend<<case "lover">>love<<default>>fellow<</switch>>. You were worried about your examinations? It appears Professor Roebuck is here tonight. They are responsible for our examinations. Speak with them. It shall do you much good, I believe.” It doesn’t seem like Edward is up for much merriment this evening. You return to the other room to go speak with Professor Roebuck. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-S7]]</li></ul>

You pass your examinations that month with flying colours, aided by the rich library of the Society, and Professor Roebuck’s casually mentioned ‘suggestions for what to focus on’. Edward and you spend the rest of your academic careers going from highlight to highlight. By the time you graduate a few years later, you have gathered knowledge, and made connections, which aid you in your endeavours for years to come. Whereas the Society allows you to come out of your shell, Edward spends more and more time in its library, reading any obscure text he can get his hands on. You once ask him what he hopes to find among these dusty tomes. His answer is somewhat peculiar. “Any mention of supernatural intervention in our plane of existence. All I can find is references to ‘Ancient Ones’, but who — or what — they are is not really explained. I wonder if I go back to the source…” You try not to bother him when he is reading after that. Upon your graduation, Edward and you help identify your potential successors from among the student body. He decides to go into the army, an idea you abhor. You recall the two of you having a bitter argument about him throwing his life away for a useless ideal, and him trying to impart on you the importance of him going. “Do you not remember what you said when we joined the Society? The one thing you would sacrifice even your sanity for? That is why I must go!” You do not learn to accept his choice until well after the war is over. By then, you have become a somewhat successful individual yourself, as your knowledge of medieval scriptures is renowned among certain select circles. No doubt your connections from the Society were useful here as well… This is when you are lurchingly pulled from this dream of the past… <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-1][$chapter to "Chapter 2"]]</li></ul>

“$FirstName, get me a glass of your finest single malt, and deal me in.” You look up at the young man, who has approached your table. It is Spring 1913, and Edward Harcourt is a dishevelled, if still ruggedly handsome young man. Of course, you are partly to blame for his current state of unkemptness. Since he arrived in London late last year, having forsaken his academic endeavours, you have supplied him with the finest vices the capital of the British Empire has to offer. Alcohol and gambling are but the tip of an iceberg, which contains hashish, prostitutes, and opium. As a true grey eminence of the London Underworld, getting your hands on such illicit goods is a trifling matter. You motion for a servant to bring Edward a glass of Scotch, and pull back a chair for him to sit at the table. You are playing an American card game called ‘poker’. It seems to get rather popular in this establishment, although you could do without all the ‘//I barely know her//’ jokes. You know Edward has played a few hands before. He is generally capable of both bluffing and estimating his chances of success, but he lacks that ruthless streak that makes for a truly successful player. You play a few hands, get Edward another drink, and generally enjoy yourself. The geopolitical pissing matches going on between the Entente and the Central Powers have everyone on edge. Plenty of people are looking for escapism during these turbulent times. Edward is hardly alone in that regard. Do you feel bad about profiting handsomely from the suffering of others? Perhaps, or perhaps not. In any event, this is how you are making a living right now, like it or not. Soon, the other players have left, and only you and Edward remain at the table. The illegal gambling den you have spent the last few hours in is nearly empty. A few blackout drunks are littered throughout the establishment. The barman is cleaning glasses, and the bouncer is standing at the door. You have dirt on both of them, and they know it. Edward leans back in his chair, lifts his cards, has a peek, and puts them back down on the table. He pensively swirls the whiskey in his glass, seemingly gathering his thoughts. <ul> <li> [[“My dear Edward, you should know you have a tell. I can read you like an open book, see?” If he has a tell, you can’t see it, but you do know how to play mind-games.|Ch1-V2][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> <<link 'Just stare into his <<if $relationship isnot "lover">>green<<else>>dreamy<</if>> eyes. Men like him are difficult to intimidate, but perhaps you can identify whether he has a tell or not.' "Ch1-V2">><<set $choice to 2>><</link>></li> <li> [[“If you are quite done mulling over your decision, do you think we could continue our game?” It’s getting late, and you want to get home.|Ch1-V2][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> “A tell, indeed! And here I thought I kept my features as unmoving as if they were chiselled by Rodin himself! So tell me then $FirstName, what is it I am about to do?” Two can play at mind-games, apparently. You still have the upper hand, though. Flashing him a smile and a wink, you say: “Come on now Edward. You know I cannot tell you my secrets. After all, it is secrets, not His Majesty’s Royal Mint, that provide the real currency this city runs on. It would not do if I were to give any of those out for free, now would it?” <<case 2>> Edward initially responds to your glare with equal silence. The two of you look into each other’s eyes, the air heavy with tension. With similarly strong personalities, you both wait for the other to crack first. Edward relents first, just a fraction of a moment before you are about to yourself. He breaks the eye contact with a humoured snort. “Ah! I’m afraid I cannot hold a candle to you when it comes to the ‘strong-and-silent’ type act.” You lean back, hoping he does not realise how close he came to breaking you, London’s Guildmaster of Vice. “I have honed my skills doing things I hope will ever remain secret for you, Edward. Now, I believe you were about to decide on your move.” <<default>> “I do not rush my decisions, my good $FirstName. Show a little patience, we shall be done soon enough, I think.” You snort, and retort: “No rushed decisions? Indeed! I would not have reckoned that it was through thoughtful deliberation that you now find yourself in a seedy gambling den with one of London’s more notorious individuals.” Edward shoots you a piercing glance; you may have hit a nerve, and you are not about to let up now. “You see Edward, I know many things about many people. Do not presume that you are exempt from that absolute truism.” <</switch>> The young socialite gives you an ambiguous shrug, then leans over towards the money on the table. “All in.” Okay, so maybe you had not expected that. Unfortunately for Edward, what little he has just pushed toward the centre of the table could barely account for his drinks tonight, let alone the small, but growing debt he already owes you. “I am sorry to disappoint you, my good Edward, but I should inform you that your ‘all’ does not quite account for what you already owe me.” “Well, then. I guess you leave me no choice.” Edward gives you a roguish smile, and you can see a twinkle in his eyes. He has hatched some kind of plan. “I have a proposition for you, sly dog. One I should think is too good to pass up for one in your position. You say that it is secrets as well as vice, which you exchange? Know that I have quite a few to offer you of those myself. You wish to know how to land myself in your pocket? Place my debt on the table in exchange for my deepest, darkest secrets…” <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-V3]]</li></ul>

<<switch $relationship>> <<case "friend">> For a second, neither of you makes a sound, and the silence between the two of you is palpable. Before long, you break out in a hysterical laugh at the same time, as neither of you can keep a straight face any longer. “I do apologise, $FirstName, my good friend,” Edward says, trying to choke down his laughs, “but it will do you some good if at least one person in London does not take your reputation as a criminal mastermind too seriously.” You let out a hearty laugh, then raise your glass and respond: “In that case, my friend, I shall raise a toast to your ideal. To not taking ourselves too bloody seriously!” With a hearty ‘//Cheers!//’, Edward meets your toast, then takes a deep swig of his whiskey. As you enjoy your own drink, you reflect on your peculiar friendship with the noble youth. His story was like so many others who came to the City disillusioned with their previous lives. Bored with the duties and responsibilities of their birth station, they would come to London to find some level of escapism, before inevitably being pulled back by their past. At first, you thought Edward was just another one of them. Still, something about the young man made him catch your personal attention. Underneath the standard angst and rebellion, there is a swagger and carefreeness that makes him immediately likeable. //And yet…// You are certain that there is yet another layer underneath that carefree attitude. He might have been joking with you, but he was very convincing. //Perhaps he does have some deep and dark secrets…// Not that you would pry. Well, not with Edward at least; anyone else would be fair game. You’re sure Edward would tell you if he thought you could help. You are a <<if $mc.gender is 1>>man<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>woman<<else>>individual<</if>> with a lot of resources, after all. <<case "acquaintance">> That statement hangs in the air between you for some time, tantalising, tempting you. It is a tempting offer, but you need more information, something tangible. “Deepest, darkest secrets Harcourt? What, do you have an outstanding fine from His Majesty’s Constables for public inebriation or something like that?” Edward leans back, but a wolfish grin remains on his face. “What $LastName, is my word of honour as a noble scion not enough? You wound me! Surely you know that there are plenty of things that the upper classes get up to in their country homes. Why, wouldn’t it be nice to hold some of those things over their perfumed and pampered heads?” You cannot deny the offer is enticing. In fact, the main reason you have kept tabs on Edward Harcourt is precisely an opportunity such as this one. His story was like so many others who came to the City disillusioned with their previous lives. Bored with the duties and responsibilities of their birth station, they would come to London to find some level of escapism, before inevitably being pulled back by their past. At first, you thought Edward was just another one of them. However, when he would not leave the city, you realised that what drove him from his home might have been more than boredom. It might have been something that you could use to control him, and, by extension, his presumably wealthy and influential family. That’s a dangling carrot you cannot ignore. “Very well Edward, I take you up on your wager. Your outstanding debt of tonight and the previous nights, in exchange for this secret.” Now it is your turn to lean over menacingly. “But know that if I deem your secrets to be inadequate, I can make life very unpleasant for you indeed.” The bouncer and the barman tense up ever so slightly as you say this. “Now then,” you say as you show your cards. “Two Jacks, two Queens, and an Ace.” It’s a good hand, but you can tell from Edward’s expression that it was not enough. “Three Kings, a Jack and a Queen.” he says as he shows you his hands. “Looks like you’ll pay for my tab tonight. Now, if you will excuse me.” When Edward has left the establishment, you smile and shrug. Edward’s debt was but a trifle compared to your resources, and you are sure another opportunity to learn these secrets will present itself in due time… <<default>> For a moment you say nothing, then get up from your chair, and walk over to where Edward is sitting. You caress his cheek with the back of your hand. You notice it has got bonier over the past few months. He also has a bit of a stubble, at least a few days old guessing by the roughness. You wish he would take better care of himself. “I did not realise you still kept secrets from me darling,” you say, half teasing him, half berating him for making such a stupid joke. He takes your hand in his own, brings it down to his lips, and kisses it. Looking up into your eyes, with that same smile and twinkle. You could get lost in the fields of his emerald green eyes. “Well, if a gentleman wants to keep his <<if $mc.gender is 1>>lord<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>lady<<else>>lover<</if>> entertained, he cannot lift the veil on all of his secrets and skills immediately, can he?” You turn away, feigning annoyance at his coquettishness. In reality, you do not want him to see you blush. Why did you, the Master of Vice, the <<if $mc.gender is 1>>King<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>Queen<<else>>Monarch<</if>> of London’s criminal underworld, fall for this young nobleman? His story was like so many others who came to the City disillusioned with their previous lives. Bored with the duties and responsibilities of their birth station, they would come to London to find some level of escapism, before inevitably being pulled back by their past. At first, you thought Edward was just another one of them. However, there was something about him that drew you to him, just as he was drawn to you. Perhaps you were both just looking for someone who wouldn’t ask questions, who would just hold you when you came home late one night without judgement. Regardless of the why and the how, you know it cannot last. As soon as your competitors learn about the handsome nobleman you have shared your heart with being more than just a fling, they will want to exploit that weakness. It will leave you with a broken heart, but this blossoming love you feel for one another cannot last, and, deep down, you both know it. Although you will not anticipate it, Edward will join the Army as soon as your relationship ends. For now, you just want to savour these feelings you share while they last. “Well then, Edward, my love, I should think it about time that we retire to my apartment, and you show me some of those secrets you have been saving.” When you walk home together, your fingers intertwined, and your head on his shoulder, you wish against your better knowledge that things could remain like this forever. <</switch>> <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-V4]]</li></ul>

Business is relatively quiet in the days after the ‘incident’ at the poker table. You do not see Edward for several nights, although you do not find it particularly unusual. There is plenty to do in London for someone seeking an escape from reality, and you cannot be everywhere all at once. Still, it strikes you as odd that no one in your extensive network has seen him either. Just when you start to get worried, a courier delivers you a note one evening. The handwriting is unmistakably that of Edward. <<linkreplace "Open the note." t8n>> <div class="letter">I need your help. Meet me tonight at midnight at the intersection of Wimpole and Queen Anne.</div> //Well, that is not ominous whatsoever.// Intrigued, you delegate your other tasks for tonight to some of your more capable underlings, before dressing warmly and heading for the intersection Edward wanted to meet you. You find him is standing under a street lamp, exactly where he said he would be. He looks around furtively, and seems far removed from his usual suave self. Whatever he needs your help with, it apparently causes him great consternation. He motions you over, and starts talking in hushed whispers. “Thank you for coming. I would not have involved you in such a delicate matter, but I have no one else to turn to. You see, what I am about to ask you will shirk the bounds of legality, and would be considered highly improper in any event.” You raise an eyebrow, and retort sarcastically: “I am happy that I am the first individual to come to mind when your problems concern the illegal and the improper.” He smiles, and shrugs apologetically. “Come on now, $FirstName. Your reputation as the <<if $mc.gender is 1>>King<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>Queen<<else>>Monarch<</if>> of London’s criminal underworld did not come falling out of the sky.” His countenance goes serious and sombre again. “Regardless, the reason I called you here is to have a ‘chat’ with the inhabitant of that building across the street, a certain Dr. Kitson. He recently diagnosed my mother, Lady Harcourt, but has refused to treat her, or even to share his diagnosis with my family. I need you to ‘convince’ him to do so, or at least share his report with my family. Can I count on your cooperation in this delicate matter?” <ul> <li> [[“Edward, I hope you realise that this goes beyond what I have done for you in the past. I will help you in this matter, but you should not easily forget about this favour.”|Ch1-V5][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“I will help you Edward, but I can tell there is something you are not telling me. You will have to come clean with me if you want me to go in there and blackmail someone for you.”|Ch1-V5][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> <<link '//Sigh.// “Very well Edward, though let me tell you one thing. This path you are taking… it will lead you to a dark place. Are you ready for that?”' "Ch1-V5">><<set $choice to 3>><</link>></li> </ul> <</linkreplace>>

<<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> Edward seems relieved by your response. You reckon he probably counted on you not doing something so risky just out of the kindness of your heart. “Of course. Trust me, on my honour, that your favour will not be forgotten.” “That same honour that just led you to asking a career criminal to intimidate a doctor?” For the first time in your time together, Edward seems to be at a loss for words. You shrug, before making your way to the doctor’s house. <<case 2>> Edward lets out a deep sigh. “Very well, though know that it is a matter of great shame to my family and I. My mother’s illness is not a simple affliction of the body. It is a disease of the mind, one that has vexed every single doctor she ever saw. She wails and screams, speaking in outlandish tongues… It comes as little surprise to me that the doctor did not wish to share his diagnosis for fear of losing his professional standing.” You nod. Edward’s tale may disturb you somewhat, but you did say you would help him, so you steel yourself and head to the doctor’s house. <<default>> Edward seems taken aback somewhat by your response, but regathers himself quickly. “Yes, I am. Really, $FirstName, I appreciate your concern for my moral standing, but this matter is important to me. I wish… Suffice to say that what I wish for is irrelevant, naught but a childish dream.” He smiles at you. “And yet, it is good to know that there are still some souls in this world, who would show their care for me. Thank you.” You nod at Edward. You have given him your warning. What he does with it is up to you. You make your way to the doctor’s house. <</switch>> <ul><li> [[Ring the bell.|Ch1-V6]]</li></ul>

You ring the bell of the house. The door is opened by what looks like a shaved bear in a butler’s garb. You smile. This individual holds a substantial debt with you. It is about time some good luck came your way. “Mr. Weston. You owe me. I have come to collect. Please show me to Dr. Kitson’s office, and follow my instructions.” The man mountain grumbles something you take for assent, then leads you up the stairs, to an office on the second floor. He opens the door and lets you into a messy doctor’s office. A small man with greying hair, pince-nez glasses, and sizeable sideburns sits behind a carved wooden desk. He looks up from a stack of papers when you come in. He speaks with a shrill, raspy voice. “Who is this <<if $mc.gender is 1>>man<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>woman<<else>>person<</if>>, Bevis? There are no further patients scheduled for this evening.” You motion for Bevis Weston to leave the room, then address the poor doctor. “I am afraid I am not here for medical help, Dr. Kitson. At least, not for myself. I am here to retrieve some information about one of your patients.” The doctor rises from his chair, although it barely moves the needle in terms of height. “I am shocked! I shall not break doctor-patient confidentiality, just because some, some… some ruffian breaks into my office and demands it! Who do you…” <ul><li> [[“Lady Harcourt.”|Ch1-V7]]</li></ul>

“Lady Harcourt.” Your interruption cuts through the doctor’s protestations like thunder through rain. “I need you to share her file, and reconsider taking her as a patient. Going against my wishes would be very unwise, small man.” Your words hang in the air between you, but it is not your threat, but rather hearing Edward’s mother’s name, that turns Kitson’s face ashen grey. For a moment, he stands by his desk, unmoving. Then, he opens a drawer, and takes out a thin file. He holds it in his hands, seemingly unsure about what to do with it. “Here is the file you want. You can take it, though what you hope to gain from my observations of that lunatic woman is beyond me. However, under no circumstances will I consider taking that woman as a patient. I do not care how much you threaten me.” You always believed any man would break eventually under your manipulations –all have in the past–, but Dr. Kitson proves you wrong. Eventually, you are forced to accept that you will only get the file out of this interaction, and you leave the office. On your way down, you say to Mr. Weston: “Thank you for your help. Consider your debt to me taken care of.” When you reach Edward, you hand him the file. “Kitson would not budge on his decision to not treat your mother, I’m afraid. However, I was able to retrieve the file for you.” Edward gladly accepts it. “Thank you ever so much. This was more than I would have hoped for last night.” He puts the file away in a leather shoulder bag, and takes out a piece of paper with a country address written on it. “I will have to leave the city for a few days, but you can reach me on this address if you have need of me. I should be back in a month’s time.” However, this will be the last time you see Edward for years. He joins the army under pressure from his family, and it is not until you go to Gairbuie that you see him again. But you have always wondered what was in that file, and what made Dr. Kitson so scared to see Edward’s mother again… This is when you are lurchingly pulled from this dream of the past… <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-1][$chapter to "Chapter 2"]]</li></ul>

“$FirstName, rough night, huh?” You do not look up from the lumpy bag with spare uniforms that function as your pillow. You merely groan in supposed ascent. A rough hand is laid on your slumped shoulder. “It certainly has been a nasty six months. Still, we do what we must.” Six months. Has it really been that long since you arrived at the battlefields of Gallipoli? //It feels like an eternity.// Your body aches all over. Sometimes, when you sit down or lie in your bunk, your hands start shaking uncontrollably. You have not slept for more than 3 hours without interruption for weeks. Still, things could be worse. You know some soldiers whose lieutenants are downright sadistic. Yours at least gives a damn about the soldiers under his command. You pat his hand on your shoulder. “Thanks for checking up on me, Lieutenant Harcourt, sir.” He gives you a squeeze. “I am afraid this isn’t just a social call soldier. I need you to come to my tent tonight at 2200. It is a matter of some importance.” Despite your foggy mind, you sit up and take note of the lieutenant’s words. What kind of assignment briefing would take place at night in a lieutenant’s tent? //Something smells fishy here…// but can you really afford to act out against a superior, and one that seems genuinely concerned about your wellbeing at that? <ul> <li> [[Best to play it safe. You can always ask the Lieutenant to tell you more tonight. “Yes sir. You can count on me.”|Ch1-W2][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[You don’t want to lash out, but you won’t let the Lieutenant jerk you around either. “Your tent at 2200? Can I expect exotic dancers? A pint of gin perchance?”|Ch1-W2][$choice to 2]] </li> <li> [[Damn straight you can. “With all due respect, sir, I won’t go anywhere until you come clean with me.”|Ch1-W2][$choice to 3]] </li> </ul>

<<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> “Thank you, soldier. I would not have asked you if I did not trust your skills and commitment completely.” The Lieutenant pauses, and you can feel him tense up through the hand on your shoulder. He leans in closer, and lowers his voice to a barely audible whisper. “I am aware this may seem peculiar, but I promise it is all on the up-and-up. In fact, trust me when I say that it is I who will end up doing you a favour, rather than the other way around.” <<case 2>> Harcourt’s hand shakes a little, and you hear him chuckle. “Afraid the liquor got stuck in the generals’ tent. No way we will be able to liberate any bottles from there. I was also not able to get in touch with any dancers for hire, but I do have a tattered uniform, and I have been looking for a way to keep my joints loose and limber…” Now, it is your turn to laugh at the gallows’ humour of the Lieutenant. “Well, I guess I’ll have to go to find out what you really have to say to me then?” “Indeed.” <<default>> For a moment, there is silence between you two, broken only by the thundering of the artillery in the background. You can feel the Lieutenant sigh through the change in the tenseness of his hand more than you can hear him. “I see. I apologize $LastName, I should not have presumed…” Whatever you expected, court martial, to get reprimanded, this is not it. Harcourt seems to fumble for words… and he genuinely apologised to you! You sigh. You were just angry at your situation and you took it out on him, but he at least deserves that you hear him out on this. “Okay, sir, I’ll come around tonight. But you better be ready to give me the full story, then.” <</switch>> You feel the hand lift from your shoulder, but Harcourt does not leave. You face up from your makeshift pillow. Your officer is searching for something in his coat pocket. He takes out a ruffled envelope and hands it to you. “If anyone gives you trouble for being out and about in the camp at that time, hand them this. It should allay any objections anyone could have. I must go now. Until tonight, Private $LastName.” <<if $choice is 3>>He still seems somewhat shaken from your outburst.<</if>> The rest of the day is mercifully quiet, at least by the standards that you have got used to. The guns are booming in the distance, but nothing falls close to where you are camped. You go to the mess hall around 1600, eat its tasteless grub, and then lie down on your bunk until 2145. The way to Edward's tent takes you through several barracks of the encampment. You are stopped once by someone doing the rounds, a young man from Bengal, looking to be barely out of his teens. When you show him the letter, he doesn’t even open it, just looks at the seal and gives it back. A few minutes later, you make it to Edward’s tent. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-W3]]</li></ul>

<<switch $relationship>> <<case "friend">> You have been here often, so you know the way quite well. In fact, you socialise more with Edward Harcourt than would be deemed appropriate. Whether it is playing cards, exchanging stories from back home, or simply sharing a lukewarm drink that the Lieutenant managed to get his hands on, you enjoy your time together. In fact, despite the horrors of war, you would call the man a good friend without a second thought. It does not really surprise you that Edward asked you to come to his tent. //If he needs someone he could trust.// When you open the flap to Edward’s tent, you can see him sitting at a makeshift field desk. He seems to be writing a letter of some sort. Edward does not look up at your entrance, but he does ask you to take a seat. You sit down on the side of his field bed, only barely less lumpy than your own. Barely a minute later, he puts his pen down, seals his letter and puts it aside. He turns to you, and smiles at you warmly. “Thank you for coming, my friend. I know that I have been… secretive. Far more so than our friendship warrants, and, for that, you have my apologies. Trust me when I say that it was for your own safety, for what I am about to ask of you skirts the bounds of decorum.” Edward sounds decidedly ominous, and you feel somewhat ill at ease. “What are you talking about, Edward?” <<case "lover">> You have come here multiple times, often this late, always with some sort of excuse to visit Edward in his tent. Being a Lieutenant, he is awarded a bit more privacy, which the two of you have made thankful use of. Why did the two of you decide to start a dalliance in the middle of the War To End All Wars? Was it a way to cope with the stress and horror you experience on a daily basis? Or did it just happen for no particular reason? Whatever the case, the two of you have grown particularly close, and it would pain you terribly if you were to lose him. Little do you know that moment comes ever closer even now… When you open the flap to Edward’s tent, you can see him sitting at a makeshift field desk. He seems to be writing a letter of some sort. Edward does not look up at your entrance, but he does ask you to take a seat. You sit down on the side of his field bed, only barely less lumpy than your own. Barely a minute later, he puts his pen down, seals his letter and puts it aside. He turns to you, and smiles at you warmly. “Thank you for coming, my love. I know that I have been… less than forthcoming with you. Know that every single day I was forced to keep this secret from you brought me unimaginable pain. Trust me when I say that it was for your own safety, for what I am about to ask of you skirts the bounds of decorum.” Edward sounds decidedly ominous, and you feel somewhat ill at ease. “What are you talking about, darling?” <<default>> You have been here a handful of times. Lieutenant Harcourt takes socialising with his men seriously, and tries to bring a few of you together every now and then for some games and refreshments. //Well, refreshments…// some lukewarm, terrible gin if a bottle gets passed down to him from the brass, an extra ration of water otherwise. If you are honest with yourself, your decision to go has more to do with wanting to break up the monotony than any particular attachment to your commanding officer. It’s not like you dislike him, but you cannot say you have grown especially close over the past few months, either. When you open the flap to Edward’s tent, you can see him sitting at a makeshift field desk. He seems to be writing a letter of some sort. Edward does not look up at your entrance, but he does ask you to take a seat. You sit down on the side of his field bed, only barely less lumpy than your own. Barely a minute later, he puts his pen down, seals his letter and puts it aside. He turns to you, and gives you a cordial nod of the head. “Thank you for coming, soldier. I know that I have been… secretive. Far more so than an officer ought to be with those under his command, and, for that, you have my apologies. Trust me when I say that it was for your own safety, for what I am about to ask of you would not sit well with the brass.” Harcourt sounds decidedly ominous, and you feel somewhat ill at ease. “What are you talking about, sir?” <</switch>> <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-W4]]</li></ul>

Edward sighs. “There is something I need delivered to London. But no one can know about its contents. I promise it has nothing to do with the war. In fact, this regards a… personal matter of some sort.” He fingers the letter, a small sign of nervousness, which his face does not betray. “I am volunteering for a dangerous mission. Reconnaissance behind enemy lines, in the Anatolian heartlands, and—” Surprised by his story, you interrupt him. Why on earth would he do such a thing? Edward does not respond for a while, picking his next few words carefully, weighting the options, and considering the implications of letting you in on his plan. “Do you believe in the supernatural $FirstName? Actually, do not answer just yet. Just know that, personally, I do put some stock in the study of the occult. In fact, I engaged with such knowledge while at Oxford, though it wasn’t quite part of the standard curriculum… In any event, I believe that this opportunity to go behind enemy lines sanctioned will allow me to retrieve a book of great interest to me. Yet, the task will be dangerous, and I want you to deliver this letter to my family, so they know of my decision in case… things do not go according to plan. — “I do not want my superiors to know about my ulterior motives for joining the mission, even though I will do my best to complete it as well, and so this letter cannot go through the official channels. I have arranged for you to be given an honourable discharge, medical reasons, so that you can take the letter to my family’s attorney in London. Can I count on your aid?” You sit there, stupefied. You are quite certain Lieutenant Edward Harcourt would not be a traitor to his country. Even if he were, why smuggle this letter back via London, and why risk involving you? Even so, you are still ill at ease. The man does not seem the type to be convinced by supernatural gobbledygook. Still, is the opportunity to escape this war one you can ignore? <ul> <li> [[Maybe it is your relationship with Edward, or maybe you are just not the kind of person who gives up on something they have started. You will not bring this letter to the family lawyer, but you will join Edward on his mission to make sure he can tell his family himself.|Ch1-W5][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[This matter seems of extreme importance to Edward. You are not normally the kind of person to run away from anything, and the entire affair makes you feel ill at ease. Still, you trust Edward, and you will accept his task, so long as he promises to be careful.|Ch1-W5][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> [[Whatever else you may think about his motives, and however you may feel about Edward, this is not an opportunity you can pass up. This war has taken enough out of you, and you do not owe your country anything else. Time to get out, and if this is your way out, you are taking it.|Ch1-W5][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> Edward is gobsmacked. Soon, you see him crying and laughing at the same time. “Great Scott! They certainly no longer make them like you $FirstName $LastName! I truly appreciate the offer, and I wish I could accept it, I do. However, I do not have the power to bring you on this mission, and I would not expect you to become a deserter to help me out. Just knowing that you cared enough to endanger your own life will help me through the mission. Now please, tell me you shall accept my task.” You sigh. “Very well, I will bring this letter to London if that is what you truly want<<if $relationship is "lover">>, my love<</if>>.” <<case 2>> Edward gives you a wistful smile. “That much I can do, though I cannot promise that my carefulness shall not come to nought. Of course, that is the very reason I make this request of you. I know you would not run away from your duty, but this is important to me, and I need someone I can trust to take care of it. I owe you a great debt, one I hope to one day repay you.” You give Edward <<if $relationship is "lover">>loving hug<<else>>vigorous handshake<</if>>, and say: “<<if $relationship is "lover">>Please be safe, my love.<<else>>Be safe, sir.<</if>>.” <<default>> Edward puts his hand on your shoulder. “No one can judge you for that decision, least of all I. This war has taken too much out of everyone, and all of us deserve a way out. So take this one, seek help for yourself and your comrades, who have remained behind. And know that, whatever your reasons, you are doing me a great service, on top of the service you have already done your country.” <</switch>> It is on the next day that you walk around the camp for the last time. You are about to be shipped back home later that afternoon, Edward’s letter safely hidden in your coat pocket. The lieutenant himself left the camp some time earlier under the greatest veil of secrecy. You sigh, wondering if you made the right choice. Undoubtedly, Edward will face great dangers, but he volunteered himself for what is quite close to a suicide mission. //For what? A book he happens to believe holds occult knowledge?// When you arrive in London weeks later, you drop by the attorney’s office with Edward’s letter as ordered. The man takes your missive, and pays you a small fee for your troubles. You remain in the city, hoping to hear any news from the Gallipoli campaign. Nothing comes your way for several weeks, but eventually it becomes clear the war is not going well. While the political blowback back home is significant, you are only interested in what happened to Lieutenant Harcourt… <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch1-W6]]</li></ul>

Months pass without news, but near the end of the year you finally hear from him through telegram. The mission was a success, and he has been awarded a medal. He says nothing about his personal errand, however. It does not surprise you much, as conversing about it using official army communication methods would render the whole point of keeping that errand under wraps moot. The two of you try to stay in touch, but gradually drift apart. He goes back to his family, and you go on with your life, trying to make ends meet. Eventually, you no longer send one another anything. It sometimes happens to people. //That is, at least until that fateful letter, dated February 2nd, 1923…// This is when you are lurchingly pulled from this dream of the past… <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-1][$chapter to "Chapter 2"]]</li></ul> /* END OF CHAPTER 1 */

<<set $entry to 4>><<timed 8s>><<JournalUpdate>><</timed>> <<fadein 5s>> You wake with a yelp, drenched in sweat and chilled to the bone. //It was all a dream then?// This trip down memory lane certainly was… Does that mean the sequence in the hallway was as well? Can you be certain? //Things are getting stranger by the minute…// You shiver. It seems that last night’s storm blew open your window, and your room is icy cold. You move up to the window to close it, but take some time to look outside as you do so. Fortunately, the weather has cleared up, and you can look across the fields to the coastline and the village of Gairbuie. If you do decide to help Edward, it would probably be a good idea to head over there sooner rather than later to see what the locals know. Before making that dreadful decision, you are more concerned about getting dressed for the day. There is a mirror by the dresser, and you open your luggage to find some suitable clothes. You made sure to pack the clothes you thought appropriate given that you were visiting an ancient castle in the Scottish Highlands: <ul> <li> [[The latest fashion from London. Colourful, statement making, and most decidedly not tailored to walking around in the wild, or skulking through secret passages. At least you had the foresight to bring a rain resistant coat.|Ch2-2][$dress to "fancy", $achievements.allOutfits.fancy to true]] </li> <li> [[Nothing fancy, just things appropriate for the climate: a polo neck jumper to keep yourself warm, and the more weather resistant coat, hat, and gloves you arrived with.|Ch2-2][$dress to "modern", $achievements.allOutfits.mid to true]] </li> <li> [[Some old hunting clothes. They are old and weather-beaten, but should more than suffice in case outdoor activities are in order. They make you look like somewhat of a vagrant, however.|Ch2-2][$dress to "drifter", $achievements.allOutfits.tramp to true]] </li> </ul> <</fadein>>

<<CheckAllOutfits>> <<switch $dress>> <<case "fancy">> You thought you were going to spend a couple of fancy evenings in a castle with your <<switch $relationship>><<case "friend">>old friend<<case "lover">>old flame<<default>>former acquaintance<</switch>>, Edward. Based on what you have been told so far, you may regret that decision. You have nothing else to wear though, and so you dress up in the clothes that the London scene has been raving about for some time now. Certainly, such attire will make you strike a decidedly odd figure, given your surroundings. Still, it will be preferable to going around nude… //Right?// You sigh. At least yesterday’s coat should keep your fancy vestments dry if you go outside, and your clothing will likely match Edward’s classics in style. <<case "modern">> It might be only a simple garment, but you find yourself admiring its cut in the mirror. There is a certain… understated class to your choice of clothes. They might not have the same noble air about them as Edward’s classic frock and waistcoat combination, but you like to think of yourself as a modern <<if $mc.gender is 1>>man<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>woman<<else>>individual<</if>>. If you do go to the village, you will most likely stand out, but at least you will be okay if the weather takes a turn for the worst if you take your outdoor clothing with you. <<default>> You look yourself over in the mirror and grimace. This outfit certainly makes you look like somewhat of a drifter. You are certain you will strike somewhat of an odd figure next to Edward’s classic frock and waistcoat combination at breakfast this morning. Still, at least you know these clothes are both sturdy and weather resistant. Should the weather stay nice like this, maybe you ought to go out for a walk? And if you do end up in the village, at least you would not stand out too much. The locals would probably know you are not one of them, but at least they won’t immediately ping you for being a big city type either. <</switch>> You do not know what time it is exactly, but based on how high the sun hangs in the sky outside, and how famished you are, you reckon it must be well past any reasonable breakfast time. //Not like that reason should impede on breakfast.// With that thought, you decide to head to the first floor dining room, where you supped with Edward yesterday. As you approach the room, you see the door is open. You can hear voices coming from inside. You faintly recognise Edward, as well as the rasping voice of his toadish housekeeper. <ul> <li> [[No honourable individual would eavesdrop on what is likely a personal conversation. Then again, you would not quite describe yourself as honourable… Let’s hear what this conversation is about.|Ch2-3][$choice to 1]] </li> <li> [[You are hungry. If this conversation were supposed to be private, why would they choose to hold it in the dining room? You decide to barge in, and they can decide whether or not they want to continue their conversation.|Ch2-3][$choice to 2]] </li> <li> [[Whatever their discussion is about, you feel certain that it would not be helped along by your sudden entrance. Best to wait just out of earshot until one of them comes out.|Ch2-3][$choice to 3]] </li> </ul>

<<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> You creep closer to the open door until you can hear their conversation clearly, while keeping an eye on the hallway to make sure no one can catch you snooping. Their conversation seemingly regards none other than yourself. “…would not presume to know better than His Lordship, but to invite an outsider! Master Cornelius would turn over in his grave if he…” “My Uncle is no longer Lord of Gairbuie. I am,” Edward’s voice cuts sharply through the protestations of his housekeeper. “Know that our guest is no outsider, but rather a valued friend, Mrs Culley. I thusly expect you to treat $pronoun.them respectfully. Now, $pronoun.they ought to be up for breakfast in a little while, so please bring up some coffee and toast.” You feel that was your cue to retreat a little and act naturally. The housekeeper, Mrs Culley, shoots you a venomous glance as she exits the room. Then, you enter the dining room. <<case 2>> “…would not presume to know better than His Lordship, but to invite…” You just hear the last line of the conversation from the housekeeper, before she abruptly stops as she notices your presence. Edward sighs, and then firmly instructs her: “Mrs Culley, your concerns are noted, but our guest,” he nods towards you, “is a valued friend of mine. So please, do try to show them a marginal level of respect from now on. Now, since $pronoun.they <<if !$mc.plural>>is<<else>>are<</if>> here, would you be so kind as to bring us some coffee and toast.” The toadish old woman does not say anything, but she gives Edward a lowly bow. When she leaves the room, her eyes briefly lock with yours. A hateful fire burns within them. Edward sighs and says: “I am sorry you had to be witness to that, $FirstName. I will try to expose you to the staff as little as possible during your stay. That would probably be best for all involved.” <<default>> Thankfully for your growling stomach, the conversation does not last much longer. When the old housekeeper comes out of the room, her demeanour is clearly one of frustration and anger. As she notices you standing in the hallway, she shoots you a look that chills your very blood. As she makes her way down the stairs, you can hear her murmur a handful of expletives under her breath. Whatever she and Edward were talking about, it left her fuming. You enter the dining room to see Edward. <</switch>> <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-4]]</li></ul>

Edward motions for you to sit down at the table. He smiles at you warmly. “I hope you had a good night’s rest, $FirstName. Coffee and some toast shall be here shortly, so please make yourself comfortable.” Your <<switch $relationship>><<case "acquaintance">>host<<case "friend">>friend<<default>>former lover<</switch>> waits for you to be seated before he sits down himself, folds his hands together, and looks at you intently. Seeing him so, you realise he has changed significantly from the Edward you recall. While they still have the same playful twinkle in them, his green eyes seem more sunken in his face; and although he had always been intense, his current severity no longer seems to bely that same youthful spark of humour. You wonder if he has been sleeping enough… “$FirstName? Are you quite all right?” Edward’s voice wakes you from your ruminations. “Yes, I am quite well, Edward. Just famished is all.” You pause for a brief moment. “I… I did not sleep all too well, I am afraid. Nightmares, you see. Must be all the stress from yesterday.” “I completely understand.” The young nobleman nods at your explanation. “Something in these ancient halls speaks ill to the imagination, I suppose. Which makes what I am about to ask you even harder. You will recall my request from yesterday. Have you given it any further thought? Can I count on your aid in discovering the secrets of this ancient castle?” You sigh deeply. Despite your awful sleep, you have indeed thought over Edward’s situation. The prospect of diving any deeper into this whole nasty situation does not sit well with you. Of course, you would not do it for yourself, but for Edward. You once more examine his piercing, inquisitive eyes, and you find no hesitation on his part. He is committed to his path. Will you follow him down it and try to save him? <ul> <li> [[Yes, you are prepared to stand side-by-side with Edward.|Ch2-5][$clue.accept to true]]</li> <li> [[No, you are unwilling to get involved any further.|Ending 1-1][$chapter to "Epilogue"]]</li> </ul>

<<set $entry to 5>><<JournalUpdate>> You take a deep breath to steel yourself. This will be neither an easy, nor a comfortable task, but you cannot imagine having to go through it alone. Your relationship with Edward may not be what it used to be, but you will not let him take on this challenge alone. “I have indeed given it some thought.” Edward tries to remain nonchalant, but you can tell he tenses up a bit. “I will help you, Edward. I owe you that much. I hope that you shall finally find the peace you deserve through our trials and tribulations. Know that you shall not face them alone.” For a moment, Edward says nothing. Then, he launches himself into your arms, giving you a full body hug. You can feel the warmth from his hot, salty tears permeate the fabric that covers your shoulder. The only words he says are: “Thank you, my friend.” <ul> <li> [[You cannot imagine what he must have been through thus far. How much he has sacrificed for the dream of reuniting his mother with her sanity. But you know he needs you for what is to come. Hug him back. Say nothing.|Ch2-6][$choice to 1, $feeling ++]]</li> <li> [[You are not the most confident in social situations. Least of all when those situations involve grown men launching themselves in spontaneous full body hugs and crying in your arms. You pat his back and say: “There, there now…”|Ch2-6][$choice to 2, $feeling ++]]</li> <li> [[Enough of this sappy stuff. The two of you need to steel yourself. You can feel it in your bones. You grab Edward by his shoulders, and gently but firmly remove yourself from his embrace, while saying: “Let us focus on the task at hand, Edward.”|Ch2-6][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> No words are needed. The two of you stand there for about a minute, merely holding one another. Until you hear a familiar raspy, shrewish voice go: ‘Ahem, ahem’. The housekeeper has arrived with your breakfast. Edward releases you a little hastily, as if he feels uncomfortable about having his staff see him in such a vulnerable position. “Thank you, Mrs. Culley, please put the tray on the table. That will be all. Now then, $FirstName, let us breakfast, and talk over our next steps.” <<case 2>> Edward does not initially let go. Just when this entire scene starts getting a little awkward, he releases you from his embrace and looks at you with a smile, his eyes still glistening. “Apologies, I had not… I did not realise how much I needed to hear you say those words. Now then, I believe I can hear Mrs. Cully bring us our breakfast. Let us sit down at the table and talk over our next steps.” <<default>> Edward clears his throat and tries to collect himself. “Yes, of course. Apologies, I do not know what came over me. I know our task has only just begun, it’s just… I did not realise how much I needed to hear you say those words. Now then, I believe I can hear Mrs. Cully bringing us our breakfast. Let us sit down at the table and talk over our next steps.” <</switch>> In all the excitement, you had forgotten how famished you were. As soon as the housekeeper puts her tray with fresh toast, marmalade, and a big pot of tea on the table, your stomach is all too quick to remind you. Edward lets you sate your hunger in silence, content to nibble on his toast, and to sip his tea. When you sit back to enjoy your cup of tea, he leans over to resume the conversation. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-7]]</li></ul>

“Now then, we could probably maximise our efficiency by splitting up. I know the castle better than you, and I have studied its architecture and its layout. There are a couple of places in Gairbuie where there ought to be rooms, but there are none to be found. I'll start looking for those." You nod along. You have only seen a single hallway from this place, so you are sure you would only get in the way if Edward plans to explore the castle itself. “That is a sensible strategy, Edward. What would you have me do in the meantime, then?” “Not to worry, my friend. You shall have your hands full yourself. When you arrived last night, you passed through a small village, also called Gairbuie. You likely saw little of it, given the dreadful weather. I have tried talking to the villagers when I first arrived here, but they were… less than forthcoming. I suspect they may have decided not to talk to me because they know of my relationship to this place. But you? You are an unknown factor, my friend. Although they probably won’t tell you anything directly, you might be able to snoop around without arousing too much suspicion. If you are careful, that is.” You sigh. You cannot deny the logic that Edward puts forward. Still, you cannot say you look forward to snooping on a group of people who, in all likelihood, do not look too kindly on outsiders. “Very well, Edward. Any suggestions for how I should present myself if someone asks questions?” Edward looks over your clothing. <<switch $dress>> <<case "fancy">> “Mmh. I must say, I struggle to think of an excuse as to why someone dressed in such… vivid vestments would visit such a far off place as Gairbuie. You might be able to pass yourself off as a <<if $mc.gender is 1>>nobleman<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>noblewoman<<else>>person of noble birth<</if>> looking to buy the castle, but it would probably be best if you kept that thick raincoat of yours on at all times.” <<case "modern">> “I do suppose you would look a little out of place. Your clothing clearly pegs you as someone from the big city. Mayhaps, you could identify yourself as a professional from London. You are on holiday in Inverness, and came here on the advice of an innkeeper, when you said you wanted to enjoy the rugged outside… It should be believable enough to allay any suspicion.” <<default>> “At the very least, you will not look too much out of place. The locals, they are not the most fashionable folks around. Certainly not by your London standards, at least. If someone does question your presence, pretend to be a drifter from the south. That should allay any suspicions. Though I do not think they will be too welcoming either way.” <</switch>> <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-8]]</li></ul>

You finish your tea, before grabbing your coat. //It’s time to go down to the village.// The weather is slightly chilly, but it is not raining. The watery sunlight gives the surrounding countryside a melancholic beauty, and the salty air coming in from the sea puts a vigour in your step as you make your way down to the village. Still, the road is winding and unpaved. It is not a short walk, even if it is less arduous than last evening under the cover of rain. Your stroll gives you plenty of time for rumination. Last night, when you took the same path, you recall a sense of being stalked by some creature under the cover of darkness. Probably just a loose dog, or something smaller still that seemed larger due to the poor sight and your imagination. Yet you could have sworn it moved rather unlike any dog or animal you have ever seen… The cool breeze picks up, and you pull your coat closer around you. //All this talk of the occult…// it makes your head spin. Edward clearly believes that something supernatural is to blame for his mother’s insanity. He may very well even believe that the nightmares you told him about are somehow caused by an eldritch energy emanating from somewhere inside the castle. As for what you believe… <ul> <li> <<link 'All this talk about the supernatural is poppycock. You want to help Edward, but you are certain that there must be a rational explanation for his mother’s illness. All you experienced last night? Just a consequence of a rough day of travelling. //Yeah… just a rough day of travelling…//' "Ch2-CROSS">><<set $belief to "no">><</link>></li> <li> <<link 'You like to think of yourself as somewhat of a skeptic, a modern <<if $mc.gender is 1>>man<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>woman<<else>>individual<</if>>, if you will. //Still…// even you have to admit that there have been a lot of strange things happening in the past few hours. If nothing else, the fact that everyone on your way to Gairbuie reacted with horror to the mere name puts you on your guard.' "Ch2-CROSS">><<set $belief to "skeptic">><</link>></li> <li> [[You have always believed in the occult and the supernatural. Perhaps it is why you and Edward gravitated towards one another. After all, what else could have caused that ever so peculiar dream? You are certain that there is more to this world than humanity was meant to see.|Ch2-CROSS][$belief to "occult"]]</li> </ul>

It takes you a substantial amount of time to make it to the village. There are a handful of folks going about their business, but no one seems to pay you any heed. //Not yet, anyway.// Most of them are probably working. The houses are unremarkable and shabby, but after walking through the village you figure there are a handful of places where you could maximise your chances of overhearing or finding something of interest. In the village proper, there is a small grocery store, and a pub. There also seems to be a dock meant for use by the fishermen. Lastly, you can make out the tower of a small, wooden church at the village edge. You figure that if you want to make it back to the castle before dark, there won’t be time to look everywhere. You could investigate two places at most. After the unpleasant walk you took last night, you are in no hurry to repeat that experience. <ul> <li> [[Best to go to the store first. There may be some people right now, whose conversation you might find interesting. You’ll probably draw a little attention to yourself, however.|Ch2-SM1][$entry to 6, $destination.morning to "store"]]</li> <li> [[At this time of day, there shouldn’t be too many people in the pub. Perhaps you can use that to your advantage. Get some candid remarks from the proprietor. Maybe even snoop around while they’re distracted.|Ch2-TM1][$entry to 6, $destination.morning to "pub"]]</li> <li> [[Based on the state of the docks and the boats you saw, you figure some of the fishermen must have been around for a long time. If there really is something strange about Gairbuie and Edward’s late uncle, they should know. If you could get them to talk, that is.|Ch2-PM1][$entry to 6, $destination.morning to "docks"]]</li> <li> [[An old, weathered, and potentially abandoned church in a far-off village? Creaky floorboards almost guaranteed? Nothing sinister or scary about that. Might as well go check it out.|Ch2-C1][$entry to 6, $destination.morning to "church"]]</li> </ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> You head to the small grocery store. Right as you are about to enter, two middle-aged women dressed in conservative garb walk out. They are speaking to one another in hushed voices, but you can make out a few lines as they barge past you before they get out of earshot. “…say he be pokin’ ‘round the castle. Damned outsider. Mother Darge ought to…” You pause for a second before entering the store to gather your thoughts. //Obviously, that ‘he’ must be Edward. Right?// This ‘Mother Darge’ character seems to be important, though, but this would be too little to go on right now. //Could she be a religious figure, or perhaps a community leader?// <<link "Best to make a mental note of it.">><<set $clue.darge to true, $achievements.allClues.darge to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>> You open the door to the grocer and take a quick look around. The walls are mostly lined with glass pots containing pickled foodstuffs: onions, gherkins, eggs, and beets. There are a few stands containing things like humps of bread, jars of marmalade, and dried meats. To your horror and disgust, you also find a few pots filled with fisheyes floating in pickle juice. There is a single clerk behind the counter: a short, balding man, looking to be in his mid-twenties. He is wearing a dirty white apron over a thick shirt. There is something off about him that is not immediately obvious to you. He is talking to a customer by the counter, a large man whose back is turned to you. You cannot make out their conversation. The two are pretty preoccupied, and don’t seem to have noticed your entrance thus far. You could try to get a little closer to listen in on their conversation without them noticing. There is a stand close to them, behind which you could hide. Of course, you would need an excuse if they were to notice you. Otherwise, you could forego stealth entirely, and try to see if you can pry anything from the two men by the counter by engaging them in conversation. <ul> <li> [[You figure the clerk and the customer would probably not volunteer any important information, but you’d rather not want to be caught where you are definitely not supposed to be. At least you can pretend to be browsing the inventory if you’re found overhearing their conversation.|Ch2-SM1a]]</li> <li> [[You believe yourself to be quite the sweet talker. Snooping around is beneath you. Whatever these two know, you are pretty certain you would be able to make them slip up and tell you what is on their mind, without running the risk of being caught in a compromising position.|Ch2-SM1b]]</li> </ul>

You position yourself in between a stand with jam filled jars and a shelf carrying pots of pickled beetroots. With the angling of the inventory, you are relatively close to the two men, but just outside of their peripheral vision. //Probably best not to make any noise, then.// You wouldn’t want to attract their attention until they have dropped some juicy details. “…yesterday evening. Stage coach don’t come through here otherwise. Whadda ye figure it means?” “Must be that new bloke up in the castle. Ye see? Let one outsider in, more o’ ‘em will pop up sure as what.” “Ye reckon? Mother Darge did warn about threats to our purity…” “And she be right as rain! We ain’t got need for these outside influences ‘ere in Gairbuie. They don’t understand us. What he be doin’ in the castle anyway, ye reckon?” “Me wife chatted to Gulley. Apparently, he be snoopin’ around the castle lookin’ for somethin’ ol’ Cornelius hid.” “Well, I’ll be… Next, they’ll be bringin’ in some lawman from down south… Hold on. Can I help ye <<if $mc.gender is 1>>sir<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>ma’am<<else>>skipper<</if>>?” Crap. Sounds like the shopkeeper heard you. Now that they know you’re here, the best course of action would be to cover for yourself as best you can. <ul> <li> <<link 'Play it cool. You’re browsing, nothing’s wrong with that, //right//? Just play it off as if you were a shopper and you should be fine.' "Ch2-SM2a">><<set $choice to 1>><</link>></li> <li> <<link 'You are the <<if $mc.gender is 1>>king<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>queen<<else>>monarch<</if>> of the bluff! No matter how ridiculous the explanation, you have no doubt that you can make this bumpkin believe you.' "Ch2-SM2b">><<set $choice to 1>><</link>></li> </ul>

You confidently stroll towards the counter, eyeing the merchandise as you go in order to really sell your role as a shopper. “…yesterday evening… Hold on. Can I help ye <<if $mc.gender is 1>>sir<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>ma’am<<else>>skipper<</if>>?” <<switch $dress>> <<case "fancy">> “Why, yes, thank you, kind sir. I am a <<if $mc.gender is 1>>nobleman<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>noblewoman<<else>>noble<</if>> from down South. I understand that the owner of that castle up the cliff recently passed, and I’m interested in buying it up. I’m going up there this afternoon, and I’m looking to buy something to eat on the way.” <<case "modern">> “Yes, thank you, kind sir. I’m from London, here to enjoy the countryside on advice of my host in Inverness? They told me I could enjoy a good walk along the cliffs here in Gairbuie. I forgot to bring provisions, however. Could I buy some here?” <<default>> “Yes, thank you, kind sir. I’m just on my way through this village. Came from down south, I did. Don’t suppose I could buy some food and travelling supplies here for a reasonable price?” <</switch>> The shopkeeper scowls but does not comment on your fib. “What ye see’s what ye get. The loaves of bread are 8 pence. Preserves are 2 shillings. Take it or leave it.” You nod. You imagine the shopkeeper is deliberately charging you more because you are an outsider. This is your opportunity to learn more about what’s going on while he is focussed on ripping you off. “Much appreciated. I’ll have a loaf and a jar of marmalade, please. <<if $dress isnot "drifter">>What can you tell me about the castle up by the cliff?<<else>>I saw a most remarkable manor up on the cliff, walking into town. What can you tell me about it?<</if>> I imagine the view would be rather remarkable.” “Hm. Us here don’t engage with the lord o’ that castle much. The previous one weren’t from ‘round here, ‘n neither’s the current. Mother Darge—” He catches himself just in time. Apparently, that is one name he ought not to have drop. “Oh? Who is that? Some sort of local wise woman or leadership figure?” The shopkeeper’s eyes narrow, and he looks at you closely. “Why do ye want to know <<if $mc.gender is 1>>sir<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>ma’am<<else>>skipper<</if>>? Ye only be here passin’ through after all…” Crap. You probably pushed your luck a little far. Time to come up with some sort of excuse. <ul> <li> [[Play it cool. These people may not be used to it, but you’re just making conversation after all.|Ch2-SM2a][$choice to 2]] </li> <li> <<link 'You are the <<if $mc.gender is 1>>king<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>queen<<else>>monarch<</if>> of the bluff! No matter how ridiculous the explanation, you have no doubt that you can make this bumpkin believe you.' "Ch2-SM2b">><<set $choice to 2>><</link>></li> </ul>

<<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> “Oh, just browsing the inventory, my good man. I don’t think I have ever seen… pickled haddock’s eyes… I guess I just got absorbed in the label… Actually, can I buy a pot to bring home as a souvenir?” <<default>> “Oh well, you know, just making conversation. I apologise if I caused offence: I’m merely curious about your customs. In any event, I’ll just pay you for that bread and marmalade. Thank you very much, good sir!” <</switch>> “Uh-huh. That’ll be 2 shillings 8 pence. Here ye go <<if $mc.gender is 1>>sir<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>ma’am<<else>>skipper<</if>>.” You pay the shopkeeper his outrageous price, before making yourself scarce. You already found yourself in an awkward situation, so it is best to not to press your luck right now. Still, as you walk out a little slower than you normally would, you can just barely make out the conversation between the shopkeeper and the other man. “See! Tolerate one nosy outsider, and they’ll crawl out of the woodworks like cockroaches! We ought to do something about—” Walking back to the central square to reorient yourself, you suddenly realise what seemed off about the shopkeeper. //His hands were covered by gloves!// As such, you did not get a good look at them. But the way he moved them, handled the products, and handed you your purchase was not how human hands are supposed to work. It is not even as if they were malformed, but rather something completely different from a hand was at the end of his arms… A shiver runs down your spine. You are sure that you do not wish to know what secret those gloves hide. The longer you spend time in the village, the less you feel like coming here was a good idea. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-10][$clue.darge to true, $achievements.allClues.darge to true]]</li></ul>

<<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> “Hah! Hah, hah! I’ll have you know I am a veritable expert of true, authentic British cuisine. Indeed, I am, my good man! And my word, I have never seen pickled beetroots this exquisite! Truly, this is why ours is the greatest empire in the world! Would not have been able to win the last war without pickled beetroot like this!” <<default>> “Well, you see, I am somewhat of a chronicler of female leadership figures in the British Isles. Truly fascinating subject. Not for any personal perverted reasons, of course: purely professional interest, yes indeed. After all, what untoward thoughts could one have about sharp orders barked by an authoritative mother figure? Do you not agree, my good man?” <</switch>> Looks like your strategy worked perfectly. The clerk is entirely dumbfounded at your pseudo-academic nonsense. He struggles to find his works. “Uhm… Well, yes, I suppose so… D-do ya want me bag that for ya?” You give him your most charming, roguish smile. “Why yes, I do believe I would like that very much! Your service has been most excellent. Have a good day now!” The shopkeeper is so flabbergasted that he forgets to charge you for your purchase. By the time you leave the store, he seems to have regained himself a little, and is once again in conversation with the other client. “I swear… these outsiders are like cockroaches. We ought to—” Walking back to the central square to reorient yourself, you suddenly realise what seemed off about the shopkeeper. //His hands were covered by gloves!// As such, you did not get a good look at them. But the way he moved them, handled the products, and handed you your purchase was not how human hands are supposed to work. It is not even as if they were malformed, but rather something completely different from a hand was at the end of his arms… A shiver runs down your spine. You are sure that you do not wish to know what secret those gloves hide. The longer you spend time in the village, the less you feel like coming here was a good idea. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-10][$clue.darge to true, $achievements.allClues.darge to true]]</li></ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> You saunter in the direction of the docks. For the most part, they’re not much to look at. Two flimsy and salted wooden walkways stand out in the water. Currently, the area is devoid of people or boats: you imagine most of them went out this morning to go fishing, and they won’t be back for another few hours or so. <<switch $dress>><<case "drifter">>“If ye be lookin’ to be hired on as a deckhand, ye’re too late stranger,”<<default>>“If ye be lookin’ for a relaxing boat trip, ye’re too late stranger,”<</switch>> a raspy voice croaks behind you. You jump a little involuntarily, as you did not hear anyone walk up to you. When you turn around, you learn the voice belongs to an elderly man, his leathery face weatherworn and covered in pockmarks. He smiles at you, and you notice that he hardly has any teeth. “ ’Though, of course, the fishermen from this village don’t like having outsiders in their boats.” “Ah, you don’t say, my good fellow.” You swallow, still not entirely recovered from the shock. The old man lets out a dry, humourless laugh. “Ye must be new here if you haven’t figured that out yet. Folks native to Gairbuie… we’re an isolated bunch, we are.” You hesitate for a moment. This man gives you the creeps, but he is the only person here. If you are going to get some information from anyone, this will have to be it. “Yes, that is rather unfortunate, I guess. I had looked forward to getting some fresh sea air. Since I will have to wait here anyway, I don’t suppose you would be willing to answer some of my questions?” An avaricious gleam flickers in the old man’s eyes. “Sure, I’ll spend some time with ye, <<if $mc.gender is 1>>sir<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>ma’am<<else>>skipper<</if>>. Ain’t much use for me on the boats anymore, what with my old age ‘n all. ‘Course, I had planned to just mind me own business. Don’t suppose ye can… compensate me for my time, stranger?” <ul> <li> [[You roll your eyes. You have little patience for this cretin, and he’s making you uncomfortable. The less time you have to spend in his general vicinity, the better. Maybe a threat will get him to spill the beans pronto.|Ch2-PM1a]] </li> <li> [[A heavy sigh escapes your lips. You don’t particularly like dealing with this individual, but you’re certain that causing a scene will not make your job of going unnoticed and finding information any easier. You toss the old man some change.|Ch2-PM1b][$visited.chTwoPM1b to true]] </li> </ul>

You give the old coot a smile to put him at ease, then grab him by his patchy coat, and yank him forward. Struggle as he might, he is old and you are young, and you have no trouble dragging him along with you as you walk over the walkway of the docks. “Listen to me, old man. I have little patience for your greed, and I am no one’s charity, least of all yours. You wouldn’t be humouring me if there was nothing to tell me. So you damn well know what’s going on in this village. You may have noticed that it’s just the two of us here, and that these walkways are oh so slippery. No one would be surprised if an accident were to take place here, and no one will miss a useless old man like you.” By now, you have dragged the cretin towards the end of the docks. You hold him still by his coat, teetering over the edge. His grimy hands grab your wrist, and he looks behind him into the murky seawater. His eyes are bulging, his hands sweaty, and when he talks to you, his voices quavers with terror. “Hey, hey, hey! Hold on n-n-now there, s-s-stranger, there’s, there’s no need for that! I uh… I were just jokin’, see! Eh-eh-eh, just a prank, aye? Aye, aye! So ye said ye had questions? Ask away, ask away!” You smile slightly malevolently. Maybe this has always been how you conduct your business, or maybe something in this town is getting to you. Either way, this sort of power, control over another’s life… it feels eerily good. “Excellent. I knew we would come to a… civil understanding. Now then, on to why I’m here. What can you tell me about the castle up the cliff over there?” “Th-th-the castle? Us from the v-v-village don’t go up there much… I hear it’s got a new owner. The last owner, lordly feller by the name o’ Cornelius he was, ‘e was a strange one ‘e was. Rumour has it there are tunnels underneath the castle, miles ‘o them, but I wouldn’t be able to tell ye. Please, that’s all I know!” “Tunnels, you say? And where would those rumours come from, I wonder?” The old man doesn’t answer you, but his eyes are drawn to his left, somewhere down the coastline. You follow his terrified gaze, and see two small boats make their way towards you from that direction. Something strikes you as odd. If these were fishing boats, wouldn’t you expect them to come from further into the ocean? <<link "These seemingly came straight from the rock face…">><<set $clue.cove to true, $achievements.allClues.cove to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>> The old man takes advantage of your distraction to wrestle himself loose from your grasp, and scamper away. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-PM2]]</li></ul>

“Heh, heh, heh, much appreciated, <<if $dress is "drifter">>chum<<elseif $mc.gender is 1>>m’lord<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>m’lady<<else>>m’liege<</if>>.” The old man chuckles gleefully, and gives you an exaggerated bow. “Now then, ye said ye had questions? I may have answers for ye.” “Very well, my good man. I suppose you are a local here?” “Indeed. Been callin’ these shores home since me birth. Must folks here be like that. Ye may have noticed already, but Gairbuie villagers, they’re… pretty attached to this place.” “Yes, I’ve heard the locals can be a little… insular. I don’t suppose you know much about how the locals view that lordly castle up the cliff there?” “I hear it’s got a new owner. The last owner, lordly feller by the name o’ Cornelius he was, ‘e was a strange one. Rumour has it there are tunnels underneath the castle, miles ‘o them, but I wouldn’t be able to tell ye.” The old man shrugs apologetically, but you get the distinct impression he’s not all that sorry about his ignorance. “And since an outsider would not know that, I suppose those rumours come from someone else in the village, am I correct?” “Eh… well, yes, I suppose they must have. Probably overheard some of the fishermen talking ‘bout it at one point…” “I see. And how would they know about such tunnels, if they never go up to the castle?” The old man doesn’t answer you, but his eyes are drawn to his left, somewhere down the coastline. You follow his gaze, and you see two small boats make their way from down there. Something strikes you as odd. If these were fishing boats, wouldn’t you expect them to come from further into the ocean? <<link "These seemingly came straight from the rock face…">><<set $clue.cove to true, $achievements.allClues.cove to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>> The old man suddenly seems uncomfortable. “Well, anyway, I should probably head home now. Promised the missus I would be home before too long. G’day to ye <<if $dress is "drifter">>chum<<elseif $mc.gender is 1>>sir<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>madam<<else>>skipper<</if>>.” <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-PM2]]</li></ul>

You decide to wait for these boats to come into the harbour. Their sudden appearance remains peculiar to you. Perhaps you can gather some information from them. As you wait for the boats to come into dock, you reflect a little on what the old man told you. //Apparently, there is a tunnel complex underneath the castle.// From your conversation with Edward this morning, you know he has gathered that much himself. //Ugh… Useless…// You look at the castle, way up on the cliffs. You hope the weather doesn’t take a turn for the worse, or your trip back could be decidedly unpleasant once again. Your attention wanders back to the incoming boats, and your sudden realisation hits you like a hammer. They came from right underneath the cliff… <<link "right underneath the castle…">><<set $clue.cove to true, $achievements.allClues.cove to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>> Edward and the old man spoke of a tunnel system. //Just how far underneath the castle and into the cliff does it run?// You’ve heard of tunnel systems running through coastal areas that end up underneath sea level. //Could there be some sort of grotto accessible by boat?// Due to the curvature of the cliff, it’s impossible to tell from here, and you doubt the people who come from that area would be willing to tell you. And you’re certainly not stupid enough to ask them to take you there by yourself. The boats moor at the dock. Gruff and grimy fishermen start coming ashore. You cannot help but notice that their nets are curiously empty, if they indeed went out earlier today, that is. They do not look like the types to hang around for a polite conversation, but it never hurts to try, //right?// <ul> <li> [[“Good afternoon, gentlemen. Sorry to see the nets are empty. Can I help you commiserate over a cold glass of ale?”|Ch2-PM3]]</li> <li> [[“Seems like a poor catch. Think you could maybe catch some more by going further out to sea?”|Ch2-PM3]]</li> </ul>

One of the fishermen, a rough-looking man with a bristly, blond beard, catches your eye as he walks up to you. He seems muscular, but also has difficulty moving, dragging his left foot over the docks as he comes up to you. “That ain’t none of your business, stranger.” He barks at you. A gob of phlegm hits you on your cheek. “Ye should know, we’re none too happy with nosy outsiders ‘ere in Gairbuie. ‘specially if they harass our elderly, understand?" Before you can retort, the fisherman limps back to his buddies. They stare at you unblinkingly, with vitriol in their bloodshot eyes. You judge discretion to be the better part of valour and decide to head back to the village square to make your next move. You can feel their stares burning the back of your skull until you round a corner. Even then, you cannot escape the ominous sensation of being watched… You reflect a little on what you’ve learned at the docks. Clearly those fishermen were upset that you <<if $visited.chTwoPM1b>>talked to<<else>>ruffled<</if>> the old man. They could just be incredibly insular, or they could have been genuinely concerned with what he may have told you. Or maybe it’s more what he didn’t tell you… You recall how the old man reacted to the boats coming from behind the cliff, how the look in his eyes changed. //As if he was afraid of being seen talking to me himself…// Maybe your earlier hunch about the cave system running further down the cliff than Edward had previously anticipated was right after all. And if there is indeed a way to access it via boat, that would be good to know. You very much doubt anyone in the village would be willing to loan or sell you theirs, but still. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-10][$clue.cove to true, $achievements.allClues.cove to true]]</li></ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> The church is located just outside the limits of the village. It is a simple, rectangular structure made of brick and wood with a pointed façade. From the outside, it looks weather-beaten and dilapidated. Some windows on the side of the building have been broken into, and the paint on the door has started chipping. Crusts of sea salt are caked to the wooden door. You carefully reach out your hand. The large iron doorhandle feels shockingly cold to your touch. The door creaks ominously as you carefully open it. “Hello?” you say carefully. “Is anyone there?” Nothing but an eerie silence, broken only by the wind whistling past the broken windows, greets you within. The air that escapes from the door opening is musky and clammy, with a faint tinge of rotting seaweed. You do all you can to keep your breakfast where it belongs. You steel yourself, and open the door fully to enter. From the moment you enter the church, you know it must have been a long time since anyone has set foot in here. The floor is dusty, some pews are broken, and the windows are covered with cobwebs. Only a few rays of sunlight reach inside. The uneven illumination makes you queasy. It is as if //anything// could hide in the many shadows present here. There is a single central aisle flanked on either side by a line of box pews. At the end of the church, there is a slightly elevated area. On it, a simple wooden pulpit and an altar stand, although ‘altar’ is far too generous. From your point of view, it merely looks like a low wooden table with a dirty grey cloth covering it. <<if !$visited.chTwo10>>It is a small church, and you should have enough time to conduct a thorough search and still be able to investigate one other area in the village.<</if>> //Where to start?// <<ChTwoChurch>>

The left pews are remarkable only as it regards their state of dilapidation<<if $visited.chTwoC1b>>, accentuated by the pristine look of their neighbours<</if>>. Unlacquered and simple, they have long since ceased to be comfortable, if indeed they ever were. You cannot imagine having to sit still on these benches for a minute, let alone an entire sermon. It seems like some local children must have thought the same thing: you can find some rude messages carved into the backmost pew. There are only a handful of things to investigate further. <<do>><ul> <<if !_bible>><li> <<link "Pick up an old, mouldy Bible.">> <<append "#C1AChoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>This is a cheap, mass produced Bible, as you can buy in most London bookstores. You are a little surprised to find one here in the middle of nowhere. It must have been left here for some time, as the humidity of the church has already turned the pages mouldy. You leaf through the pages, but nothing interesting stands out; it’s merely an ordinary, damaged book.<</append>> <<set _bible to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_idol>><li> <<link "Pick up a dusty wooden idol.">> <<append "#C1AChoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>It is a crudely carved wooden idol. Its shape is vaguely feminine, although it has been so damaged that it is impossible to be certain. The wood feels soft, and has been cracked in places, most likely a result of the humidity in the church. It could either be a priceless historical item, ruined beyond recognition by the elements, or a child’s first attempt at wood carving.<</append>> <<set _idol to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_mouchoir && !$clue.mouchoir>><li> <<link "Pick up a crumpled handkerchief.">> <<append "#C1AChoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>This abandoned handkerchief is grimy, moist, and altogether rather nasty to hold. The owner probably forgot it here one evening, but why did they not come back to pick it up? You can barely make out that it used to have a blue-green tartan pattern. The initials G.B. are stitched in the corner. <<link "Pocket the handkerchief?">><<set $clue.mouchoir to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>><</append>> <<set _mouchoir to true, $achievements.allClues.mouchoir to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> </ul><</do>> <hr> <<ChTwoChurch>>

Considering the state of disrepair suffered by the rest of the church, the<<if $visited.chTwoC1a>>se<</if>> pews are almost pristine. They remain simple and undamaged, and the layer of dust and cobwebs covering everything else in the building is notably absent here. <<if $visited.chTwoC1a>>Unlike the leftmost pews, t<<else>>T<</if>>here are no random abandoned knick-knacks to be found here. You notice the pew bench closest to the altar is larger than the others. <<do>><ul> <<if !_ok>><li> <<link "Investigate the large bench.">> <<append "#C1BChoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>It doesn’t take you long to find out why the seats of the front pew are larger. They can be lifted, revealing a storage compartment. You imagine this would be the place where the Bibles were stored when this church was still in use. Right now, the compartment is empty. This does not mean you find nothing interesting, however.<</append>> <<set _ok to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if _ok && !_choice>><li> <<link "Search the storage compartment.">> <<append "#C1BChoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>You find a large metal ring attached to the bottom of the compartment, as if doubling as a trapdoor. It is even stranger when you realise the sound of the creaking floorboards having changed when you got closer just now. It is obvious there is some sort of hollow secondary compartment, or, perhaps, even a secret passage beneath your feet. Unfortunately, the trapdoor does not open, no matter how hard you pull. //It must be barred from the other side.// <<link "Still, you make a mental note of it.">><<set $clue.churchtrapdoor to true, $achievements.allClues.churchTrapDoor to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>><</append>> <<set _choice to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> </ul><</do>> <hr> <<ChTwoChurch>>

There is a simple wooden preacher’s pulpit facing the pews. Like the rest of the church, it is seemingly beyond repair or restoration. A leather-bound book lies on it. The altar is nothing more than a table covered in a frayed grey cloth. On it stands a simple brass candelabra. <<do>><ul> <<if !_book>><li> <<link "Check out the book.">> <<append "#C1CChoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>The leather feels strange in your hands, not like the material you are used to. This book has no author or title on its cover. You open it, and note the writing on the first page: ‘//Excerpts from the Book of the Dead pertaining to the Pure One//’. Quite ominous. Beyond the first page, the writing turns to gibberish. Sharp lines form barely recognisable lettering, and sometimes criss-cross the pages. <<if $dream.book>>Something about the writing seems familiar, although you cannot quite place it. It all seems a little hazy. <</if>>The longer you stare at the pages, the more of a headache you develop. After flipping only a handful of pages, the pain becomes unbearable. It is like a nagging splinter of raw hot iron has jagged itself into your skull. You decide to close the book and place it back. The pain slowly subsides soon after. Despite the February cold and humidity, you have broken out in a sweat.<</append>> <<set $insanity ++, _book to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_candle>><li> <<link "Check out the candelabra.">> <<append "#C1CChoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>The candelabra is made of brass, but otherwise simple and unadorned, aside from a single candle lodged in it. Surprisingly, neither the candelabra nor the candle is dusty. When you lift it to examine it further, you note that the cloth underneath is just as dirty as the cloth around. This item may have only been placed here recently. <<link "By whom, you cannot say, but this church might not be as abandoned as you originally believed.">><<set $clue.dust to true, $achievements.allClues.dust to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>><</append>> <<set _candle to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_cloth>><li> <<link "Check out the cloth?">> <<append "#C1CChoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>The cloth is frayed on the edges, and covered in a thumb’s width layer of dust. It has been some time since anyone cleaned it. As you try to lift it, you notice it seems stuck to the table underneath. You lift the cloth a little further, and realise that it is stuck to the table due to a viscous, brown substance. It smells rusty, and you realise with a shock that it is coagulated blood… You let go of the cloth, and step back. It takes all of your composure not to deposit the contents of your breakfast onto the church floor.<</append>> <<set $insanity ++, _cloth to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> </ul><</do>> <hr> <<ChTwoChurch>>

As you leave the church, the squeaking of the floorboards is more ominous than ever. You get the feeling you are being watched. <<if $visited.chTwoC1a && $visited.chTwoC1b && $visited.chTwoC1c>>Yet, you know you checked every nook and cranny of the church. <</if>>For a split second, you think you see a shadow flit across the faint light coming from the broken windows. But when you venture closer to check it out, you see nothing. Terrified, you rush out of the church, almost running back to the village proper, as fast as you possibly can. While it may be obvious the church has not been used for a proper service for the village in some time, you do not expect this to be the full story. Too many things just do not add up. This place must still be used for something, but what exactly… you do not know right now. <<if $clue.churchtrapdoor>>Still, the knowledge that there is a secret trapdoor in the church should help. If nothing else, this seems to lend credence to Edward’s theory regarding the old cave and tunnel network. You wonder if it does indeed run all the way from the manor to the village, and if <<link "this could be an entrance point.">><<JournalUpdate>><</link>><</if>> A shiver runs down your spine. You may not have a paranormal sixth sense, but you do feel decidedly uncomfortable about the things you found so far. Beyond how weird it all was, something about it feels ‘off’, unnatural almost. <<if $belief is "no">>Rationally speaking, it is all poppy-cock, of course, but you feel uncomfortable nonetheless.<</if>> You try to shake it off. <<if !$visited.chTwo10>>You still have some time before you should head back to the manor, and you should make use of it by investigating the rest of the village a bit more. Perhaps a different location can help shed light on what you found at the church.<<else>>The sun is about to fall below the horizon, and you should make what little daylight remains to head back to the manor. Between this and what you found earlier, you feel quite satisfied with your progress.<</if>> <ul><li> <<link "Continue">><<if $visited.chTwo10>><<set $chapter to "Chapter 3">><<goto "Ch3-1">><<else>><<goto "Ch2-10">><</if>><</link>></li></ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> The tavern is well kept compared to the rest of the village. Still, relative to the establishments you are used to back in London, it is simple and worn. The outside of the building is mostly made of wood, like the rest of the buildings in the village. Only a few naval blue specks of paint have not chipped off. A damaged board hangs over the entrance. You can barely make out the name of the tavern. ‘The Hanged Man’s Joke’, it is called. <<linkreplace "Enter the establishment." t8n>>You enter the establishment. The pub is dark inside. Even with the few small windows letting in sunlight, you wonder why none of the lanterns have been lit up yet. If it would be too early to do so, you can’t imagine how dark the place would be close to dusk. A gloomy landscape painting hangs over the fireplace. Even if the tables and benches are of simple, unpolished wood, everything, at least, looks clean. Through your meticulous scanning of the room, it dawns on you that there are no other patrons in the pub right now, nor can you see an innkeeper or a server. However, there is a grey cloth hanging in front of an opening to what you presume is a kitchen. You hear a woman’s voice from there. “Be with ye in a minute, love.” Sounds like you have a moment to look — or snoop — around. Might as well make use of it. <ul> <li> [[The painting draws you in. The landscape would surely fit in with the region. Perhaps you can learn where it was painted? Or, perhaps, you are merely intrigued by the presence of a piece that exquisite in a place like this.|Ch2-TM1a]]</li> <li> [[You’d rather sit down by the bar. You are quite curious about the bottles they have on the wall. Plus, it will be more natural to strike up a conversation with the bartender when she comes out.|Ch2-TM1b]]</li> </ul> <</linkreplace>>

The painting shows a cliff-side running off into the distance, with a rowdy sea, waves crashing against the shore, making up the right side of the panel. Sun rays descend from the left side, cutting diagonally over the painting. They illuminate the waves in a way that makes them look to be in motion, even on the canvas. If it is a painting of the Scottish west coast, where you are right now, the painter must have faced south when they made it. You wonder whether the darkness was a deliberate move by the artist in order to accentuate the overall mood, or whether it is due to the smoke from the fireplace below. The longer you look at the painting, the more you realise what a masterpiece it actually is. The duality of light and dark intersects with that of land and sea. The technique is flawless. You half expect the waves to splash you in the face from where you are standing. //And yet…// And yet, there is something about the piece you cannot place. You have a feeling, based on the outline of the coast, that this must be a painting of the local coastline. In fact, you can make out a small village in the distance, one you believe to be the village of Gairbuie. Strangely, the castle is nowhere to be seen. You move to take a closer look at the painting. //Huh?// It occurs to you that the layer of paint is rather thick. //Why would it be so…// The realisation strikes you. <ul><li> <<link '//There must be another painting underneath this one!//' "Ch2-TM1a2">><</link>></li></ul>

Of course, there is no way you could scrape off the top layer without anyone finding out, and you don’t think you could take the painting without the innkeeper noticing either. “Ah, admirin’ the artwork, are ye, love?” You turn towards the innkeeper. She is a middle-aged woman, wearing an apron and simple clothes, her maroon hair covered by a tartan scarf. She has a warm smile and matronly figure that immediately makes you feel at ease. Besides Edward, she is without a doubt the most welcoming person around you have met so far. “Afraid I can’t tell ye much about it. ’T-was already here when I bought the place it was.” “Ah, that is unfortunate, my good madam. I guess I will just have something to drink, then. I’m not from around… Would you mind answering some questions while I enjoy my beverage?” The innkeeper looks you over. She takes note of your <<switch $dress>> <<case "drifter">>shabby appearance. “Can’t imagine why ye’d want to know anything, since ye obviously be just passin’ through. Well… I’ll bring out the cheap stuff then, love. What tickles yer fancy?” <<case "modern">>progressive choice of attire. “Well, it be obvious ye’re not from around here, love. What will it be?” <<default>>unusually fancy clothes. “Well, I just hope I’ve got something up to yer standards, <<if $mc.gender is 1>>m’lord<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>m’lady<<else>>m’liege<</if>>. What can I pour ye?” <</switch>> You make yourself comfortable on one of the barstools and order a <<TMADrink>>. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-TM2]]</li></ul>

While you recognise some bottles — there are a handful of bottles of gin, whiskey, and bitters, the label of which you know — most of them have either no label whatsoever or are simply unknown to you. Some of these are downright fascinating. There is a bottle on the shelf filled with a scarlet, opaque liquid, and a handwritten label that reads ‘//Do Not Serve to Angus//’. There is also an enormous pot, about the size of the upper half of your leg, filled with pickles and brine. Another bottle’s content, this one without a label, is translucent and uncoloured, like many of the other bottles around, but its refraction is neither like water nor alcohol. In fact, it looks like no liquid you have ever seen before. The content seems to swirl around, while the bottle stands perfectly still. You find your eyes drawn to it as if by magic. The peculiar movements of the translucent liquid, betrayed only by how the dim light outside is refracted through, gripe you like a maelstrom. You try to tear your gaze away from it, but find that you cannot. You feel like gasping for air. “Are ye quite alright, love?” A worried woman’s voice shakes you awake from your hypnosis. You turn towards the innkeeper. She is a middle-aged woman, wearing an apron and simple clothes, her maroon hair covered by a tartan scarf. She has a warm smile and matronly figure that immediately makes you feel at ease. Besides Edward, she is without a doubt the most welcoming person around you have met so far. “Ye’re looking mighty pale there, love. Might I interest ye in something to drink? Perhaps something strong to keep yer spirits high?” You take a deep breath to steady yourself before answering. “Yes… yes, I do think that is a sound idea, madam. I’m not from around… Would you mind answering some questions while I enjoy my beverage?” The innkeeper looks you over. She takes note of your <<switch $dress>> <<case "drifter">>shabby appearance. “Can’t imagine why ye’d want to know anything, since ye obviously be just passin’ through. Well… I’ll bring out the cheap stuff then, love. What tickles yer fancy?” <<case "modern">>progressive choice of attire. “Well, it be obvious ye’re not from around here, love. What will it be?” <<default>>unusually fancy clothes. “Well, I just hope I’ve got something up to yer standards, <<if $mc.gender is 1>>m’lord<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>m’lady<<else>>m’liege<</if>>. What can I pour ye?” <</switch>> You make yourself comfortable on one of the barstools and order a <<TMADrink>>. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-TM2]]</li></ul>

“I’ll try to answer yer questions best as I can, love. But ye should know, I’m not a local. Moved ‘ere ‘bout three years ago or so, I reckon’.” You give her a smile as you take a sip from your drink. “Actually, that may be a good thing,” you say. “Most locals seem rather… hostile to outsiders.” The innkeeper gives you a soft chuckle as she stands behind the counter, cleaning glasses. “Aye, I suppose ye be right there, love. Ye get used to it after a few years, but it’s not a hospitable part of Scotland.” “Anyway, about my questions… <ul> <<do>> <<if !_q1>><li> <<link "“Are there many people like you in Gairbuie? Non-locals I mean.”">> <<append "#TM2choice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>> “Are there many people like you in Gairbuie? Non-locals I mean.” The woman shrugs at your question. “A handful I s’pose. Maybe two or three families? Most move on after a few years. Me, I been having troubles findin’ a buyer for this place, or I would ‘ave moved already. Still, can’t complain too much. I live comfortable, even if me social circles be somewhat limited.” <</append>> <<set _q1 to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_q2>><li> <<link "“What do you know about the castle on the cliff?”">> <<append "#TM2choice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>> “What do you know about the castle on the cliff?” The innkeeper vigorously tries to wipe a stain on a whiskey glass with her washcloth. “Not much, ‘sides the fact that most locals look upon it with anger or contempt. Apparently, <<link "the village was built before the castle">><<set $clue.village to true, $achievements.allClues.village to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>>, not the other way ‘round. Don’t know any details though.” <</append>> <<set _q2 to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_q3>><li> <<link "“What can you tell me about Edward Harcourt?”">> <<append "#TM2choice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>> “What can you tell me about Edward Harcourt?” The woman scratches a few tough beard hairs. “Aye, that name sounds familiar, it does. I believe he’s the bloke that lives up in the castle yonder. Most folks come in here don’t think too highly o’ him, but that’s the same for all outsiders.” <</append>> <<set _q3 to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_q4>><li> <<link "“What can you tell me about the locals?”">> <<append "#TM2choice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>> “What can you tell me about the locals?” She sighs. “They’re misers and they’re curmudgeons, they are. Joyless lot, if you ask me. Maybe it’s the climate, or maybe it’s how insular they are. Locals don’t leave, ‘n they don’t like outsiders coming in. Still, their pounds are pounds, and their shillings are shillings, ‘n there’s no one else in town that sells booze, so they put up with me and I with them.” <</append>> <<set _q4 to true>><<redo>> </li><</link>><</if>> <</do>> <li> [[“Can you think of any other useful information to share?”|Ch2-TM3]]</li> </ul>

The innkeeper looks around, even if it’s still just the two of you here. She leans over conspiratorially, and motions for you to do the same. This close, you can see all the warts and hairs on her face. Her breath smells faintly of eggs, presumably from lunch. “Few folks from town were talkin’ by that table over yonder. They were pretty soaked, if ye get my meaning. They mentioned they were ‘looking forward to their regular meeting’ next new moon. By my reckonin’, that’s tomorrow night. I wouldn’t know what exactly ‘ll be goin’ on, but it’ll be nothin’ good, I reckon.” You nod thoughtfully. <<link "That is indeed good to know.">><<set $clue.meeting to true, $achievements.allClues.meeting to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>> Much like the innkeeper, you can only guess at what this meeting will be about, but even your brief stay in Gairbuie has made clear to you that something about this village is off. You quite doubt it’ll be a family-friendly event. Maybe you can find some information about what will happen then somewhere else in the village. You pay for your drink and bid the innkeeper a good day, before heading for the centre of the village to plan your next moves. Maybe you are making too much out of this. After all, it’s not unusual for a far-off village like this to have some quaint winter ritual,// right? // Still, you cannot escape an ominous feeling of impending doom as you walk across the streets muddy from last night’s rainstorm. The distrustful gazes of the villagers seem to burn themselves into your back. //What are they planning? And why are they so hateful towards outsiders in general and Edward in particular?// You put your hands in your pockets and sigh. This is all starting to look like the plot from a bad movie. And not necessarily one where the hero makes it out in one piece. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-10][$clue.meeting to true, $achievements.allClues.meeting to true]]</li></ul>

<<set $visited.chTwo10 to true>> You make your way back to the village square. It’s now well after noon, and the village is a bit busier than when you first walked in. Most of the fishing boats are now moored by the jetty. Slowly but surely, the villagers are wrapping up their daily business and heading for the pub<<if lastVisited("Ch2-TM3") is 1>>, the one you just left<</if>>. From the looks the villagers throw at you, it is painfully obvious they are aware an outsider is in their midst. The earlier you are done with your business here, the better. Unfortunately, just as you stop to think of your next move, a group of villagers heads towards you. They look even dirtier and rougher than most, and their demeanour is decidedly hostile. Their leader, a tall, wiry fellow with long, ginger hair and scruffy sideburns, approaches you menacingly. You note his face is gruesomely malformed. An enormous scar runs diagonally from the top-right of his face to the bottom left of his chin. Everything above the scar looks ‘normal’, if weathered by his living conditions. Everything below the scar looks as if something melted his face, then suddenly flash-froze it. You cannot help but stare at his right eye, no longer covered by eyelids. It looks red and irritated, and twitches ever so slightly. “Ye look lost, stranger.” His voice is guttural and heavy, and you see his teeth are either crooked or missing. When he speaks, thick gobbets of phlegm fly from his mouth. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-11]]</li></ul>

<<switch $dress>> <<case "drifter">>“We don’t need drifters like you ‘round here. Go to some other place if ye want to beg for scraps, for ye’ll find no warm welcome in Gairbuie. Blasted lazy bums like ye are parasites on this land. Go on then, ye git!” <<case "modern">>“Ye’ll find none of yer fancy city amenities here in Gairbuie, so ye better make yerself scarce, ye hear? We’ve never needed that modern shite, and never will!” <<default>>“Fancy noble folk like ye ‘n that Harcourt bastard can stay up at the castle, ye hear? None here have anythin’ to say to ye fancy types.” <</switch>> <<switch $dress>> <<case "drifter">>As if he didn’t spray around enough saliva talking, the man spits on your shoes, and stares at you defiantly. Good thing your boots aren’t too fancy. From his response, you are relieved to hear the villagers take you for just another drifter. So, at the very least, they shouldn’t be able to link you back to Edward. <<case "modern">>As if he didn’t spray around enough saliva talking, the man spits on your shoes, and stares at you defiantly. You try to suppress a grimace, and make a mental note that you’ll have to clean your new shoes later today. At least, they seem to assume you’re here by accident, and not associated with Edward. <<default>>As if he didn’t spray around enough saliva talking, the man spits on your shoes, and stares at you defiantly. You try to suppress a grimace, and make a mental note that you’ll have to clean your new shoes later today. More importantly, they seem to have made a link, however flimsy, between Edward and yourself. That could work against you. <</switch>>You sigh. //Time to play the part Edward and I agreed upon.// <<switch $dress>> <<case "drifter">>“I’m just a drifter from down south, sir. Been hounded out of every city from Lancashire to Inverness, I have. If I can just get some gruel and water, I’ll be on my way. Surely ye can find it in yer heart to help a poor, lost soul like myself?” <<case "modern">>“Dreadfully sorry, my good man, but I’m just here on holiday. The innkeeper at Inverness recommended I come here to enjoy the rustic scenery. So if you’ll be so nice as to let me be on my way, there is no need for us to be at odds.” <<default>>“My, my, how uncouth. I will have you know I am here looking to buy the title of Lord Harcourt. I am merely on my way to there, and figured I would have a look at my future holdings before going up.” <</switch>> The scarred man scowls and spits at your feet again. Even his good eye seems to be bulging in its socket, as he embarks on a new rage and phlegm filled tirade. <<switch $dress>> <<case "drifter">>“Sure. And then ye’ll tell all yer dirty, diseased drifter friends ta come ‘ere! ‘Oh, go to Gairbuie, you can take those good folks for a ride ye can.’ Well, we’ll be havin’ none a’ it!” <<case "modern">>“Oh that’s a good ‘un! We’re some feckin’ tourist situation for the city folk now, are we?! Hah! Maybe if we send ye back to that inn with a broken jaw, it’ll make clear that we don’t take kindly to outsiders ‘round Gairbuie!” <<default>>“Hah! Come ta look over ye peasant servants then, are ye?! Well ye can shove it up yer fat, feckin’ noble arse! I’ll be dead ‘n buried ‘fore I’ll let such a blue-blooded bastard like ye tell me what ta do! I hope that Harcourt ‘n ye choke on it!” <</switch>> Just when you think the man is about to hit you, one of his fellows – a pale, gaunt woman with thin black hair – puts a hand on his arm. From her hesitance and quavering voice, you reckon she and the other folks in the group are slightly afraid of their bully leader when he gets like this. “C’mon, Rory. If ye pummel this <<switch $dress>><<case "drifter">>filth to a pulp, the constables might<<case "modern">>city folk to a pulp, the constables’ll definitely<<default>>fancy fop to a pulp, the constables’ll definitely<</switch>> come ‘ere. We can’t have that, not so close to—” She shoots you a venomous look. Whatever will happen soon is not for your ears to hear. The man – Rory – grumbles, but reluctantly heeds her words. He thumps you in the chest with his big meaty finger and says: “Ye better be gone from ‘ere by tomorrow, or else there’ll be hell ta pay, ya <<switch $dress>><<case "drifter">>filthy bum<<case "modern">>city filth<<default>>rich tit<</switch>>.” Without paying you any further attention, he turns around and leaves with his cronies. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-12]]</li></ul>

You breathe a sigh of relief. Whether you think you could have beaten that hulking jerk, it would definitely be preferable to draw as little attention as possible. Getting into a tussle with the townsfolk would not fit in well with that plan. Judging by the position of the sun in the sky, you have enough time to investigate one more location before dark. Even then, you will be cutting it short before going back to the manor. Best choose fast where you will go next. <ul> <<if $destination.morning isnot "store">><li> [[Best to go to the store next. Most folks should be done with their groceries, so snooping around should not be too hard.|Ch2-SA1][$entry to 7, $destination.afternoon to "store"]]</li><</if>> <<if $destination.morning isnot "pub">><li> [[By now, you imagine the pub will have filled up with patrons. Where spirits flow, lips loosen. You could overhear quite some good stuff, you imagine.|Ch2-TA1][$entry to 7, $destination.afternoon to "pub"]]</li><</if>> <<if $destination.morning isnot "docks">><li> [[Based on the state of the docks and the boats you saw, you figure some of the fishermen must have been around for a long time. They should all be home or in the pub, so now would be an excellent time to look around their boats.|Ch2-PA1][$entry to 7, $destination.afternoon to "docks"]]</li><</if>> <<if $destination.morning isnot "church">><li> [[An old, weathered, and potentially abandoned church in a far-off village? Creaky floorboards almost guaranteed? Nothing sinister or scary about that. Especially with the light of day slowly but surely fading. Might as well go check it out.|Ch2-C1][$entry to 7, $destination.afternoon to "church"]]</li><</if>> </ul>

You shoot a quick look around to make sure no one is watching you. Then, you lift the counter-flap to check behind the counter. There’s a cash register, some notebooks with scribbles, and a thick, leather-bound ledger. <<do>><ul> <<if !_register>><li> <<link "Check out the register.">> <<append "#SAChoiceA" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>The register has only a few single pound banknotes, and a handful of coins in them. What little is there would hardly be worth taking, even if you were the kind of person to steal under the present circumstances. //Could be the clerk already emptied the register, but, if so, why leave money there?// It seems more likely that business was slow today… or the customers paid with something other than money. What those could be, you can only guess<<if _ledger is true>>, although the ledger has given you some unsavoury clues<</if>>.<</append>> <<set _register to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_notebook>><li> <<link "Check out the notebooks.">> <<append "#SAChoiceA" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>They are exactly what one would expect from notebooks found in any regular old grocery store. They include reminders to stock more or less of one or another product, notes about upcoming pickups of deliveries, and the occasional daydreaming doodle in the corner. Whomever is called ‘Dermott’ is apparently quite disliked by the store clerk. Several caricatures of the man – devil horns and stink lines inevitably included – are tucked away between the pages.<</append>> <<set _notebook to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_check>><li> <<link "Check out the ledger.">> <<append "#SAChoiceA" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>The ledger is almost comically heavy, and it takes some small effort for you to heave it onto the store counter; delicately, so as not to make too much noise. The pages are thin and yellowed with age. As far as you can tell, the ledger is used to keep track of ‘special transactions’. The descriptions are vague, but disturbing. One details the exchange of ‘an audience with the deep brother’ for ‘a pound of firstborn flesh’. Another noteworthy entry merely reads ‘a night of purification was exchanged for protection from the sun’. Later entries in the ledger catch your eye. Around 1919, a new column appears in the bookkeeping: ‘<<link "Approved by M.D.">><<set $clue.ledger to true, $achievements.allClues.ledger to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>>’. Could this be the Mother Darge you overheard the crones talking about earlier? If so, she must be an important leadership figure indeed, to require her consent for these transactions.<</append>> <<set _ledger to true, $insanity ++, _check to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> </ul><</do>> <hr> <ul><li> [[You have seen enough. Best to move from behind the counter before you are caught snooping where you shouldn’t be.|Ch2-SA2]]</li></ul>

You shoot a quick look around to make sure no one is watching you. Then you quietly duck behind the door to the storeroom. The room is musky and smells faintly of salt and rotting seaweed. There are plenty of jars filled with the same grotesque items you found in the storefront. Luckily, there are some points of interest scattered around: a case by the back wall filled with books, and boxes filled with paper. As you walk towards it, you notice your footsteps sound differently. Looking down, you find a trapdoor below your feet, cleverly disguised by being made of the same wood as the floor. <<do>><ul> <<if !_trapdoor>><li> <<link "Try to open the trapdoor.">> <<append "#SAChoiceB" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>The trapdoor won’t budge, and there does not seem to be another way to open it from this side. Wherever this trapdoor leads, it is barred from the other side. Logically, there must be some other entrance to whatever is behind it. It wouldn’t make much sense for there to be some storage cellar down there if you could not open it from your side. Rather, you believe it is probably part of some underground pathway. <<if $clue.churchtrapdoor>>Could it be related to the passage in the church?<</if>> <<link "Best make a note of it.">><<set $clue.storetrapdoor to true, $achievements.allClues.storeTrapDoor to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>> Nothing to do about it now, but leave it alone.<</append>> <<set _trapdoor to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_books>><li> <<link "Search the books by the back wall.">> <<append "#SAChoiceB" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>The books are ancient, almost falling apart under your touch. They seem to be ledgers, going back decades. This store must have been in business for quite some time. From what passages you can make out, these ledgers were used to catalogue purchases at the store. While most are rather straightforward, some ‘special transactions’ are skin-crawling. One particularly gripping exchange from 1878 is detailed as ‘<<link "The MacDonach clan offered their lastborn to the deep siblings, as the babe showed signs of being blessed">><<set $clue.ledger to true, $achievements.allClues.ledger to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>>’. The details are not offered, but the implications turn your heart to ice.<</append>> <<set $insanity ++, _books to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_box>><li> <<link "Search the boxes by the back wall.">> <<append "#SAChoiceB" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>The boxes are labelled with initials and last names: “I. MacLeod”, “L. Thorne”, etc. One box grasping your attention is labelled as “M. Darge”. Recalling the conversation between the crones as you entered the store, you grab the box to check its content. To your surprise, you find something looking to be a genealogy. However, instead of individual names, it records whether Darge’s ancestors were born in Gairbuie or not. Almost all are. Some nodes, including the bottom one, have the word “chosen” scribbled next to it.<</append>> <<set _box to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> </ul><</do>> <hr> <ul><li> [[You have seen enough. Best to move back to the storefront before you are caught snooping where you shouldn’t be.|Ch2-SA2]]</li></ul>

You move back to your starting point. As it happens to be, you are just in time. You can hear a clunking noise coming from the storeroom. “Be right with ye,” a voice calls from back. Soon, the store clerk appears. He is a short, balding man, who looks to be in his mid-twenties, and wears a dirty white apron over a thick shirt. There is something off about him, something not immediately obvious to you. “Hope I didn’t keep ye waitin’ too… Oh… I don’t think I have seen ye here before, stranger. I know most everyone from Gairbuie… Let me guess. <<switch $dress>><<case "modern">>You most certainly are from the big city, aye? Edinburgh? Or even more south?”<<case "fancy">>Ye’re some sorta hoity-toity <<if $mc.gender is 1>>lord<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>lady<<else>>noble<</if>>? Didn’t think ye lot deigned to come down to the village.”<<default>>Just another vagrant, are ye? Know this stranger: don’t count on charity for outsiders in Gairbuie.”<</switch>> You give the young clerk your best apologetic smile, as if he’s fingered you just right. Seems like your clothing does indeed convey the image Edward had figured it would. Still, you should try to get some additional information out of him about this ‘Mother Darge’ you keep hearing about. It’s probably something the locals are unlikely to want to discuss with //outsiders// such as yourself. <ul> <li> [[The best way to get people to talk is to surprise them with a non sequitur. Try to make small talk, then randomly insert the name to catch them off guard.|Ch2-SA3][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[People like to talk about what they’re passionate about. Let’s see if you can organically steer the conversation toward the topic.|Ch2-SA3][$choice to 2]]</li> </ul>

“I see that my attire has given me right away, good sir. Still, would you mind if I perused your wares? I intend to leave before sundown, and would like to buy a small bite to eat for on the road.” The clerk lets out a grunt and motions toward the store shelves. “What ye see’s what we have. Take yer pick, <<if $mc.gender is 1>>sir<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>ma’am<<else>>skipper<</if>>.” You pretend to browse the shelves. You’ll probably have to buy something to make the ruse seem believable, but it’s all part of the plan. “So, what would you recommend, my good man?” Another grunt. “Fisheye’s a local delicacy ‘t is. Not that most outsiders would appreciate it.” You nod noncommittally. Fisheye certainly wouldn’t be your choice of appetiser if you were to throw a dinner party. If you had to choose, //you would probably go with…// <ul> <li> [[A dry loaf of bread. Boring, but believable as food to take on the road.|Ch2-SA4]]</li> <li> [[Some dried meat and fish. It will make for a nice snack during the hike back up to the manor.|Ch2-SA4]]</li> <li> [[A jar or two of marmalade. Maybe the housekeeper will like you better if you bring something for the pantry?|Ch2-SA4]]</li> </ul>

<<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> “Ah. Yes, I believe I had heard something about the scrumptious habits here. Why, Mother Darge had told me…” When you casually mention that name, the clerk goes stock still. “Mother… Spoke to an outsider? No… Our leader… But… That’s a defiling of our ways… Surely…” The man bangs his hands on the table. His eyes are full of fury. Cognitive dissonance can be a real bitch. “You lie!” he growls at you angrily. “I do not know where ye first heard that name, outsider, but ye should leave here and never speak it again.” You suppress a smile. It would not do to antagonise this man even more. Even if you could take such a physically unintimidating individual on in a brawl, the resulting ruckus might attract more attention than you bargained for. “I apologise, my good man. Actually, it seems my appetite has suffered somewhat for the rude manners on display here. If you would excuse me.” With that, you leave the store. <<default>> “A local delicacy, you say? My, how fascinating! Are there any other local habits that make Gairbuie special?” The clerk gives you an initially skeptical look, then shrugs. “Well, we’re more reverent of the ways of the past than most others. These days, folks constantly move from one place to another. Not us from Gairbuie, though. We’re pretty insular. Got our own festivals, holidays, ‘n such.” Despite his initial reluctance, you can tell that the clerk is really getting into it. “We come together, tell stories, and make reverence to our ancestors. It’s beautiful, but I doubt an outsider like ye would understand. Mother Darge, our leader, says that…” The clerk goes stock still. You imagine mentioning this Mother Darge to an outsider must be quite the faux pas among this community. “In any event, I best close up the store soon, if ye don’t mind.” You exchange your goods with the clerk. He hands you back your change, and closes and locks the door behind you right as you leave. You cannot help but smile as a result. <</switch>> <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch3-1][$chapter to "Chapter 3", $clue.darge to true, $achievements.allClues.darge to true]]</li></ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> By now, the pub has started filling with farmers, fishermen, and day labourers. While the atmosphere can hardly be called exuberant, there are a few cliques of people involved in animated discussion. As the night would progress, you can imagine the flow of alcohol making things almost homely. “Be right with, ye love!” a plump woman wearing an apron and carrying a platter with ale calls out when she notices you. You take the moment of pause to glance around the pub, and plan your next move. There are two groups sitting by themselves: one group has a table by a small window, while the other one stands by the fireplace, seemingly admiring a painting hanging over it. The first group is huddled together, talking in hushed voices as soon as you came in. Their expressions are dour and serious, yet their conversation seems to be an animated one. If you don’t attract any attention, and wait for them to be a glass or two deeper into their drinks, you may be able to overhear something interesting. Or they could clamp up completely when they notice you moving close. The second group seems decidedly more jovial. You can see some of them smile and laugh as they converse with their friends. They almost make you feel like you are in any other pub in the world but one in Gairbuie. //Almost//. Of course, there is no guarantee they will actually welcome you joining them, or know anything worth knowing, even if they do. You are more comfortable in your ability to… <ul> <li> [[…eavesdrop on the first group.|Ch2-TAa]]</li> <li> [[…socially ingratiate yourself with the second group.|Ch2-TAb]]</li> </ul>

You get a cheap <<TAADrink>> from the innkeeper, who immediately moves on to serve someone else. You feel somewhat sorry for her, having to do all this work by herself. Still, you do not linger longer on the thought, as you soon find a dark, secluded spot in a corner. The locals initially eye you with suspicion, but you pretend not to notice. Instead, you make a show of sipping your drink slowly, while staring into the dark, fizzing liquid, hoping to look like someone trying to drown their sorrow in ale, without concern for what is happening around you. The locals huddle together more closely, surely concerned with being overheard. Focussing on your glass, you cannot see them, but you can hear the rough scratching sound of their chairs being drawn over the floor. //Maybe they really are discussing something important.// Or maybe they just don’t like outsiders - it would certainly fit with what you’ve seen of the village thus far. <ul><li> [[You just continue staring into your glass.|Ch2-TAa2]]</li></ul>

Who knows? Maybe they’ll forget about you after a few more drinks and let slip something. Of course, you should make sure not to be too inebriated yourself, lest you’d forget your task at hand. So you keep your eyes on your drink, whilst with your ears focussing on the locals. The contents of your order seem to swirl around, even as you sit perfectly still. You find your eyes drawn to the churning eddies as if by magic. The peculiar movements of the translucent liquid, betrayed only by how the dim light outside is refracted through, gripe you like a maelstrom. You try to tear your gaze away from it, but find that you cannot. You feel you are drowning, gasping for air. A slammed fist from the table next to you shocks you out of your daydream. Just how long was I doting for? The pub seems to be just as busy as before, its clientele only marginally more inebriated. //Not too much time has passed, then.// <ul><li> [[Try to establish where the sound came from.|Ch2-TAa3]]</li></ul>

The pub seems to be just as animated as before you dozed off. With only one exception. The locals you had intended to eavesdrop on have gone eerily quiet. They are all looking at one of their own: a plump woman, with a complexion and form both mirroring the of a juicy apple - shiny, red, and very round. She clearly had one whiskey too many, as she slurs her words while spitting and cursing. Her voice is just a little too loud not to overhear, although none of her fellows seem willing to correct her. //Perhaps they fear her?// “Bu o’course we odda do sumfin ‘boutta feckin’ dandy. //Hic!// Feckin’ rich tit sunva… sunva… Rich tit! //Hic!//” “Darnit Brenda,” cautions a pale, gaunt man with stubble wearing a flat cap. “Keep it down, will ye?” “Ah, shut yer trap, ya old coot! Jus buh-//Hic!//-cus I’s the only’s gotta stones ta say what we’re all tinkin’! Rich tit’s been here all a’ two months, ‘n na we get coach droppin’ off strangers middle odda night? ‘s unnatural ‘s what tis.” “Right. Well, us all have lived with someone livin’ in the castle at any time, and we never had no trouble.” “This ‘un’s diffrunt, I tell ya. //Hic!// Been snoopin’ round. Last ‘un just mind ‘s own manners. We needa talk ‘bout this ‘un.” “We’re talking, aren’t we?” “Not wit you, yer feckin’ pungent discharge ‘f a pissed cow! Ah meant wif ta rest o’ da village. Got the big meetin’ t’morrow done we?” <ul><li> //[[Hello. That is mighty interesting.|Ch2-TAa4]]//</li></ul>

“Gat us a shiny new moon, we do. Tha means dere’s a meetin’.” Another fist meets the aged hardwood of the table. You can hear glasses jangle and ale splash on the floor. “Ye’ve had one too many, I reckon, Brenda.” //Try three. Not that you’re complaining.// “Think it be time fer ye ta go home ta Angus.” “Wut are ye blabberin’ on about, yer bloomin’ fool? I feel jus’ fine, see?” Brenda chugs the caramel coloured contents of her dirty tumbler in one go, and gives her drinking buddies a smirk that lacks quite a few teeth. Slowly, yet with terrifying inescapability, her chair tips backward, her rictus grin unmoving. The chair and its voluminous occupant land on the floor with a solid //THUD//. You hazard a quick glance at the inebriated woman. She is wedged firmly in her seat, her jaw clenched, yet her lips still showing a drunkard’s smile. Her fellows have a look at her. “Don’t s’pose anyone’s got some smelling salts on ‘em?” “Nah.” “Figures. Well, if she ain’t wakin’ up ‘fore we go, guess she’s gonna wake up with a wooden back on the morrow… Ye get it? ‘Cause o’ da chair?” Sterling as the comedy may be, you decide you are unlikely to hear anything more of interest. At least you know there’s an upcoming meeting between some of the less agreeable villagers coming up. Not as much as you had hoped, but it is better than nothing. //<<link "Tomorrow, huh?">><<set $clue.meeting to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>>// You pay your tab, try to make yourself inconspicuous, and head out of the establishment. You spent some time here, and it has got dark outside. <ul><li> [[You shudder when you recall how creepy your walk yesterday evening was.|Ch3-1][$chapter to "Chapter 3", $clue.meeting to true, $achievements.allClues.meeting to true]]</li></ul>

You get a cheap <<TAADrink>> from the innkeeper, who immediately moves on to serve someone else. You feel somewhat sorry for her, having to do all this work by herself. Then, you casually saunter over to the group standing by the fireplace. The painting shows a cliff-side running off into the distance, with a rowdy sea, waves crashing against the shore, making up the right side of the panel. Sun rays descend from the left side, cutting diagonally over the painting. They illuminate the waves in a way that makes them look to be in motion, even on the canvas. If it is a painting of the Scottish west coast, where you are right now, the painter must have faced south when they made it. You wonder whether the darkness was a deliberate move by the artist in order to accentuate the overall mood, or whether it is due to the smoke from the fireplace below. The longer you look at the painting, the more you realise what a masterpiece it actually is. The duality of light and dark intersects with that of land and sea. The technique is flawless. You half expect the waves to splash you in the face from where you are standing. //And yet…// And yet, there is something about the piece you cannot place. You have a feeling, based on the outline of the coast, that this must be a painting of the local coastline. In fact, you can make out a small village in the distance, one you believe to be the village of Gairbuie. Strangely, the castle is nowhere to be seen. You move to take a closer look at the painting. //Huh?// It occurs to you that the layer of paint is rather thick. //Why would it be so…// The realisation strikes you. <ul><li> //[[There must be another painting underneath this one!|Ch2-TAb2]]//</li></ul>

Of course, there is no way you could scrape off the top layer without anyone finding out, and you don’t think you could take the painting all the other patrons noticing. “Admirin’ the artwork, are we <<if $mc.gender is 1>>guv<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>lass<<else>>skipper<</if>>?” A well-built, middle-aged man wearing a flat cap smiles at you. You reckon you must have been staring at the painting for quite some time. “Ah… yes, it is really rather impressive. I hope you don’t take offense, but I had not expected to see something this artistic in Gairbuie.” “Hah, oh, no offense taken <<if $mc.gender is 1>>guv<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>lass<<else>>skipper<</if>>,” the man chuckles, “I’m not from here, originally. Neither is the proprietor, nor most of the folks standing here. Don’t think the bloke who painted that was either. There’s a couple of us folk who come to Gairbuie, stay for a few years, then move on. Suppose you’re moving along as well? Haven’t seen you here before.” <ul><li> //[[My, my, isn’t this man gregarious?|Ch2-TAb3]]//</li></ul>

<<switch $dress>> <<case "drifter">> “Just movin’ through. Been a drifter for quite some time now.” “Figures. Not many folks come to Gairbuie on purpose.” <<case "modern">> “I am from London, enjoying some holidays in the countryside. An innkeeper in Inverness told me to hike through the region here.” “Huh. Can’t imagine that innkeeper knows much about Gairbuie then.” <<default>> “My family hold lands down south. They sent me to Scotland to look for real estate to invest in. The mansion up the hill looked promising.” “Well, you should talk to the owner up there, then. Most folks in Gairbuie don’t think much of the owner.” <</switch>> "Oh? Would you mind if I asked a few questions about this place?” you try to say as nonchalantly as possible. The man shrugs. “Sure. It’s not e’eryday that I get to ‘ave a chat with someone from out of town. What would you like to know?” <ul> <<do>> <<if !_q1>><li> <<link "“Are there many people like you in Gairbuie? Non-locals I mean.”">> <<append "#TAchoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>“Are there many people like you in Gairbuie? Non-locals I mean.” The man shrugs at your question. “A handful I s’pose. Maybe two or three families? Most move on after a few years. Me, I been having troubles findin’ a buyer for my farmstead, or I would ‘ave moved already. Still, can’t complain too much. I live comfortable, even if me social circle is somewhat limited.” <</append>> <<set _q1 to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_q2>><li> <<link "“What do you know about the castle on the cliff?”">> <<append "#TAchoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>“What do you know about the castle on the cliff?” The man scratches at his shoulder. “Not much, ‘sides the fact that most locals look upon it with anger or contempt. Apparently, <<link "the village was built before the castle">><<set $clue.village to true, $achievements.allClues.village to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>>, not the other way ‘round. Don’t know any details, though.” <</append>> <<set _q2 to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_q3>><li> <<link "“What can you tell me about Edward Harcourt?”">> <<append "#TAchoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>“What can you tell me about Edward Harcourt?” The man scratches a few tough beard hairs. “Aye, that name sounds familiar, it does. I believe he’s the bloke that lives up in the castle yonder. Most folks come in here don’t think too highly o’ him, but that’s the same for all outsiders.” <</append>> <<set _q3 to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_q4>><li> <<link "“What can you tell me about the locals?”">> <<append "#TAchoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>“What can you tell me about the locals?” He sighs. “They’re misers and they’re curmudgeons, they are. Joyless lot, if you ask me. Maybe it’s the climate, or maybe it’s how insular they are. Locals don’t leave, ‘n they don’t like outsiders like you ‘n I coming in. Still, their pounds are pounds, and their shillings are shillings, ‘n there’s not like all the labourers in Glasgow are looking to move ‘ere, so they put up with me and I with them.” <</append>> <<set _q4 to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <</do>> <li> [[“Can you think of any other useful information to share?”|Ch2-TAb4]]</li> </ul>

The man with the flat cap looks over his shoulder at the solitary group sitting further away. So do you. They seem to be occupied in their own conversation, huddled over a single table, nursing half-empty glasses of stout and whiskey. He puts a heavy arm around your shoulder, and leans in conspiratorially. His coarse flannel smells of animals and straw. “Few folks from town were talkin’ by that table over yonder, evening ‘fore last. They were pretty soaked, if ye get my meaning. They mentioned they were ‘looking forward to their regular meeting’ next new moon. By my reckonin’, that’s tomorrow night. I wouldn’t know what exactly ‘ll be goin’ on, but it’ll be nothin’ good, I reckon.” You nod thoughtfully. <<link "That is indeed good to know.">><<set $clue.meeting to true, $achievements.allClues.meeting to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>> Much like the flat-capped man, you can only guess at what this meeting will be about, but even your brief stay in Gairbuie has made clear to you that something about this village is off. You quite doubt it’ll be a family-friendly event. Maybe you can find some information about what will happen if you were to compare notes with Edward. You pay for your drink and bid the helpful man a good evening, before heading for the road back to the manor. It is already remarkably dark outside. Maybe you are making too much out of this. After all, it’s not unusual for a far-off village like this to have some quaint winter ritual,// right?// Still, you cannot escape an ominous feeling of impending doom as you walk across the streets muddy from last night’s rainstorm. The distrustful gazes of the villagers seem to burn themselves into your back. //What are they planning? And why are they so hateful towards outsiders in general and Edward in particular?// You put your hands in your pockets and sigh. This is all starting to look like the plot from a bad movie. And not necessarily one where the hero makes it out in one piece. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch3-1][$chapter to "Chapter 3", $clue.meeting to true, $achievements.allClues.meeting to true]]</li></ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> You saunter in the direction of the docks. For the most part, they’re not much to look at. Two flimsy and salted wooden walkways stand out in the water. Currently, the area is devoid of people, but several rickety fishing boats are moored: you imagine most of the fishermen returned earlier, and are now having a drink in the pub. A cold sea wind is coming in from the west. A salty spray from the waves gently caresses your face. //The calm before the storm… //You have a quick look around. The docks seem deserted. <ul><li> [[As good a time as any to have a look at these boats.|Ch2-PA2]]</li></ul>

The boats are small and rickety, and the old wood croaks and cracks as you step inside the closest one. It takes you a moment to get used to the balance of the boat, but you find it is not too difficult, so long as you make no sudden movements. The boat is filled with the kinds of implements you would expect there to be present. An old and worn fishing net lies crumpled up on the floor of the boat, as is a sun-bleached but otherwise undamaged linen sail. <<do>><ul> <<if !_fish>><li> <<link "Investigate the fishing nets.">> <<append "#PAchoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>You can tell that these nets have seen plenty of use over the years. The connections with the weights are frayed, as if they have not been repaired in a while. Slimy brown seaweed is tangled up throughout the nets, which makes it an altogether unpleasant affair to sift through them. A bad-tempered crab tries to snap at your fingers, but you’re able to pull back your hand just in time. You pick up the malevolent crustacean and chuck it into the ocean. An irregularity in the wood underneath the nets catches your eye. You run your fingers over it… //Feels like someone deliberately carved this into the wood…//<</append>> <<set _temp to true, _fish to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_sail>><li> <<link "Investigate the sails.">> <<append "#PAchoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>The sails are clearly weather-worn, but otherwise well taken care of. Even among the surly villagers of Gairbuie, they know that a good sail can be the difference between life and death on a stormy night at sea. The linens are of proper quality, oiled against the spraying of the salty waters. Nothing else stands out. You lift the sail to see if maybe something is underneath it. It is difficult to make out in the growing darkness of dusk. However, as you run your fingers over the wood underneath the sail, you can feel irregularities in the wood. These feel too systematic to be random notches. //These are carvings…//<</append>> <<set _temp to true, _sail to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if _temp && !_carving>><li> <<link "Investigate the carvings.">> <<append "#PAchoice" t8n>><<ScrollABit>>The lettering is not in any script you recognise. It is jagged and angular, and the shapes interlock with one another like chains. There is something about the carving that troubles you, although you just cannot place your finger on it.<<if $dream.book>> //Have I seen this before? Maybe in a dream?// It would be more likely those played a part in your nightmares. <</if>><</append>> <<set _carving to true>><<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> </ul><</do>> <hr> <ul><li> [[Before you can investigate more, you hear voices from across the water.|Ch2-PA3]]</li></ul>

“Blimey, James! Do yer ‘ave eyes in yer head, lad? Ye almost hit me with yer paddle!” //Blasted!// You were certain no boats were coming in from the open sea. //So where did these two come from?// If anyone sees you poking around in a boat like this, you would certainly be in great problems. <ul> <li> [[Hide underneath the sails until these men are gone.|Ch2-PA3a]] </li> <li> [[Quickly, but quietly climb out of the boat and sit on the dock.|Ch2-PA3b]]</li> </ul>

You lay down in the boat and cover yourself with the sails, trying not to rock the boat too much. The sails are heavy and smell salty, but they are thankfully not too dirty. However, the wood of the boat’s hull can hardly be said to be comfortable. Keeping still will be an arduous chore. You hope the two late-comers will not take too long in getting moored. //Why were they still out on the water, anyway?// The voices are becoming louder as the boat gets closer. “Like I told ye, James, we oughta leave earlier so we arrive with the others. We stand out like so.” “Ah! Bollocks to that, Bill. Who be here to see us arrive this late, eh? No one, that’s who. Anyway, we are dependent on the tides. Can’t leave the cove too early or too late, or you rip the hull on the floor of the cavern.” <ul><li> //[[Hello. What’s this about a cove, then?|Ch2-PA3a2]]//</li></ul>

“Erg. I know squat ‘bout any o’ that. All I know is the cove seems fine. No beasties, nice ‘n prim ‘n proper.” A thud somewhere above your head tells you the boat carrying the two men has arrived at the dock. The waves from their boat cause your hiding place to rock back and forth ominously. The boards creak as Bill and James disembark. You hold your breath, trying to stay as silent as possible. “Anyway, I’ve had more than enough o’ this cold arse shite weather. Let’s get a pint o’ lager ‘fore we head home, yeah? My treat.” “Ah, why not. Since ye’re feelin’ so generous ‘n all.” Their voices continue to be audible over the sound of the waves rocking against the boat for just a little longer. Then they are gone. You throw off the sails, and take a deep breath of fresh air, finally able to breathe in deeply. //Couldn’t have withstood another second!// You clamber out of the boat, and believe it would be best to head home now. //It’s getting dark…// <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-PA4]]</li></ul>

Judging by the volume of the voices, the latecomers are still some distance away from the jetty. Plus, they seem to be in quite the lively conversation to care about anything else. If you are careful enough, you should be able to get out of the boat, and pretend you were there all along. The operative word, of course, being ‘careful’. You stay close to the floor of the jetty, to both maintain your balance and remain inconspicuous. When you’ve got your body mass steadily on the slimy, salt-caked wood, you roll the rest of your body out of the boat. For a moment you lie there, breathing the cool sea air, half expecting to be called out by the two villagers coming closer in their boat. But the call does not come. Slowly, you raise yourself up, and look out over the sea. It has something beautiful to it, even in its roughness. The sun, low but still an hour or so from setting, gives the waves of the ocean a fiery orange halo. Strangely, you do not immediately notice the boat with the villagers. They are not coming from the open waters. As you scan the horizon, you find them closer to the shoreline than you had expected, coming from the direction of the manor. It is strange, then, you did not see their boat when you first arrived here. //Where could they have emerged from all of a sudden? // It also becomes obvious why they did not see you. The boat is a simple, two-person row boat without sails, entirely useless for the open sea. The rower is a massive, bald man sitting with his back towards you, and his corpulent form largely obscures the field of vision of the man who faces you. They are still talking to one another. “Like I told ye, James, we oughta leave earlier so we arrive with the others. We stand out like so,” says the man hidden behind the rower. “Ah! Bollocks to that, Bill. Who be here to see us arrive this late, eh? No one, that’s who. Anyway, we are dependent on the tides. Can’t leave the cove too early or too late, or you rip the hull on the floor of the cavern.” <ul><li> //[[//Hello. What’s this about a cove, then?|Ch2-PA3b2]]//</li></ul>

“Erg. I know squat ‘bout any o’ that. All I know is the cove seems… ‘old on there, James, lad, there be someone sittin’ on the wharf.” The rower tries to look over his thick ham of a shoulder, and fails. “What kind o’ someone?” “<<switch $dress>><<case "drifter">>Just some vagrant by the looks of it.<<case "modern">>Some city lookin’ <<if $mc.gender is 1>>man<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>woman<<else>>person<</if>>.<<default>>Some fancy-pants. Not that big-wig from the manor though.<</switch>> Now hush, $pronoun.they can hear us.” You give the two men an amicable nod and a ‘Good evening’, but they ignore you with disdain. As they head into the village, you let go of a sigh. //That… could have ended worse.// Then, you decide to head home. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch2-PA4]]</li></ul>

You consider what you learned from the two latecomers ashore. //Who or what held them up to arrive much later than the rest of the fishermen?// While you remember the mention of them being in a cove, which would explain why you did not see their boat when you first arrived at the docks, one question still remains: where could they have come from? Based on the curvature of the coastline, they must have come from around the cliff on which the manor is located. <<link '//Or is the cove right beneath the manor?//'>><<set $clue.cove to true, $achievements.allClues.cove to true>><<JournalUpdate>><</link>> No matter the answer, you cannot escape an ominous feeling of impending doom as you walk across the streets muddy from last night’s rainstorm. As you pass the abodes of the villagers, you can glimpse curtains being pulled aside, and skittish, paranoid gazes follow you around. You sigh. If there is indeed a secret cave system beneath the estate reachable by boat, that would be good to know. You very much doubt anyone in the village would be willing to loan or sell you theirs, however. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch3-1][$chapter to "Chapter 3", $clue.cove to true, $achievements.allClues.cove to true]]</li></ul> /* END OF CHAPTER 2 */

<<fadein 5s>> Darkness is falling by the time you get on the path leading back to the manor. //At least, it doesn’t rain like it did last night.// Instead, you walk up the hill with only the roaring of the sea to break the silence. You can smell the salt in the air from the waves beating against the cliffs. The night sky is clouded, with no moon and no stars to illuminate your path. The lights blinking in the manor windows are your only guide. A few minutes into your hike, the hair on the back of your neck suddenly stands on end. An ominous feeling of dread grips you by the throat, and you can hardly breathe. You are being watched. You can feel it in your gut. You furtively look around yourself, but the falling darkness makes it difficult to make out anything clearly. You can barely make out the grassy foothills, although the lights of the mansion twinkle in the distance. Then, from the corner of your eye, you see a shadow flit across the grass. It seems to walk on all fours, the size of a large dog, and yet the bending of the limbs betrays a humanoid physique. You are certain it is the same form you caught a glimpse of yesterday evening. //It must be!// The realisation that some hunched human is dogging your every move, it’s… <ul> <li> <<link '…making you feel extremely uncomfortable, scared even. <<if $belief is "no">>You are far from the superstitious type, but this is altogether perplexing.<<else>>You had expected some strange things, but this is altogether perplexing.<</if>> You try your best to keep calm, but fail miserably. You panic and run.' "Ch3-2a">><<set $insanity +=2>><</link>></li> <li> [[…all the more reason to get back to the castle post-haste. You try to keep an eye out in case this person, creature, whatever it is, makes a move on you, but you pick up the pace.|Ch3-2b][$insanity ++]]</li> <li> [[…something you won’t back down from. You turn around in a crouch: unabashed, unafraid. Ready for whatever is skulking in the dark, especially if it means you harm.|Ch3-2c][$insanity ++]]</li> </ul> <</fadein>>

For a brief moment, you are frozen by fear. The next, you bolt. You run, stumbling over your own steps and the gravel on the road as you go. At one point, you fall down, ripping your <<if $dress is "fancy">>fancy <</if>>clothes in the process. You scramble to get up, dirt getting under your nails. The waves crashing on the beach down below mixed with the pounding of blood in your ears drown out everything else. The smell of your own blood and sweat drives you like an animal. You continue to run, trip, and scramble your way up the hill. After what feels like an eternity, but is rationally probably not more than a handful of minutes, you stop and muster what little courage you have left to look behind you. Whatever presence stalked you is gone. At the very least, you no longer feel its presence. With the immediate threat over, your mind moves on to the more disturbing question. //What kind of person would stalk you in such a manner?// You take a look at your clothes. You are certainly looking worse for wear. <<if $dress is "fancy">>These clothes cost you a pretty penny, and they weren’t really meant to be run in. Your coat took the worst of it, but you should probably ask Edward for some spares from now on.<<else>>At least your clothes were shabby to begin with. It makes little difference all in all. Still, you might want to ask Edward for some spares from now on.<</if>> In any event, that was an altogether unpleasant experience. No matter how much you try to rationalise it, this trip to Scotland is getting more peculiar every hour. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch3-3]]</li></ul>

You can feel your skin crawl, but panicking at this moment would do you no good whatsoever. You stay cautious, taking each step up the path slowly and carefully. Your eyes keep scanning the shadows for that mysterious creature. Initially, it seems a smart idea: you make sure whatever you caught a glimpse of will not get the drop on you. Before long, however, you realise the shadows are playing tricks on your mind. First, you think you see the hunched creature up the path, then it seems to be down the path over by the village. A flitting shadow – //did you imagine it?// – makes you believe it is right next to you just a moment later. The paranoia is getting the better of you. You see multiple creatures scurrying around in the dark. Some are humanoid quadrupeds, others dogs, and yet other move like snakes: limbless and with otherworldly grace. They stalk and slither through the night, watching your every move. Their eyes are yellow or red, and weave through the darkness like will-o’-the-wisps. And yet you keep taking steps up toward the manor. You could merely be imagining the whole thing, with all these shadows playing tricks on your fragile mind. You cannot believe all this is real… but can you be certain, with everything that has already happened? Your heart skips a beat as you think of what to do. Running would just turn your back on these predators, and standing still will get you nowhere. So you weave your way through the shadows that lick at your legs, skittish and not a little perturbed. In any event, that was an altogether unpleasant experience. No matter how much you try to rationalise it, this trip to Scotland is getting more peculiar every hour. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch3-3]]</li></ul>

You stand your ground, perturbed and shaken, but strangely defiant in the face of this shadowy horror. Having stopped walking toward the castle, you pivot around, trying to see through the shadows. You cannot find the odd being among the surrounding countryside, but you retain the eerie feeling of being watched from the surrounding shadows. You are tense with nerves, ready to pounce. The icy wind howls around you, as you wait for your pursuer to show itself. And yet, the moment never arrives. It is exhausting, every shimmer of movement putting you on edge, never reaching that culminating moment of release. Briefly, you think you catch a glimpse of an animal on all fours, skirting and darting around you. Its shape is vaguely reminiscent of a large black hound, yet oddly malformed, with a powerful hump of muscle over its shoulders. Whenever you feel its eyes on your back, you pivot, but it always seems a split second ahead of you. And suddenly, it is no longer there. Whatever reason that… creature may have had to hound you, it has satisfied its urges. Maybe it was just a dog from some shepherd that wandered away from its flock? It is as plausible an explanation as anything eldritch… In any event, that was an altogether unpleasant experience. No matter how much you try to rationalise it, this trip to Scotland is getting more peculiar every hour. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch3-3]]</li></ul>

<<set $entry to 8>><<JournalUpdate>> Mercifully, the last fifteen minutes walking or so back to the castle are uneventful, if dreary, and cold. This morning, in the sun, the countryside could almost be considered pretty in a rugged sort of way. But at night, the wind blowing over the highlands sounds like the whispering of a banshee. You arrive at the manor and pull the bell. Not long after, the heavy, oaken door opens with a loud protestation from its hinges. The housekeeper – Mrs Culley – opens the door, and eyes you with the same suspicious gaze as the night before. Her conversation with Edward this morning seems to have done little to improve her mood. “What are you coming in so late for then, aye?” <ul> <li> [[“Charming as ever, Mrs Culley. I figured I would go for an evening stroll, experience that wonderful Gairbuie hospitality and pleasant climate. Now do please let me in. I would like to speak with Edward over a delightful supper.”|Ch3-4][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“Nothing special, Mrs Culley. I just went out for a walk, and lost track of time. I had little opportunity to see the countryside last night. Would you please inform Edward I have returned, and wish to see him in the dining hall?”|Ch3-4][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> [[“With all due respect, Mrs Culley, I fail to understand how that is any of your business. Now, if you do not mind, I have business to discuss with Lord Harcourt. Private business. The kind that housekeepers should not eavesdrop on.”|Ch3-4][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

The elderly, toad-faced woman scowls. <<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> “Oh, aye, but aren’t you a comedian? Well, I hope you enjoyed Gairbuie hospitality alright. And if not today, then there is always tomorrow… Aye, come in then, if ye must. Lord Harcourt is seated in the dining hall. I shall bring supper shortly.” <<case 2>> “Went to see the countryside, did ye? Aye, but I hope ye had a good look of the cliffs, ye did. The view from up that high can be quite spectacular. Well, come in then, if ye must. Lord Harcourt is seated in the dining hall. I shall bring supper shortly.” <<default>> “Aye, well, private business is private business, alright. And ‘t is not me eavesdropping that you need to worry about. Well, come in then, if ye must. Lord Harcourt is seated in the dining hall. I shall bring supper shortly.” <</switch>> With that said, the old woman walks away brusquely, her grey skirt swaying over the floor. //It may just be the exhaustion of the day’s ordeals, but did she just threaten me?// You try to shake the thought. It will do you no good to see conspiracies where there are none. You have enough to deal with as is, without investigating the house keeper. Still, her behaviour and demeanour strike you as unreasonably hostile. It may be worthwhile investigating her later. You [[head up the stairs|Ch3-5]], to the room where you had dinner with Edward last night.

Edward is standing by the table, bent over, looking at what appear to be old maps or maybe a floor plan of some sorts. He studies the material intently, and does not immediately notice your entrance. You scrape your throat politely. Edward responds without looking up. “Ah, $FirstName, good of you to join me. Please, do take a seat. Supper should be served shortly, and we can compare notes of our progress. Please, do help yourself to the scotch or brandy, if you are of such a mind. They are on the table, as is some glassware.” <ul> <li> [[You go ahead and pour yourself a snifter of brandy.|Ch3-5a]]</li> <li> [[You decide to not imbibe tonight.|Ch3-5a]]</li> </ul>

Edward only takes his eyes off his paperwork when supper arrives. Mrs Culley has prepared fish pie with garden peas, which she places on the table. The soothing smell of buttery, mashed potatoes emanates from it. She stiffly curtsies towards Edward, then leaves without looking at you. Edward takes a big, wooden serving spoon and places a generous helping of pie on your plate before helping himself. “Please, dig in. You must be famished. How did your trip to the hamlet fare? The villagers gave you no trouble, I hope?” <ul> <li> [[“Oh no. They were hospitality personified. Once you get past the spitting, name-calling, and threats of violence.”|Ch3-5b]]</li> <li> [[“I was able to soothe things over, so that it did not come to fisticuffs. But I must say that the locals were extremely suspicious of my presence.”|Ch3-5b]]</li> <li> [[“Well, they certainly tried to. I was heckled by a blasted ruffian. They certainly do not like outsiders here, let alone ones interested in the village.”|Ch3-5b]]</li> </ul>

“I was afraid that might happen.” Edward looks at you apologetically. “I have had little luck myself trying to talk to them. Certainly, I have tried to make friendly with the villagers myself. My uncle was never particularly beloved by the locals, nor, for that matter,” he smiles grimly at the portrait of Cornelius over the fireplace, “by his family. My cousins are small-minded villains, but I dare say they never had the greatest of role models. I met my late uncle only a few times, and he never bothered to visit us at our place, even as mother’s mind deteriorated.” Edward is silent after that, as if lost in thought. The flickering fire illuminates his face, casting shadows over his pronounced cheekbones. He seems absorbed in his thoughts, and you cannot say you are not grappling with questions of your own. //If Cornelius was such a bad person, how come he would try to help Edward find a cure? And why be so awfully vague in his will?// <ul> <li> [[Let Edward put his thoughts in order. Sometimes silence can help one think, and Edward seems like he could use some peace and quiet.|Ch3-5c][$feeling ++, $choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“Well, I suppose he must have had his reasons.” It does not help to speculate about the motives of a dead man, especially when there is work to be done.|Ch3-5c][$choice to 2]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> Edward runs his fingers over the carved, wooden frame of the painting, tracing the intricate craftsmanship. His back is straight and his shoulders seem broader than how you remembered them to be. But there is something about his speech – a tremble to his voice – which you had not previously noticed. You wonder if he himself sometimes doubts the strength of his own convictions. <<else>>“Yes,” Edward says. “Yes, I suppose he must have.” <</if>> He turns away from the painting. “Apologies, $FirstName. I am being an entirely ungracious host. Let us sup in peace, that we may be distracted momentarily from our efforts.” You enjoy the fish pie and peas without talking. The fire roars in the hearth, and the ancient castle seems to creak and groan around you. You find yourself wishing Mrs Culley were as hospitable as she is apt at preparing fish pie. After a long day of hiking through the countryside, it is exactly what you need. You finish just before Edward, who primly cleans his mouth with a napkin when he is done. Then, he gets up, pours himself a glass of brandy, and motions for you to follow him. “This conversation may better be had in the library. It is a lot smaller than the dining room, and thus stays warm and comfortable much easier. Would you be a dear, and help me carry these floor plans?” <ul><li> [[The two of you make your way to the library.|Ch3-6]]</li></ul>

Edward’s library could more accurately be described as a small reading room with a low coffee table and two comfortable, leather clad lounge chairs. A three-pronged candelabra sits on the table, casting a flickering light on mahogany bookshelves. Edward and you sit down. He sips his drink, smacks his lips, and lets out a deep sigh. “This is one of the few rooms I feel like I have made my own since inheriting Gairbuie Castle. Uncle Cornelius strangely did not keep many books here.” “//Strange//, Edward? How so?” “For all his many, //many// shortcomings, he was a remarkably erudite and learned man. Could read and write in no less than eight languages. According to my father, Cornelius could recite entire volumes of Caesar and Burke, yet I have found no volumes of any literary significance in the manor, thus far.” //Peculiar indeed//, you muse to yourself. Edward places his glass on the table. “Enough reminiscing. We should compare our notes.” He pauses, glancing at the pile of maps on the coffee table. “You go first, $FirstName. Tell me of your foray into the hamlet. Did your investigations turn up anything of interest?” <<set $talks to 0>> <<ChThreeEdwardTalk>>

Edward nods along as you recount your visit to the town’s general store. He seems unperturbed by the various stomach-churning ‘local specialties’ they had on display, but perks up when you mention the obvious reverence the locals reserve for the character of Mother Darge. “Interesting,” he muses. “I did not know that there was any sort of leadership structure among the inhabitants of the hamlet. If they do indeed have a spokesperson or spiritual leader of some sort, then their recalcitrance may be evidence of something more nefarious than a mere lack of hospitality toward strangers… <<if $clue.storetrapdoor>>The trapdoor is interesting, I suppose, but of little use to us. It may have been there for ages, unopened even by the current proprietors. <</if>>What else did you learn, $FirstName?” <<ChThreeEdwardTalk>>

You describe your visit to the docks, and your observation of the late arrivals from the open sea. Edward scribbles on a piece of paper with a pencil, trying to make sense of Gairbuie’s coastline and where the boat could have come from. “I see…” he mutters. “I must admit that I do not know the coastline all that well. The cliff on which the castle stands is far too high to consider lowering a boat from here, and, well… the villagers would not loan me theirs, I’m afraid. So it is entirely possible that a cove exists underneath the manor. But what would be there, and what were these fishermen doing there? In any event, did you learn anything more, $FirstName?” <<ChThreeEdwardTalk>>

Edward listens intently to your briefing of what you learned in the pub. He seems positively surprised to learn of the help you received there. “To be sure, I am glad to hear that not all villagers seem to bear you and I any ill will. Perhaps I had been too hasty in my judgement of the locals… In any event, there will be time later to establish relations with them. Let us focus on the task at hand. <<if $clue.village>>You mention that the hamlet was built before the castle? That is unusual, but not, perhaps, directly relevant. I’ll make a note of it, however.” Edward scribbles something down on a piece of paper. “<</if>>So, a certain group of malcontents is planning something for tomorrow night? I suppose it would be too much to hope that it will not concern us… We should make haste in our investigations. Speaking of which, what else did you uncover?” <<ChThreeEdwardTalk>>

You relate your foray into the abandoned church to Edward. If the vivid recounting of its decline and eerie atmosphere disturb him at all, he does not show it. “I am sorry that you had to go through that, $FirstName. This mystery has forced me to encounter situations such as that more often than I care to admit. You have to acknowledge, however, that it is most peculiar that a church, clearly not used for worship, has seen such frequent traffic. <<if $clue.churchtrapdoor>>And with a hidden passage underneath its pews no less. I do wonder where that is supposed to lead, for it to be such a popular avenue… <</if>>Something to ponder, in any event. Now, was there anything else you discovered?” <<ChThreeEdwardTalk>>

Edward reaches to the coffee table for a sip of his brandy, and puts the glass down on the floor next to his chair. Then, he lays out the maps he was perusing back in the dinner room just before supper. “I have been studying the old floor plans and architectural drawings of the castle, and I noticed something odd. Look here.” He brings out a drawing from the pile that seems to layout the exterior of the manor. The parchment is brittle and yellow with age. Nevertheless, the drawings are impressive. You recognise the style of the front windows and the masonry. Clearly, whomever designed the manor was an accomplished professional. “This has been drawn entirely to scale. These windows on the first floor right here,” he taps his finger for emphasis, “belong to the dining hall we were in, earlier. Notice anything peculiar?” You look at the drawing for a little while. “I am not entirely certain… There are five windows, the same as in the dining hall. I suppose I would have expected them to be located a bit more to the left based on the layout of the manor?” Edward gives you an encouraging smile. “Very good indeed, $FirstName! You are right. Now, compare it to this floor plan for that level of the house.” He takes a different sheet out of the pile. “Compare this to the drawing I just showed you. Does it not strike you as odd?” Knowing you were on the right track with your comment on the dining room makes this one easy. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch3-7a]]</li></ul>

“Indeed, it does, Edward. The exterior sketch made it seem as if the dining hall was in the centre of the south-facing side of the castle. But in this floor plan…” you trace the line with your finger “the dining hall is located in the south-west corner. One of these //must// be wrong.” Edward grins widely and slowly claps his hands. “Bravo! Bravo indeed, my good <<if $mc.gender is 1>>sir<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>madam<<else>>fellow<</if>>. Except, there is one slight problem. I went outside this afternoon to verify the location of the windows from the exterior sketch, and they are indeed roughly in the middle of the southern wall.” “So then, the floor plan must be incorrect, yes?” “That is what I originally suspected. But we just came from the dining room ourselves, and there is indeed no other room further west on the south side of the manor. So I ask you, how can this be?” You ponder the question for a moment before responding. <ul> <li> [[“Perhaps some of the exterior or interior windows are fake. Whomever built the castle wants outsiders to believe there is an easy entrance where there is none.”|Ch3-7b][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“There is no other room that we can see. But could there be some unknown structure west of the dining hall?”|Ch3-7b][$choice to 2]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> “That is certainly one possibility. In fact, I considered it myself as I was eliminating explanations. But I checked every single window from the inside, and they are all real, even the most westward one.” Edward holds up the floor plan again. “Your first instinct was correct, $FirstName. This floor plan is incorrect. More specifically, it does not show that there is some other, hidden room or passage west of the dining room.” <<else>> “My thoughts exactly, $FirstName.” His eyes sparkle like marbles, and he holds up the floor plan again. “There must be a part of the castle not shown on this drawing! For what purpose, I cannot say, but I have considered every possible reason, and this is the only one that I have not been able to falsify.” <</if>> Edward puts back the floor plan. “Whatever cure Cornelius referred to in his letter, it may well be very valuable… or very dangerous. If so, it makes complete sense that he was not more specific. He was worried someone with ulterior motives would intercept his letter, just as I was concerned about my letter to you falling into the wrong hands.” Edward smiles at you expectantly. “What do you think?” <ul> <li> [[“I suppose it is indeed possible. But we should not put all our eggs in one basket.”|Ch3-7c][$choice to 1, $feeling ++]]</li> <li> [[“I think you could have had an excellent career at Scotland Yard, were it not for your predilection toward creepy Scottish castles.”|Ch3-7c][$choice to 2, $feeling ++]]</li> <li> [[“I don’t know, Edward. Could it not be as easy as the floor plan being wrong, without there being some secret room behind the wall?”|Ch3-7c][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> Edward nods along as you continue with your explanation. “There likely is some sort of hidden structure built into the western façade, but we do not know whether it relates to Cornelius’ letter, or if he was even aware of what we now know. Time, as you have been astute to point out, is of the essence, Edward. <<if $clue.meeting>>We know something important will happen tomorrow night, and it could very well affect our options. <</if>>Who knows how long we may be searching for what is undoubtedly a well-concealed entrance?” <<elseif $choice is 2>> Edward snickers, and holds up his hands in mock modesty. “Yes, well, what can I say? I just cannot do without cold, clammy, frightful castles, now that I have gotten used to it.” You reciprocate his warm smile. “In all seriousness, Edward, we need to be smart about using the time we have. <<if $clue.meeting>>We know something important will happen tomorrow night, and it could very well affect our options. <</if>>Who knows how long we may be searching for what is undoubtedly a well-concealed entrance?” <<else>> Edward leans back in his chair, and looks at the ceiling. He seems to have deflated a little from his previous excitement. “I… suppose it is possible. Even if it were, however, you have to admit that it would be mightily peculiar to build a wall that thick instead of using the space.” “Of course it would be strange. But my point is that we do not know with absolute certainty that you are correct, and time is of the essence. <<if $clue.meeting>>We know something important will happen tomorrow night, and it could very well affect our options. <</if>>Who knows how long we may be searching for an entrance that may or may not exist?” <</if>> The young nobleman swirls his brandy without bringing the glass to his lips, mulling over your words. Sitting in the lounge chair with his drink, his right ankle resting on his left knee, lost in thought, he looks as intense and severe as you have ever seen him. The flickering light of the candelabra makes his brown locks seem as if they were dancing like charmed cobras. Still, with only a single candelabra, the room is rather dark, and the shadows that you and Edward cast on the mahogany shelves seem to move with malevolous intent. <<linkreplace "As if they were alive…" t8n>>As if they were alive… <<linkreplace "As if they were hunting you…" t8n>>As if they were hunting you… <<linkreplace "Like in your dream…" t8n>>Like in your dream… <ul><li> [[“Edward! Look out!!!”|Ch3-8]]</li></ul> <</linkreplace>> <</linkreplace>> <</linkreplace>>

“$FirstName?! Bloody hell, $FirstName, wake up! It is just a dream!” You gasp with horror as you rudely awaken from your slumber. When did you doze off? Edward has gotten out of his chair, and is kneeling beside you, lines of worry etched into his handsome face. “Take it easy now, my friend. Whatever you were dreaming of, it is not real. I am here by your side. We are both fine. Hey, look at me. Are you well?” Only now do you realise how close Edward is standing. You can make out the flecks of gold among the green of his eyes. You can see just a hint of incoming stubble left over from this morning’s shave, and smell a whiff of the brandy he has been drinking. If you wanted to, you could just reach out and… <ul> <li> [[Blush and stammer.|Ch3-8a][$feeling ++]]</li> <li> [[Play it cool.|Ch3-8b][$feelings ++]]</li> <li> [[Maybe he is a little too close now.|Ch3-8c]]</li> </ul>

“Oh, um… I’m dreadfully sorry, just… um, just… mortified! I must have, um… that is to say… I must have dozed off a bit… long day… dreadfully hot in here… just… dreadfully hot in here…” Edward leans back a little, and smiles reassuringly. His scent lingers just a moment longer around you, an intoxicating mixture of wood smoke, brandy and a hint of lavender. Maybe he has some dried leaves in his wardrobe. “Well, okay. So long as you are fine. Could I maybe get you something to drink?” “Oh… well… I suppose so, yes… Yes, that would be nice. Thank you, Edward.” He gets up, walks to the door, and looks back as if wanting to make sure you do not feel faint. He gives you another reassuring smile. //Is it just your imagination, your wishful thinking, or did you see a twinkle in his eyes?// “Just sit tight then. I will be right back, $FirstName.” And with that, he is gone. You did not realise you had held your breath until it all leaves your lungs in one long go. You sink back into your chair. //What is it about him that affects you so much?// Sure, he looks nice, takes care of himself, and he is eloquent and astute, but beyond those obvious things, //what is it about him that flusters you so?// It does not take long for Edward to come back. He carries with him a glass of water, which you gratefully accept. You feel your cheeks warm up as he offers it to you. //Did you really just make him get you a glass of water, because you were nervous to be that close to him?// Edward picks up the candelabra. “I would advise we adjourn for the night. It has been a long day, and we have a lot to think about. Shall I walk you to your room?” “Um… yes, I believe I would like that very much.” Edward courteously holds open the door for you. You just sip your glass of water. Best not to look into his beautiful, green eyes, twinkling in the light of the candles. You may just trip over your own two feet. Your room is just around the hallway. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch3-9]]</li></ul>

You reach out a hand and touch his cheek, the stubble feeling rough against your skin. “You know… you could have just asked nicely if you wanted to get close. I don’t bite… unless you want me to?” For a moment, Edward is flabbergasted. He just sits there, not knowing how to respond. You pat him on the shoulder. “There, there now.” You snicker playfully. “Seems my little snooze did //you// more bad than I. Shall I get you some water? Or something stronger?” For a split second, Edward fails to compose himself. Then, he chuckles subduedly into his closed fist. “Ahem. Well… My word, $FirstName, you did scare me right there, I’ll admit. Your offer notwithstanding, I think it best if I bring you something to drink and recuperate. Those screams betrayed a terror true, I have no doubt.” He gets up, walks to the door, and looks back as if wanting to make sure you do not feel faint. He gives you another reassuring smile. //Is it just your imagination, your wishful thinking, or did you see a twinkle in his eyes?// “Oh, and since you were so kind to offer, perhaps I will ask nicely next time.” And with that, he is gone. You did not realise you had held your breath until it all leaves your lungs in one long go. You sink back into your chair. //What is it about him that affects you so much?// Sure, he looks nice, takes care of himself, and he is eloquent and astute, but beyond those obvious things, //what is it about him that makes you feel so confident and at ease?// It does not take long for Edward to come back. He carries with him a glass of water, which you gratefully accept. You offer him a sly smile and a husky thanks. //Did he really just sneak out of the room because you made him blush?// Edward picks up the candelabra. “I would advise we adjourn for the night. It has been a long day, and we have a lot to think about. Shall I walk you to your room?” “My, oh my… Aren’t you performing the role of gentleman tonight? Perhaps a bit too much, some might say…” Edward courteously holds open the door for you. You confidently walk by him, and give him a wink. You feel tired, but not nearly tired enough to fail to be a shameless flirt. //Who could resist with those beautiful emerald eyes, twinkling in the candlelight?// Your room is just around the hallway. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch3-9]]</li></ul>

You gently, but firmly, put your hands on Edward’s shoulders. “Really, Edward, I am okay, I promise. You need not concern yourself about me, on my word. I think I must have just… dozed off.” “Are you certain?” Edward sits back a little, but remains kneeling by your chair, his hand on the armrest. “You suddenly screamed my name. Was it a bad dream? Did you see anything?” “Just… shadows playing tricks on my eyes, I suppose. It has been a very long, rather rough day, I am afraid to say.” “Okay, well, sit tight. I shall get you some water. That should help a little, I hope.” He gets up, walks to the door, and looks back as if wanting to make sure you do not feel faint. He gives you a wry, apologetic smile. “I know it has been a stressful day and then some, my friend. But we cannot let up now. I know you have my back. As I have yours.” And with that, he is gone. You sit back into the comfortable chair, and massage your temples. //By Jove, what a mess you have gotten yourself into, $FirstName.// Whether stress or ghastly influence, something about this entire affair puts you on edge. It does not take long for Edward to come back. He carries with him a glass of water, which you gratefully accept. You offer him a curt nod and your gratitude. //Just how much does this man want to sacrifice to reach his goals?// Edward picks up the candelabra. “I would advise we adjourn for the night. It has been a long day, and we have a lot to think about. Shall I walk you to your room?” “Um… yes, I believe that would be best.” Edward courteously holds open the door for you. You pat him on the shoulder, and sip your water. You feel dog tired, and more than ready to go to sleep. Your room is just around the hallway. <ul><li> [[Continue|Ch3-9]]</li></ul>

<<set $entry to 9>><<JournalUpdate>> You head into the room, still as overwhelmingly empty as the night before. You note that the bed has been made since this morning. //However, many complaints you may reasonably have about Mrs Culley, dereliction of duty is not among them…// Maybe it was just your paranoia that led you to ascribe threatening intent to her words? Edward remains standing by the door. He smiles pensively, as if his mind were elsewhere. //In the land of dreams already, perchance?// You wonder whether his dreams are any better than yours. If not, he must be exhausted. Weeks without a proper night’s sleep can wreak havoc on one’s constitution.<<if $background is "student">> You would know, having spent many a sleepless night studying dusty old tomes in the Jesus College library.<<elseif $background is "soldier">> You experienced that and far worse on those far Ottoman shores during the Great War.<</if>> “Edward?” you venture, trying to rouse him from his stupor. “//Mmh//? Ah… apologies. My mind was elsewhere. Just… trying to put the events that unfolded today together. I am certain there is something we are not seeing, but I cannot quite place it.” “Then let that be a problem for tomorrow, Edward. You shall not find any answers without proper rest, mark my words.” “Yes… yes, of course $FirstName. I should retire for the night. I hope you sleep better than last night. I shall inform Mrs Culley not to ready breakfast too early. I will see you at dawn.” With that, he grabs the handle, but does not close the door. He stands in the opening, his silhouette illuminated by the flickering lights of the candelabra. “$FirstName?” he ventures, his voice contemplative. “These dreams you have been having… would you… would you mind telling me what they showed you? I do not presume to have any right to know what goes on in your subconscious mind, but… I reckoned that it might be worthwhile to compare our experiences, given their aberrance.” <ul> <li> [[“Actually, Edward, I dreamt of you.”|Ch3-10][$choice to 1, $feeling ++]]</li> <li> [[“I recall a dark hallway, with a liquid shadow stalking me. I thought I saw that shadow just now as well.”|Ch3-10][$choice to 2, $insanity ++]]</li> <li> [[“Just… memories from the past. Yet far too lifelike to be mere recollections, or even dreams. It was as if I was reliving the memory.”|Ch3-10][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> He seems nonplussed for a moment. “I was the subject of your dreams?” he manages, ultimately. “Well, eventually, yes. First, I dreamed of a hallway. Potentially in Gairbuie, though I cannot say for certain. There seemed to be a… presence, I guess? It swallowed me up, and then I found myself in a room with a book and a portrait I had not seen before. Finally, my dream led me to a memory… a memory of our time together.” <<case 2>> He seems troubled by your words. “A shadow, just now? You mean when you called out my name in the library?” “Yes. Mayhap it was just a trick played by our silhouettes in the light of the candelabra, but it seemed far too… voracious, for lack of a better word. That wraith rocked me to my very core. Afterwards, I dreamed a memory, if such a thing could be said to be possible… a memory of our time together.” <<default>> He raises an eyebrow. “Lifelike memories? As in reliving the memory? Or did you feel in control of your actions?” “I… I am not entirely certain, now that you mention it. I know for certain I was in control at first, but then… The second part of the dream regarded our time together in the past. I felt in control, but maybe I just relived decisions I made in the past.” <</switch>> “Our time together? You mean <<switch $background>><<case "noble">>one of those summers in the countryside<<case "student">>our time at Oxford<<case "vice">>our time together in London<<default>>those dreadful days during the war<</switch>>?” “Yes. It was like I was experiencing those moments all over again. You were as lifelike as you are here, standing in front of me. A younger you, nevertheless.” “I see… Thank you, $FirstName.” “How about your own dreams? Were they at all similar?” “In a fashion. I too had memories. Of family… loss…” His expression is weary. “I also saw my fears of the future. Things I am unable to fix, and things I stand to lose.” <<if $feeling gt 4>>//It may just be your imagination, but did he just look at you wistfully?// <</if>>You do not quite know how to react to that. It is obvious this has been a difficult time for Edward. He has put on a brave face, but it slipped there, if only for a moment. Before you are able to respond, he has turned away. //Does he not want to show weakness? Why?// “In any event, I have intruded far too much already on your time. I bid you good night.” And with that, he closes the door, leaving you in total darkness. You feel like a small child, locked in a room made for someone twice your size. You sigh. Seems like there is nothing to it, but to go to sleep. You change into your nightgown, and [[get underneath the bedsheets|Ch3-11]].

Before too long, you drift off to sleep. Your fatigue is more than enough to assuage your concerns about those strange dreams. The sheets feel heavy on your tired body, and you let the soft mattress and cold air overwhelm your senses. Your dreams are uneasy, but thankfully not as lifelike as last night. <<timed 3s t8n>>[[Until…|Ch3-11a]]<</timed>>

[[A high-pitched, howling noise awakens you.|Ch3-11b]]

You sit up in bed, a thin film of sweat covering your brow. It is freezing cold inside the room, your nightgown and the sheets are barely enough to keep you from shivering. The reason becomes clear soon enough; the window is wide open, the night air blowing inside your room. The noise of the wind must be what woke you up. //Was that not closed when you went to bed?// <<timed 3s t8n>>[[And then, another noise…|Ch3-11c]]<</timed>>

Something squeaks on the other side of the room. The door to your room opens from the inside. A shadow darts into the hallway. //Who – or what – in all the blazes of hell was that?// You jump out of bed, ready to run after the shadow. The floor feels cold against your bare feet. You slip on some slippers, close the window, latch it, and move towards the door. “Edward?” you ask, uneasily. “Mrs Culley? [[Who is there?|Ch3-11d]]”

The hallway answers with naught but silence. All the torches and candlesticks have been extinguished. It is so dark in here, you cannot make out your own hand when you extend it forward. The darkness is so pervasive that you feel, rather than see, a shadow brush past your leg as it hurries past you. It takes you unawares, and you cannot help but recoil. You know you will never be able to purge the feeling of it moving against your thigh from your memory. Even now, the mere recollection of its touch makes your skin crawl. It felt muscular, like a large dog, only hairless, and was moving swiftly along the hall. //Great Scott… was that thing in your bedroom just now? Did it… watch you sleep?// <ul> <li> [[Your shock washes out swiftly. Whatever it is, you cannot let it roam the halls and rooms of the manor. Time to go after it!|Ch3-12][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[Your legs are shaking. More than anything, you want to go back to bed, and forget about this whole affair. Though, at the very least, you may want to let Edward know.|Ch3-12][$choice to 2, $insanity ++]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> The shadow rushed past you to the left – moving towards the south-eastern corner of the castle. It must be able to see in the dark, like a cat, or it would not be able to move at such speeds. //Either that, or this is not the first time it has skulked through the halls of the mansion at night… Now there is a frightening thought.// You, on the other hand, have only spent a cumulative waking hour or so here. <<else>> “Let’s see,” you mumble. Looking around both sides of the wall, you realise you do not know for certain where the master bedroom is. You do recall, however, that the servants’ quarter is on the ground floor, where Mrs Culley retreated for the night after letting you in when you arrived. Aggravating as her disposition is, you cannot imagine she would approve of some hulking monstrosity dirtying her clean floors. You believe you can make it from your room to the stairs. You just have to head in the direction of the staircase. The hallway is quite dark, making your progress very slow. <</if>> One hand against the wall on your left, you inch along the hallway, trying not to bump into anything, or trip over your own feet. The sound of your slippers shuffling over the floor is the only noise to break the complete and utter silence around you. Were it not for the cold, yet comfortable feeling of the wall against your hand, you would be completely devoid of sensory feedback. After a few minutes of slowly, yet firmly moving forward, you come to a rightward corner. You feel your way around it, taking care not to bump your knee on a low table with some sort of porcelain vase on top. You continue on your search for the shadowy… //what even is it? An animal? A monster? Could it be a horrifically malformed person?// Given its speed, it must have gotten quite far ahead of you since it left your room. It may even be preferable at this point to retrace your steps and to wake Edward, or even Mrs Culley, to search in unison. Without realising, you have started to lean more on your left arm than is prudent. Then suddenly, the wall is no longer there, and [[you tumble down|Ch3-13]].

//Ouch!// <<timed 1s t8n>> You groggily get back up. You tumbled down what felt like roughly hewn stairs. Your buttocks feel sore, but overall you seem to be unharmed. //That… certainly was peculiar…// Having walked though that hallway just this evening, you are fairly certain you would have noticed a hole large enough for a person to fall through. //No… no matter now.// You can just scramble back up and [[get back to the hallway|Ch3-13a]]. <</timed>>

Except you cannot. <<timed 0.5s t8n>>The hole is no longer there. <<next>>You are trapped. <<next 1.5s>>//[[And you are not alone.|Ch3-13b]]//<</timed>>

<<set $currentRoom to passage()>> An aberrant growl echoes faintly around you. Whatever creature it emanated from is thankfully not close. That does not put you fully at ease, however. That noise most certainly did not come from anything you would want to meet in a pitch black… wherever you are. //Okay, focus.// The entrance is closed behind you. That means there is only one way to go: <<link "forward">><<unset $timing, $timer, $difficulty>><<popup "MazeDiff" "Level Difficulty">><</link>>. There is still no light, and you will have to make your way through by touch.

<<if $lastRoom isnot "Ch3-13b">> You find yourself back in the room with the runes carved into the moss. This is where you first entered this confounded maze. //Blast it all!// <<else>> You keep a hand on the wall whilst moving forward, taking care not to put too much weight on it again. You’d rather avoid falling through another hole… Thankfully, you find a little light further along in this tunnel. The source is as interesting as it is peculiar. A bioluminescent moss covers most of the walls. It glows with a faint, emerald green light. After the darkness from earlier, it is a great relief. You also notice that the moss has strange, missing patches in places. It takes you a moment to realise they are no mere quirks of nature. These are runic carvings. Given how cleanly they are cut into the moss, you would reckon they must have been done recently. The markings are frightfully familiar. <<if $dream.book>>//This script… is it the same as from your dream?//<<else>>You cannot quite place it, and it is probably best not to dwell on it.<</if>> In any event, there is a certain pattern, with which the carvings are distributed across the walls. //Perhaps some sort of local idolatry?// You doubt you could decipher their deeper meaning, <<if $background is "student">>as you have never encountered a script like this even in your time at Oxford<<else>>even if you were inclined to do so right now<</if>>. No time to consider these eldritch drawings further: you recall with dread the bestial sound you heard earlier. You should try to leave this maze as fast as you can. From where you are, there are two paths to take, both lit by the green glow of the moss. <</if>> <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-13b">> <li> [[Take the path forward.|Ch3-L-C][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Take the path right.|Ch3-L-B][$timer ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-B">> <li> [[Retrace your steps.|Ch3-L-B][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Go right.|Ch3-L-C][$timer ++]]</li> <<else>>/* previous is Ch3-L-C */ <li> [[Retrace your steps.|Ch3-L-C][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Go left.|Ch3-L-B][$timer ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("markings")>><</if>>

<<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-E">> You head back the way you came toward the small round room. You have gained a few scrapes and bruises, but are otherwise none the worse for wear. <<else>> The green glow leads you down a long forgotten hallway. The masonry has lost a lot of mortar, and in certain places roots are showing.<<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-A">> There are fewer markings here, and you can feel a faint, cool draught.<</if>> You happen upon a small round room, with four passages leading from it, including the one you just came from. The moss illuminates all paths, although you cannot look ahead more than twenty feet or so. <</if>> <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-A">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-D][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-M][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-E][$timer ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-E">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-A][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-D][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-M][$timer ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-D">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-M][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-E][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-A][$timer ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch3-L-M */ <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-E][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-A][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-D][$timer ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("oval")>><</if>>

<<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-A">> You move down the hallway. On your lefthand side, the brickwork makes place for a regular, natural stone wall. It looks pale and brittle, not unlike the stone that composes the local cliffside. You find yourself in a room with an underground lake on your left. It faintly smells of rotting fish. There is a path ahead, and one on your right as well. <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-F][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-D][$timer ++]]</li> </ul> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-F">> You move down the hallway. On your righthand side, the brickwork makes place for a regular, natural stone wall. It looks pale and brittle, not unlike the stone that makes up the local cliffside. You find yourself in a room with an underground lake on your right. It faintly smells of rotting fish. There is a path ahead, and one on your left as well. <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-A][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-D][$timer ++]]</li> </ul> <<else>>/* previous is Ch3-L-D */ Before too long, you catch a whiff of rotting fish coming from the path ahead. You happen upon a room with a small underground lake straight ahead. Luckily, it is not a dead end: there are pathways on both your left and right. <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-A][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-F][$timer ++]]</li> </ul> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("lake")>><</if>>

As you move cautiously onward, your eyes catch a glimpse of faint light up ahead. You speed up with a lightened heart. //Is it the end of this confounded maze at last?// No such luck, unfortunately… You happen upon a room with a crack in the ceiling. The pale moonlight filters through, illuminating your surroundings. There is a frail beauty to seeing a ray of light as such: incorporeal, yet clearly existent. You cannot stop to admire it, however. <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-B">>There is a path forward, and a path to your left.<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-C">>There is a leftward and a rightward path.<<else>>There is a path forward, and a path to your right.<</if>> <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-B">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-C][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-H][$timer ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-C">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-B][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-H][$timer ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch3-L-H */ <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-B][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-C][$timer ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("moonlight")>><</if>>

You leave the round room. The echoes are stronger this way. The reason becomes apparent before too long: there is a massive sheer drop just ahead. It is so large, and so dark, that you cannot see the other side, if indeed there is one. //Confound it all! A dead end…// Nothing to do, but to [[retrace your steps|Ch3-L-B][$timer ++]]. <<MazeMonster>> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("drop")>><</if>>

<<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-C">> The cavernous wall on your left once again makes way for the masonry all too familiar by now. You find yourself in a small room – more of a nook, really – with a rough stone table. On the table stands a brass bowl filled with an unrecognisable, but foul smelling sludge. You have no time to investigate, and even if you did, the smell would be a good enough reason not to. There is a path right ahead, and a tight tunnel to your right. <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-G][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-H][$timer ++]]</li> </ul> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-G">> You retrace your steps to the alcove with the primitive altar. You can head straight, or turn left. <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-C][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-H][$timer ++]]</li> </ul> <<else>> /* previous is Ch3-L-H */ Thankfully, the tight passageway is not too long. You find yourself in a small room – more of a nook, really – with a rough stone table. On the table stands a brass bowl filled with an unrecognisable, but foul smelling sludge. You have no time to investigate, and, even if you did, the smell would be a good enough reason not to. There is a path to your left, and a path to your right. <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-C][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-G][$timer ++]]</li> </ul> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("altar")>><</if>>

You do not need to head on for too long until you notice that the passageway ahead has collapsed. Based on the thick layer of dust on the crumbling masonry, it must have happened in decades, if not centuries past. You have no choice but to [[retrace your steps|Ch3-L-F][$timer ++]]. <<MazeMonster>> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("collapse")>><</if>>

The passage leading to the next room is exceedingly tight. You have to flatten your body against the cold stones in order to pass through. The contact makes you shiver, leaving goosebumps all over your skin. You happen upon a junction, with the option to go <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-D">>left or right<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-F">>straight or right<<else>>left or straight<</if>>. Either is just as tight of a passage as the one you came from. <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-D">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-D][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-I][$timer ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-F">> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-I][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-D][$timer ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch3-L-I */ <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-F][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-D][$timer ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("tight")>><</if>>

<<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-H">> Thankfully, the tight passageway opens up before too long. You find yourself back among the ancient masonry you have grown to know and despise. As if to inform you that things could always be worse, the next room is filled with the scurrying, squeaking sound of rats. Thankfully, the beady-eyed rodents disperse when you enter the room. You have the option to go left or right. <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-K][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-J][$timer ++]]</li> </ul> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-J">> You head further into the damp, clammy hallways you have grown to know and despise. As if to inform you that things could always be worse, the next room is filled with the scurrying, squeaking sound of rats. Thankfully, the beady-eyed rodents disperse when you enter the room. You have the option to go left or straight. <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-H][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-K][$timer ++]]</li> </ul> <<else>> /* previous is Ch3-L-K */ You go back the way you came. These damp, clammy halls are getting on your nerves. As if to inform you that things could always be worse, the next room is filled with the scurrying, squeaking sound of rats. Thankfully, the beady-eyed rodents disperse when you enter the room. You have the option to go straight or right. <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-J][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-H][$timer ++]]</li> </ul> <</if>> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("rats")>><</if>>

This deep into the dungeon, the air seems staler and drier. You enter a large room. To your surprise, it has some furniture: a wooden table and three stools. All are ancient, and no longer look suitable for use. You wonder whether these halls may have one day been part of the manor. So why is this no longer the case? A shiver goes down your spine. //Better not to linger in this foul place.// <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-I">>There is a path straight ahead, and a path to your left.<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-L">>There is a path right, and a path to your left.<<else>>There is a path straight ahead, and a path to your right.<</if>> <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-I">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-L][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-M][$timer ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-L">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-M][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-I][$timer ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch3-L-M */ <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-L][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-I][$timer ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("furniture")>><</if>>

Down this path, the bioluminescent moss is once more prevalent. A good thing too, as you might have missed the dark, barely perceptible pit in the middle of the floor. It covers the entire hall, and is about 7 feet in diameter. You peer down. //A spiked pit? What kind of hell maze is this?// There is [[no way to go but back|Ch3-L-I][$timer ++]]. <<MazeMonster>> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("pit")>><</if>>

The next hallway is shorter than any of the previous ones, and you can feel a strong, cold draught. You can hear the sound of the wind whistling through the masonry. //Are you getting closer to the exit?// You sure hope so. The room you enter has four entrances, including the one you come from. You could head left, right, or go straight ahead. <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-J">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-S][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-P][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-Q][$timer ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-P">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-J][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-Q][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-S][$timer ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-Q">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-P][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-S][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-J][$timer ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch3-L-S */ <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-P][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-J][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-P][$timer ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("almost")>><</if>>

The walls around you seem ancient, though perhaps they are merely less well kept than those of the manor’s interior. You doubt Mrs Culley cleans here every other week. Your hunch is confirmed when you enter the next room. The hollow-eyed grin of a skeletal corpse smiles at you. It is clad in tattered clothing. It is difficult to pinpoint its age with precision, though you hazard it has been here for decades. Who was this unfortunate soul? And what led to their demise? Will your bones join theirs down here? You could take a path <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-B">>left or straight<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-J" is 1>>left or right<<else>>right or straight<</if>>. <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-B">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-J][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-N][$timer ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-J">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-N][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-B][$timer ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch3-L-N */ <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-B][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-J][$timer ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("skeleton")>><</if>>

<<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-O">> At least on your way back, you remember to watch out for the roots that are scattered across the dark floor. You return to the overgrown junction. You could continue your dungeon crawling left or right. <<else>> As you head down this hallway, something catches you by the ankle and you almost trip. You check what it is. //A tree root?// Even in the darkest places, life still grows. The next room you enter is difficult to navigate. The roots are thick here, having broken through the brittle masonry aided by the slow, inevitable onset of time. <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-M">>There is a path broken open by the roots on your right, and a passageway straight ahead.<<else>>There is a path broken open by the roots on your left, and a passageway straight ahead.<</if>> <</if>> <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-M">> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-O][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-P][$timer ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-O">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-M][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-P][$timer ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch3-L-P */ <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-O][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-M][$timer ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("roots")>><</if>>

The roots become thicker down this path. It takes you significant effort to clamber over them, until at one point, it is no longer feasible to head further. The roots are simply too thick, their bark too rough. To continue would be folly. <<MazeMonster>> <ul><li> [[Head back.|Ch3-L-N][$timer ++]]</li></ul> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("more")>><</if>>

When you enter this room, you notice that the floor seems to be moving. Is it… liquid? Otherwise, why would it be moving? To your horror, it is nothing quite so mundane. As you get closer, you see the floor is writhing with shiny, black beetles. Luckily, they part way at your approach. Disturbing, then, but at least not an impediment to your progress. You cannot wait to get out of this labyrinth of terrors. <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-L">>A path is available right, or left.<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-N">>A path is available right ahead, or left.<<else>>A path is available right, or right ahead.<</if>> <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-L">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-Q][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-N][$timer ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-N">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-L][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-Q][$timer ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch3-L-Q */ <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-N][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-L][$timer ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("beetle")>><</if>>

<<if visited("Ch3-L-Q") gt 1>><<set $insanity ++>><</if>> You walk into a room with four entrances. In its centre stands a black basalt obelisk. The light from the moss seems to dwindle, as if sucked in by the unsettling column, leaving little but shadows around it. A pernicious aura seems to emanate from the structure, which leaves you feeling queasy. Best not to linger too long here. It does not seem beneficial to your sanity. You could head left, right, or straight. <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-L">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-S][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-R][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-P][$timer ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-P">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-L][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-S][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-R][$timer ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-R">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-P][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-L][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-S][$timer ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is "Ch3-L-S" */ <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-R][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch3-L-P][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-L][$timer ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("pillar")>><</if>>

You leave the room with the pillar behind, and head down the next corridor. Before too long, you are faced with a tapestry blocking your way. Its colours and details have long since worn with time, but its patterns are reminiscent of the Celtic style. It is far more jagged and angular than the normally smooth contours of Celtic symbology, however. Unfortunately, behind the tapestry you only find a solid wall, leaving you no way to go except [[back the way you came|Ch3-L-Q][$timer ++]]. <<MazeMonster>> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("tapestry")>><</if>>

Do you smell firewood? //Yes!// You are certain it is close. Now it is just a matter of following your nose, and not tripping at the last hurdle. You think you can smell the burning logs and hear the crackling in the hearth to your <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-L">>left<<else>>right<</if>>. But can you truly trust your senses after being stuck so long down here? You could also head <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-L">>right<<else>>left<</if>>. <<MazeMonster>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch3-L-L">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-14]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-L-Q][$timer ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch3-L-Q */ <li> [[Head left.|Ch3-L-L][$timer ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch3-14]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("glimmer")>><</if>>

<<unset $timer>> You stumble onward, your nightgown filthy and frayed. You trip over a stone, and try to seek balance against the wall next to you. <<linkreplace '// *Click* //' t8n>>// *Click* // //What was that?// With a heavy rumble, the wall against which you tried to balance yourself gives way. It edges outward slightly, then slides to your right. Behind it, the warm, orange glow of an open stove flickers before your eyes. //A kitchen, perhaps?// You scramble forward, trying with all your remaining strength to exit that hellish maze. As soon as you fall through the opening, the wall closes behind you with a lumbering thud. You look around. Based on the masonry, as well as the size and quality of the kitchen, you hazard a guess that you are still in Gairbuie itself. At least you have that going for you. But if this is the kitchen, that means you find yourself in the domain of… “Good Lord! What do ye think ye be doin’ in //my// kitchen at this hour?” … Mrs Culley. She looks at you, lying on the floor, as one might look at a particularly persistent rodent. “Well? Cat got yer tongue?” <ul> <li> [[“Well, Mrs Culley, I was merely looking for a late-night snack. Where ought I to go but the kitchen?”|Ch3-15][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“Ah yes… ‘fraid I got a wee bit lost. Could you point me towards the restroom, please?”|Ch3-15][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> [[“Your kitchen, is it? Apologies, Mrs Culley, but last time I checked, it was Lord Harcourt’s name on the deeds to Gairbuie. Is that not so?”|Ch3-15][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul> <</linkreplace>> <<if $FirstMazeMap>><<run $FirstMazeMap.pushUnique("end")>><</if>>

<<set $entry to 10>><<JournalUpdate>> <<if !$achievements.mazeOneHard && $difficulty to "extreme">> <<set $achievements.mazeOneHard to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Blind Escape">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <<if !$achievements.mazeNoDeath && !$mazeDeath>> <<set $achievements.mazeNoDeath to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: On The First Try!">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <<switch $choice>> <<case 1>> “A late-night snack? Ye seem ta be under the impression that this is some sort of big city hostel, aye? That this entire place and its inhabitants exist to serve at yer very whim? Well, ye can expect no such service from my kitchen.” “I am… not looking for service. I was merely wondering if there were something here to sate my appetite.” “Well, there is none to be had. Naught but oats in the pantry right now, and I ain’t heatin’ up the stove until the morning. Now shoo, and let me get back to sleep.” <<case 2>> “Ye be… a restroom?! Ye daft city folk, there be a chamber pot in yer room! What do ye think that’s there for?” “Oh… ah well. I had not thought that was its intended purpose. I thought it was meant to gather any leakages. Well, leakages from the ceiling if you catch my drift.” The housekeeper scowls at you with disdain. “Well then, now that I have enlightened ye on the uses o’ the humble chamber pot, ye can head back to your room and make use of it, eh?” <<default>> The housekeeper gives you a venomous look. “Lord Harcourt is quite wise to let me run the affairs o’ his kitchen. It is, I should think, an inditement to his choice in friends that ye do not show the same common sense.” “Be that as it may, I have neither the obligation, nor the wish, to explain myself to you, Mrs Culley.” “Aye? Well then, I shall just assume that whatever business brought ye here, ‘tis now concluded. So of your way ye go then, and next time ye need anythin’, please do not barge into my kitchen as ye did. Someone else may have taken ye for a burglar, and taken some drastic measures… with a frying pan.” <</switch>> //<<if $choice is 3>>As charming as ever… <</if>>Ah well, at least that seems to have satisfied her curiosity.// Happy to be out of the confusing maze, and out from under Mrs Culley’s scrutiny, you head out and take the stairs up to your bedroom. The path is still as dark as earlier tonight, but for better or for ill, you are quite familiar with its layout by now. //Best not to lean against any of the walls, though…// As you enter your room, you take great care to close and lock both your door and your window with the latch. You also knock on all the walls, just in case. Satisfied that there are no secret entrances from which anyone could enter to disturb your slumber, you head back to bed. Apprehension and fear keep the sandman at bay. But ultimately, fatigue catches up to you, and you drift off to sleep. <ul><li> [[Sweet dreams.|Ch4-1][$chapter to "Chapter 4"]]</li></ul> /* END OF CHAPTER 3 */

<<unset $FirstMazeMap, $timing>> <<fadein 5s>> When you wake up, a watery sun is already shining through your window. It must be quite late already. After the night you had, you figure you earned the right to sleep in a little. You raise yourself to a sitting position in bed. You perceive an <<linkreplace "unusual package" t8n>> unusual package <<replace "#reveal" t8n>> You throw off the sheets, trembling slightly from the cold. Right. Tattered nightgown and all that. The note is folded so as to stand upright, and you recognise Edward’s handwriting in the calligraphed capital H on the cover. You unfold the <<linkreplace "piece of paper" t8n>> piece of paper <<append "#reveal" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> <div class="letter">$FirstName, Mrs Culley informed me of your little nightly adventure. I suspect there is more to it than what you chose to divulge to her. Please, join me for a game of chess in the library after you read this. We have much to discuss. Also, I took the liberty of finding some spare clothes for you. <<switch $dress>><<case "fancy">>I figured that you would not want to dirty that exquisite outfit of yours any further.<<case "modern">>I figured that you would like to keep your own looking sleek and smart.<<default>>The ones you took are almost falling apart at the seams.<</switch>> They should be in your size. Faithfully yours, Edward Oberon Harcourt </div> You have a look at the pile of clothes on the chair. There is a simple, but sturdy and warm pair of woollen pants, linen shirt, and tweed waistcoat. On top of the clothes is a pair of suede Chelsea boots, unworn. You smirk. //<<switch $background>><<case "noble">>Edward always was better at dressing for the occasion, even when you were children.<<case "student">>Even when you were students, Edward always knew how to dress for the occasion.<<case "vice">>Edward always dressed for the occasion, even at his lowest points in London.<<default>>Even when he had to observe a military dress code, Edward still knew what to wear, and when.<</switch>>// In any event, the clothes you brought for this trip are not here, presumably taken away by Mrs Culley to be laundered. <ul><li> [[Best to just put these on, unless you wish to play chess in the nude.|Ch4-2]]</li></ul> <</append>> <</linkreplace>>. <</replace>> <</linkreplace>> placed on the chair, and, looking around the room, you notice a note on the drum desk as well. <</fadein>>

<<unset $dress>> You get dressed. The linen feels cool and smooth against your skin. The clothes provided by Edward may be simple, but they are far from uncomfortable. There is a small, unadorned mirror inside the dresser, and you examine how they fit you. //Not too shabby, even if you do say so yourself.// Happy with your look, you leave your room and head down to the library. As you pass the table with the porcelain vase, you shudder. That means that somewhere around here must be where you fell down last night… where you stumbled into that ancient, forgotten dungeon… <ul> <li> [[Have a look around. There could be a clue.|Ch4-2a][$choice to true]]</li> <li> [[Move on. Best not to dwell on what happened last night.|Ch4-2a][$choice to false]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice>>However, no matter how long you look for the entrance to that tenebrous maze, there is no crevice, nor even scruff marks on the floor to indicate where that unfortunate event befell you. You hope you nevermore have to go through what you did last night. Yet, you have a niggling concern that you have not seen the last of those cavernous corridors.<</if>> You decide to try and forget the horrors of that tenebrous maze. Further down the hall, you pass by an open window. It is sunny outside, and while the cold bricks of the manor remain cool to the touch, the rays provide a pleasant warmth, and you move closer to the glass. You take a moment to appreciate the view. From here, you can see along the entire coastline. The view is serene and picturesque, causing you to stop for a little while longer to admire its beauty. To your surprise, you spot a figure moving in the distance. An even greater surprise is that the figure is slowly moving towards the manor. His gait seems almost limping. In any other situation, at any other time, in any other foreboding castle, this likely would not cause you too much consternation. And yet, the events of the past two days have you on edge. Might caution not be the prudent choice? <ul><li> [[You make a mental note to ask Edward.|Ch4-3]]</li></ul>

Across the hall, you can smell freshly brewed coffee. The nutty scent titillates your olfactory senses. The promise of refreshments and a warm drink pulls you towards the library. You could do with something like that after last night. You enter the room. Edward is dressed somewhat more sparsely than usual. In fact, he wears a very similar outfit to yours, though his shirt is collared, and the sleeves are rolled up. A blue necktie adds a fashionable, modern, yet gentlemanly note to his outfit. He looks up as you approach him. You see that he was setting up a chessboard. “Ah, $FirstName, I am happy to see you in good spirits. Not many enter the kitchen of Mrs Culley without permission and come out unscathed!” He grins, but catches himself when he sees that you cannot laugh at the joke. “I apologise… I did not know… Mhm. I guess there must be more to the story of how you ended up there. Would you care to talk about it?” <ul> <li> [[“Not really. Let’s just say your hunch about a hidden passage was correct, and leave it at that.”|Ch4-4][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[Sigh. “Yes… yes, I think I would like that. It was… decidedly unpleasant. Hopefully, it will help to get it off my chest.”|Ch4-4][$choice to 2, $feeling ++]]</li> <li> [[“Oh, I do not know,” you jest. “I would not want you to be unable to sleep tonight. Then again, I do so enjoy regaling you with my heroic exploits.”|Ch4-4][$choice to 3, $feeling ++]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> Edward sighs, and stays silent for a moment. “Of course. Forgive me for my presumption. I can respect your wish not to talk about your feelings in this regard. Still, it is useful that you could confirm my suspicions, that there are indeed hidden tunnels littered throughout the internal structures of the manor.” <<else>> <<if $choice is 2>> Edward stops fiddling with his chess pieces, and puts them aside. He pours you a cup of coffee, and slides it towards you. “Please, take your time.” He tries to smile reassuringly. “If it turns out this is not helping you, do not feel obliged to continue. I am always here if you need a listening ear, however.” <<else>> Edward chuckles, as he rolls a chess piece over his knuckles. “Well, I will just run the risk of nightmares, if it means having the pleasure of being your captive audience.” He puts the piece that he was fiddling with on the board, and strikes a more serious tone. “I appreciate your sense of humour, I truly do. But I hope you know you can set levity aside with me if you need to.” <</if>> <<if $choice is 2>>You sip the coffee, take a deep breath, and try to make yourself comfortable in your chair.<<else>>You nod, and make yourself comfortable. Even if you can laugh about it now, last night was decidedly unpleasant.<</if>> Remembering and recounting your ordeal is hard at first. Somehow, you are afraid to be judged, or even have your recollection disregarded as bogus – you can see how one would have trouble believing that such events truly passed. Yet, Edward does not speak. He lets you talk at your own pace, occasionally nodding, but never interrupting. As you go on, you become more confident. It helps you a great deal to put the events of last night in order, as if saying it gives you back a little bit of control. Still, the horrors you’ve experienced are hard to shake off, even as talking about them alleviates your heart somewhat. When you are done, Edward takes a deep breath. “Well… I must say, I had not expected something quite so terrifying.” He looks at you with a hint of worry. “I am glad you shared, of course. I hope it… helped.<<if $feeling gt 4>>” Edward reaches out to squeeze your hand. Blushing slightly, you turn your head to hide your feelings. He seems not to have noticed. “<</if>>In any event, it is useful that you could confirm that there are indeed hidden tunnels littered throughout the internal structures of the manor.” <</if>> He reaches into a box lying on the floor, right next to the table. He takes out a few more chess pieces, and carefully places them on the board. You recognise this board. You and Edward shared <<cycle "_games">><<option "many a game">><<option "a game once or twice">><</cycle>> <<switch $background>><<case "noble">>as children<<case "student">>as students<<case "vice">>when you got bored of cards and drinks<<default>>during your rare free moments at Gallipoli<</switch>>. It is a fairly simple one, chipped on the edges; a telltale sign of frequent use. The squares and pieces are made from maple and walnut wood. While it is far less luxurious than the exotic materials used in most boards owned by the nobility, the craftsmanship is still sublime. Edward sets the last pieces on the board. “Perhaps, if you are not comfortable talking, right this instance, we can try to take your mind off of things with a friendly game over coffee and warm oatmeal?” He smiles at you deviously. “You do still know, how to play, correct?” <ul> <li> [[You smile right back. “Oh indeed I do, my dear Edward.”|Ch4-4a][$feeling ++]]</li> <li> [[You shrug. “It will pass the time, I suppose. Maybe help us put our thoughts in order.”|Ch4-4b]]</li> </ul>

He smiles back at you warmly, somewhat mischievously. “Full of confidence, I see. Now there is the $FirstName I recall from the olden days!” He tucks a lock of his chestnut hair behind his ear. “Of course, I also recall that you usually lost our little games.” “Funny. Because I do not recall you had to resort to such mind games back in the day, my dear Edward. Perhaps it is your skill that has decreased without a sparring partner of my quality?” There is a twinkle in his eyes. You realise, while you may have spotted it occasionally since arriving in Gairbuie, it had only been faint, as if obfuscated by a veil of regret and sorrow. Now, however, it sparkles brightly. Peering into his eyes is like seeing a thousand buttercup flowers in a verdant green field. “Oh, I assure you: trying to goad me into making mistakes will do you no good… and neither will trying to distract me with your stares.” “<<if $feeling gt 4>>Erm… Yes, well that was not my intention. It would not quite be a victory, if I neglected to beat you fair and square, yes?<<else>>Truly? And here I thought my stares were your one emotional weakness.<</if>>” Edward smiles roguishly, and leans back comfortably in his chair. “Right… Well then, shall we commence? You go ahead and take the white pieces.” You start by moving a pawn into… <ul> <li> [[… A4.|Ch4-5]]</li> <li> [[… D4.|Ch4-5]]</li> <li> [[… E4.|Ch4-5]]</li> </ul>

Edward smiles at you. “Jolly good. I knew you would be up for it, $FirstName! I should warn you, I have had little opportunity to play over the past year or so. It may surprise you, but Mrs Culley is hardly interested in playing me, bless her heart.” “Truly?” You chuckle. “And here I was thinking her on par with any Grandmaster. Certainly, she has the killer mentality for it.” “You jest, $FirstName, but for all her shortcomings, she is a woman with a remarkable sense of duty. Cornelius… was not an easily satisfied man, yet she remained in his employ for years – the only one of his servants to do so, might I add. Without her command of the household, I am afraid I would have been even more out of my depth.” Edward reclines in his chair. He sips his coffee, and stares out of the window. The pale sunlight catches him in the face. It emphasises the green in his eyes, and accentuates his already pronounced cheekbones. It also makes him look slightly gaunt, far more unhealthily so than you had previously observed. You wonder how well he has been sleeping or eating recently. “Right… Well then, shall we commence? You go ahead and take the white pieces.” You start by moving a pawn into… <ul> <li> [[… A4.|Ch4-5]]</li> <li> [[… D4.|Ch4-5]]</li> <li> [[… E4.|Ch4-5]]</li> </ul>

<<set $entry to 11>><<JournalUpdate>> The game ebbs back and forth. For the most part, Edward and yourself are taking it easy. In between making your moves, you enjoy coffee, hot oatmeal, and recalling events from your <<switch $background>><<case "noble">>childhoods<<case "student">>university years<<case "vice">>London exploits<<default>>time in the military<</switch>>. It is nice to put all the events of the past few days behind you for a short while. This is more like what you had in mind when you received Edward’s invitation to spend a few days in a Scottish manor. “By the way, Edward,” you start. “Mhm?” His response acknowledges your question, but he does not look up from the board. It is his turn, and he is preoccupied with mulling over his next move. “When I stopped by the window this morning, I saw a figure in the distance, moving towards the castle. Do you think we should be worried? You mentioned how poorly the region had welcomed you… Could it have been a villager with nefarious intent?” “Mhm. Did they move with a limp?” “It seemed that way, from a distance at least.” You frown, surprised by his reaction. “How did you guess?” “That’ll be the groundskeeper. Graeme Barlow. He comes around regularly to take care of the plant life around the manor. He is a harmless fellow, no need to concern yourself.” “Ah… I see. Yes, that should be all right then… Apologies for being so jittery.” <ul> <li> [[Move a pawn to G4.|Ch4-6]]</li> <li> [[Move a pawn to H4.|Ch4-6]]</li> <li> [[Move a pawn to C4.|Ch4-6]]</li> </ul>

Edward plays with his hair, curling a lock around his finger. It’s something you have seen him do before: a tick he falls back on whenever he concentrates so intently on something that he forgets about his surroundings. It is not something the conscientious young man permits himself often. You find yourself smiling, as it is a most charming sight. Finally, he moves a piece: rook to D6. “Do you think about her often, Edward?” “Mhm?” “Your mother, I mean.” He does not look up from the board. He has stopped playing with the strand of his hair. “My mother… we have a strange relationship, she and I. The psychoanalysts down in Vienna would probably have a field day with me.” He lets out a chuckle, but it contains no mirth, only sadness and regret. “<<if $background is "student" or $background is "soldier">>She fell ill while I was still a child, with no obvious cause or forewarning.<<else>>I am not certain how much you remember from <<if $background is "noble">>our summers together<<else>>your interrogation of doctor Kitson<</if>>, but she fell ill while I was still a child, with no obvious cause or forewarning.<</if>>” He sighs deeply. “I suppose my obsession with this matter of my life stems not from her absence, but from how agonisingly close she was while not being a functional part of my life… Her condition deteriorated so swiftly that it caught the entire family by surprise. I still see her tortured, terrified face in my dreams… I apologise, I did not mean to scare you. Let us focus on our match, yes?” The game continues mostly in silence after that brief exchange. You are past the opening moves, and into the middlegame. Edward has a slight advantage, but the result of your friendly match is still up in the air. You are mulling over your next move. Edward is down a single knight, whilst you are down two knights. All the other pieces are still on the board. Edward just advanced a pawn to A6. You can feel the game slipping away from you. <ul> <li> <<link "Play it safe and methodical. Edward is good, but you can win if you keep your calm and concentration.">><<set _win to random(1,10)>><<if _win < 5>><<set $chesswin to true>><<else>><<set $chesswin to false>><</if>><<if $feeling > 5 >><<goto "Ch4-7a">><<else>><<goto "Ch4-7b">><</if>><</link>></li> <li> <<link "Be bold! Nothing ventured, nothing gained after all.">><<set _win to random(1,10)>><<if _win < 7>><<set $chesswin to true>><<else>><<set $chesswin to false>><</if>><<if $feeling > 5>><<goto "Ch4-7a">><<else>><<goto "Ch4-7b">><</if>><</link>></li> <li> <<link "It is only a friendly game, so who cares if you lose? Just try to have a good time and do not overthink things.">><<set _win to random(1,10)>><<if _win < 3>><<set $chesswin to true>><<else>><<set $chesswin to false>><</if>><<if $feeling > 5>><<goto "Ch4-7a">><<else>><<goto "Ch4-7b">><</if>><<set $insanity -->><</link>></li> </ul>

And so, the game continues. Edward seems firmly in control, although you notice he has started to falter just a tad, thinking longer about his moves after you switched up your strategy. Although the intent was to have this be a light, entertaining escapade amidst the darkness of recent events, the young man looks troubled by something. After taking a long sip of his coffee, he takes a deep breath, and looks you in the eyes. //Is that trepidation you observe in him?// “Can I ask you a question, $FirstName? I… it is of a personal nature, I am afraid to say. Yet, this has been on my mind for some time, and… well… I am having trouble thinking clearly. I find that I torture myself with what-ifs, as I lay in bed at night.” “That… sounds very serious, Edward,” you lean forward, concerned. “What is this about?” He takes a deep breath, swallows, and maintains silence for several seconds. He never breaks eye contact, however. “Please understand… this is not easy, and I would ask you to forgive me if I seem… awkward, I suppose.” He takes another sip of coffee. You have never seen him this nervous, not even when he <<switch $background>><<case "noble">>broke his father’s favourite vase in the summerhouse<<case "student">>tried to cover up spilling marmalade on an Oxford library book<<case "vice">>got himself into an arm wrestling competition with “Bricksy” Beefshaw<<default>>had to explain to the brass what happened to their weekly shipment of sherry<</switch>>. When he speaks again, his voice sounds slightly hoarse. “Before you came here, I was focussed on one thing: to find Cornelius’ cure for the derangement of my mother. It has consumed my life up until this point. My waking hours and dreams equally were completely and utterly devoted to the achievement of that singular goal. In a strange, and perverted way, it was easy. Comfortable, even. I did not have to face my own shortcomings in how I treated others… how I treated you.” <ul><li> [[You lean back in your chair, and warm your hands on your mug of coffee. This seems like it could be quite the confession.|Ch4-7a1]]</li></ul>

<<switch $background>> <<case "noble">> “My childhood, as you know, was not always easy. I used to long for summer, when <<if $relationship is "acquaintance">>a breath of fresh air from the city<<else>>my one friend<</if>> would come over. It took me a long time to realise, and an even longer time to <<if $relationship is "lover">>be able<<else>>wish<</if>> to admit it to myself, that I used you. True, not for anything nefarious or untoward, but still. You were an unwitting tool for me to distract myself from the struggles incurred due to my mother’s health: a gateway to a happier world, a vision of a childhood that could have been. I would take you on capers, have you indulge my every whim. I know this has been far too long coming, but I humbly offer you my apology for how I treated you then, even if we were but children. <<if $relationship is "lover">>With how our relationship ultimately developed… I ought to have done this much, much earlier.<</if>> <<case "student">> “I am certain you remember the day I brought you our invitations to the Society of the Scarlet Hand. The three years that passed after that fateful evening were some of the most important ones in my life, for my studies then opened many doors among the more… esoteric societies of Great Britain. Yet because of this, I also started to neglect <<if $relationship is "lover">>our relationship<<elseif $relationship is "friend">>our friendship<<else>>my commitments to the University, the College, and the Society<</if>>. I became… detached, in a fashion that was not fair to any of <<if $relationship is "acquaintance">>the<<else>>our<</if>> other Society siblings, <<if $relationship is "acquaintance">>including you<<else>>but, most importantly, not fair to you<</if>><<if $relationship is "lover">>. Those years ought to have been far more special than I chose to make them. You were… are a fantastic <<if $mc.gender is 2>>woman<<elseif $mc.gender is 1>>man<<else>>partner<</if>>, who deserved so much more than I gave you,<<elseif $relationship is "friend">>my greatest friend – my only friend – during those years. I should have been a much better comrade,<<else>>. I should have been a much better Sibling,<</if>> and so I humbly beg your forgiveness. <<case "vice">> “When I first arrived in London, I had completely and utterly lost my way. There was no purpose I could call mine. I was lost, and I did not care to find myself. And then… I met you.<<if $relationship isnot "acquaintance">>” He pauses, looking at you with a faint smile. “You were a beacon of light in an otherwise murky world; a shining star in a den of vipers. <</if>>You gave me your support, <<if $relationship isnot "acquaintance">>your protection, and, ultimately, your <<if $relationship is "lover">>heart<<elseif $relationship is "friend">>friendship<</if>><<else>>and your protection<</if>>. And what did I offer in return, selfish man that I was? I offered you my fears, my mistakes, and my insecurities. I turned my family’s problems into yours, when I enlisted your help in dealing with Doctor Kitson. To top it all off, I left for the war as soon as my family requested it of me, without even a word of thanks. I may not have been in the best of situations when we met, but that is no excuse for how I treated you, and so I humbly beg your forgiveness. <<default>> “During the war… things were truly horrible. More so even for soldiers like you than the officers like myself. I…” He sighs. “I tried to make things as easy for you as I could. You and the others under my command. That was the least I could do. In all honesty, I must admit I <<if $relationship is "lover">>may have ended up giving you a little preferential treatment, given our… fraternisation<<elseif $relationship is "friend">>did end up giving you a little preferential treatment, given our deep friendship<<else>>ended up becoming closer to all of you than was probably wise<</if>>. But that was not without self-interest… I am sure you remember my request to return to London with a message for my family’s attorney? <<if $relationship isnot "acquaintance">>I… I was afraid of your judgement of my choice, and so I pushed you away. I recognise now that I should have taken you into my confidence much sooner, and at least given you the choice whether to stay with me or not.<<else>>I… I recognise now that, in a way, my actions then could be perceived as bribery: a favour for a favour, when I was in a position of power as your superior officer. I was desperate, but that is no excuse for the terrible, terrible position I put you in.<</if>>For that mistake, I humbly beg your forgiveness. <</switch>> — “I would not have brought this up, were it not for the fact that, well… Since your return, I feel like there has been a levity in this manor, which previously was absent. You have come in, and you have affected me for the better. And I think… I think your actions may indicate that you would like us to be <<if $relationship is "lover">>like we used to be, in happier days… together…<<elseif $relationship is "friend">>more than what we were: more than just friends…<<else>>more than what we were: more than simply acquaintances, or even friends…<</if>> Am… am I wrong?” <ul> <li> [[No… no he is not.|Ch4-7a2][$rekindle to true]]</li> <li> [[Erm… he may have misread a few things.|Ch4-7aR]]</li> </ul>

//Stars above, this is awkward.// In all fairness, you may have gone out of your way to interact with Edward kindly, <<if $relationship is "lover">>perhaps you even considered rekindling your love<<elseif $relationship is "friend">>and you are fond of your old friend<<else>>more so than you used to in the past<</if>>. It is not necessarily farfetched to interpret your actions in recent days as he has. Still, to start a romance under these circumstances would be folly indeed. “I… I am sorry, Edward,” you manage to stammer out. “If I ever gave you the impression that I desired more from our relationship… it most certainly was not my intent.” Uncharacteristically, Edward struggles to find his words. “Of course, $FirstName. I… I do apologise, I uhm… I should not have brought it up in the first place. The timing is… well, it is far from ideal, is it not?” He takes a long sip of his coffee, his hand shaking slightly. The silence is tense and uncomfortable. You cannot find it within yourself to meet his eyes. “Again, I… I do apologise,” he continues, trying to regain his stern composure. “In any event, the nature of your feelings notwithstanding, I want to thank you. It has been a breath of fresh air to have you as a guest in my household.” He manages a faint, but earnest smile. “So please, forgive me for my misunderstanding of your emotions, and let us put this behind us. Now, I do believe we have a game to play?” <ul><li> [[Right, let’s try to forget about this with a nice, relaxing game of chess.|Ch4-7aR2]]</li></ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> The game continues. Edward still seems firmly in control, although he has started thinking longer about his moves after you switched up your strategy. Occasionally you sip on your coffee, or sigh as you ponder your next move. Still, for a few hours, you forget entirely about the world outside of your game, enthralled by the click-clack of the pieces against the board. “Well, well, well…” “Hush, Edward,” you snap back, your eyes glued to the board. “Let me have this moment.” <<if $chesswin>> “And what a moment it is,” he says: “for it seems like this is one of those rare days, where you actually have bested me.” //What? When did that happen?// You stare at the board, dumbfounded. It takes you a moment to figure it out, but Edward is right. Your change in strategy caught him off guard, that much you already knew, but it seems he was unable to regather himself. //You actually beat him!// He tips over his king in acknowledgement of his defeat. “Good show, old <<if $mc.gender is 2>>chapess<<elseif $mc.gender is 1>>chap<<else>>friend<</if>>. Looks like you got one over on me this time.” “Do not worry, Harcourt, you can request a rematch anytime.” <<else>> “What moment?” he asks, suppressing a laugh. “I am extremely sorry to have to burst your bubble of expectations, but I am four moves away from putting you in checkmate.” //What? When did that happen?// You stare at the board, dumbfounded. It takes you a moment to figure it out, but Edward is right. Your change in strategy caught him off guard, but he was able to recuperate. And now he has got you in a vice grip. //Ah well. The game was still enjoyable.// You tip over your king in acknowledgement of your defeat. “Good show Edward, well done.” “You played a decent one yourself, <<if $mc.gender is 2>>chapess<<elseif $mc.gender is 1>>chap<<else>>friend<</if>>.” <</if>> He stands up, stretches, and smiles at you. The game seems to have done his moods wonders. “I must admit, I am ever so slightly peckish. Shall we adjourn to the dinner room? I can have some light lunch brought up for us.” <ul> <li> [[Perhaps we can have a quick rematch first?|Ch4-7bRC]]</li> <li> [[That does not sound too shabby, actually.|Ch4-7b1]]</li> </ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> Against your will you blush, your cheeks burn as if they were set on fire. //How did it come to this?// You have only been here for two nights, hardly spent more than five combined hours together, and yet… Something about your reconnection with Edward Harcourt has kindled a warm sense of fuzziness inside you, something <<if $relationship isnot "lover">>new and exciting<<else>>you had thought long gone<</if>>. He is calm and self-assured, and one of the most handsome men you have ever had the chance to encounter. But there is so much more to him beneath the surface in your eyes. His kindness, his care for the world and the people around him, his attentiveness and empathy all make him the man he is. The man who, despite your own better judgment, you have found yourself to have fallen for<<if $relationship is "lover">> once more<</if>>. You swallow. Despite his tentative encouragement, you find your mouth dry. A lump in your throat stops you from telling him about all the emotions hurtling wildly through your heart. Instead, you look him in the eyes. In those emerald fields, golden flecks scattered around like dandelions, you feel like you could lose yourself forever, and be happier for it. “Edward, I…” you eventually manage to stammer out. “I do not know why it had to happen now, under these dreadful circumstances, in this dismal place… But being around you has made me… that it is to say I would like for us… to get to know one another better. Not as friends, but… as something more than that<<if $relationship is "lover">>, like we used to<</if>>.” Never once do you break eye contact as you slowly, painfully drag your confession from your uncooperative lips. You somehow feel nauseous, excited, and over the moon all at the same time. It is torturous to say what you have to say, but you feel your burden lighten with every word that you utter. When you are done speaking, Edward smiles widely. He leaves his chair, and steps towards you. Mirroring his movements, you get up yourself, holding the fabric of your pants tightly with your left hand due to your nervousness. A wetness shines in his eyes, as tears of joy and relief well up. Yet he cares not, as he softly strokes your cheeks with the back of his hands. They are slightly calloused, but he is gentle as his hand slowly brushes your face, and you could not care less for their roughness. “Oh, dearest $FirstName,” he says in a hushed, hoarse voice. “You do not know how happy you make me.” He tenderly embraces you. “Please… I do not know the last time I felt so at peace. Can… can we just stay like this, for just a moment, without words?” <ul><li> [[Hold him.|Ch4-7a3]]</li></ul>

<<timed 2s>> <<if !$achievements.becameLovers>> <<set $achievements.becameLovers to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Paramour">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</timed>> There you stand, one of his arms around your shoulders, the other resting on your back just above your waist, gently pressing your body against his. His face is resting on your shoulder. You can feel the heat radiate off his skin through the fabric of his shirt and waistcoat. His breathing is deep and slow, like the waves slowly lapping against the cliff-side below the manor. <<fadein 4s 2s>> After a blissful moment, Edward brings his face up, and looks you in the eyes. Only inches separate your lips from his. “Is this crazy?” you ask, your voice sounding as if you are gasping for air. “After all we went through, to come together under these circumstances, <<if $relationship isnot "lover">>so quickly<<else>>once again<</if>>…” “Hush my darling $FirstName,” he whispers in your ear, “we do not have to rush anything. Let us take this, whatever it may be or become, slow. At least until we have put our struggles behind us. For now, we have this moment.” With those words, he places a tender, tentative kiss on your quivering lips. This is a hint of hesitation and restraint in his act, but you mind very little. He smells of woodsmoke and fresh coffee; it intoxicates, yet excites you. He must have shaved this morning as well, as his cheeks feel smooth under your fingers. A lock of his hair brushes your face, tickling slightly and sweetly where it passes. It is a small gesture, but in this moment it means the world to you. When your lips part, you remain breathless for a serene, blissful instance, which will remain etched in your memory for the rest of your life. Edward smiles wistfully. “As much as I would like to have this moment last forever, we should probably get back to figuring out this little mystery. I suppose you would not like to see Mrs Culley walk in on us in our current state of entanglement.” <ul> <li> [[You chuckle. “Perish the thought. Well, duty calls I suppose.”|Ch4-7a4][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[Maybe you can get a final tease in before lunch?|Ch4-7a4][$choice to 2]]</li> </ul> <</fadein>>

<<JournalUpdate>> <<if $choice is 1>> He smiles at you warmly. “Let us go to the dining room. I will have lunch brought up.” Edward and you move to the door, holding hands. Before he opens it courteously for you, he gives your hand a quick, comforting squeeze. You curtesy half-jokingly, and move through on along. <<else>> You pout with mock indignation. “We could lock the door, if you were of a mind not to be disturbed for a while.” Edward chuckles, but the hint of a blush passing over his cheeks does not escape your notice. “I am afraid that this door does not lock from the inside. In any event, I hope you will forgive me for not feeling entirely comfortable with that just yet. We have only been together again for a few days. Please… Let us take this just a tad slower.” You put a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “Of course, Edward. How about a light lunch instead?” You loop your arm through his as you walk through the empty hallway. <</if>> “Edward?” you ask, in a fake quizzical tone. “Yes?” he responds, just a little too eagerly. “This may be a little irrelevant, but I can’t shake the thought. Tell me… who would have won our chess match?” The question takes him off guard. He lets out a hearty laugh, almost a bark. “Nothing escapes your vigilant notice, does it, my darling $FirstName?” He beams. <<if $chesswin>>“I must admit, your sudden change in strategy during the middlegame took me somewhat by surprise. So much so, in fact, that I could feel the game slipping away from me before too long. I have little doubt you would have taken this bout.” <<else>>“I must admit, your sudden change in strategy during the middlegame took me somewhat by surprise. For a little while. I would have had you checkmate in four moves, had we finished the game.”<</if>> <<if $chesswin>> “Oh bother, could you not let me win this once, then?” “I just figured you had realised it as well. I felt my confession would land well if you were feeling good about your impending victory.” “Do let me enjoy the fruits of my efforts, next time, Edward.” You smile at him, mischievously. “You are going to have to make this up…” <<else>> “Well,” you sigh, “thanks for letting me off easy, I suppose.” “I had planned to offer you my confession after the match, but I doubt right after your loss would have been appropriate.” “Oh, don’t worry about it. I understand why…” <</if>> Before you can continue this conversation, Edward puts a hand on your shoulder. “Edward, what…” “Hush!” he whispers urgently, with a finger gingerly on your lips. “Ahead, over where the dining hall is… Can you hear voices?” <ul><li> [[There indeed seems to be a murmur… But who could it be?|Ch4-8]]</li></ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> The game continues. Edward still seems firmly in control, although he has started thinking longer about his moves after you switched up your strategy. Occasionally you sip on your coffee, or sigh as you ponder your next move. Still, for a few hours, you forget entirely about the world outside of your game, enthralled by the click-clack of the pieces against the board. “You know, $FirstName, I am glad that you chose to stay.” You look up surprised. The game had enraptured you so, that Edward’s voice startles you “You need not have come to my aid, after all, it is not your concern, and I can hardly say that I have done much in the past to earn your trust. <<if $relationship is "lover">>How our relationship ended was… far less than you deserved. As a man, I am far less than you deserve.<<elseif $relationship is "friend">>Our paths separated in a way unbecoming of true friendship: the kind of friendship I believe we shared, but which I squandered.<<else>>After all, despite fortune bringing us together, we were never particularly close.<</if>> The only conclusion left to draw, is that you are simply an individual endowed by the Fates with a supreme strength of character.” “Is it that elementary, Doctor Watson?” Edward chuckles. “Should you not be the Watson in that analogy? After all, I am the one who made the deduction.” “Oh hush, Edward. Let me have this moment.” <<if $chesswin>> “And what a moment it is,” he says: “for it seems like this is one of those rare days, where you actually have bested me.” //What? When did that happen?// You stare at the board, dumbfounded. It takes you a moment to figure it out, but Edward is right. Your change in strategy caught him off guard, that much you already knew, but it seems he was unable to regather himself. //You actually beat him!// He tips over his king in acknowledgement of his defeat. “Good show, <<if $mc.gender is 2>>chapess<<elseif $mc.gender is 1>>chap<<else>>friend<</if>>. Looks like you got one over on me this time.” “Do not worry, Harcourt, you can request a rematch anytime.” <<else>> “What moment?” he asks, suppressing a laugh. “I am extremely sorry to have to burst your bubble of expectations, but I am four moves away from putting you in checkmate.” //What? When did that happen?// You stare at the board, dumbfounded. It takes you a moment to figure it out, but Edward is right. Your change in strategy caught him off guard, but he was able to recuperate. And now he has got you in a vice grip. //Ah well. The game was still enjoyable.// You tip over your king in acknowledgement of your defeat. “Good show Edward, well done.” “You played a decent one yourself, <<if $mc.gender is 2>>chapess<<elseif $mc.gender is 1>>chap<<else>>friend<</if>>.” <</if>> He stands up, stretches, and smiles at you. The game seems to have done his moods wonders. “I must admit, I am ever so slightly peckish. Shall we adjourn to the dinner room? I can have some light lunch brought up for us.” <ul> <li> [[Perhaps we can have a quick rematch first?|Ch4-7bRC]]</li> <li> [[That does not sound too shabby, actually.|Ch4-7b1]]</li> </ul>

Edward smiles. “As much as I have missed a capable adversary at the chessboard, we should not lose sight of our ultimate goal. This diversion was pleasant, but there is much left to be done. Now come, a quick repast shall do us some good, I think!” <ul><li> [[Oh well… a quick bite would surely not be amiss.|Ch4-7b1]]</li></ul>

The two of you exit the library and head toward the dining room. In and so far as the goal of the bout was to take your mind off of more serious matters, it seems to have worked. If only for a while. The match now over, <<if $chesswin>>his ego hardly even bruised<<else>>his victory long forgotten<</if>>, Edward is back to business. “If there are indeed hidden tunnels throughout the manor, as you can now confirm, it opens up many possible avenues of inquiry. How far do these tunnels go? Could they reach all the way to the village? How many people know about it? <<if $clue.churchtrapdoor>>Your discovery in the church in particular intrigues me in this regard. <</if>>How does one open this tunnel system? I am fairly certain I would have known by now if it was easy, so there must be some sort of mechanism…” <ul> <li> [[Your mind is in peak condition after a little mental exercise. Let’s think about this!|Ch4-7b2][$insanity ++, $choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[Gently remind him about lunch.|Ch4-7b2][$choice to 2]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> “A mechanism which, presumably, is not hiding in plain sight. The chances of opening it by accident would be too great. Ergo, it must be hidden behind a place that one would be unlikely to look behind. Yet it must also be easily accessible to one who knows what they’re looking for, or it would be impractical.” “Well spoken, $FirstName! And yet, I wonder if…” Edward suddenly stops talking. <<else>> “Edward?” you venture cautiously. Clearly, this is important to him, but you do wonder whether he is not becoming too absorbed in his endeavours. “Are you certain you would not like to hold this off until lunch?” He waves off your suggestion. “<<if $clue.meeting>>You yourself said that some event is supposed to occur soon. Tonight even, if your intel is correct.<<else>>The sooner I can find this cure for my mother, the better, and I do not intend to let her wait any longer than necessary.<</if>> If my sanity needs to suffer ever so slightly to accomplish my goals, then I am willing to make that sacrifice.” “And if that sacrifice becomes too –” <</if>> “Hush!” he whispers urgently, with a finger gingerly on your lips. “Ahead, over where the dining hall is… Can you hear voices?” <ul><li> [[There indeed seems to be a murmur… But who could it be?|Ch4-8]]</li></ul>

“… Master … Mother … the summoning…” A chill creeps its way up your back, turning your spinal fluid into ice. Goosebumps crawl up your arm, and a feeling like someone or something is hanging over your shoulders embeds itself into your mind, even though you know rationally that nothing should be there. Whoever is speaking is doing so with a muffled voice: it is impossible to make out the speaker’s identity, or their exact words. “… the Deep … nosy … something must be…” Edward taps you lightly on the shoulder. With your attention caught, he touches his lips with his finger, then nods down the hallway. Moving as silently as possible, the two of you slowly inch your way closer to the slightly ajar door. The voice remains muffled, though it now becomes easier to make out sentences. “… cannot help it if they keep… running around the manor at night… have done all I can to deter…” The voice goes silent. It is as if it is interrupted by another speaker. Even as you are now but an arm’s length removed from the door, you cannot hear anything. Edward and you wait for a few moments longer, breath held, trying to be as silent as possible. He turns to you and raises an eyebrow. You nod. Edward opens the door. “Why yes, $FirstName,” Edward exclaims casually, as if you had been in the middle of a conversation. “I am famished myself! It was about time we went down for lunch. I am feeling like marmite on toast, how about…” He stops, frozen. “Eh, Edward, are you okay?” “$FirstName…” He turns to you. “There is no one in the room…” <ul><li> //[[Blimey… He’s right.|Ch4-9]]//</li></ul>

At a cursory glance, nothing seems off about the dining room. The chairs around the table are all in their correct spot, the silver is polished, the fire crackles in the hearth, and Cornelius’ stern gaze surveys the room from the lofty position of his portrait. The windows are closed, and the curtains open. Nothing indicates that anyone was here just moments ago. And that is the problem, for you could have sworn you heard a voice, however faint. “Good grief, Edward… am I… are we going insane?” “I shan’t reserve our place in the sanatorium just yet, if you do not mind terribly.” Edward has abandoned all pretence, and is actively looking underneath the table, and behind the curtains. “I heard that voice quite distinctly myself. The odds of us hallucinating the same thing, at the same time? Those are arbitrarily small.” “Well, yes, but…” “Yes, $FirstName?” <ul> <li> [[“What if these voices are not caused by exhaustion and stress? What if there is someone… something else, causing it? A being of malevolent intent, and immeasurable intelligence, which is toying with us like a bored child may torture a pathetic bug?”|Ch4-9a][$insanity ++]]</li> <li> [[“Actually, never mind.”|Ch4-9b]]</li> </ul>

Edward freezes, his hands on the curtains he had just opened. His silhouette contrasts starkly with the brightness of the sun outside the window. Slowly, he turns his head, the rest of his body still, as unmoving as if it were sculpted from onyx. <<if $belief isnot "occult">>“I must admit, my friend, I am surprised to hear those words from you, of all people. And with such a zeal as well: it is downright frightening to hear you talk as such.”<<else>>“I figured you might be willing to share my belief in the occult, but I must be honest with you my friend: you are scaring me a little, now.”<</if>> He turns his entire body to face you now, and it takes you considerable will to not recoil. There is a severity about the man, which you have not seen since before the chess match this morning. “Throughout my study of the occult, I have come across references to the Old Gods: beings as far beyond humanity as we are from the single-celled organisms, which live in our bodies. — “Never have I seen reference to any one of these gods gaining a foothold in our reality in Scotland. Neither have I found any evidence that such beings intentionally engage with our kind. They are simply too far beyond us in terms of power. — “It is our one saving grace: we are nothing compared to them. Were they to perceive the human race as even a marginal threat, we would be dead before we would realise they had decided to eradicate our pitiful plane of existence.” //Fuck… that’s depressing.// “In any event,” Edward continues, “while I have no doubt the eldritch and the occult play no small part in my mother’s illness, or her prospective cure, I do not think it can account for us hearing that voice just a moment ago.” <ul><li> [[“So if not a hallucination, what – or whom – did we hear?”|Ch4-9b]]</li></ul>

“Yes… Right… $FirstName, as much as I am loathe to voice it, I have a hypothesis regarding those murmurs.” “Well? Let’s hear it.” “The way I see it, there is but one explanation for that voice, and its sudden disappearance. Just as you had a foray into the bowels of the manor last night, so too did the mysterious cause of those words escape our notice. In other words, there must be an entrance to the tunnel system right here in the dining room.” You ponder that theory for a moment. “Okay, that makes sense, but it does leave one question: whom did we hear?” “Yes,” Edward sighs. “that would be the cause of my loathing. I strongly suspect that it was Mrs Culley. <ul> <li> [[“I knew something was fishy about that hag!”|Ch4-9b1][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“Mrs Culley? I admit, she has her peculiarities, but her? Really? How come you are so certain?”|Ch4-9b1][$choice to 2]]</li> </ul>

<<set $entry to 12>><<JournalUpdate>> <<if $choice is 1>>Edward raises his hand, palm outward. “Hold on just a moment, $FirstName. I said I strongly suspect that it was her voice, but that leaves many questions unanswered. What of the circumstances of her conversation? And, most importantly, what of the identity of her interlocutor?”<</if>> One hand behind his back, the other cupping his chin, Edwards paces up and down the room, thinking out loud, talking to himself. “No one but Mrs Culley would have had reason to be in the manor, and an outsider could not have known how to escape unnoticed from the dining room. The two of us were at the only door, and we have ascertained that the windows are close. In any event, we are too high up to imagine anyone to jump out or scale the walls. So one is left to conclude that Mrs Culley, more knowledgeable about the manor’s secret passages than she has seen fit to divulge to me, fled the scene of her clandestine chat through one of these passages.” “I suppose it is a possibility,” you chime in, “but is it not distinctly peculiar that we only heard one voice? Who was she talking to? And how did they communicate back to her?” “I confess that I am somewhat lost as to that point right now. Perhaps they communicated via sign language, or writing, or maybe they simply whispered.” Edwards frowns. “As for the person she could have been talking to, I do not think there is anyone she would usually talk to in that fashion, unless…” Edward suddenly slams his fist into his open palm. “Great Scott, that’s it!” He rushes past you, grabs you by the arm, and leads you to the staircase and the main hallway. “Come on, $FirstName! There is little time to waste!” “Edward, what in the blazes has got into you?” <<if $clue.mouchoir>>“Do you recall that handkerchief you found in the church? I remember who it belongs to, and he can help us figure out what is going on!”<<else>>“There is a man who lives apart from the village, who I think can help us figure out what is going on!”<</if>> <ul> <li> [[“How come you are so certain? Just hold on a moment and explain, please!”|Ch4-10][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“Erm… If you say so.”|Ch4-10][$feeling --, $choice to 2]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>>He turns around in his tracks, nearly causing you to bump into him. You catch a glimpse of his face. There’s something… manic in his eyes. It is as if he is possessed. Whatever he has figured out, he believes it to be big. “Graeme Barlow.” “Who? Wait, you mean that groundskeeper I saw this morning?” “The one and the same, $FirstName.” “But… but I don’t understand! What about this groundskeeper is it, that has you so worked up?”<</if>> <<if $choice is 2>>Edward paces down the cold stone hallways of the manor, his strides long, his purpose clear to him. Although you yourself are somewhat confused, you follow along, ill at ease though you may be. <</if>>It is not like Edward to go off like this. Then again,<<if $rekindle && $relationship is "lover">> your rekindled feelings notwithstanding,<<elseif $rekindle>> your newfound feelings notwithstanding,<</if>> how much do you really know about the Edward of today, rather than the man you met <<switch $background>><<case "noble">>as a child in the countryside<<case "student">>at Oxford<<case "vice">>in that dingy bar in London<<default>>in the army<</switch>>? How much has he changed over the years? <<if $choice is 1>> “It is quite simple, truth be told.” Edward gesticulates wildly, throwing his arms in the air. “In fact, it is preposterous that it had not occurred to me earlier! Apologies, I realise that this is not particularly helpful for you.” “Quite.” <<else>> “I’ll explain further as we walk,” Edward’s voice sounds tense, on the verge of shaking, “There is not a moment to lose!” It is as if he can barely contain himself with manic excitement. “It is quite simple, truth be told. In fact, it is preposterous that it had not occurred to me earlier! — <</if>> “<<if $choice is 1>>Ahem, yes, well… Mister Barlow<<else>>It is my groundskeeper, Graeme Barlow. he<</if>> is a somewhat… peculiar fellow. The poor man would never hurt a fly, but…” “But?” “He is quite curt and withdrawn. The man does rather poorly with other people, and prefers the calm and serenity of the estate’s garden. Apparently, even the village is too busy for him. Now, here is the kicker: Mr Barlow is a cousin first removed from Mrs Culley. He was hired by Uncle Cornelius at her request, and has tended the garden for a modest weekly fee ever since.” “And so… you would think that Barlow can tell us more about the manor? That maybe Mrs Culley has made him privy to its secrets, which she has not divulged to you?” Edward sighs. His bravado from earlier seems to have deflated somewhat. “I admit it is a long shot. But right now, it is our only lead, and so we ought to follow up with it. Now, let us go see the man, shall we?” <ul> <li> [[“That seems like a long shot, Edward. Maybe we should focus our efforts on a meticulous perusal of Mrs Culley’s affairs?”|Ch4-Culley][$culley is true]]</li> <li> [[“Okay… let’s go then.”|Ch4-Garden]]</li> </ul>

You exit the manor through its grand, oaken, iron-shod doors. The first time you ever passed those doors seems ages ago, although it has merely been two nights. Still, their sheer size makes you feel small and insignificant. Grey clouds line the sky as far as the eye can see, and the air is pregnant with rain. A fierce gale makes you rub your arms in an attempt to get warm. The last of Winter’s chill is vicious, like a soldier looking to sell his life dearly before his last gasp. Edward keeps on moving, unperturbed by the wind or the cold, despite his rolled-up sleeves. He does not go down the path to the village, but turns immediately right instead, walking around the manor. Behind the castle is a small garden patch, although you reckon that, this close to the open sea, the soil is too saline to grow much of anything except sea kale. As it is only February, the garden is currently filled only with shoots and dirt. A small wooden shed, crusted with salt but otherwise seemingly well kept, stands next to the patch. A lonely figure is raking the dirt. It is the man you saw this morning from the window. “Good morning, Mr Barlow! How do you do?” Edward chirps chipperly. “This is $FirstName, my <<if $feeling > 4 >>good <</if>>friend.” The groundskeeper looks up from his work. He grips his rake reflexively, as if the solidity of the wood gives him something to hold on to. He seems ill at ease. “G’mornin’, Mr Edward, sir. G’mornin’, <<if $mc.gender is 2>>ma’am<<elseif $mc.gender is 1>>sir<<else>>‘guv<</if>>.” The words come out mechanically, as if rehearsed. If you did not know better, you would say there is fear in Graeme’s twitchy eyes. They dart left to right, squirrelly, never staying focused on one place for more than a second, least of all on you or Edward. //Is he scared merely to be talking to you, or is there something more to his dodgy behaviour?// “Mr Barlow, is it okay if I ask you a few questions?” “Questions? I oughta take care o’ me work….” “I promise I won’t take but a moment of your precious time. Please? It is important.” <ul> <li> [[This seems like a delicate task, best let Edward take care of this.|Ch4-Garden2][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[You decide to chime in, surely two voices will carry more weight than one?|Ch4-Garden2][$choice to 2]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 2>> “Indeed, Mr Barlow. It is vital that you tell us everything you know!” you exclaim. Edward gently, but firmly, puts his hand on your shoulder and sternly says: “Please, $FirstName. Our esteemed groundskeeper can react poorly to too much pressure. Let me take care of this.” He turns back to Graeme. “Now then, Mr Barlow, can we talk to you for a bit longer, please?” <</if>> The groundskeeper looks sullen, but acquiesces to Edward’s request: “Okay. But I’d like ta get back to me plants soon, though.” “Of course, Mr Barlow, I shall be expedient.” Edwards smiles faintly but kindly. “Did you see Mrs Culley today by any chance?” Graeme looks sideways at the ground and shakes his head. “No, I ha’en’t seen her.” His breathing has got erratic, and sweat lines his brow despite the cold. He seems agitated, upset even. “Please, Mr Barlow. This is very important.” Edward’s tone is pressing, but still gentle. “I am afraid that she may have run into some trouble.” The groundskeeper shakes his head so violently that his entire torso moves from side to side. “No, no, no, no, no, no, NO!” “It is okay, Mr Barlow. If you saw something, you can tell us, and my friend here and I will go and make sure that everything is okay.” For the first time since you have met him, Graeme looks straight into your eyes, and does not let go of you with his gaze, nor does he blink. There is a strange obsessiveness, something haunted in his eyes. The things he must have seen… <<if $insanity > 5>>//Just like you…//<</if>> “It swallowed her.” “Excuse me?” Edward is somewhat taken aback by that response. Yet, Graeme does not stop staring into your eyes. His eyes are bulging, giving him a possessed countenance, as if he were the prophet of a dark god, ready to [[foretell your doom|Ch4-Garden2extra]].

<center> “<<fadein 2s>>The manor. <<fadein 2s 1.5s>>It eats us all. <<fadein 2s 3s>>It always will.<<fadein 2s 4.5s>> And it will come for you too… <<fadein 4s 6s>>You will lose yourself in its bowels of stone.<</fadein>><</fadein>><</fadein>><</fadein>><</fadein>>” <<timed 9s t8n>>[[Continue|Ch4-Garden3]]<</timed>> </center>

//Well… damn.// “Mrs Culley got eaten by the manor, Mr Barlow? What… what do you mean by that?” Edward seems to have regained himself a little. The groundskeeper has gone silent, and is looking away from you once more. His gaze now fixed on the dirt of his garden, whatever possessed him seems to have dissipated. “Did she enter the tunnels? Did she go through some secret path?” The groundskeeper looks down at the ground, his cheeks scarlet. “I ought not ta tell.” “It is okay. I know you struggle in the village, that you have trouble fitting in. I promise you, no one will know you told us. We just need you to show us where the tunnels start. One of them, at least.” Graeme still seems conflicted. <ul> <<if $clue.mouchoir>><li> [[Give him the handkerchief you found in the church.|Ch4-Garden4][$choice to 1, $clue.mouchoir to "given"]]</li><</if>> <li> [[Okay, you have heard enough. One way or another, he will talk.|Ch4-Garden4][$choice to 2, $insanity ++]]</li> <li> [[Try to reassure the poor man. As the only unknown, you may be putting him off somewhat.|Ch4-Garden4][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> <<if !$achievements.kindSoul>> <<set $achievements.kindSoul to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Returned to Owner">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> “Mr Barlow, is this yours?” You extract the handkerchief you found in the church from your pocket, and hand it to the groundskeeper. He looks at you suspiciously for a moment, but then slowly reaches out to retrieve it. “Thank you,” he mutters. Edward sees the opportunity, and takes it. “See, Mr Barlow? You can trust us, my friend and I both. Please, tell us how we can go into the tunnels. It is very important.” <<elseif $choice is 2>> You step forward resolutely, reach out to grab the groundskeeper by the lapels, and unceremoniously yank him towards you until your faces are mere inches apart. Graeme seems not to enjoy this enforced proximity, but if Edward objects, he does not say anything. “Mr Barlow. I am a <<if $mc.gender is 2>>woman<<elseif $mc.gender is 1>>man<<else>>person<</if>> of little patience, and it is already wearing thin. You know where we need to go, and we know that you know. So do be a dear and tell us. Gardening uses sharp implements, after all, and accidents do happen…” <<else>> “Mr Barlow, I understand that you are uncomfortable right now, as you do not know me, and that is okay. But you do know Sir Harcourt here, and you trust him, right? If you want, you can just tell him, and we can go and help Mrs Culley.” Graeme slowly nods along. Edward sees the opportunity, and takes it. “Mr Barlow, you can trust us, my friend and I both. Please tell us how we can go into the manor. It is very important.” <</if>> The groundskeeper swallows. His Adam’s apple bobs up and down like a rubber ball on a bit of string. “Okay. I… I’ll tell.” <<if $choice is 2>>You let go of his shirt, and he stumbles backwards scared. <</if>>Graeme looks at Edward before continuing: “There be a tunnel to a secret place. The hearth underneath the old master his painting. I once saw Mrs Culley do something with it. Then, Cornelius…” he looks frightened. “He ate her!” “That would explain,” Edward nods, “how she could exit the dining room without us being aware. It stands to reason that an entrance to the tunnels would be present in that room.” The groundskeeper fidgets with his shirt. “I ‘ave seen plenty of people walk through the walls, I ‘ave. Never go down there with them. Dark, it be, and scary. And things live down there… Mrs Culley made me promise ne’er to follow.” You suppress a shudder. You remember all too well the predators that stalk those ancient catacombs. But the question still remains… //where did they come from? And what relationship, if any, do they have to the villagers?// “You must promise, Mr Harcourt, sir, that you shan’t tell ‘t was me who told ye.” “Not a word, Mr Barlow. You have my promise.” <ul><li> [[You lay a hand on Edward’s shoulder. “We should move.”|Ch4-Garden5]]</li></ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> “Indeed, $FirstName. Thank you again, Mr Barlow. And please, take the day off, if you prefer. It is a nice day still, despite the chill breeze. You have earned a break.” “I’ll stay ’n the garden, i’ it’s all the same to you, Sir Harcourt.” Without another word or acknowledgement, the groundskeeper gets back to his monotonous job, seemingly trying to ignore you and the conversation you just had. Edward and you do not hang around. Together, you make your way back to the manor. It is well past noon by now, and you can see the sun is close to setting over the ocean. “We ought to make haste. Who knows what Mrs Culley’s disappearance forebodes?” Edward states, more to himself than to you. <ul> <li> [[“Which is exactly why we should investigate further before diving headlong into this mess! Mrs Culley's quarter may hold important answers”|Ch4-Culley]]</li> <li> [[“Okay, but should we not prepare a little first? Acquire provisions and such?”|Ch4-Prepare]]</li> </ul>

“Very well,” Edward nods, sceptically. “I must admit I have little reason to suspect Mrs Culley to leave anything out of place, knowing her meticulousness. But it never hurts to make sure, I guess. Maybe we’ll get lucky…” He extends his arm towards a dark corridor. “Her room is on the ground floor, let me show you.” Edward leads you through some corridors, each tighter than the previous one, until you reach the cook’s room – by then, your shoulders almost touch both walls. Mrs Culley’s quarters are small, but clean and orderly, as you would have expected from her: a meticulously made bed and a bare nightstand with but a simple candleholder are all the furniture present in the sparse room. “See? Hardly anything out of the ordinary, except perhaps for its sheer frugality.” “Edward?” you venture. “Is it not odd that there is so little furniture?” “How so?” Edward raises an eyebrow. “All the basic necessities to cater to her needs are here, are they not?” “Well, for starters: where would she keep her belongings? There’s no closet, or coffers, or even drawers. I see nothing for her to keep her spare clothes in.” “I…” Edward looks at you dumbfounded. “I have to admit, that had not crossed my mind. Silly, I suppose.” He looks around the room, his chin cupped in one hand, the other on his hip. “Perhaps there is a suitcase underneath the bed?” <ul> <li> [[Search the nightstand.|Ch4-CulleyN]]</li> <li> [[Search underneath the bed.|Ch4-Culley2]]</li> </ul>

The nightstand is a simple affair, having only a single drawer. It contains a few pages of paper, which upon further inspection, turn out to be recipes for pies. Certainly nothing suspicious to be found there then. <ul><li> [[Search underneath the bed.|Ch4-Culley2]]</li></ul>

From what you’ve seen of the room, you would not wager on there being anything hidden here. Still, you get on your knees to glance under the bunk. It never hurts to check… To your slight surprise, there is indeed something: a pile of plaid fabric. Is this where Mrs Culley leaves her belongings? <ul> <li> <<link "Leave it be.">> <<replace "#pick" t8n>> “No suitcase, just a pile of cloth, by the looks of it. Perhaps those are her spare sheets, or otherwise some scrap fabric to mend her clothes?” You get up from your kneeling position. “In any event, it does not seem to be relevant to our investigations. I suppose there really is nothing else here.” You sigh. “I guess we should get back to it, Edward<<if $rekindle>> darling<</if>>. Time is wasting, and we should make haste.” <ul><li> <<link "Leave the room">><<if $culley>><<goto "Ch4-Garden">><<unset $culley>><<else>><<goto "Ch4-Prepare">><</if>><</link>></li></ul> <</replace>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "Push it aside.">> <<replace "#pick" t8n>> You get on your belly and try to slide further underneath the old, rickety bedframe. You manage to push aside the pile of dirty sheets, soon revealing a most peculiar shape. Wrapped by some rough, plain cloth, you have trouble envisaging what the item could be – its shape is quite peculiar. Through the cloth, you can feel something hard and angular, akin to a brick but smoother. It is evidently no receptacle for clothing, as its size is no larger than a bottle of whiskey. “Edward, there is something here, but… it’s no suitcase.” “Oh, what is it?” <ul> <li> [[“Something wrapped up… and we should probably be careful with it.”|Ch4-Culley2a]]</li> <li> [[“Something wrapped up… hold on, let me unwrap it.”|Ch4-Culley2b][$insanity ++]]</li> </ul> <</replace>> <</link>></li> </ul>

“Very well. Let us put it on the nightstand and see what it is.” Careful not to unwrap the item, you roll it out from under the bed. You grab it, and put it on the nightstand. Edward takes an embroidered kerchief from his pocket, covers his hand with it, then carefully and gently unwraps the mysterious item. It looks to be some sort of idol, carved from black rock: possibly basalt or onyx. Its shape is unsettling. Eldritch carvings, their meaning incomprehensible yet undoubtedly vile, cover its surface. Your spine is tingling uncomfortably, and your body feels hot, even as the air in the room is quite cold. You get the uncanny feeling of being watched the way a hungry bird may watch a delectable bug… Edward seems perturbed as well, as he quickly covers the carving with the cloth. “Are you alright, $FirstName?” he asks, his eyes still staring at the now covered idol. “That totem, it is making me feel very uncomfortable.” “Yes, I would concur,” you barely manage, your mouth dry and voice hoarse. “And yet,” Edward continues, “I do not think we should leave that thing here… I am exceedingly worried by the fact that we found it, hidden I might add, in the quarters of my servant. As //distasteful// as I find the idea of remaining close to it, I vote we bring it with us, just in case. Covered, of course.” <ul> <li> [[Absolutely not.|Ch4-Culley3][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[You agree: best to keep an eye on it.|Ch4-Culley3][$choice to 2, $insanity ++, $idol to true]]</li> </ul>

“Very well, but do be careful. We have no clue what that item may be.” You reach out for the item, and snatch it out from under the bed. As you do so, the cloth comes loose, and you touch the item. It is some sort of idol, carved from black rock: possibly basalt or onyx. Eldritch carvings, their meaning incomprehensible yet undoubtedly vile, cover its surface. As your naked fingers [[touch|Ch4-Culley2b1]] it…

<<set $visited.chFourCulley2b1 to true>> <<fadein 2s>> Visions blind your mind, though they are visions that no one should ever find themselves seeing. Human conscience was never meant to comprehend such vast magnitudes of knowledge. You see stars, in colours never described in any language, written or spoken, since the dawn of humanity. Yet they are also not stars, but mere marbles in a playground of galactic proportions. Magical phrases in a tongue not yet known to mankind float before your mind’s eye, their implications terrifying. A presence, grand, vile, like a cancerous growth eating away at the universe, takes notice of you, a speck barely worthy of acknowledgement in [[this vast reality|Ch4-Culley2b2]]… <</fadein>>

Then, you are back again in a small, cold room in a manor in the Scottish countryside, far away from civilization. Edward has slapped the idol from your hands. He rushes to cover it with the cloth, then puts it on the nightstand before checking in on you. “Are you alright, $FirstName?” he asks, his eyes still staring at the now covered idol. “That totem, it is making me feel very uncomfortable.” “Yes, I would concur,” you barely manage, your mouth dry and voice hoarse. “And yet,” Edward continues, “I do not think we should leave that thing here… I am exceedingly worried by the fact that we found it, hidden I might add, in the quarters of my servant. As //distasteful// as I find the idea of remaining close to it, I vote we bring it with us, just in case. Covered, of course.” <ul> <li> [[Absolutely not.|Ch4-Culley3][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[You agree: best to keep an eye on it.|Ch4-Culley3][$choice to 2, $insanity ++, $idol to true]]</li> </ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> <<if $choice is 1>> <<if !$achievements.leftIdol>> <<set $achievements.leftIdol to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Best Left Behind">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> “With all due respect, Edward,” you retort, still reeling from your exposure to the idol, “taking that thing with us would be a mistake. To be certain, I would not wish to leave it here in this room, but we can put it someplace secure for safekeeping, until we have our hands free to study… or dispose of it properly.” //Preferably the latter//, you muse to yourself. Edward nods. “Of course, that is a very sensible approach. I’ll store it in the family safe – covered, of course – and we can worry about it later.” <<else>> <<if !$achievements.keptIdol>> <<set $achievements.keptIdol to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Maybe We Can Use It?">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> “You are right, Edward. We can’t leave that thing here, even if it makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand on edge. It is clearly imbued with… something. Some sort of devilish power. It might even prove of use to us before the end of this peculiar affair.” “Very well,” Edward nods. “Let me find something to wrap it up in more securely. We wouldn’t want <<if $visited.chFourCulley2b1>>another<<else>>an<</if>> accident to happen. I’ll keep it in my backpack, for now.” <</if>> Edward heads out of the room with the idol, leaving you alone with your thoughts. It looked carved, as if by human hands, though you cannot imagine any ordinary person could work on such a totem without going incurably insane. Perhaps that is exactly what happened, as it could account for the perverted sense of dread that emanates from it. And yet the material it was made of was decidedly odd. There was something more to it, something… otherworldly. <<if $visited.chFourCulley2b1>>And those visions…<</if>> Twinkling in the stone were imperfections, shining like stars in a cosmos far away… “$FirstName, are you alright?” You involuntarily jump at hearing Edward’s voice. Preoccupied with your thoughts, you had not noticed his return. How long had you lost yourself? “Yes? Why?” “It seemed as if you were daydreaming.” He puts a warm hand on your shoulder. “Do you need a rest?” “No… the sooner we finish this, the better.” “If you are certain…” Edward smiles, wearily. “Then, let us get back to it, shall we?” <ul><li> <<link "Leave the room">><<if $culley>><<goto "Ch4-Garden">><<unset $culley>><<else>><<goto "Ch4-Prepare">><</if>><</link>></li></ul>

“Last night, I was stuck in those tunnels for longer than I care to remember, and we still have no clue how deep they go, or how long we will be in there. We should at least bring some provisions. Or some sort of tools…” Edward moderates his pace somewhat. “You are right, of course, my <<if !$rekindle>>friend<<else>>love<</if>>. I… apologise. Our current predicament has my mind occupied.” He gives you a<<if $rekindle>> warm<</if>> smile. “It is good to have someone grounded next to me<<if $rekindle>>, whom I can trust<</if>>…” <<if $rekindle>>You flush.<</if>> You have come around to the front of the mansion. Edward opens the grandiose doors, and motions you to enter. It is dark in the central hallway. Without Mrs Culley, there is no one to light the torches. “Hold on a moment, $FirstName. I’ll fetch some torches and a tinderbox.” Edward is back soon enough with the things he set out for, as well as two rucksacks you <<if $background is "soldier">>imagine are leftovers from his days in the army<<else>>recognise from your time in the army<</if>>. It takes the two of you a couple more minutes to light two torches. Standing with the flickering torches in the dark hallway has something eerie. “Per your suggestion, we ought to provision before opening the entrance to the ancient corridors which run beneath the manor. We already have enough torches to last a few days, as well as a tinderbox. I shall go and find us a blanket and a few feet of rope.” He tosses you one of the rucksacks. “I trust you to get us some food and drink from the kitchen, since you know where it is now.” Edward chuckles. “Feel free to pick up anything else you deem useful, but tarry not too long. I would like to head out before sundown.” <ul><li> [[You head to the kitchen.|Ch4-Prepare1]]</li></ul>

Unlike the cold, empty, stone hallway, the temperature in the kitchen is reasonably comfortable. Though the last embers of a once roaring fire are dying out in the hearth, they provide a pleasant radiance, if only little illumination. With only the light of your torch to guide you, it takes you a few minutes to gather everything you need. Luckily, the larder is fully stocked, and, before too long, you have collected enough dried food and water for your descent into the depths of the manor. In your sack, you now have enough to last the two of you for at least two days. Hopefully, by then, your ordeal will be over… one way or another. ''//DING… DONG.//'' An ancient grandfather clock tucked away into a corner of the kitchen makes you jump involuntarily. Edward awaits your return. While you should make haste, there ought to be enough time and space to take at least one more thing with you. You found something that should come in useful while scouring a decrepit dungeon… <ul> <li> [[A kitchen knife, sturdy and sharp.|Ch4-Prepare2][$prepare to "knife"]]</li> <li> [[A few cloths, practical and warm.|Ch4-Prepare2][$prepare to "cloth"]]</li> <li> [[A cast iron poker, in case you need to… poke something?|Ch4-Prepare2][$prepare to "poker"]]</li> </ul>

You collect the food and the $prepare you have gathered, put them in the rucksack, and head toward the dining hall. On the way there, you find yourself grazing your hand against the wall to keep you from tripping. The halls are so dark without their usual torches, which Mrs Culley would ensure to keep lit at all times. The masonry seems to stretch into an infinite shadow, the light you hold out yourself the only source of illumination in a stygian Möbius loop. <<if $insanity > 7>>In the darkness, everything looks so… different. And yet, so strangely familiar. You can feel it in your gut: you’ve seen this hallway before. Was it in your dreams? The realisation strikes you like a thunderbolt, and you swerve around. //The shadow… is that ghastly shadow, my predator, my doom… is it on my heels?// Alas, no remorseless hunter is there to release you from the prison of flesh that has been erected around your broken mind. You shudder.<</if>> <ul><li> //[[The only way out… is forward.|Ch4-11]]//</li></ul>

When you arrive at the dining hall, Edward is already there, a filled rucksack at his feet. He is holding his torch out to illuminate the portrait of Cornelius. A chill runs up your spine. With the old, dark, oil painting being the only item lit in this room, the effect is downright uncanny. It naturally draws your attention to it. It occurs to you that Cornelius’ piercing gaze is very much like that of Edward. Yet, whereas the effect is inquisitive, thoughtful, and captivating in his nephew, even as a painting the former lord of Gairbuie seems stern and judgemental. Edward’s hand slowly caresses the frame of the portrait, meticulously running over the carved woodwork. Still, his eyes are transfixed on his late uncle’s picture. As his hands reach the lower left corner of the portrait, you can see him smile. There is a smouldering fire in his eyes, and his grin is fierce and cocky. “Got you now. Let us see what mysteries you have decided to hide in this ruin you bestowed on me.” ''// *Click* //'' The walls shudder, brittle mortar and dust shake loose from between the brickwork, and the hearth slides downward into the floor, leaving behind a gaping, black hole into the manor’s catacombs. No wonder Graeme thought Mrs Culley got eaten… “Exquisite. Now, let’s wait for $FirstName and <<if !$rekindle>>I<<else>>we<</if>> can…” Edward turns around and notices you. He smiles. The light of the torch held over his head casts shadows down on his countenance, making his eyes and cheeks seem sunk, his visage nearly skeletal. “Ah, you are here, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>. Splendid. Are you ready to delve into the belly of the beast, so to speak?” <ul> <li> [[“Yes. Let us end this, Edward.”|Ch4-12][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“Do I have a choice at this point?”|Ch4-12][$choice to 2]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> Your <<if $rekindle>>lover<<elseif $feeling > 4 or $background is "friend">>friend<<else>>host<</if>> smiles in response. “I agree. This saga has dragged on for far too long.” He looks back at the portrait. “A lifetime too long…” He draws a deep breath, and slowly exhales. Then, he steps into the darkness. <<else>> Edward frowns, and his tone becomes very serious. “We always have a choice, $FirstName. It may not always be obvious, and we may have to look in strange places for our options. I have made my choice. I hope you will follow suit.” Then he steps into the darkness. <</if>> //Well… in for a penny, in for a pound, right?// <ul><li> <<link 'And so you follow your <<if $rekindle && $background is "lover">>rekindled love<<elseif $rekindle>>newfound love<<elseif $feeling > 4 or $background is "friend">>friend<<else>>host<</if>> down into the darkness.'>><<popup "MazeDiffCh5" "Level Difficulty">><</link>></li></ul> /* END OF CHAPTER 4 */

<<set $currentRoom to passage()>> <<fadein 5s>> The darkness is all-encompassing, leaving your senses numb. Like stepping into a pool of thick black tar, and nearly as suffocating. //What you would give to find more of that moss, to help you guide your steps.// You turn around, expecting to find the hearth through which you just entered these confounded catacombs. The light is still there, though faint, looking to be farther away than it ought to be, given that you only just stepped through it. //<<if $insanity > 6>>This darkness is cutting of our only known path out, curse it!<<else>>Just a trick of the light… calm down, $FirstName.<</if>>// A flare suddenly illuminates the cavernous tunnel around you, as the acrid smell of burning burlap and paraffin fill the air. Edward has managed to light a torch, providing a warm, orange glow to guide your way into the stone tunnels that criss-cross the estate. “There we go,” he smiles. “Apologies for taking so long, $FirstName. It is rather damp here, and it has been some time since I last did this.” <<if $background is "soldier">> You figure he must be referring to your time together in the army. “For all the emphasis my drill sergeant put on ‘survival skills,’ I found that survival was mostly a matter of luck in those days,” you say, reminiscing of days past. <<else>> You raise an eyebrow. “You have much experience with exploring mysterious dungeons, then?” “Hardly.” Edward shrugs. “But they made us learn basic survival skills in the army, including how to operate a tinderbox. <</if>> Your companion helps you light another torch, just in case. If one accidentally goes out, you won’t be engulfed by that darkness, throttling your senses. You hold out your source of illumination to check the surrounding masonry. It seems surprisingly smooth, clean even. You run a finger over the stonework. “Edward?” you query. “Yes, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>?” “There is no dust on these walls.” You hold out your finger as proof. “I see…” Edward’s brows furrow. “Someone must have cleaned these recently, then. These tunnels likely see more frequent use than the ones you described earlier, enough to bother to keep them neat at least…” He shakes his head, “No matter. Ruminating over such matters will not get us any further. Shall we go deeper then?” <ul> <li> [[You steel yourself.|Ch5-Start]]</li> <li> [[You are shaking in your boots, but there is no turning back…|Ch5-Start]]</li> <li> [[You are weary, but trust your comrade wholeheartedly.|Ch5-Start]]</li> </ul> <</fadein>>

<<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-1">> <<JournalUpdate>><<set $entry to 13>> The two of you venture through the dark tunnel, your path illuminated by the flickering torches. The memories of your last time in these catacombs slither through your mind. You do your best to suppress the feeling of dread that is slowly crawling its way up your spine. <<if $insanity > 6>>//You fail…//<</if>> The first room you enter is oblong in shape. A simple wooden table stands in the middle, a lit candle dripping wax on a simple candleholder. Edward moves in closer to investigate. “There is hardly any drip on the holder or the table… It must have been recently lit and left behind.” He turns to you. “I think we are on the right track $FirstName. Mrs Culley, or her unknown conversation partner, likely left //this// here.” “Does it not seem peculiar to you that it was left //here//, given the darkness in these passages?” “Indeed, it does. I wonder whether they know these tunnels well enough to get around without light. But in that case, why would they need the candle to begin with?” You take a moment to survey your surroundings. A dark, soot covered bit of iron nailed to the stone wall catches your eye. “Look here, Edward.” You motion your torch towards the wall. “There is an empty sconce here. Could hold a torch.” You turn back towards your <<if $rekindle>>lover<<elseif $relationship is "friend" or $relationship is "lover">>friend<<else>>partner<</if>>. “A candle surely could not provide enough light to navigate this dungeon. It is more likely they meant to come back before it burns out fully…” “If so,” Edward strokes his chin as he ruminates, “wherever they went cannot be far…” You look around the room. You spot two exits from where you are: one straight ahead, and one going to the right. <ul> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-A][$rooms.a ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-B][$rooms.b ++]]</li> </ul> <<else>> As you approach the next room, you see a light flickering in the distance. Getting closer, the source becomes clear: a candle standing on a simple wooden table in the middle of an oblong room… “Damn,” Edward curses. “This is where we originally came from.” He takes a closer look at the candle. “Seems like we have been down here for a while now. We should probably keep moving.” <ul><li> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-A">> [[Head left.|Ch5-B][$rooms.b ++]] <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-B */ [[Head right.|Ch5-A][$rooms.a ++]] <</if>> </li></ul> <</if>>

<<if $rooms.a is 1>> The air in these tunnels is cold and moist. It smells of rotting seaweed, noxious vapours wafting over you as you delve deeper into the darkness. “I am glad that we have one another for company,” Edward chimes in. “I can only imagine how horrid it must have been to traverse these odious walkways alone.” “I wasn’t alone…” you say, shivering as you recall a ghastly howl reverberating through stone walls. Edward seems embarrassed. “$FirstName, I apologise. I did not mean to have you recall that.” “Right,” you shrug. “No harm done.” “I think we are about to come up on another chamber.” You enter the next room, dark and foreboding, and in a moment a stomach churning stench assaults your nostrils. The source becomes obvious as Edward’s torch illuminates the room you just entered. It would be more accurate to call it a cavern, with a high ceiling dotted with stalactites, droplets of salty water falling down into black puddles. In the middle of the room sits an enormous pile of rotting seaweed and flotsam debris. The heap looks deliberately assembled, like some sort of grotesque bird’s nest. A cold feeling creeps up your spine. //You do //not //want to hang around to see whatever creature makes its lair here.// <<else>> A familiar stench assaults your nostrils once more, as you enter the tall cavern with the rotting seaweed nest. “Great Scott…” Edward retches. “Why did we have to found ourselves back here of all places? We should try a different path, before whatever creature who made that filthy nest shows up. Now… Do you remember which path we took last?” <</if>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-Start">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-C][$rooms.c ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-D][$rooms.d ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-C">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-D][$rooms.d ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-Start]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-D */ <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-Start]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-C][$rooms.c ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul>

<<if $rooms.b is 1>> You move on from the <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-Start">>room with the candle, wondering about the missing torch on its walls<<else>>previous room, but your mind returns to the missing torch from the first room you entered in this confounded maze<</if>>. Could it have been that Mrs Culley left the candle and went deeper into the maze by herself? She must have, since you <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-Start">>did not run into her at the start of the tunnels<<else>>>still have not run into her yet<</if>>. Though, the main question is not whether she is here, but rather whether she is joined by her mysterious discussion partner… “Look sharp, $FirstName,” Edward says. “I believe we are coming up to another room.” His intuition proves to be correct, as a small room is up ahead. Its walls are covered with scribbles, the eldritch nature of which is sadly all too familiar to you by now… “More carvings, Edward… These are alike to those I spotted in the other tunnel system. I guess that confirms they must all be related.” “I suppose so, but one thing strikes me as odd…” “What is that, Edward?” “Look,” Edward holds his torch close to the wall to show you, “there is soot on the wall here, covering some of these perturbing markings. Whomever took that torch from the <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-Start">>oblong room earlier<<else>>previous room<</if>> likely passed through here, and accidentally brushed it against the wall. They must have been in a hurry as well, or they would have cleaned it up.” He looks at you intently, the dancing flames giving his face stern aspect. “I say we go down this path, cautiously of course, to see if we can find this person. I have an inkling it is my old housekeeper, and she has quite a bit of explaining to do…” “My thoughts exactly, Edward, it seems the trail leads on <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-Start">>straight<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-J">>left<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-O">>right<</if>>…” <<else>> Edward and you enter yet another room. The walls are covered with eldritch scribbles, which speak to your mind of malevolent intent… It seems familiar somehow, though you cannot immediately place it. Then, you notice a streak of soot. <<if $rooms.lab>> “Ah, look there Edward. See that black smudge? We have been here before… Since we haven’t found Mrs Culley yet, do you think we should take that path?” “I am not entirely certain… Undoubtedly, getting answers from her will be interesting, but we are running low on time… I cannot make up my mind, you decide.” <<else>> “Ah, look there Edward. See that black smudge? We have been here before… Since we have already found Mrs Culley, we know what can be found down that path… Still maybe we can progress faster down that way… Oh damn this blasted maze to the deepest pit of Hell!” <</if>> <</if>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-Start">> <li> [[Go left.|Ch5-J][$rooms.j ++]]</li> <li> [[Go straight.|Ch5-O][$rooms.o ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-J">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-O][$rooms.o ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-Start]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-O */ <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-Start]]</li> <li> [[Head right|Ch5-J][$rooms.j ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul>

<<if $rooms.c is 1>> Edward and you head deeper into the tunnels. <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-A">>Thankfully, you are back among masonry made by mankind, at least. //Or something close to man, anyway.// <</if>>The brickwork here looks suspiciously well kept, as if someone has been keeping it clean and free of weeds and decay. To your <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-A">>left<<else>>right<</if>>, you happen upon an alcove, built into the passageway. Within it, is placed a statue, carved out of dark stone, grotesque and warped. //Some sort of hideous parody of religious veneration…// It is vaguely feminine and humanoid in shape. Yet, this Madonna surely cannot appeal to any mind but the most deranged and sick. With the head of a deep sea fish, sharp teeth jutting out of its mouth like needles, and its eyes bulbous and lidless, you cannot think of a single reason why any poor sod would look to such a figure for their salvation. The idol’s torso has been moulded to look emaciated and starved, with pronounced ribs and hipbones. The arms are crossed underneath limp, sagging breasts, holding them in long-nailed hands. The breasts themselves coil around the arms, and turn into snakes. Beneath the hips, the creature lacks legs, having squid like tentacles instead. Offerings – fish carcasses, small bones, and polished stones – are scattered around the statue, a veneration seemingly sincere, yet troubling. Edward cannot suppress a shudder. “Let us move on, $FirstName… this place leaves me ill at ease.” There is a bend in the tunnel, but there is no obstacle in your way to continue on. Good thing too, as that effigy gives you the creeps as much as your companion… <<else>> As you move through the tunnels, you pass an alcove on your <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-A">>left<<else>>right<</if>>. You attempt in vain to suppress a shudder, as an all too familiar horrific visage catches your eye. This is the religious statue of the ichthyic woman you passed earlier. Quickly, you hurry on, as there is no need to stick around and expose yourself to this sanity eroding place. <</if>> <ul><li> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-A">> [[Head right.|Ch5-E][$rooms.e ++]] <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-E*/ [[Head left.|Ch5-A][$rooms.a ++]] <</if>> </li></ul>

<<if $lastRoom isnot "Ch5-G">> <<if $rooms.d is 1>> You move through another cold stone tunnel, aided only by the light of your torches. You soon happen upon an intersection, with paths going left, right, and straight. <<if !$rooms.doorseen>>One path, however, the <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-A">>right<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-E">>straight<<else>>left<</if>> one, seems to be blocked by a strange door. It is made of dark oak, surprisingly similar to the main entranceway to Harcourt manor. There is one key difference: the cast iron reinforcements of this door are embellished in a disturbing fashion. The face of a man is carved upon the wood, his expression lividly twisted in a toothless scream. A small, simple iron plinth sits within the mouth, clearly meant to accept an offering, its own pound of flesh.<<else>>One path, however, the <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-A">>right<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-E">>straight<<else>>left<</if>> one, is blocked by a strange yet familiar door. Made of dark oak, similar to the main entranceway to Harcourt manor, the disturbing iron embellishments adorn the face of a man, his expression lividly twisted in a toothless scream. A small, simple iron plinth sits within the mouth, clearly meant to accept an offering, its own pound of flesh. <<if $rooms.doorunlock>>//The idol...//<</if>><</if>> <<if !$rooms.doorseen>> “That is peculiar indeed,” Edward muses. “What do you make of it, $FirstName?”<<set $rooms.doorseen to true>> <<if $idol>> “Could this be the base for some sort of statuette? We did bring one with us, after all. It may not be that long a shot. We found it in Mrs Culley’s room, after all.”<<set $rooms.doorunlock to true, $rooms.unlockDG to true>> Edward nods. <<linkreplace "You place the idol on the plinth." t8n>> You place the idol on the plinth, and with a smooth //click// the door opens. When you remove it, ensuring to wrap it once more in the cloth when you are done, the door does not immediately close. Instead, you hear the ticking of a mechanism inside. //Perhaps a clockwork contraption closes the door automatically after a predetermined time period?// “Splendid intuition, $FirstName!” Edward exclaims. “Now we can go down this path… unless you think we should go elsewhere?” <<Ch5DDirections>> <</linkreplace>> <<else>> “I’m not certain… Let me try to see if I can open it.” Yet, try as you might, you can find no door handle, nor any other way of opening the door. “Guess we cannot continue through here,” you sigh. “At least, we are not stuck…” <<Ch5DDirections>> <</if>> <<else>> <<if !$idol>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves before one of these again… I suppose this one will remain as unyielding as the other. I am still quite puzzled by its mechanism. Maybe some item ought to be placed on that plinth?” Edward shakes his head ruefully. “I suppose there is no use worrying about it now, so where would you like to head my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>?” Edward asks. <<elseif !$rooms.unlockDG>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves before one of these again… Remember, we still have that idol from Mrs Culley’s room, and we could try to open this door too. Or we can try a different path. Your choice my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<elseif $rooms.doorunlock>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves before one of these again… We could go through once more. Or we can try a different path. Your choice my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<else>> //If you came across this message, please shoot me a message. I think I've fixed it, but you never know...// <</if>> <<Ch5DDirections>> <</if>> <<else>> You move through another cold stone tunnel, aided only by the light of your torches. You soon happen upon an intersection, with paths going left, right, and straight. One path, however, the <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-A">>right<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-E">>straight<<else>>left<</if>> one, seems to be blocked by a mightily familiar door. <<if $rooms.unlockDG>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves back here again… We could try to go through that door again, since we still have the idol. Or we can try a different path. Your choice my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<elseif $idol>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves back here again… Remember, we still have that idol from Mrs Culley’s room, and we could try to open that door with it. Or we can try a different path. Your choice my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<else>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves back here again… I suppose that strange door will remain unyielding. I wonder how it works. Maybe some item ought to be placed on that plinth?” Edward shakes his head ruefully. “I suppose there is no use worrying about it now, so where would you like to head my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>?” Edward asks. <</if>> <</if>> <<else>> The two of you go through the opened door and find yourself at a crossroads, with paths going straight, left, and right. With a mechanical clicking sound, the door closes behind you. Interestingly, the face on this side of the door is masculine, its visage angry rather than scared, though its mouth is still open in a wide gape, with a plinth on which to place the totem. <<if $rooms.doorthrough is 1>> <<include "Ch5-DoorFirstGo">> <<else>> “Mmmh… I must look into this door mechanism,” Edward muses. “When we are done with our quest, of course. Where should we go next?” <ul> <li>[[Head left.|Ch5-A][$rooms.a ++]]</li> <li>[[Head straight.|Ch5-E][$rooms.e ++]]</li> <li>[[Head right.|Ch5-F][$rooms.f ++]]</li> </ul> <</if>> <</if>>

“Interesting,” Edward muses. “This system is truly ingenious. I wonder how the door was constructed to react to the eldritch powers of the idol.” <ul> <li> <<link "You eagerly concur. The implications are astonishing!">> <<set $feeling ++>> <<replace "#choice" t8n>> “I did wish we were here under better circumstances… With more time, and perhaps a larger team to excavate these ruins, imagine what wondrous and exciting things we might uncover!” Edward smiles. “My thoughts exactly, $FirstName. Though I suppose we should not tarry here. Perhaps we could return here sometime<<if $rekindle>>, together<</if>>." <ul> <<if passage() is "Ch5-D">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-A][$rooms.a ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-E][$rooms.e ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-F][$rooms.f ++]]</li> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-G">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-H][$rooms.h ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-I][$rooms.i ++]]</li> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-W">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-U][$rooms.u ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-Y][$rooms.y ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-X][$rooms.x ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <</replace>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "You frown. Whatever eldritch mess you have landed yourselves into cannot be over soon enough as far as you are concerned.">> <<replace "#choice" t8n>> “Really, Edward, my <<if $rekindle>>darling<<else>>friend<</if>>, that seems rather macabre, would you not say? I for one would prefer to spend not a moment longer in these horrid ruins than absolutely necessary.” Edward shrugs. “I understand your reservations, $FirstName, but be not too quick to disregard the value of this place.<<if $background is "student">> Have you forgotten why we joined the Scarlet Hand?<</if>> We may learn many things here, many things which humanity has chosen to forget. But either way, we should probably not tarry too long in this room.” <ul> <<if passage() is "Ch5-D">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-A][$rooms.a ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-E][$rooms.e ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-F][$rooms.f ++]]</li> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-G">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-H][$rooms.h ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-I][$rooms.i ++]]</li> <<elseif passage() is "Ch5-W">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-U][$rooms.u ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-Y][$rooms.y ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-X][$rooms.x ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <</replace>> <</link>></li> </ul>

<<if $rooms.e is 1>> You continue making your way through the dark and foreboding tunnels, the sounds of your footsteps echoing back at you from the solid stone surrounding you. “Wait, can you see that?” Edward points ahead in the tunnel and whispers: “I can see lights flickering in the distance. No sound, though… We should proceed cautiously.” As you move closer, you realise there is indeed no one in the room, and allow yourselves to relax slightly. However, your ease of mind is only short lived, as you soon see what is up ahead. The entire wall is arrayed with bones - human bones, or so you presume. Some are so malformed, it is difficult to say whether they once belonged to man or beast. Skulls with tusked jawbones twice as wide as the cranium, crossed arms ending in enormous crows’ feet, and ribcages with wavy ribs, among many other bizarre mutations. Rows upon rows of dribbly candles line the wall, casting a ghastly light on the wall. You shiver. “Disturbing…” Edward manages, his eyes transfixed on the bones: “The arrangement reminds me of the Parisian catacombs, but the shape of these bones leaves me ill at ease to express myself mildly… Please, let us not hang around here too long.” <<else>> You try to rub some warmth into your weary bones as you continue walking. But it helps little when you realise what is up ahead. The next room you enter is filled with those bones, both human and frighteningly close yet different from them. “I believe we have already visited this ossuary.” Edward says as he turns to you. “We should try a different path. We cannot afford to keep walking in circles.” <</if>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-C">> <li>[[Head straight.|Ch5-F][$rooms.f ++]]</li> <li>[[Head right.|Ch5-D][$rooms.d ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-D">> <li>[[Head left.|Ch5-C][$rooms.c ++]]</li> <li>[[Head right.|Ch5-F][$rooms.f ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-F*/ <li>[[Head left.|Ch5-D][$rooms.d ++]]</li> <li>[[Head straight.|Ch5-C][$rooms.c ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul>

<<if $rooms.f is 1>> You can feel fatigue creep up on you, your legs growing heavy, and your eyes tiring under the strain of inadequate light, and pervasive darkness. Caught up in your exhaustion, you do not notice a lose floor tile, and trip on it. You stumble, but thankfully Edward catches you before you fall. “Careful now, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>. We must be vigilant down here… Hold on, I think I can see a room up ahead, and it has a table? By Jove, a table and chair, now isn’t that a stroke of good luck!” You let yourself fall on the chair, rubbing your toes, already sore from the hit against the loose tile. Both the chair and the table are simple wooden affairs. The room you are in is similarly sparse: no other furniture adorns it, and the walls are barren, safe only an open hearth by the far wall. It is dark from soot, and clearly has not seen use for quite some time. Edward puts his pack down, opens it, and starts rummaging through it. “Sit tight, let me see if I have some first aid materials here, some clean cloth or perhaps a cooling tincture, or…” He suddenly stops. <ul> <li> <<link "“Are you alright, Edward?” you enquire.">> <<replace "#choice" t8n>> “Are you alright, Edward?” you enquire. <<include "Ch5-F2">> <<set $feeling ++>> <</replace>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "You glance towards Edward, but keep mum.">> <<replace "#choice" t8n>> You glance towards Edward, but keep mum. <<include "Ch5-F2">> <</replace>> <</link>></li> </ul> <<else>> You walk into the room, the one with the simple wooden chair and table, where you had previously stubbed your toe. “Ah… watch out Edward. Over there,” you point ahead, “is the tile I hurt myself on earlier. We should take care not to trip over it once more.” “Good call, $FirstName.” Edward nods. “Now then… which way should we go next?” <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-D">> <li>[[Head left.|Ch5-E][$rooms.e ++]]</li> <li> <<if $rooms.lib>>There is no need to visit the Library more than once.<<else>>[[Head right.|Ch5-Library][$rooms.lib to true, $libEntry to "F"]]<</if>></li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-E">> <li>[[Head right.|Ch5-D][$rooms.d ++]]</li> <li> <<if $rooms.lib>>There is no need to visit the Library more than once.<<else>>[[Head straight.|Ch5-Library][$rooms.lib to true, $libEntry to "F"]]<</if>></li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-Library*/ <li>[[Head left.|Ch5-D][$rooms.d ++]]</li> <li>[[Head straight.|Ch5-E][$rooms.e ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <</if>>

“There is something on the floor here, a book in fact. Hold on, let me finish with the tincture, then we can have a look.” Edward applies a soothingly cool lotion to your stubbed toe, wraps it up with a thin strip of cotton so as not to make it impossible for you to put your boots on, then takes the book from the floor and puts it on the table. “It is quite dusty. I suppose it must have been lying here for a while.” <<if !$rooms.lib>>He looks at the hearth. “That matches with the rest of the room at least. Now, let us see what we have here.” He dusts off the leatherbound cover. “Mhm. The //Liber Damnationis//, a common staple in the library of amateur black magicians. Pure superstitious drivel, if you ask me. Still, I wonder how it got here…”<<else>>He looks back to where you came from. “I guess Cornelius must have brought it here years ago, and forgotten about it.” He dusts off the leatherbound cover. “Mhm. The //Liber Damnationis//, a common staple in the library of amateur black magicians. Pure superstitious drivel, if you ask me. No wonder Cornelius did not bother to retrieve it.”<</if>> <<if !$rooms.lib>>“I concur, its presence here, even if it has not been used in a long time, is peculiar. But my toe feels a lot better already, and we should be on our way. Now, what paths lead from here?”<<else>>“I suppose even your uncle had a case of absentmindedness on occasion. But my toe feels a lot better already, and we should be on our way. Now, what paths lead from here?”<</if>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-D">> <li>[[Head left.|Ch5-E][$rooms.e ++]]</li> <li> <<if $rooms.lib>>There is no need to visit the Library more than once.<<else>>[[Head right.|Ch5-Library][$rooms.lib to true, $libEntry to "F"]]<</if>></li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-E">> <li>[[Head right.|Ch5-D][$rooms.d ++]]</li> <li> <<if $rooms.lib>>There is no need to visit the Library more than once.<<else>>[[Head right.|Ch5-Library][$rooms.lib to true, $libEntry to "F"]]<</if>></li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-Library*/ <li>[[Head left.|Ch5-D][$rooms.d ++]]</li> <li>[[Head straight.|Ch5-E][$rooms.e ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul>

<<if $lastRoom isnot "Ch5-D">> <<if $rooms.g is 1>> You come upon a small circular room, unlit torches mounted on the wall. “Just a moment,” Edward says, “let me light these.” As he goes around the room, lighting the torches, a warm orange glow slowly fills the room. <<if !$rooms.doorseen>> “My stars, Edward, look at this!” you gasp, pointing.<<set $rooms.doorseen to true>> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-H">>On your right<<else>>Right ahead<</if>> is a most peculiar door. It is made of dark oak, surprisingly similar to the main entranceway to Harcourt manor, though it has a key difference. The cast iron reinforcements of this door are embellished in a disturbing fashion. It looks like the face of a woman, her expression horrifyingly twisted in a toothless scream. A small, simple iron plinth sits within the mouth, clearly meant to accept an offering, its own pound of flesh. “That is peculiar indeed,” Edward muses. “What do you make of it, $FirstName?” <<if $idol>> “Could this be the base for some sort of statuette? We did bring one with us, after all. It may not be that long a shot. We found it in Mrs Culley’s room, after all.”<<set $rooms.doorunlock to true, $rooms.unlockDG to true>> Edward nods. <<linkreplace "You place the idol on the plinth." t8n>> You place the idol on the plinth, and with a smooth //click// the door opens. When you remove it, ensuring to wrap it once more in the cloth when you are done, the door does not immediately close. Instead, you hear the ticking of a mechanism inside. //Perhaps a clockwork contraption closes the door automatically after a predetermined time period?// “Splendid intuition, $FirstName!” Edward exclaims. “Now we can go down this path… unless you think we should go elsewhere?” <<Ch5GDirections>> <</linkreplace>> <<else>> “I’m not certain… Let me try to see if I can open it.” Yet, try as you might, you can find no door handle, nor any other way of opening the door. “Guess we cannot continue through here,” you sigh. “At least, we are not stuck…” <<Ch5GDirections>> <</if>> <<else>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves before one of these again…” Edward muses. And, indeed, <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-H">>on your right<<else>>right ahead<</if>>, you find quite a familiar and still peculiar door, similar to the main entranceway to Harcourt manor, save for the disturbing iron embellishments adorning the face of a woman, her expression horrifyingly twisted in a toothless scream. A small, simple iron plinth sits within the mouth, clearly meant to accept an offering, its own pound of flesh. <<if !$idol>> “I suppose this one will remain as unyielding as the other. I am still quite puzzled by its mechanism. Maybe some item ought to be placed on that plinth?” Edward shakes his head ruefully. “I suppose there is no use worrying about it now, so where would you like to head my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>?” Edward asks. <<elseif !$rooms.unlockDG>> “Remember, we still have that idol from Mrs Culley’s room, and we could try to open this door too. Or we can try a different path. Your choice my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<elseif $rooms.doorunlock>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves before one of these again… We could go through once more. Or we can try a different path. Your choice my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<else>> //If you came across this message, please shoot me a message. I think I've fixed it, but you never know...// <</if>> <<Ch5GDirections>> <</if>> <<else>> You move through another cold stone tunnel, aided only by the light of your torches. You soon happen upon an intersection, with paths going left, right, and straight. One path, however, the <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-H">>right<<else>>straight<</if>> one, seems to be blocked by a mightily familiar door. <<if $rooms.unlockDG>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves back here again… We could try to go through that door again, since we still have the idol. Or we can try a different path. Your choice my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<elseif $idol>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves back here again… Remember, we still have that idol from Mrs Culley’s room, and we could try to open that door with it. Or we can try a different path. Your choice my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<else>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves back here again… I suppose that strange door will remain unyielding. I wonder how it works. Maybe some item ought to be placed on that plinth?” Edward shakes his head ruefully. “I suppose there is no use worrying about it now, so where would you like to head my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>?” Edward asks. <</if>> <</if>> <<else>> The two of you go through the opened door and find yourself in a small circular room with unlit torches mounted on the wall. With a mechanical clicking sound, the door closes behind you. Interestingly, the face on this side of the door is feminine, its visage scared rather than angry, though its mouth is still open in a wide gape, with a plinth on which to place the totem. <<if $rooms.doorthrough is 1>> <<include "Ch5-DoorFirstGo">> <<else>> “Mmmh… I must look into this door mechanism,” Edward muses. “When we are done with our quest, of course. Where should we go next?” <ul> <li>[[Head right.|Ch5-H][$rooms.h ++]]</li> <li>[[Head straight.|Ch5-I][$rooms.i ++]]</li> </ul> <</if>> <</if>>

<<if $rooms.h is 1>> Edward and you continue on through the damp, clammy hallways. The muffled sound of your footsteps against the stone tiles strangely echoes through the ruins. Off in the distance, you can hear the scurrying of tiny claws over the cold, hard floor. “Rats.” Edward winces. “I //hate// rats.” “I did not think you would have such an irrational and base fear, Edward.” He grimaces. “You should know better, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>. We all have our peculiar instinctual revulsions. Mine… is rats. No childhood trauma, no good reason for it, just… the feeling of a hot needle racing through my spine whenever I see them… or think about them,” he shudders. <ul> <li> <<link "Say nothing.">> <<replace "#choice" t8n>> “But I’ll be fine." He continues. "They’ll scatter when we shine our torches on them, and then we can mercifully be on our way.” His predictions prove to be prescient. Entering the empty, cobwebbed room, two dozen beady eyes stare back at you, just enough to catch a sight of the flames, before scurrying off in the crevices and cracks in the walls. Edward sighs loudly. You had not realised he had been holding his breath all this time. “Okay… okay, I’m good.” His voice retains a faint memory of shakiness, but he seems to be alright. “Now, which way shall we head?” <<Ch5HDirections>> <</replace>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "Tease Edward.">> <<replace "#choice" t8n>> “Come on now, <<if $relationship isnot "lover">>good chap<<else>>my sweet<</if>>, surely with all the obscure horrors we have already faced, rodents are far too mundane a phobia for you?” He grimaces. “Surely, I need not tell you that fears are often irrational. I know that they’ll scatter when we shine our torches on them, but it does little to dissuade my inner feeling of unease.” His predictions prove to be prescient. Entering the empty, cobwebbed room, two dozen beady eyes stare back at you, just enough to catch a sight of the flames, before scurrying off in the crevices and cracks in the walls. Edward sighs loudly. You had not realised he had been holding his breath all this time. “Okay… okay, I’m good.” His voice retains a faint memory of shakiness, but he seems to be alright. “Now, which way shall we head?” <<Ch5HDirections>> <</replace>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "Reassure him.">> <<set $feelings ++>> <<replace "#choice" t8n>> “Okay, we can take it slow if you need to, Edward. I am here if you need help.” He smiles at you warmly. “Thank you very much indeed, but I am afraid it is the kind of irrational fear that is hard to dispel. In any event, they’ll scatter when we shine our torches on them. Just have to bite the bullet I suppose.” His predictions prove to be prescient. Entering the empty, cobwebbed room, two dozen beady eyes stare back at you, just enough to catch a sight of the flames, before scurrying off in the crevices and cracks in the walls. Edward sighs loudly. You had not realised he had been holding his breath all this time. “Okay… okay, I’m good.” His voice retains a faint memory of shakiness, but he seems to be alright. “Now, which way shall we head?” <<Ch5HDirections>> <</replace>> <</link>></li> </ul> <<else>> As you walk through the tunnels, you can sense Edward go tense besides you. “Everything all right, there?” you query. “Hush,” Edward responds. “Can you hear that? That scurrying noise in the walls? I think the rats are here again.” He shivers. “At least, it sounds like they are merely crawling through the walls, now.” He is right. Although the sound of the rats does not recede, their beady eyes do not welcome you when you get to the next intersection, as they did before. “Quick,” Edward says agitatedly, “let us pick a different path and be on our way.” <<Ch5HDirections>> <</if>>

<<if $rooms.i is 1>> As you move on through the maze, Edward suddenly calls out: “Look, $FirstName! I can see light coming from over there… natural light!” The next room is partially bathed in the silvery white glow of the moon. The light reflects of the dust hanging in the air, creating an eerie, yet beautiful effect. “Let us darken one of the torches,” you say. “We should save our precious resources.” “Right,” Edward responds, “let me take care of that.” After he finishes dimming his torch, the two of you explore the room, hoping to find the source of the light. A hole in the ceiling, going up at least two dozen yards, moonlight filtering down, catches your eyes. “Wow…” You utter. “I did not think we would be this far down… Do you reckon that opening is at ground level?” “No clue… but I reckon the more intriguing view is below your feet, rather than up there, $FirstName.” “Mhm?” You look down, and see what he had been looking at for a while. “By the stars…” The ground is covered in eldritch runes, dribbled candle wax, and the unmistakable brownish-red hue of dried blood. Judging by the extent of the crimson splattering, and the diversity of its colouration, it is unlikely indeed that this was an isolated event. You swallow, your mouth dry and your heart racing. “You… you do not think that someone was… well… sacrificed here, do you?” Edward takes a deep breath, sighs, and looks up at you, his visage grave. “It is not something we can rule out. But neither is it something that we should assume. They could have used livestock to achieve the same result, though the village is too poor to own many animals…” That sobering thought hangs between you for a while, silent and heavy. It is you who breaks it first. “We… we should move on. Staring at the memory of some accursed ritual, letting our imaginations fill in blanks of the blackest hue… no good can come of that. Not to mention, those etchings make my skin crawl.” “Yes… yes, okay. Let us make haste. Now… where to?” <<else>> As you walk into the next room, you recognize an uncomfortable chill clasp its icy fingers around your throat. “Oh, blast it all,” Edward subduedly curses. “It is the sacrificial room again.” The pale moonlight shines down on the copper-hued, blood-stained floor. “I do not want to stick around here, Edward… We should move on.” <</if>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-G">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-K][$rooms.k ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-J][$rooms.j ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-J">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-G][$rooms.g ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-K][$rooms.k ++]]</li> <<else>> /*previous is Ch5-K*/ <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-G][$rooms.g ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-J][$rooms.j ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul>

<<if $rooms.j is 1>> The two of you head onward, <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-N">>up the stairs, <</if>>torches held out to light your way. Off in the distance, <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-N">>few more steps above you, <</if>>you spot a faint greenish glow, all too familiar to you. “Ah,” you muse. “I had wondered when we would encounter this specific aspect of the ruins.” “Come again?” Edward queries, as the two of you enter the next room. “Here, look. These are the same patches of moss I told you about, though //these// are not growing in any strange shapes. It is that moss which kept me from being lost last night, as it possesses a strange bioluminescence, enough to find one’s way by without a torch.” You look around the room. The moss is stuck solely to the wall to your left. “It is most peculiar that it should be here, while we have not seen any other sign thus far… Perhaps these tunnels are used more regularly?” “Possibly.” Edward shrugs. “I imagine that this room is used substantially less than the others we have explored thus far.” He casts a look around. “There seems to be nothing else of interest here… We should probably continue then. Time moves onward inexorably.” You nod, and try to orient yourself as to which passage to take next. <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-B" || $lastRoom is "Ch5-I">>While you could continue straight ahead, you can make out stairs heading downward, to your <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-B">>right<<else>>left<</if>>, deeper into the bowels of the manor…<</if>> <<else>> The two of you head onward, <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-N">>up the stairs, <</if>>torches held out to light your way. Off in the distance, <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-N">>few more steps above you, <</if>>you see a faint greenish glow, all too familiar to you. “It seems we have come upon the mossy room once more. We should probably move on, as there is nothing new here for us.” <</if>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-B">> <li>[[Head straight.|Ch5-I][$rooms.i ++]]</li> <li>[[Head right.|Ch5-N][$rooms.n ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-I">> <li>[[Head straight.|Ch5-B][$rooms.b ++]]</li> <li>[[Head left.|Ch5-N][$rooms.n ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-N*/ <li>[[Head right.|Ch5-I][$rooms.i ++]]</li> <li>[[Head left.|Ch5-B][$rooms.b ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul>

<<if $rooms.k is 1>> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-I">>Edward and you leave the sacrificial chamber behind, and head on. The thought of what may have gone down there still fills you with cold shivers. The next room has no such natural illumination.<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-L">>Edward and you leave the torture room behind, and head on.<<else>>Edward and you head back up the stairs, fatigue now clearly setting into your legs.<</if>> However, your torches reveal a most fascinating room. “Look at this, $FirstName!” Edward gasps. “I do believe these are genuine Norman tapestries, not unlike the one famously uncovered at Bayeux!” Pausing to check out the tapestry up close. “These could be worth a fortune! What are they doing here underneath the manor? And in such pristine state too?” He reaches out to touch one of them, but thinks better of it. “These could be the archaeological discovery of a lifetime…” “More pressingly, Edward, my <<if $rekindle>>dear<<else>>friend<</if>>, where to go next? There are no other passages leaving this room. Should we retrace our steps?” “Let us not be too hasty: these weavings may be hiding further passages… let’s see… Ah! As I thought! There are passages underneath these other two. Now, let’s see… the tapestry <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-I">>straight ahead of where we entered has books embroidered on it. The tapestry to the right has a starry night on it, and stairs leading further downward.<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-L">>straight ahead of where we entered has a bloody dagger in a clenched fist embroidered on it. The tapestry to the left has a starry night on it, and stairs leading further downward.<<else>>to the right of where we entered has books embroidered on it. The tapestry to the left has a bloody dagger in a clenched fist.<</if>> Which path should we take?” <<else>> Entering the next room, you need to push aside a piece of cloth. The cause is soon apparent, as you find yourself in the room with the tapestries. The tapestry <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-I">>straight ahead of where you entered has books embroidered on it. The tapestry to the right has a starry night on it, and stairs leading further downward.<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-L">>straight ahead of where you entered has a bloody dagger in a clenched fist embroidered on it. The tapestry to the left has a starry night on it, and stairs leading further downward.<<else>>to the right of where you entered has books embroidered on it. The tapestry to the left has a bloody dagger in a clenched fist.<</if>> <</if>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-I">> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-L][$rooms.l ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-R][$rooms.r ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-L">> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-I][$rooms.i ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-R][$rooms.r ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-R*/ <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-L][$rooms.l ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-I][$rooms.i ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul>

<<if $rooms.l is 1>> The hallway <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-K">>behind the tapestry<<else>>you continue through<</if>> is longer and darker than any of the others you have walked thus far. As you go onward, the sickening, rusty smell of old blood assaults your nostrils. Your conviction wavers. //Do you really wish to see what is around the next corner?// “I do not know for certain what unfortunate scene await us in this next room, but steel yourself my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>, for it is likely to be a gruesome sight.” <<linkappend "And, indeed, it is." t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> The room is filled with barbaric, medieval torture devices: iron maidens, a torture chair, and a rack stand scattered throughout. Several of them are caked in dried up blood and slightly rotting viscera. An unwelcome suggestion that these may have been used more recently than the Middle Ages enters your mind… “Good heavens…” Edward whispers. “These… these look they have seen use barely a few months ago… My uncle, or the village?” “It is little use thinking about it, Edward… I know it is hard, but you must not lose focus on what is important right here, right now.” “Yes…” Edward perks up somewhat, seemingly regaining his composure thanks to your admonition, “yes, you are right, $FirstName. Let us not linger here then, as there is nothing to be gained by staying… Which way, then?” <</linkappend>> <<else>> “Oh, Great Scott,” Edward sighs as you enter the next room. “It seems we have found ourselves in the room with the torture implements once more…” “Stay strong Edward,” you say, putting your hand on his shoulder. “We do not have to stay around here… Let’s pick a path and move on.” “Yes… yes, you are quite right.” Edward’s agreement is in words only, as he remains somewhat distracted and perturbed. You should probably move on quickly. <</if>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-H">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-M][$rooms.m ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-K][$rooms.k ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-K">> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-M][$rooms.m ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-H][$rooms.h ++]]</li> <<else>> /*previous is Ch5-M*/ <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-H][$rooms.h ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-K][$rooms.k ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul>

<<if $rooms.m is 1>> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-Library">>You ponder what you learned in the library, but try not to let it dominate your thoughts.<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-H">>Edward seems sterner than usual, but soon regains his countenance.<<else>>It takes a while for the smell of rot to dissipate, but soon everything goes back to normal. Or, at least as normal as a secret tunnel system in a Scottish castle can be.<</if>> All the hallways you have traversed thus far here and last night were straight affairs, and so it perplexes you that the one you walk through now starts to curve. You come upon an intersection with two other paths leading away from it, which also seem to curve away. Edward chuckles. “Would you mind sharing the source of your gaiety, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>?” “It is a silly thing, really. Far sillier than any other room we have come across, so I allowed myself some mirth. The halls converging on this point combine to make a triskele; it is a symbol of relevance for many proto-European cultures, including the Celts and Picts that used to call this part of Scotland home. Why its builders went through the trouble of building it this way, I cannot say, but it is a nice homage to the original culture of this land nevertheless.” You nod. It seems of little import, but the mundanity in and of itself is something to be thankful for, given the other things you have already encountered here. <<else>> “Ah, it seems we are back in the Celtic or Pict triskele room: note the light curve to all three hallways… You know, I wonder what role, if any, these ancient civilizations play in the local… shall we say ‘belief systems’?” “What makes you say that?” you ask. <<if $rooms.chap>> “It fits with what <<if $chapel>>we<<else>>I<</if>> saw in on the Chapel’s panoramas. It had a figure closely resembling a druid on it, which fits in well with what we know of both cultures… I know it is hardly conclusive evidence, but it is worth thinking about.” <<else>> “Just a hunch, mostly. The villagers seem quite proud of their heritage, and their history in this place. If that history were to truly go back millennia, then they must be descended from these ancient civilizations.” <</if>> “I see…” you shrug. “It is an interesting thought, Edward, but we should probably be on our way. You can always write your treatise on the local cultures in the future.” If indeed we make it out of here alive… <</if>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-Library">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-L][$rooms.l ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-H][$rooms.h ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-H">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-L][$rooms.l ++]]</li> <li> <<if $rooms.lib>>There is no need to visit the Library more than once.<<else>>[[Head right.|Ch5-Library][$rooms.lib to true, $libEntry to "M"]]<</if>></li> <<else>> /*previous is Ch5-L*/ <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-H][$rooms.h ++]]</li> <li> <<if $rooms.lib>>There is no need to visit the Library more than once.<<else>>[[Head right.|Ch5-Library][$rooms.lib to true, $libEntry to "M"]]<</if>></li> <</if>> </ul>

<<if $rooms.n is 1>> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-J">>You descend through the staircase, heading deeper into the dark, stone bowels of Gairbuie. As you go further down, the hallway becomes more cramped, until the masonry is barely inches away from your shoulders, forcing you to walk behind Edward. Thankfully, the stairs end, and you find yourself in a large open room.<<else>>Edward and you continue through narrow hallways, the masonry mere inches away from your shoulders. Thankfully the next room you happen upon gives you a reprieve from this claustrophobic trek.<</if>> The walls are lined with portraits, some likely centuries old, illuminated by the dim flickering of your torches. The room is otherwise barren. “See any of your ancestors, Edward? Is this where you introduce me to the rest of the Harcourts?” “Hardly,” Edward chuckles. “Remember, Cornelius was an uncle on my mother’s side of the family. Her maiden name was Stanhope. Now, having said that,” he taps his lips with his finger “I surely hope these portraits are not of //any// of my family line…” His voice suddenly goes grave. “Look at //them//… some look downright… monstrous. By Jove, this //one// has gills and needle like teeth like some sort of deep sea creature!” Edward recoils, looks like he is about to retch. Luckily, he composes himself after a few deep breaths of the stale dungeon air. You, on the other hand, have to put in considerable effort not to empty the contents of your stomach on to the cold, stone floor. “No… no, I do not think these are my family, they can’t be and it is not mere wishful thinking. See their attire?” He scoffs. “I am afraid that my ancestors were far too vainglorious to pose for portraits wearing such down-to-earth attire.” He turns to you, his serious countenance elevated in its solemnity by the light of the flame he holds. “More likely, these are leaders of the village… elders, spokespersons, perhaps even figures of religious significance. Not… not our kind.” “That is not improbable,” you respond, listening to him only half-heartedly. One particular painting has drawn your attention, for it is the only landscape here. It depicts a coastline, one very similar to that adjacent to Gairbuie. Where Gairbuie is supposed to stand, however, you find the paint has been scratched away. If you had to guess, bare nails were the culprit. Dried flecks of blood stain the wooden panel, which is chipped around where the manor should be located. <<if $destination.morning is "pub" or $destination.afternoon is "pub">>//Could this be the sister painting to the one you saw hanging in the pub yesterday?// <</if>>Around the source of the artist’s mania, [[words|Ch5-NDark]] have been painted in an unsteady hand… <<elseif $rooms.n is 2>> The cold and clammy hallways next lead you to an all too familiar room. “It seems we have found ourselves into the portrait room again.” Edward sighs. “Actually, I have wondered about this a little since we were last here.” “Oh?” you wonder. “The painting you were looking at earlier?” Edward points at the canvas. “It is clearly depicting the cliff upon which the estate stands, would you not agree? But where the manor is supposed to be, the paint has been scratched away. Now, one could logically assume that the manor had been painted, then subsequently scrubbed away by the artist as they went mad… But why would that be so?” He pauses, silence hanging ominously in the air. “I wonder whether perhaps //something else// was painted there, something which reminded the artist of a thing so horrific, they went mad… Tragic, really; their artistic inspiration became their doom.” Having no good retort, you merely nod. It is a disturbing thought to be certain, but something about it feels right somehow. Still, it behoofs neither of you to stand around here speculating about the mental state of some unknown painter, so you pick another path to take. <<else>> The cold and clammy hallways next lead you to an all too familiar room. “It seems we have found ourselves into the portrait room yet again.” Edward sighs. “I swear, I think I shall be done with portraits for a good long while when we’ve put this affair to rest for good… Enough of this, we know what can be found here, so we should move on.” <</if>> <<if $rooms.n isnot 1>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-J">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-R][$rooms.r ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-S][$rooms.s ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-R">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-S][$rooms.s ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right, going back up the stairs.|Ch5-J][$rooms.j ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-S*/ <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-R][$rooms.r ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight, going back up the stairs.|Ch5-J][$rooms.j ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <</if>>

//the gate of madness must not [[be opened|Ch5-NExtra]] please for the love of all that is holy [[stay away|Ch5-NExtra]] oh gracious god please let this nightmare [[be buried|Ch5-NExtra]] and forgotten please have mercy//

“Mrm…” You nearly jump out of your pantaloons of fright. You had not noticed Edward come up beside you, and his grunt forces you out of your reverie. “Apologies, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>, I had not meant to upset you. I wanted to ask you which way you think we ought to go next.” <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-J">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-R][$rooms.r ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-S][$rooms.s ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-R">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-S][$rooms.s ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right, going back up the stairs.|Ch5-J][$rooms.j ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-S*/ <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-R][$rooms.r ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight, going back up the stairs.|Ch5-J][$rooms.j ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul>

<<if $rooms.o is 1>> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-B">>You follow the path you believe Mrs Culley likely went through, heading further into the stygian maze.<<else>>You follow the dark, stone tunnel forward.<</if>> This goes on for a long time, until you happen upon a junction. The main hallway continues straight onward, but a second path, somewhat more cramped than the first, goes on from your <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-B">>right<<else>>left<</if>>. “Hey, $FirstName,” Edward says, rubbing his arms and shivering, “is it just me or is it getting rather frosty?” “I th-th-think it is, yes,” you say, teeth chattering. “It s-s-seems to c-c-come from that side path. I w-w-wonder w-w-why…” //You point to the <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-B">>right<<else>>left<</if>> opening.// “Do you want to go c-c-check it out? If it turns out to be too cold, we c-c-can retrace our steps.” You nod, somewhat more vigorously than you normally would in order to keep warm. <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-Q2">> You leave the macabre meat locker as expeditiously as you can muster without stumbling over the uneven stone tiles in the darkness. Slowly, far too slow for your liking, the biting cold starts to recede, and you start feeling the soothing warmth of the torch once more. “That… is a sight I shall not soon be able to unsee.” Edward manages tortuously. “In fact I… I think I would just rather not talk about it and be on our way as quickly as we can…” You swallow. Words fail you, incapable of adequately describing the nausea and horror you feel in your gut. //Edward is right, of course. Nothing to do but move on, and move forward.// <<else>> As you approach the next room, you can feel the air grow cold once more. “P-p-please, $FirstName, let us go st-t-traight ahead,” Edward manages with chattering teeth. “Off t-t-to the side t-t-there is the m-m-meat locker. I c-c-cannot think of any r-r-reason to head back there.” <</if>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-B">> <li> <<if $rooms.q lt 1 >>[[Head right.|Ch5-Q][$rooms.q ++]]<<else>><<link "Go to Meatlocker">><<GoToQResp>><</link>><</if>></li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-P][$rooms.p ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-P">> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-B][$rooms.b ++]]</li> <li> <<if $rooms.q lt 1 >>[[Head left.|Ch5-Q][$rooms.q ++]]<<else>><<link "Go to Meatlocker">><<GoToQResp>><</link>><</if>></li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-Q2 */ <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-B][$rooms.b ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-P][$rooms.p ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul>

You decide to seek out the source of the cold, which becomes more pervasive the further you walk along the path. After about a minute of walking, your breath condensates in the air. Swirls of clammy fog circle below your knees, making you feel as if you are wading through an icy bath. You hold your torch closer to you than perhaps prudent to illuminate the tunnel, but the warmth makes the payoff more than worth it. After what feels like an eternity, you see a solid wooden door, from which the cold radiates. “That seems odd,” Edward muses. “None of the other rooms had a door quite like this, at least none of the ones we happened upon so far…” “I…” He turns to you. “I suppose we ought to open it then? Since we came all this way here in the first place…” You nod, and Edward pushes open the door. <ul><li> [[Enter.|Ch5-Q2]]</li></ul>

If you felt cold up until now, it was nothing compared to the waves of chill that assault you from behind the door. You can feel your fingers go numb, and you need to grab your torch with both hands to make sure you do not drop it. The gust of frigid air nearly blows out your torch, but thankfully it merely sputters, rather than going out. “Urgh, let us see what we have here…” Edward says, walking inside, hunched and his free arm wrapped around him to preserve his body heat. “I reckon it… oh… Oh my stars…” You echo the sentiment with a gasp. Meat hooks hang from the ceiling, with grotesque cuts of meat, their origin unknown, suspended from them. You saw a pig carcass once when you were a child, and you know for an iron-clad fact that these did not belong to any hog. These come in all shapes and sizes, but the shapes of the rib cages are all similar in form. It seems you have walked into a slaughterhouse. But something… something is not quite right, is it? //The ribcages…// They are horrifically human, yet eerily not human enough… Some are hump-backed, others have caved-in chests, while others are either far too elongated or compressed. Some are far too small to belong to a postpubescent human, with highly unsavoury implications… “I… I had not expected this…” Edward barely manages. “I…” Words fail you. "It seems that there is no other door or path on the other side… We should probably retrace our steps and go the other way…” <ul><li> [[“Yes… yes of course.”|Ch5-O][$rooms.o ++]]</li></ul>

<<if $rooms.p is 1>> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-O">> You move on, and before too long the temperature has gone back to normal: still frigid, yet without that penetrative chill which seeps into your very bones. It seems to put some vigour into your steps once again, even if you could not say you are fully at ease given your surroundings. Edward seems more reassured as well. His back is straight, his strides long and endowed with purpose. <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-S">> You head up the stairs, though it is slow going, trying not to slip in the darkness, steadying yourself on the wall. //Be careful now… would not want to repeat last night’s mistake.// Thankfully, the darkness seems to dissipate after heading up the stairs. You breathe a sigh of relief. Ahead of you, Edward turns around, and offers you a smile. “Quite a reprieve that is over, eh my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>?” “Indeed… let us hope we do not need to go down there again.” <</if>> Unfortunately, your high spirits are short lived. The penetrating, pungent odour of random chemicals wafts over you, as if the pits of hell got cracked open right ahead of you. Edward takes two embroidered kerchiefs from his pocket, puts one in front of his face, and hands you the other. You gladly accept, hoping the piece of cloth will blot out some of the horrid stench. <<if $rekindle>>His familiar smell calms your nerves.<</if>> Edward leans over to you, so that you can hear him through the kerchief. “Let us be careful with our torches. Who knows if what is ahead is flammable.” You nod in ascent. There is a crossroads up ahead, where the smell seems to be strongest. You swear you can hear some muffled noise that way as well, however faint. To your left, there is a staircase going down, deeper into the stone. Edward looks at you queryingly. <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-Lab">> You exit the lab, and retrace your steps. Knowing that the housekeeper will not sneak up on you down the line lifts a weight of your shoulders. Moreover, her insights proved to be somewhat illuminating. //What was that she said about Cornelius’ secret rooms? This is *one* of them? <<if !$rooms.lib>>So there could be more around then…<<else>>She was probably referring to the library room you found earlier then…<</if>>// You arrive at the cross roads again. You could head straight, or go down the stairs on your right. <<else>> <<if !$rooms.lab>> Chemical vapours once more wash over you as you <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-O">>move on from the cold<<else>>make your way through the dark<</if>>. Edward gets his kerchiefs out again. “We weren’t able to locate the source of this abominable stench last time we were here. Do you remember which path we took last time, $FirstName? All these winding passages start looking the same to me after a while.” <<else>> It seems like you have entered the anteroom to the laboratory. “Well, we know there is no way forward through the laboratory,” Edward sighs. “So we should probably head <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-O">>left<<else>>right<</if>>. Unless you wanted to check on Mrs Culley, I suppose, but we left her with some pretty final words, in my opinion.” <</if>> <</if>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-O">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-S][$rooms.s ++]]</li> <li> <<if $rooms.lab>>There is no need to visit the Laboratory more than once.<<else>>[[Head straight.|Ch5-Lab][$rooms.lab to true]]<</if>></li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-S">> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-O][$rooms.o ++]]</li> <li> <<if $rooms.lab>>There is no need to visit the Laboratory once more.<<else>>[[Head left.|Ch5-Lab][$rooms.lab to true]]<</if>></li> <<else>> /*previous is Ch5-Lab*/ <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-S][$rooms.s ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-O][$rooms.o ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul>

<<if $rooms.r is 1>> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-K">>Edward and you head down the stairs<<else>>Edward and you continue along the path<</if>>, torches held out, ready for whatever the next room may bring. As it turns out, the chamber is small and fairly unremarkable, if not for a contraption standing in the middle. It looks like a regular brass telescope, pointed at the ceiling. “Mmmh…I recognise the basic design. You know, $FirstName, I once had the pleasure of visiting the Royal Observatory at Greenwich. I was given a tour by a friend of my father’s. If you look down here,” Edward points out a small brass tube with a glass lens on top at the bottom of the device, “you can see out into the sky. Or well, I suppose you would were it placed outside.” “It is quite odd that one would find this in an underground tunnel system though, is it not, Edward?” “It is all quite perplexing indeed, $FirstName. Not in the least because, to the best of my knowledge, Cornelius had little appreciation for astronomy. But such a tool is far too delicate to have been made by the villagers, and far too valuable to have been bought by them. So how did it come to be here?” <<do>><ul> <<if !_choice>> <li> <<link "See what you can see through the telescope.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> You put your right eye closer to the glass at the bottom of the contraption. To your mild surprise, you actually do see stars. You had half expected to be shown some room in the manor, as this thing could also be used to spy on something a little closer to home. Yet, something still seems out of place… //These constellations…// Did you ever observe them on Earth? “See anything interesting?” “Hardly.” You look away from the telescope, and shrug at Edward. “Just the night sky. I did not recognize any of the constellations, but… I guess it is nothing important.” Edward nods. “It remains weird… but we shouldn’t dawdle.” <</append>> <<set _choice to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "Just leave it be. You have enough to worry about.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> You leave the telescope be. You have enough to worry about. “Not like it matters much.” Edward shrugs. “Who knows what it is used for down here. Or if it even shows you the night sky. For all we know, it is used to spy on the occupants of the manor. In any event, we should not dawdle.” <</append>> <<set _choice to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li> <<else>> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-K">> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-T][$rooms.t ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-N][$rooms.n ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-N">> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-T][$rooms.t ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left, up the stairs..|Ch5-K][$rooms.k ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-T */ <li> [[Head straight, up the stairs.|Ch5-K][$rooms.k ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-N][$rooms.n ++]]</li> <</if>> <</if>> </ul><</do>> <<else>> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-K">>Edward and you head down the stairs<<else>>Edward and you continue along the path<</if>>, and see the familiar sight of the brass telescope. “Right,” Edward says. “I suppose that thing still stands here… I guess we should move on, since it doesn’t look like it’s been used at all since we were last here.” <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-K">> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-T][$rooms.t ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-N][$rooms.n ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-N">> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-T][$rooms.t ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left, up the stairs..|Ch5-K][$rooms.k ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-T */ <li> [[Head straight, up the stairs.|Ch5-K][$rooms.k ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-N][$rooms.n ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <</if>>

<<if $rooms.s is 1>> As you continue along the path, you notice that the darkness creeps ever so closer. At first, you chalk it up to a vivid imagination, having already spent quite some time in this penumbral maze. Soon you understand it is not quite so simple as it appears. Even the light emanating from your torches slowly, but surely, dims. While it does not extinguish completely, it becomes very difficult to see even a foot in front of you. <<do>><ul> <<if !_choice>> <li> <<link "Tell Edward to put his hand on your shoulder.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> “Careful now, Edward,” you say, “this light is acting rather queerly. Put your hand on my shoulder, and I shall put mine on the wall, so that we do not lose our footing here.” “Very well,” he sighs. “I guess there is nothing else to it.” After about a minute, your torches growing ever less bright, you can feel the wall on your right give way sharply. //A room?// You quickly switch the torch from your left to your right hand, to feel on the other side. Sure as hell, the wall has sharply turned there as well. You have found yourself in a new room, and inform your companion thusly. Edward squeezes your shoulder in acknowledgement. “Okay… I guess there is nothing much to it but to survey the room, and figure out where the other exits are…We should be careful, however… there might be traps and fake walls here, as there are in the manor itself. Let us stay close, yes?” And so, you set out to shuffle around the room, slowly, making sure to take note of where the walls give way to further passages, and being careful not to lose each other. You manage, but it is painstaking work. In the complete and utter darkness, your mind falters, playing tricks on you. //Did you just hear something?// You feel Edward grow tense behind you. After what feels like an eternity – though your rational brain tells you it cannot have been more than five minutes – you turn a fourth straight corner, coming back to where you started. “Okay…” Edward murmurs, sounding hoarse and haggard, “that makes three entrances, including the one we just came from. If we want to, we could continue <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-N">> straight, or head up the stairs on the right<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-P">>left or right<<else>>left up the stairs or go straight<</if>>… What do you think?” <</append>> <<set _choice to true, $feeling ++>> <<redo>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "Wait to hear what Edward has to say.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> “Hold on, $FirstName,” Edward says. “This darkness… it has a supernatural quality to it. We should make sure not to lose one another in it. I brought some rope: if you hold one end and I the other, and you keep a hand to the wall, we can make sure not to lose our footing here.” “Very well,” you sighs. “I guess there is nothing else to it.” After about a minute, your torches growing ever less bright, you can feel the wall on your right give way sharply. //A room?// You quickly switch the torch from your left to your right hand, to feel on the other side. Sure as hell, the wall has sharply turned there as well. You have found yourself in a new room, and inform your companion thusly. Edward tugs the rope in acknowledgement. “Okay… I guess there is nothing much to it but to survey the room, and figure out where the other exits are…We should be careful, however… there might be traps and fake walls here, as there are in the manor itself. Let us stay close, yes?” And so, you set out to shuffle around the room, slowly, making sure to take note of where the walls give way to further passages, and being careful not to lose each other. You manage, but it is painstaking work. In the complete and utter darkness, your mind falters, playing tricks on you. //Did you just hear something?// You feel Edward grow tense behind you. After what feels like an eternity – though your rational brain tells you it cannot have been more than five minutes – you turn a fourth straight corner, coming back to where you started. “Okay…” Edward murmurs, sounding hoarse and haggard, “that makes three entrances, including the one we just came from. If we want to, we could continue <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-N">> straight, or head up the stairs on the right<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-P">>left or right<<else>>left up the stairs or go straight<</if>>… What do you think?” <</append>> <<set _choice to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li> <<else>> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-N">> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-V][$rooms.v ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right, up the stairs.|Ch5-P][$rooms.p ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-P">> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-V][$rooms.v ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-N][$rooms.n ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-V */ <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-N][$rooms.n ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left, up the stairs.|Ch5-P][$rooms.p ++]]</li> <</if>> <</if>> </ul><</do>> <<else>> Moving forwards along the path, you notice that it gets increasingly dark. You know better than to believe you are imagining things in this stygian hell. You are approaching the supernaturally dark room again, and your torches are slowly extinguishing themselves. “Ah, we ought to be careful here.” Edward says. “We have been here before, so we know there will be two paths from here, now we just need to find them.” Doing so takes several minutes of shuffling along the dark wall holding one another’s hand. <<if $rooms.s is 2>> “I must admit, it is a bit perturbing to come to a room we have visited before,” your companion sighs. “Feels like we are walking in circles…” <<do>><ul> <<if !_choice>> <li> <<link "“Just know that those who persevere will find success in the end.”">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> “Just know that those who persevere will find success in the end.” “Truer words were never spoken in darker places,” Edward responds gravely. “I am glad you are here to help me through these challenges… now, I think we have found all possible exits by now. Which way shall we go?” <</append>> <<set _choice to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "“I agree, but I guess we are in too deep to turn back now. Unless you have been unrolling some string?”">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> “I agree, but I guess we are in too deep to turn back now. Unless you have been unrolling some string?” “Alas,” Edward chuckles, “no Theseus am I. In any event, we planned to move forward and move forward we shall… now, I think we have found all possible exits by now. Which way shall we go?” <</append>> <<set _choice to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li> <<else>> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-N">> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-V][$rooms.v ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right, up the stairs.|Ch5-P][$rooms.p ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-P">> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-V][$rooms.v ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-N][$rooms.n ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-V */ <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-N][$rooms.n ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left, up the stairs.|Ch5-P][$rooms.p ++]]</li> <</if>> <</if>> </ul><</do>> <<else>> “Ah,” Edward says, “I think we have found all possible exits by now. Which way shall we go?” <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-N">> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-V][$rooms.v ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right, up the stairs.|Ch5-P][$rooms.p ++]]</li> <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-P">> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-V][$rooms.v ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-N][$rooms.n ++]]</li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-V */ <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-N][$rooms.n ++]]</li> <li> [[Head left, up the stairs.|Ch5-P][$rooms.p ++]]</li> <</if>> <</if>> <</if>>

<<if $rooms.t is 1>> Edward and you move along the long stone hallways, when he puts a hand on your shoulder. “Hold on for just a second, $FirstName… Can you hear that? Off in the distance, it sounds like… song? A choir perhaps?” You stop. As the echoes of your footsteps against the stones quiet, silence surrounds you. Except, maybe, for the sound of your own breathing. Edward is right: you can vaguely make out the sounds of chanting, though it is faint, and while you cannot make out any words, the cadence is unmistakable. A shiver runs down your spine. “Yes… yes I can definitely hear //something//. In fact, it sounds like a large crowd… The villagers?<<if $destination.morning is "pub" or $destination.afternoon is "pub">> Could this be the event I heard about in the pub the other day?<</if>>” “Quite possibly… Let us be vigilant, but swift and sure.” “Very well, Edward my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>. It looks like there is a junction coming up. It seems we can go left or <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-R">>right<<else>>straight ahead<</if>>…” <<else>> “Hush, $FirstName… can you hear that? It seems like we have gotten close to the chanting again!” Edward is right. The same sonorous vibrations you heard earlier can be felt reverberating through the very masonry you walk through. “It seems we got no closer to the source with our previous guess… Now which way should we go?” <</if>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-R">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-Exit][$rooms.end to true]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-U][$rooms.u ++]]</li> <<else>> /*previous is Ch5-U */ <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-Exit][$rooms.end to true]]</li> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-R][$rooms.r ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul>

<<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-Chapel">> With heavy heart and much to ponder, you exit the chapel. The heavy wooden doors close behind you with a deep, loud thud, once again hiding the grisly shrine from you. You shudder. //What sort of messed up individual would willingly submit themselves to such things?// You walk past the dark, stone receptacle you saw when you first came here, and swallow. “I think I know what this basin is used for now…” “Oh? Please, do share, $FirstName.” Edward sounds somewhat absent minded. Like you, the revelations inside that room must have hit him hard… “If that other room had some sort of pseudo-religious significance, a chapel if you will, then this may be where they baptise their people. A rather gruesome mockery of that ritual, naturally, but it would fit with everything else we have seen here.” “I see…” He looks at the bowl, his expression flat, his eyes dull and empty. “Then this substance… must be the blood of these horrid mutants… To subject someone… drown them in that… one’s child…” He shivers. “I do not want to linger here. Please… Let us go and leave this place behind.” <ul> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-T][$rooms.t ++]]</li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-W][$rooms.w ++]]</li> </ul> <<else>> <<if $rooms.u is 1>> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-T">>As you move further along the tunnel, the sound of hymns grows faint, until eventually you cannot hear it anymore. //Did you hope to get closer to it? Or are you glad that you can put off the inevitable confrontation just a little bit longer?// Neither you nor Edward comment on it. The both of you are tired to the bone, having spent far too long down in these cavernous hallways.<<else>>The exit from the crossroads you pick is mercifully short, as you can feel the fatigue of your long stay in this confounded maze set in.<</if>> The room you happen upon is quite unremarkable, yet the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end as you approach it. A simple basin of black stone stands on a pedestal of the same material. It reaches up to Edward’s chin, and is filled with a dark liquid, barely distinguishable from ink in the limited light of your torches. Behind the ominous altar is a massive, iron-shod door, not unlike the main entrance to Gairbuie Castle, guarded by cyclopean gargoyles eerily reminiscent of both large dogs and cuttlefish… Edward stands by the basin, hovering his torch above the strange substance. He picks up a bit of broken masonry from the floor by the far wall, walks back to the altar, and stirs the dark matter. “Mhm… the viscosity is very strange, as is the way it diffracts the light… I thought it might have been blood, gruesome as the thought may be, but… no…” “What?” you ask, not entirely certain whether you wish to know the answer. “If it is blood, it certainly does not belong to any man or animal I have ever encountered… and yet its metallic smell is almost certainly that of blood… What kind of creature did this emanate from? And for what purpose is it kept here?” “I do not know… perhaps we should check behind those doors?” Edward shrugs. “If you believe it to be for the best, $FirstName.” <<else>> <<if !$rooms.chap>> Edward groans as he rubs his neck moving forward. “I must say, $FirstName, it feels as if we have traversing these catacombs for hours. I wonder if the sun has come up yet.” “I should think not, Edward. More likely it is a combination of fatigue and a lack of orientation that is playing tricks on our minds… But look! Did we not happen upon this room before?” Indeed, you did. You have found yourself in the room with the large black stone basin filled with the blood of an unknown vessel. The heavy doors still loom ever large behind the altar. “What do you reckon, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>? Should we see what is behind there? Or try our luck elsewhere with a different tunnel?” <<else>> Edward groans as he rubs his neck moving forward. “I must say, $FirstName, it feels as if we have traversing these catacombs for hours. I wonder if the sun has come up yet.” “I should think not, Edward. More likely it is a combination of fatigue and a lack of orientation that is playing tricks on our minds… But look! Did we not happen upon this room before?” Indeed, you did. You have found yourself in the room with the large black stone basin filled with the blood of an unknown vessel. The heavy doors still loom ever large behind the altar. “Great Scott…” Edward shudders. "I beg of you not to guide us down that path again, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>… We should move on and try to found a way out of here, before I lose my sanity completely.” <</if>> <</if>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-T">> <li> <<if $rooms.chap>>There is no need to visit the Chapel more than once.<<else>>[[Head through the heavy doors.|Ch5-Chapel][$rooms.chap to true]]<</if>></li> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-W][$rooms.w ++]]</li> <<else>> /*previous is Ch5-W */ <li> <<if $rooms.chap>>There is no need to visit the Chapel more than once.<<else>>[[Head through the heavy doors.|Ch5-Chapel][$rooms.chap to true]]<</if>></li> <li> [[Head right.|Ch5-T][$rooms.t ++]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <</if>>

<<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-S">> Gradually, the darkness dissipates, and your torches once again start illuminating the tunnel around you. Before too long, you happen upon yet another chamber. You regard the room you just entered. It is hardly a room at all, really, more of a widening in the hallway as it approaches the door you just entered from. There is only one other path leading from here. //Isn’t that nice? An easy decision for a change.// <<include "Ch5-V-Extra">> <<else>> /* Coming from Ch5 W */ The two of you go through the opened door and find yourself in a small circular room with unlit torches mounted on the wall. With a mechanical clicking sound, the door closes behind you. Interestingly, the face on this side of the door is feminine, its visage scared rather than angry, though its mouth is still open in a wide gape, with a plinth on which to place the totem. <<if $rooms.doorthrough is 1>> “Interesting,” Edward muses. “This system is truly ingenious. I wonder how the door was constructed to react to the eldritch powers of the idol.” <ul> <li><<link "You eagerly concur. The implications are astonishing!">> <<set $feeling ++>> <<replace "#choice" t8n>> “I did wish we were here under better circumstances… With more time, and perhaps a larger team to excavate these ruins, imagine what wondrous and exciting things we might uncover!” Edward smiles. “My thoughts exactly, $FirstName. Though I suppose we should not tarry here. Perhaps we could return here sometime<<if $rekindle>>, together<</if>>." <<include "Ch5-V-Extra">> <</replace>> <</link>></li> <li><<link "You frown. Whatever eldritch mess you have landed yourselves into cannot be over soon enough as far as you are concerned. ">> <<replace "#choice" t8n>> “Really, Edward, my <<if $rekindle>>darling<<else>>friend<</if>>, that seems rather macabre, would you not say? I for one would prefer to spend not a moment longer in these horrid ruins than absolutely necessary.” Edward shrugs. “I understand your reservations, $FirstName, but be not too quick to disregard the value of this place.<<if $background is "student">> Have you forgotten why we joined the Scarlet Hand?<</if>> We may learn many things here, many things which humanity has chosen to forget. But either way, we should probably not tarry too long in this room.” <<include "Ch5-V-Extra">> <</replace>> <</link>></li> </ul> <<else>> “Mmmh… I must look into this door mechanism,” Edward muses. “When we are done with our quest, of course. Where should we go next?” <<include "Ch5-V-Extra">> <</if>> <</if>>

<<if $rooms.v is 1>> “Uraugwr…” “$FirstName… that wasn’t you, was it?” //No… no it was not.// You turn your head to face the corner from which the sound emanated, and you can almost feel your blood curdle in your veins… A man, covered in sores, his face completely malformed by canker sits there, quite literally rooted to the spot. A massive tree trunk has pierced his abdomen, and his limbs are atrophied and barely usable. The poor sod regards you with bloodshot, malevolent eyes, groaning and moaning in animalistic grunts as a putrid smelling green froth bubbles from his mouth. “Great stars…” Edward gasps, “How is he even alive?” “Who knows,” you manage, trying to maintain your composure. “Perhaps people come down here to feed him, perhaps he gains nourishment through the tree somehow…” <ul> <li> <<link "See if you can offer him some water.">> <<replace "#poor-soul" t8n>> “Then again, I would feel bad to leave him here like this. Hold on, let me try to give him some water.” “Okay… just be careful, $FirstName.” You take your water pouch, and edge closer to the poor sod. Putting your own container to his lips seems like a poor idea, so you decide to pour some down from a couple of feet above his head. The water splashes down on his head, but he does not seem to reach. He just continues to gurgle and grunt, wet hair stuck to his face. You sigh. “I guess there is nothing we can do for him,” you say, “so we should just go on.” <<include "Ch5-V-Door">> <</replace>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "See if you can put him out of his misery.">> <<replace "#poor-soul" t8n>> “Should we really just leave him here? Would it not be more… humane to end his suffering here and now?” Edward raises an eyebrow. “I suppose… though it does not seem like we can ask for his opinion in his current state. More importantly, however, I brought no firearm down here with us. In fact, I do not keep any in the estate. So unless you would be willing to get closer and do it with your bare hands…” “I guess there is nothing we can do for him,” you sigh, “so we should just go on.” <<include "Ch5-V-Door">> <</replace>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "Just let him be.">> <<replace "#poor-soul" t8n>> “In any event, I do not think there is anything we can do for him here. Let’s… let’s just go on.” <<include "Ch5-V-Door">> <</replace>> <</link>></li> </ul> <<else>> “Grrrwaugrrr” A high pitched groan, like that of a wounded animal, reverberates through the passage. You use your torch to brighten the masonry around you, and soon find the source. “Ah,” Edward says, “it sees that we come across that poor soul in the tree trunk again. “Krrawlrawr” Edward shakes his head solemnly. “There is nothing to be done for the poor man, so let us continue.” <<include "Ch5-V-Door">> <</if>>

<<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-S">> <<if $rooms.v is 1>> <<if !$rooms.doorseen>> “You say that, but… It seems this door cannot be opened normally.”<<set $rooms.doorseen to true>> On your left is a most peculiar door. It is made of dark oak, surprisingly similar to the main entranceway to Harcourt manor, though it has a key difference. The cast iron reinforcements of this door are embellished in a disturbing fashion. It looks like the face of a woman, her expression horrifyingly twisted in a toothless scream. A small, simple iron plinth sits within the mouth, clearly meant to accept an offering, its own pound of flesh. <<if $idol>> “It seems like this is meant to be the base for some sort of statuette… and we did bring one with us.”<<set $rooms.doorunlock to true, $rooms.unlockVW to true>> Edward nods. <<linkreplace "You place the idol on the plinth." t8n>> You place the idol on the plinth, and with a smooth //click// the door opens. When you remove it, ensuring to wrap it once more in the cloth when you are done, the door does not immediately close. Instead, you hear the ticking of a mechanism inside. //Perhaps a clockwork contraption closes the door automatically after a predetermined time period?// “Splendid intuition, $FirstName!” Edward exclaims. “Now we can go down this path… unless you think we should go elsewhere?” <<Ch5VDirections>> <</linkreplace>> <<else>> “I’m not certain… Let me try to see if I can open it.” Yet, try as you might, you can find no door handle, nor any other way of opening the door. “Guess we cannot continue through here,” you sigh. “At least, we are not stuck…” <<Ch5VDirections>> <</if>> <<else>> <<if !$idol>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves before one of these again… I suppose this one will remain as unyielding as the other. I am still quite puzzled by its mechanism. Maybe some item ought to be placed on that plinth?” Edward shakes his head ruefully. “I suppose there is no use worrying about it now, so where would you like to head my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>?” Edward asks. <<elseif !$rooms.unlockVW>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves before one of these again… Remember, we still have that idol from Mrs Culley’s room, and we could try to open this door too. Or we can try a different path. Your choice my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<elseif $rooms.doorunlock>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves before one of these again… We could go through once more. Or we can try a different path. Your choice my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<else>> //If you came across this message, please shoot me a message. I think I've fixed it, but you never know...// <</if>> <<Ch5VDirections>> <</if>> <<else>> <<if $rooms.unlockVW>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves back here again… We could try to go through that door again, since we still have the idol. Or we can try a different path. Your choice my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<elseif $idol>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves back here again… Remember, we still have that idol from Mrs Culley’s room, and we could try to open that door with it. Or we can try a different path. Your choice my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<else>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves back here again… I suppose that strange door will remain unyielding. I wonder how it works. Maybe some item ought to be placed on that plinth?” Edward shakes his head ruefully. “I suppose there is no use worrying about it now, so where would you like to head my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>?” Edward asks. <</if>> <<Ch5VDirections>> <</if>> <<else>> <ul><li> [[Head left.|Ch5-S][$rooms.s ++]]</li></ul> <</if>>

<<if $lastRoom isnot "Ch5-V">> <<if $rooms.w is 1>> You move through another cold stone tunnel, aided only by the light of your torches. You soon happen upon an intersection, with paths going left, right, and straight. <<if !$rooms.doorseen>>One path, however, the <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-U">>right<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-Y">>straight<<else>>left<</if>> one, seems to be blocked by a strange door. It is made of dark oak, surprisingly similar to the main entranceway to Harcourt manor. There is one key difference: the cast iron reinforcements of this door are embellished in a disturbing fashion. The face of a man is carved upon the wood, his expression lividly twisted in a toothless scream. A small, simple iron plinth sits within the mouth, clearly meant to accept an offering, its own pound of flesh.<<else>>One path, however, the <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-U">>right<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-Y">>straight<<else>>left<</if>> one, is blocked by a strange yet familiar door. Made of dark oak, similar to the main entranceway to Harcourt manor, the disturbing iron embellishments adorn the face of a man, his expression lividly twisted in a toothless scream. A small, simple iron plinth sits within the mouth, clearly meant to accept an offering, its own pound of flesh. <<if $rooms.doorunlock>>//The idol...//<</if>><</if>> <<if !$rooms.doorseen>> “That is peculiar indeed,” Edward muses. “What do you make of it, $FirstName?”<<set $rooms.doorseen to true>> <<if $idol>> “Could this be the base for some sort of statuette? We did bring one with us, after all. It may not be that long a shot. We found it in Mrs Culley’s room, after all.” Edward nods. <<linkreplace "You place the idol on the plinth." t8n>><<set $rooms.doorunlock to true, $rooms.unlockVW to true>> You place the idol on the plinth, and with a smooth //click// the door opens. When you remove it, ensuring to wrap it once more in the cloth when you are done, the door does not immediately close. Instead, you hear the ticking of a mechanism inside. //Perhaps a clockwork contraption closes the door automatically after a predetermined time period?// “Splendid intuition, $FirstName!” Edward exclaims. “Now we can go down this path… unless you think we should go elsewhere?” <<Ch5WDirections>> <</linkreplace>> <<else>> “I’m not certain… Let me try to see if I can open it.” Yet, try as you might, you can find no door handle, nor any other way of opening the door. “Guess we cannot continue through here,” you sigh. “At least, we are not stuck…” <<Ch5WDirections>> <</if>> <<else>> <<if !$idol>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves before one of these again… I suppose this one will remain as unyielding as the other. I am still quite puzzled by its mechanism. Maybe some item ought to be placed on that plinth?” Edward shakes his head ruefully. “I suppose there is no use worrying about it now, so where would you like to head my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>?” Edward asks. <<elseif !$rooms.unlockVW>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves before one of these again… Remember, we still have that idol from Mrs Culley’s room, and we could try to open this door too. Or we can try a different path. Your choice my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<elseif $rooms.doorunlock>> “Ah, it seems we find ourselves before one of these again… We could go through once more. Or we can try a different path. Your choice my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<else>> //If you came across this message, please shoot me a message. I think I've fixed it, but you never know...// <</if>> <<Ch5WDirections>> <</if>> <<else>> You move through another cold stone tunnel, aided only by the light of your torches. You soon happen upon an intersection, with paths going left, right, and straight. One path, however, the <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-U">>right<<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-Y">>straight<<else>>left<</if>> one, seems to be blocked by a mightily familiar door. “Ah, it seems we find ourselves back here again… <<if $rooms.unlockVW>> We could try to go through that door again, since we still have the idol. Or we can try a different path. The choice is yours, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<if $rooms.doorunlock>> Do you think the idol could fit on that plinth as well? Though, who knows which evil lies behind this door. What should we do, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<elseif $idol>> Remember, we still have that idol from Mrs Culley’s room, and we could try to open that door with it. Or we can try a different path.<</if>> Your choice, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says. <<else>> I suppose that strange door will remain unyielding. I wonder how it works. Maybe some item ought to be placed on that plinth?” Edward shakes his head ruefully. “I suppose there is no use worrying about it now, so where would you like to head my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>?” Edward asks. <</if>> <<Ch5WDirections>> <</if>> <<else>> The two of you go through the opened door and find yourself at a crossroads, with paths going straight, left, and right. With a mechanical clicking sound, the door closes behind you. Interestingly, the face on this side of the door is masculine, its visage angry rather than scared, though its mouth is still open in a wide gape, with a plinth on which to place the totem. <<if $rooms.doorthrough is 1>> <<include "Ch5-DoorFirstGo">> <<else>> “Mmmh… I must look into this door mechanism,” Edward muses. “When we are done with our quest, of course. Where should we go next?” <ul> <li>[[Head left.|Ch5-U][$rooms.u ++]]</li> <li>[[Head straight.|Ch5-W][$rooms.w ++]]</li> <li>[[Head right.|Ch5-X][$rooms.x ++]]</li> </ul> <</if>> <</if>>

<<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-W" && $rooms.x is 1>> Edward and you head into the tunnel. Gradually, you start to notice a change in the atmosphere, subtle at first, then increasingly oppressive. “Is it just me, or is it getting a little warm down here, Edward?” “No, it is definitely not your imagination, my <<if $rekindle>>dear<<else>>friend<</if>>,” Edward says, loosening his shirt. <<if $rekindle>>Your eyes linger momentarily… <</if>>“It positively feels like there is a furnace coming up in the next room… Ah, well… speak of the devil’s favourite climate, would you look at that?” His voice sounds impressed, and you cannot help but feel somewhat overwhelmed by what you see in front of you. A massive furnace stands in the room, nearly eight foot tall and similarly wide. Some red-black embers sizzle within, seemingly leftovers from when the device was last used. Scattered around the room are bits of scrap iron, anvils, and other smith’s tools. “Well, well, well… what do we have here, then?” Edward queries. “A forge, so deep in these tunnels? Whatever for?” The two of you head closer to examine it in more detail. The furnace itself is adorned with sharp implements around its open heart, giving it the look of a hungry, spine-toothed maw looking to gobble up more and more fire. Edward seems more fascinated by the engineering than the symbolism, however. “Extraordinary. There must be a very complex system of exhausts and pipes, or the existence of a furnace this size would be immediately obvious to anyone even approaching the manor, let alone live in it for several months! I wonder how it–” “Edward, are you sure now is the right time?” “Mrm? Ah, my apologies, $FirstName. You are correct, of course. We should probably continue.” You nod. It seems like you can go left or right, relative to where you entered the forge room. <<elseif $lastRoom is "Ch5-Z">> Edward and you return from the armoury to the forge. Edward regards the furnace with disgust and disdain. “To think that these ingenious contraptions would be used to construct such tools of utter barbarism… It makes me sick… I suppose we have already seen worse, though, and likely will before the night is over… We should move on. Time is wasting.” <<else>> As you move through the tunnel, you can feel the ambient temperature rise sharply. “I have a feeling we are heading back to the forge… and those blasted implements of inflicting suffering on humanity… I will be glad to melt them all down, once we are done here.” Edward’s intuition is correct. You find yourself in the same forge room you previously visited. Edward looks of to your right with contempt. “Well… we already know down there is a dead end. No need to go down there once more… How about we try the path leading off to the left?” <</if>> <ul> <<if $lastRoom is "Ch5-W">> <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-Exit][$rooms.end to true]]</li> <li> <<if $rooms.z lt 1>>[[Head right.|Ch5-Z][$rooms.z ++]]<<else>><<link "Go to Armoury">><<GoToZResp>><</link>><</if>></li> <<else>> /* previous is Ch5-Z*/ <li> [[Head left.|Ch5-W][$rooms.w ++]]</li> <li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-Exit][$rooms.end to true]]</li> <</if>> </ul>

Edward and you move along the long stone hallways, when suddenly he puts a hand on your shoulder. “Hold on a second, $FirstName… Can you hear that? Off in the distance, it sounds like… song? A choir perhaps?” You stop.As the echoes of your footsteps against the stones quiet, silence surrounds you. Except, maybe, for the sound of your own breathing. Edward is right: you can vaguely make out the sounds of chanting, though it is faint, and while you cannot make out any words, the cadence is unmistakable. A shiver runs down your spine. “Yes… yes I can definitely hear //something//. In fact, it sounds like a large crowd… The villagers?<<if $destination.morning is "pub" or $destination.afternoon is "pub">> Could this be the event I heard about in the pub the other day?<</if>>” “Quite possibly… Let us be vigilant, but swift and sure.” “Very well, Edward my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>. It looks like there is only one way forward. It seems we are almost there…” <ul><li> [[Head straight.|Ch5-Exit][$rooms.end to true]]</li></ul>

You leave the forge room, and continue down a rather short hallway. A simple door opens up into a dimly lit room. The wall is adorned with multiple implements of torture, crude weapons, and wicked looking knives. Some have a rusty, red look to them, though whether that is due to the passage of time or the drying of blood, you are not particularly interested in finding out. “Typical…” Edward snorts. “I discover some sort of ingenious innovation, a brilliant idea, and what do I find? It is used for the propagation of suffering, death, and ignorance… Tell me, is there any good idea that humanity, in its unbridled arrogance and cruelty, has failed to pervert to some nefarious end?” //Was that rhetorical?// He does not seem to await an answer of yours. He just stands there, his free hand clenched into a fist, frustrated and angry. //Why though? Do you are? And is this the correct moment to ask?// <ul> <li> <<link "Let it be.">> <<replace "#choice" t8n>> The silence is awkward, but only for a while. Edward composes himself, and shakes his head ruefully. “I suppose it does not matter an iota. We are here to put a stop to… if not this, then at least mother’s illness.” He looks around. “There don’t seem to be any other exits here… I guess we should retrace our steps.” <ul><li> [[Retrace your steps.|Ch5-X][$rooms.x ++]]</li></ul> <</replace>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "“Edward… are you alright?”">> <<set $feelings ++>> <<replace "#choice" t8n>><<include "Ch5-Z2">><</replace>> <</link>></li> </ul>

“Edward… are you alright?” He sighs, deeply and ruefully. “There was a time, back at Oxford, when I thought knowledge and technology could be turned towards our betterment, as if our progress in all the sciences would somehow translate into progress of our spirit… I suppose I chose to study something slightly more… esoteric for just that purpose. But that optimism was foolish, the last vestige of my childishness left after a troubled childhood… The war… it treated none of us kindly, friend nor foe, and it imparted on me a lesson that I shall never, ever forget.” He turns to you. His face is grim, his eyes cold. “Take my words to heart, $FirstName. We will ruin anything bestowed on us, whether we intend to or not. Maybe callousness and greed are in our nature, maybe we are simply too foolish to learn from past mistakes…” <<if $rekindle>> “Do you really believe that Edward?” He keeps on looking at you, still grave and sullen, but there also seems to be a hint of surprise at your challenge. “Such misanthropy, such nihilism, is that really how you choose to look at the world? Is there not also beauty, camaraderie? Is there not also love?” “I…” He blushes and looks away in shame. “Yes, that is true, but… I am sorry, $FirstName, I did not mean to imply that our feelings are somehow irrelevant.” He looks around the room, carefully avoiding eye contact, his face less severe, though ashen at the shock of having possibly hurt you. “I am merely… saddened by the fact that humanity could do this to itself… I guess I have some unresolved issues, between my youth and the war… I… hope that you can help me through it, and I shall seek aid…” He finally meets your gaze. “I promise.” You are silent for a moment, then give him a big hug. “It will be okay, Edward my darling,” you whisper, as you rub his back. “We will make this world ever so slightly less dark tonight… you have my word.” The two of you stand there for a few more moments before letting go of each other. “Come on, Edward. Let’s get to it then, shall we?” <<elseif $feeling > 5>> “Do you really believe that Edward?” He keeps on looking at you, still grave and sullen, but there also seems to be a hint of surprise at your challenge. “Such misanthropy, such nihilism, is that really how you choose to look at the world? Is there not also beauty, camaraderie? Is there not also friendship and joy?” “I…” He looks away in frustration. “Yes, that is true, but… I am sorry, $FirstName, I did not mean to imply that our friendship is somehow irrelevant.” He looks around the room, carefully avoiding eye contact, his face less severe, though still ashen. “I am merely… saddened by the fact that humanity could do this to itself… I guess I have some unresolved issues, between my youth and the war… I… hope that you can help me through it, and I shall seek aid…” He finally meets your gaze. “I promise.” You are silent for a moment, then sling your arm around his shoulder and hold him tight. “It will be okay, Edward my dear friend,” you say, trying to put as much joviality in your voice as you can muster right now. “We will make this world ever so slightly less dark tonight… you have my word.” You give him a playful punch against the shoulder, and he seems to perk ever so little. “Come on, Edward. Let’s get to it then, shall we?” <<else>> He nods and looks around. “There don’t seem to be any other exits here… I guess we should retrace our steps.” <</if>> <ul><li> [[Retrace your steps.|Ch5-X][$rooms.x ++]]</li></ul>

Edward extinguishes his torch with an iron cup, then does the same to yours. Without their illuminating gleam, you notice a faint green glow coming from behind the crude curtains. Your companion sneaks closer to the drapery, and motions for you to follow along, silently. Now behind the curtains, you clearly hear someone moving around, handling glassware and metal canisters. Through a slit between two flaps, you catch a glimpse of them and muffle a gasp. //Mrs Culley!// Turning to your companion, you find Edward’s face contorting into a grimace. Hurt, disappointment, anger, and sadness tumble across his features in rapid succession. He seems caught in indecision, between confronting her and saving himself the painful confrontation. <ul> <li>[[Nod him on. He may need some encouragement, but this is his confrontation to have.|Ch5-Lab3a]]</li> <li>[[Enter the room first. You have a few choice words of your own you would like to direct at Mrs Culley.|Ch5-Lab3b]]</li> </ul>

He nods back in acknowledgement. Mrs Culley violated his trust. Perhaps only by keeping uncomfortable truths from him. Perhaps through complicity with whatever occult conspiracy has been going on here… Either way, he deserves some answers. He stands up, straightens his shoulders, dusts off his attire as best he can, and takes a deep breath to steel himself. Then, he enters the room, striding inside as if he were trying to make as grand an entrance as possible. “Ah, Mrs Culley. I wondered what had become of you after I could not find you for supper.” The housekeeper, her face even more haggard and toadlike than normal, stands there, simply baffled, unable to even muster a scowl. Leaving Edward his moment of reckoning, you turn your attention to the room instead. You find yourself in a laboratory, and quite a large one at that. The green glow you noticed earlier brightens the space from a wall lantern to the far side of the room, giving every trinket inside a peculiar, queer countenance. Several tables placed around the room are laden with alembics, Erlenmeyer flasks, and test tubes, both empty and filled with many-coloured liquids. A special fume hood table stands in an alcove to the side of the room. Culley herself is holding a small beaker filled with a slightly fuming, light green liquid. “I sincerely hope you were not planning to add //that// to my dinner, Mrs Culley,” Edward smirks. “My doctor would recommend I eat my greens, but I do not think this is quite what he had in mind… Now, I do believe you owe me an explanation. What is this skulking you are doing through //my// manor? What secrets have you been hiding from me, all this time?” The housekeeper seems to have regained her composure from your surprising entrance. She puts down the beaker and vigorously defends her innocence: “Lord Harcourt, you have been deceived! I have never had but the best of intentions for you and your…” <ul><li> [[“ENOUGH.”|Ch5-Lab4]]</li></ul>

If Edward does not want to confront that nasty old woman, you are more than willing to do so. She has been nothing if not hostile to you, possibly even threatening you with physical harm! //Time to have a word with this hell sent hag.// You straighten up, square your shoulders, and stride confidently through the heavy curtains into the room. “Why Mrs Culley, I did not expect to find you down here! I see we share the hobby of exploring dark dungeons…” Edward follows you in, but does so silently, trying to draw as little attention to himself as possible. Clearly, he does not wish to interject your reckoning with his housekeeper. She stands there, her face even more haggard and toadlike than normal, simply baffled, unable to even muster a scowl. You take a look around the room. It is a laboratory, and quite a large one at that. The green glow you noticed earlier brightens the space from a wall lantern to the far side of the room, giving every trinket inside a peculiar, queer countenance. Several tables placed around the room are laden with alembics, Erlenmeyer flasks, and test tubes, both empty and filled with many-coloured liquids. A special fume hood table stands in an alcove to the side of the room. Culley herself is holding a small beaker filled with a slightly fuming, light green liquid. “My, that does seem to be decidedly bad for one’s constitution,” you nod at the beaker. “I do sincerely hope you were not planning on doing anything untoward with that concoction. Say, drugging or poisoning the evening meal of your honourable guest, perhaps? I must admit, I had not thought you would stoop so bloody low,” //Okay, maybe the thought did cross your mind//, “but you have a lot to answer for here. Why don’t you enlighten Lord Harcourt and myself?” During your monologue, the housekeeper seems to have regained her composure. She puts down the beaker and starts to vigorously defend her innocence: “How //dare// ye, ye insolent, ungrateful sack of shite! I have had to degrade myself by accommodating your whims and fancies, as if my duties to this household are not demanding enough, and then ye come in 'ere and…" <ul><li> [[“ENOUGH.”|Ch5-Lab4]]</li></ul>

Edward’s voice shakes the room like a thunderclap. You can almost feel the righteous fury seething inside him, radiating outward. “You are in no position to lecture anyone, Mrs Culley, nor will I allow you to pull the wool over our eyes any longer. You will tell us everything you know about these tunnels, my uncle, and the villagers’ plans. And you will do so now…” For a brief moment, it seems like the housekeeper will protest her accusations once more, but in the end you visibly notice her shoulders fall as she admits defeat. “Aye… aye, I will talk, for what little good it will do ye,” she says spitefully. Her eyes smoulder like hot coals, vicious and bitter, but there is something else in her demeanour as well. //Is she relieved that her act is up?// “Well,” she sneers, “what do ye wish to know?” <<do>><ul> <<if !_qu1>><li> <<link "“What is your relationship with the rest of the village?”">> <<append "#choice" t8n>><<include "Ch5-LabQ1">><</append>> <<set _qu1 to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_qu2>><li> <<link "“What was your relationship with Cornelius?”">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> “What was your relationship with Cornelius?” “I was planted as an informant in the mansion when the old Lord first inherited the estate” she answers proudly. “I had to earn his trust, something which I managed to do after years of observing him closely, manipulating him… He was a simple man, hungry for power, utterly devoid of scruples, and more than willing to make sacrifices to attain what his dark heart desired…” Edward raises his hand to interrupt her. “What sort of sacrifices are you referring to?” “In the end, it was easy to divert his hungers to more banal vices.” She continues as if she did not hear him, but she smiles wickedly; a crooked, vicious showing of darkened, unhealthy teeth. “I showed him some o’ these tunnels, enough to sate his curiosity, yet have him be no threat to our Family.” <</append>> <<set _qu2 to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_qu3>><li> <<link "“What is this room?”">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> “What is this room?” “This here be one of the secret rooms occupied by the old Lord beneath the manor. He used it for his experimentations, both mundane and occult… There were nights where I thought he would come too close to true power, but until the day he died he ne’er did… I observed him, I did, and learned a little bit in doing so.” <</append>> <<set _qu3 to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_qu4>><li> <<link "“What is that vile concoction you have been brewing?”">> <<set $clue.sleep to true, $achievements.allClues.sleep to true>> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<JournalUpdate>> <<ScrollABit>> “What is that vile concoction you have been brewing?” She looks at the various flasks and beakers filled with fuming liquids on the workbench. “Something to help put ye both to sleep for the night…” she swirls the liquid in her flask. “No taste, no scent… Ye wouldn’t have felt a thing…” She looks at Edward. “I know ye won’t believe me, but I ne’er wanted any harm to come to ye, Lord Harcourt.” There is something deferential to her gaze, perhaps the ingrained response of having served his family for so many decades. “Had ye kept to yerself, like the old Lord did, none a’ this need have happened.” “What was planned to happen tonight, that needed us to be fast asleep?” Edward asks. The housekeeper turns silent and looks at the ground, whether out of recalcitrance or shame you cannot say. <</append>> <<set _qu4 to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_qu5>><li> <<link "“What can you tell us about these tunnels?”">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> “What can you tell us about these tunnels?” “They’ve housed secrets beyond the ken o’ most mortal men for millennia… the bones o’ the earth are old here, very old indeed.” She pauses, looks around the room, and smiles wistfully, as if reflecting on the enormity of her history before continuing. “The manor was built on top only a few centuries ago or so. The leadership o’ Gairbuie thought it a prudent move back then. If the nobility were to come ‘ere anyway, ‘n they would, then better we could keep a very close eye on them. So these tunnels run throughout the estate ‘n the village. They’re so vast that e’en most o’ the villagers have ne’er explored them all… exceptin’ the ‘Deep Siblings’…” “Oh?” Edward says. “And who might they be?” She smiles a grin, at the same time both rueful and wicked. “Ah, if ye do not stop this silly quest o’ yours, ye’ll find out soon enough…” <</append>> <<set _qu5 to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <li> [[You have no more questions.|Ch5-Lab5]]</li> </ul><</do>>

“What is your relationship with the rest of the village?” “A true daughter o’ Gairbuie, I am. The old families, we have been ‘ere for generations, we have. Since before the manor was built, since before this land was part of the British Empire, some say since before the Romans plundered these fair isles.” You can sense pride in her words. Clearly, her connection to Gairbuie matters a great deal to her, as it undoubtedly does for the other villagers. “Aye, ‘n we ne’er left, for we were chosen! Chosen, by the Being that permeates these lands, the Being that watches over us, for we are Its children…” “A Great Old One…” Edward whispers besides you. “So the writings of Abd al-Qudama were not merely the final mental spasms of a raving madman after all…” <<if $dream.book>>A cold shiver runs down your spine… //why does that name feel so awfully familiar?//<</if>> Culley continues without paying him any heed, entirely enraptured in her account of the village, as only a true zealot could. “… and we’ve kept ourselves pure in //Its// image! No outsider could e’er understand our ways, nor can they be permitted to tear down what we’ve built since time immemorial!” She looks you square in the eyes. “We //know// ye will end us, and we //will// stop ye!” “But that is utterly crazy! We did not even know all of this until you told us!” “Aye, then why snoop around? We must remain vigilant against the wiles of the outsider!” //Okay, this lady might be utterly unhinged…//

“I guess that is all we will be able to get out of her,” you say, turning to your companion. “I suppose that leaves us with the question: what will we do with her?” he responds. “We probably should not just leave her here, not after we found her mixing up who knows what to drug us with tonight.” From the corner of your eye, you can see Mrs Culley tense up and her eyes narrow to slits. You try to keep your attention on her as you answer Edward. “No, I do not suppose we should leave her to run along… but she would most certainly slow us down if we brought her with us. Not to mention, I would certainly not feel comfortable walking side by side with her in these tunnels…” “You make a good point, $FirstName…” “Do you think we could find something around to restrain her and leave her here? We can come back for her when all is said and done.” “No need to bother, I brought some rope,” Edward nods, as he opens his bag, and starts looking for what he needs. “Give me a moment, I’ll tie her wrists to one of the table legs. It should be heavy enough to keep her here.” The housekeeper does not struggle as Edward sits her down by the table and ties her up. By the time he is done and you make ready to leave the laboratory room, she spits one final vitriolic remark your way. “Aye, be a fool then. Let yer conceit lead ye to yer deaths! Ye’re fiddlin’ with things ye cannot comprehend, and it’ll cost ye… yer lives if ye be lucky, yer sanity if not…” <ul> <li> [[Just leave her raving. You cannot let her get under your skin. Not now.|Ch5-Lab6][$choice to true, $feeling ++]]</li> <li> [[Give her a piece of your mind. You have wanted to do this for a while.|Ch5-Lab6][$choice to false]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice>> You turn around and leave, feeling the heavy lead lined curtain flaps close behind you. Edward follows closely. You can faintly hear Culley’s rancorous mutterings die out behind you as you walk away. Edward puts a hand on your shoulder. “That was very big of you, $FirstName. I am glad that you could rise above those taunts.” You smile back at him. //No way you are going to let some decrepit hag get under your skin like that!// “Thank you, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>.” <<else>> Before Culley can utter another word, you abruptly take a step towards her, towering over the old woman. “On the contrary, Mrs Culley, it is your conceit that has led you down this path of deceit, lies, and whatever other evils you have perpetrated, or let be, in this insane… cult of yours!” You take a deep breath before continuing your tirade. “You have been so self-absorbed with your own vaunted superiority, that you have failed to stop and look farther than your own little world. We will come back for you… and there will be justice for your actions, yours and everyone else’s.” She doesn’t retort, but the simmering hatred with which she has always regarded you seems to dull. She looks down, defeated. Without another word, you turn around and leave, feeling the heavy lead lined curtain flaps close behind you. Edward follows closely, putting a hand on your shoulder. “I don’t know what came over you there, but… I want to thank you for the implicit vote of confidence in <<if !$rekindle || $feelings > 6 >>my- our<<else>>our<</if>> mission.” <</if>> You do not respond, but merely nod with a smile, tired but satisfied. <ul><li> [[Retrace your steps.|Ch5-P][$rooms.p ++]]</li></ul>

“Oh…” Edward looks disappointed, but ultimately acquiesces to your suggestion, “well I do suppose that the clock is ticking on our progress. We should make haste indeed. Now… let’s see… it looks like there are two exits from this room. The one we came from, and then the other one on the other side of the room. Which one do you think we should take?” <ul> <li> <<link "Take the route you came from.">> <<if $libEntry is "F">><<goto "Ch5-F">> <<else>><<goto "Ch5-M">> <</if>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "Take the other exit.">> <<if $libEntry is "M">><<goto "Ch5-F">> <<else>><<goto "Ch5-M">> <</if>> <</link>></li> </ul>

Edward dusts off the candles, then gently lights them using his torch. A gentle, warm light fills the room. //Yeah… you could really imagine yourself relaxing with a good book and a hot drink here.// “That should make things a little bit easier,” Edward says. “Now, let us be smart about not duplicating one another’s efforts. Why don’t I go through my uncle’s notebook in more detail, see if there is anything I can find, maybe extrapolate some information about these missing pages?” He smiles, almost apologetically. “You’ll have the honour of checking the bookshelves. You probably should not grab every single book there, but have a look at whatever you think could help us.” You nod. There are three walls lined with bookshelves. You need to get closer to them to see what books they hold. <ul> <li> [[Check out the first wall.|Ch5-LibraryW1]]</li> <li> [[Check out the second wall.|Ch5-LibraryW2]]</li> <li> [[Check out the third wall.|Ch5-LibraryW3]]</li> </ul>

This section of the bookshelf seems to focus on the history of the esoteric and the occult. Many of the books seem to be only marginally better than pulp novels and penny dreadfuls, but a few titles manage to catch your eye. <<do>><ul> <<if !_book1>><li> <<link "Check out //Beyond the Veil of Madness: Old Gods and the British Isles//.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> <<include "Ch5-LibB1">> <</append>> <<set _book1 to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_book2>><li> <<link "Check out //In Search of Knowledge Beyond Mankind//.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> <<include "Ch5-LibB2">> <</append>> <<set _book2 to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_book3>><li> <<link "Check out //Where Did They Go? Pre-Roman Cults in Post-Elizabethan Britain//.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> <<include "Ch5-LibB3">> <</append>> <<set _book3 to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <li> [[Check out the second wall.|Ch5-LibraryW2]]</li> <li> [[Check out the third wall.|Ch5-LibraryW3]]</li> <li> [[You think you should probably move on now.|Ch5-Library3]]</li> </ul><</do>>

While it is a massive tome, and quite heavy at that, you manage to put it down on the bookstand so you can more easily browse through it while holding your torch for illumination. The book details the history of the so-called “Old Gods” – extraplanar beings of immense power that once lorded over various civilizations on Earth, but have since departed to realms unknown – and the evidence for their existence uncovered in Britain. One of the earlier chapters details rumours about the – potentially continued – existence of a cult devoted to one of these Old Gods in the Scottish countryside. <div class="letter"> […] Accounts from Roman traders and outlaws who ventured beyond Hadrian’s Wall talk about an unnamed coastal village where the inhabitants were more barbaric than elsewhere. Several accounts allege that the villagers would flay alive and dump in the sea any outsiders caught in the area during a full moon, and that they worshipped their own malformed offspring. The Romans were known to overemphasize the differences between themselves and those outside the borders of their Empire for reasons of propaganda. Still, the remarkable consistency between these accounts give the reader food for thought. […] </div> When you are done reading, you notice a loose piece of paper hidden between two later pages. Upon further inspection, you discover that it is a <<link "missing page">><<LostPage1>><</link>> from the notebook.

This one looks to be mostly a reference booklet describing the reputed existence of tomes about dark magic in circulation among occult practitioners. Besides the usual suspects, such as the works of Helena Blavatsky, the book reports on several other rumoured grimoires like //Book of the Dead// by Abd al-Qudama. The author was reportedly visited in his dreams by entities of such immense power that they could reshape reality with a mere thought. He put these visions to paper, but clearly his human mind was incapable of comprehending the sheer magnitude of these beings’ existence and capabilities. Although the booklet does not provide many excerpts from the Book of the Dead, the following passage stands out to you: <div class="letter"> As I was visited by the Great One, I was transported across the stars, and saw constellations that no being of Earth, human or animal, had ever laid eyes upon. It is not here that they dwell. To call any space in the Universe capable of holding such a vast being would be to blaspheme against their very power. </div> The booklet then segues into a brief history of cults that have tried to harness that power.

Unlike the other books on this shelf, this one looks to have been put on the market by a reputable academic publisher. Compared to even the other notable books on the shelve, it is far more grounded, and does not acknowledge even the possible existence of the supernatural. Rather, it discusses the practice of druidism, its supposed links with Freemasonry and Rosicrucianism, and its modern fraternal offshoots. The only marginally debatable argument present in the book would be that the more modern forms of the religion are merely a cover for the British upper classes to hold elaborate parties, but that certain aspects of druidic practice, such as human sacrifice and cannibalism, may have survived among certain isolated communities within the Home Isles.

There are only a few books around this side of the shelves. The vast majority of the space here is filled with loose sheets of paper. Some seem to be covered in chemical and alchemical scribbles, while others look like old drafts of letters. It could be plausible a few pages from the notebook ended up here… <<do>><ul> <<if !_book1>><li> <<link "Search the top shelf.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> <<include "Ch5-LibB4">> <</append>> <<set _book1 to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_book2>><li> <<link "Search the middle shelf.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> <<include "Ch5-LibB5">> <</append>> <<set _book2 to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_book3>><li> <<link "Search the bottom shelf.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> <<include "Ch5-LibB6">> <</append>> <<set _book3 to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <li> [[Check out the first wall.|Ch5-LibraryW1]]</li> <li> [[Check out the third wall.|Ch5-LibraryW3]]</li> <li> [[You think you should probably move on now.|Ch5-Library3]]</li> </ul><</do>>

For the most part, these look to be old administrative papers detailing the monetary value and profits of Cornelius’ many financial assets. While Gairbuie clearly was the only real estate he owned, it seems like he had significant stakes in several ventures throughout the British Empire. He must have been fabulously wealthy. Between the financial papers, you find a page of the notebook, clearly torn out. <div class="journal"> <date>Third of March, 1897.</date> The experiments have been progressing well, although procuring the necessary components has proven to be increasingly odious and costly. It has put some strain on even my considerable assets. I am considering the sale of some of my shares that I had kept secret from the family in case of a rainy day. While it is undoubtedly objectionable for a man of my standing to have to resort to such desperate measures, I am emboldened by my latest results. Submerging the item in a bowl of freshly drawn virginal blood caused the subject hallucinations and a temporary inability to feel physical stimuli. It goes beyond the mere effect of seeing one’s blood let: I repeated the experiment the day after without utilizing the item, and could not replicate the results. A most promising avenue of research, although I must take care not to run out of test subjects. </div>

This shelf is filled with personal letters to and from Cornelius’ family, including some correspondence between him and Edward’s mother. It seems like all correspondence stops after the turn of the millennium: the last thing he received from your <<if $rekindle>>lover<<else>>friend<</if>>’s family is a Christmas card from 1899. There are a handful of other letters after that, mostly between Cornelius and his children, but it looks as if he had gotten more reclusive in the final two decades of his life. You also find another excerpt from the notebook tucked away between his personal affairs. <div class="journal"> <date>Twelfth of January, 1900.</date> At last! The great success which had eluded me for most of my adult life is mine. It seems so obvious, in hindsight, that the sacrifices made were inappropriate, given the power I was attempting to summon. My latest attempt rectified those unfortunate errors, and the results could not have been better. I can feel power course through my veins, burning away the sickness and the pain, reinvigorating my enfeebled constitution. My sight of the extra-planar entity creeping into our reality at this place has also increased, leading me to wonder whether there is a connection between it and the item. Further study is required. Thankfully, I finally have all the time in the world. </div>

Most of the papers here are filled with chemical formulas, diagrams and drawings of complex scientific setups, and, to your slight surprise, aged doctor’s notes. They suggest that Cornelius was diagnosed with a degenerative disease in the early 1890s. The doctors were unable to do much but prescribe medicaments against the pain. A note written by Edward’s uncle, seemingly ripped from his notebook, comments on the diagnosis. <div class="journal"> <date>Twenty-second of October, 1891.</date> Damn these quack doctors straight into the deepest pits of Hell for their ignorance and ineptitude! Their opinions are barely worth the paper and ink spent to write them down! I suppose it is my luck that I had started researching the esoteric sciences already, as they seemingly give me a way out. I have a long and arduous task ahead of me, but I trust that my intellect and perseverance will see me through, come what may. Reinforcing one’s constitution should be a mere matter of finding the correct mechanism and components. I should tarry not, for I have a great deal to study! </div>

There are several more books here, with precious few of them coming from any of the reputable publishing houses. A cursory review of the titles on the spines indicate these are accounts from individuals who claim to have come into contact with the eldritch and the unknown. Most you can immediately dismiss as utter claptrap, but a few titles promise some titillating content. <<do>><ul> <<if !_book1>><li> <<link "Check out //A Yorkshire Woman’s Vision of Stars Beyond Our Own//.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> <<include "Ch5-LibB7">> <</append>> <<set _book1 to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_book2>><li> <<link "Check out //The Confessions of an Escaped Human Sacrifice//.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> <<include "Ch5-LibB8">> <</append>> <<set _book2 to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_book3>><li> <<link "Check out //Wandering Beyond Realms//.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> <<include "Ch5-LibB9">> <</append>> <<set _book3 to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <li> [[Check out the first wall.|Ch5-LibraryW1]]</li> <li> [[Check out the second wall.|Ch5-LibraryW2]]</li> <li> [[You think you should probably move on now.|Ch5-Library3]]</li> </ul><</do>>

The book is bound, but lists no publisher. The first few pages quickly reveal why. The author, one Harriet Greenwood, claims to have been touched by an angel, who transported her to a Heaven both great and terrible. She describes feeling pleasure and pain unimaginable, gifted by an angel interested in the effects of its vast powers on such a simple lifeform, as a bored and ignorant child may torture ants. Most of the recount reads like nonsense, but you take note of the following passage underlined by Cornelius, where the author explains how she came to have these visions. <div class="letter"> I visited a dingy antique shop in Bradford, and they had a most peculiar item: a statuette resembling a man with mollusc like features carved out of shiny black stone. The obvious rarity of the item and the quality of its craftmanship were not born out by its price tag. I asked the proprietor about it, and he told me that the statuette had been caught in the nets of a fishing crew from Strathclyde. Their boat had drifted ashore near Liverpool somewhere during the 1850s, its crew all dead, seemingly from ritualistic suicide, the statuette placed on a barrel by way of makeshift altar. It had come into the possession of the store after it had been auctioned off by the authorities. The owner had tried to sell it for its aesthetic qualities, but its backstory had put too many people off, so he had to lower the price. I believed his story to have been a silly sales pitch to help him in the process of haggling, until I touched it and saw the Truth for myself… </div>

While the title reads like a novel trying and failing to be shocking, the content is a far cry from the pedestrian penny dreadfuls you can buy on any street corner in London. Some of the descriptions within are truly horrific, and likely would not sell too well even on the street. The book is formatted like a journal, recounting the capture of an unnamed author by a secretive society of cannibals and devil worshippers somewhere in the countryside. The tales are extremely excessive and difficult to believe, but given all you have already seen, plausible. The author describes being drugged, thus accounting for some of the fuzziness and inconsistencies in their recollection. The description of the individual being marched to the sacrificial altar catches your interest. <div class="letter"> To my left stood a row of robed cultists holding torches, behind them, a wall adorned with human remains, like an ossuary. Their eyes twinkled with malevolent delight at the impending demise of my fellow prisoners and myself. However, staring them down was by far the better option, for to our left stood a row of monstrous individuals, barely recognizable as human. Maybe they were simply inbred, or maybe some dark god blessed its followers with unholy forms of strength. Some crouched on all fours like rabid dogs, and others had the chitinous armour of lobsters. But in each and everyone of their eyes was a malevolent intelligence, far more evil than that of the cultists, I believe because these beings knew in their heart of hearts just how little any god cared about them. </div>

Unlike some of the other books you could find on this shelf, this one is not written with sensationalism or excess. Rather, the author seems to believe themselves to be an explorer, an academic uncovering secrets no one even knew they needed answered. The narrative is dull, and you would not be surprised to learn that the author partook in copious amounts of absinth while penning down their ‘masterwork’. And yet, you cannot help but feel genuine unrest – a hot feeling running up your spine – when they recount their encounter with what they describe as the ‘architects of the universe’. <div class="letter"> My skin told me I was dumped in a vat filled with ice water. My nose informed me that freshly baked cinnamon treats were served in front of me, and my eyes reported I had been placed inside the brightest sun in the universe. Then, a voice shook the foundations of reality. Reality was I, and my skull felt like it would split open from the accumulated knowledge of millennia. The Great Old One had seen me, acknowledged me, and the experience nearly scattered my ego across the cosmos. Shattered and broken, that great and terrible God cast me aside, a broken plaything that no longer interested it in the slightest. Yet, I knew, in that moment, that it was my destiny to inform the poor, unknowing masses of the pitifulness of their mortality, and the meaninglessness of the existence of the entirety of humanity. </div>

“I believe that is all we will get out of this place,” you murmur. “It is… interesting, I suppose… Edward, did you find anything at all?” “As a matter of fact I did, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<elseif $relationship is "friend">>fine friend<<else>>friend<</if>>. The notebook did not contain too many interesting passages, although it reinforced my opinion of my uncle as a smart, but arrogant man. However, it seems he was also rather ruthless in addition to those things… Until his past caught up with him.” Edward hands you the notebook, open on a page close to the end. “Read this. It is the last entry in the notebook. I am sure that you will find it as illuminating as I did.” <div class="journal"> <date>Thirty-first of December, 1922.</date> The years have been unkind, yet it is hard to blame anyone but myself. I would not have thought I would ever characterise my own actions thusly. Yet, here we are, at the end. Over two decades of wisdom hardly anyone has ever shared, two decades of vigorous life, and my mind sharpened to a razor’s edge, and all I have seen and learned has pointed to a single thing. I was the fool all along. That ritual at the turn of the millennium gave me everything I ever wanted. I thought the price trifling, at first. A price I could get another to pay. Little did I know, that I would partake in the madness, or that I would remain in control of all my lucid faculties and be aware of the implications. Some would say this would be preferable to true insanity, but is ignorance not bliss? Many nights I lie awake, wishing I could forget the knowledge bestowed upon me. Oh, that knowledge! To see the universe through the eyes of those who have been around since its dawn, and will be there to witness its dusk! To comprehend the meaninglessness of life, and have to reflect on one’s own insignificance in the grand scheme of things. I suppose – nay, I know, for I have known everything for two decades – that no one will feel sorry for me for the choices I made, least of all because of the consequences it had for others. It is no matter. For I know that the suffering I caused is as insignificant to the universe as that which has befallen myself. And what I am about to do will mean even less, for what is one life compared to the grandness of creation? And yet, even I must admit to feeling as if I must atone. Undoubtedly a foolish instinct, borne out of superstition and disciplining of the soul. I will bestow the means to belatedly rectify my errors to the one man who may do so. I have seen the face of a God. I know It knows no clemency. I know mercy is a foreign concept to It. I will face It one last time without expecting either. Signed, Cornelius, Slave to the Old Gods, Who No Longer Merits a Family Name </div> <ul><li> [[“Damn…”|Ch5-Library4][$clue.letters to true, $achievements.allClues.letters to true]]</li></ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> “Damn…” you barely manage. “This is the last entry you said, Edward?” “Yes,” he nods. “I must say, the implications are rather gruelling… I had never questioned Cornelius’ cause of death. He was fairly old, after all. My family had not seen him for years, and we assumed he was bedridden. Yet, if this notebook is to be believed, he was the epitome of health and vigour.” “Indeed… though I am more intrigued by what he writes about this “price” that was supposedly paid… You don’t think he…?” “I would prefer not to think or talk about it, for now, at least,” Edward says as he turns away. “Now… let’s see… it looks like there are two exits from this room. The one we came from, and then the other one on the other side of the room. Which one do you think we should take?” <ul> <li> <<link "Take the route you came from.">> <<if $libEntry is "F">><<goto "Ch5-F">> <<else>><<goto "Ch5-M">> <</if>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "Take the other exit.">> <<if $libEntry is "M">><<goto "Ch5-F">> <<else>><<goto "Ch5-M">> <</if>> <</link>></li> </ul>

<<if !$achievements.mazeTwoAllThreeRoomsOneRun>> <<if $rooms.lab is true && $rooms.lib is true && $rooms.chap is true>> <<set $achievements.mazeTwoAllThreeRoomsOneRun to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: The Long Way Around">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> The doors slowly swing open. You can hear no hinges squeak, only the heavy sound of the doors opening into a large, echoing room. Inside it is dark, but a light green glow illuminates the room in certain places. //The bioluminescent moss once more?// <<if $destination.morning is "church" or $destination.afternoon is "church">>The sight is oddly familiar to you. <</if>>Edward follows you in, scans the room, and says: “Interesting… it must have been modelled after the interior of a church. Notice how the moss has been placed so as to resemble stained glass windows?” “By Jove, you are right, Edward!<<if $destination.morning is "church" or $destination.afternoon is "church">> Why, this is a near exact replica of the interior of the village church.<</if>> These stone benches are supposed to resemble the pews, and up ahead is the altar…” “Hold on just a moment, $FirstName”, your <<if $rekindle>>lover<<else>>friend<</if>> interjects, “Let’s get back to these ‘windows’ first. There is something… I would like to have a closer look…” The moss is scattered over the walls in elaborate patterns that make one think of the intricate stained glass narratives one would find in cathedrals. Even if the created imagery is exclusively in moss-green and basalt-black, this does little to detract from the overall craftsmanship. Keeping the lichen in line must take considerable effort and regular upkeep… The panels seem to run counter-clockwise in order, starting with the one directly on your right from where you enter the room. “Very well, let’s see now… I think these are supposed to be stars… Mhm… Would you mind looking around the room for anything useful that could be here? I think it shall take me a while to figure things out on my end.” You nod. //Now, where to investigate first?// <<do>> <ul> <<if !_leftpew>><li> <<link "Investigate the left group of pews.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> As with almost everything else in this room, the pews were carved from dark stone. Seeing the slabs so simple and flat, you cannot imagine it would be comfortable to sit on, especially during one of those long, dreary sermons. Like the walls, the pews seem well taken care off: you can find no chipped edges, nor even cobwebs, until your hand feels something quite peculiar. “Edward!” you call out. “Some of these seats feel vaguely warm… I think there might have been people here not long before us…” Your companion turns to you, momentarily pulled out of his musings. “Indeed? The cultists must use this room for… religious purposes, I suppose? The ‘windows’ seem to show some sort of origin myth. I am still in the process of figuring them out. Still, it seems safe to say that this room holds great importance for whatever cult calls these tunnels home.” You nod and continue your investigation of these pews. Unfortunately, you find nothing of further interest. <</append>> <<set _leftpew to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_rightpew>><li> <<link "Investigate the right group of pews.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> Something seems off about these pews. It takes you a moment to figure it out, but eventually it becomes too obvious to have your brain continue to block out the unsettling implications of what you are seeing… Scattered across the stone seats are bits of skin, fur, scales, and claws, clearly inhuman in origin. Yet they are too large to belong to any animal indigenous to these isles. And why would such a diverse array of animals be brought down here? Recollections of being stalked when you first approached Gairbuie penetrate your mind, setting you on edge. //What manner of creatures frequented these unholy sermons?// <</append>> <<set _rightpew to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_altar>><li> <<link "Investigate the altar.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> Up at the back of the room stands a simple elevated pulpit, in front of which a slab stone table stands. <</append>> <<set _altar to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if _altar>> <<if !_stone>><li> <<link "Investigate the stone slab.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> The light from the moss falls onto the slab, giving it an eerie, greenish-grey glow. Grooves are carved into the top of the stone, forming unsettling patterns reminiscent of the writing you previously saw in the tunnels. Yet, the colouring of the markings troubles you more so than their shape: a deep, burgundy red, and likely looking darker than they would in the sun due to the ambient light. It is glistening and feels sticky and viscous… Scattered on top of the slab are a collection of small bones, arranged as if they were cast in a fortune or future telling ritual. You recognise ribs, bits of spine, and what looks like part of a femur. With no other types of bones, your limited knowledge of anatomy cannot help you to determine whether these once belonged to a rabbit or a small fox… or perhaps a human infant… <</append>> <<set _stone to true, $stone to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <<if !_pulpit>><li> <<link "Investigate the elevated pulpit.">> <<append "#choice" t8n>> <<ScrollABit>> The pulpit has an elevated altar frontal, meaning that you cannot see what is behind the pulpit from where you stand. You have to ascend a few stone steps before you can see more. It is not as gruesome on first glance as you would have thought. A small book, bound in an unknown tough material, lies on the pulpit, where it is easily accessible for whomever would speak here. You open the pages… <<if $insanity < 5>> //…and the words make no sense to you…// They are written in the same script you have seen several times now. While the writing makes you feel vaguely uneasy, as if the malevolent intent of the author transcends linguistic boundaries, you are unable to decipher any of it, and you close the book. <<else>><<set $insanity ++>> //…and the words start twisting and turning, writhing on the page, and their dark meaning becomes apparent to you…// Like daggers, the jagged words jump off the pages and embed themselves into your mind. They describe incantations, offerings: //a ritual of importance to the local cultists?// In your mind’s eye, you can see a person. They look normal for an instant, then warp, turning into a grotesque monster. Shoulder blades burst from their back, turning into spiny, exoskeletal plates, and their mouth warps into a long, elongated pipe with a barbed slimy tongue. A chirping death throe escapes from the poor victim, mercifully shocking you out of your vision. Cold sweat running down your back, you try to shake off what you saw. You figure it will be a while before you can… <</if>> <</append>> <<set _pulpit to true>> <<redo>> <</link>></li><</if>> <</if>> <<if _altar || _leftpew || _rightpew>><li> [[You have seen more than enough here. Edward should have had enough time to figure out the meaning of the mossy windows by now.|Ch5-Chapel2]]</li> <</if>> </ul> <</do>>

“Okay, Edward my <<if $rekindle>>dear<<else>>friend<</if>>, I am… quite done here. Clearly, some disturbing horrors have occurred here, which I hardly dare speak off… How about you? Did you manage to learn anything whatsoever from those mossy walls?” “Yes,” Edward answers grimly, “though I do not anticipate what I have found to be any more cheerful than the things you have seen. It… is interesting. It sheds some light on the history of this village, or at least a mythologized version of it. But I am not certain it will help us too much in the immediate moment. Are you sure you wish to hear the story?” <ul> <li> <<link "Yes.">><<replace "#choice" t8n>><<set $chapel to "extra">><<include "ChapelExtra1">><</replace>><</link>></li> <li> <<link "No.">><<replace "#choice" t8n>> “That is quite alright, $FirstName. Perhaps I can give you the full story when we are in more comfortable surroundings. For now, we should be on our way, for we do not know how much ground there still is to cover in this maze.” <ul><li> [[Tell Edward about what you discovered.|Ch5-Chapel3]]</li></ul> <</replace>><</link>></li> </ul>

“Very well,” Edward clears his throat. “Just to be clear, some of what I am about to tell you is conjecture. These… windows, if you will, are remarkably illustrative, but I have had to fill up the gaps here and there.” “Naturally… so what do you make of them?” “Yes, let us start at the first panel. Here, you can see what I believe to be Gairbuie, the village: see how the shoreline runs? I believe these figures over here are meant to represent the inhabitants, and based how they are writhing on the ground, they must have suffered from either plague or famine.” He takes a deep breath. “A not altogether uncommon story for the time, I am certain. <<if $rooms.lab>>If what Culley said is correct, the hamlet has been here since Antiquity, when the times were harsh and the people superstitious.<<else>>It is difficult to tell based on the shapes, but the houses look vaguely as if they were built in the Pictish style. They were a tribe that inhabited these parts during early Antiquity when the times were harsh and the people superstitious.<</if>> Even more so than today, anyway.” “I see… so Gairbuie was decimated by the vagaries of nature. Then what happened?” “Yes… this moves us to the next panel. The villagers came up with a ‘solution’, and a rather morbid one at that. Are you sure you want to continue?” <ul> <li> <<link "Yes.">><<replace "#choice2" t8n>><<include "ChapelExtra2">><</replace>><</link>></li> <li> <<link "No.">><<replace "#choice2" t8n>> “That is quite alright, $FirstName. Perhaps I can give you the full story when we are in more comfortable surroundings. For now, we should be on our way, for we do not know how much ground there still is to cover in this maze.” <ul><li> [[Tell Edward about what you discovered.|Ch5-Chapel3]]</li></ul> <</replace>><</link>></li> </ul>

“Right. There is a lot going on here, so bear with me. Among the people lying on the ground, you can see one figure standing here, yes? Based on their robes and beard, we can assume they were some sort of religious figure, a druid or a wise man perhaps. He is pointing the villagers to what looks like a cave. I would guess it is the same system as the one we are in right now. In the panel right after, we see the same figure hold a dagger with both hands while a prone figure lies on a stone slab.” <<if $stone>>A shiver runs down your spine… //so then the stone slab in this very room could have been used for the same?// <</if>>Edward swallows. “The implications are… gruesome, but not entirely out of the ordinary for the tribal societies of the time, at least to the extent our current archaeological and historical sources indicate… I am afraid that there is more, however… if you are up for it, that is.” <ul> <li> <<link "Yes.">><<replace "#choice3" t8n>><<include "ChapelExtra3">><</replace>><</link>></li> <li> <<link "No.">><<replace "#choice3" t8n>> “That is quite alright, $FirstName. Perhaps I can give you the full story when we are in more comfortable surroundings. For now, we should be on our way, for we do not know how much ground there still is to cover in this maze.” <ul><li> [[Tell Edward about what you discovered.|Ch5-Chapel3]]</li></ul> <</replace>><</link>></li> </ul>

“This next panel I am less certain about. The villagers seem invigorated somehow, but it is unclear how it may have happened. There is also another… creature. Humanoid, but clearly different from the others, going by their gait and their claw-like hands. The others seem to venerate this newcomer, exalting it like a holy being…” “Or perhaps as a messenger of some godlike entity?” “Quite possibly, yes. The latter panels show it… //coupling// with the rest of the villagers, producing offspring with equally grotesque shapes. We should perhaps skip those, and move directly on to the last one. It shows the bearded figure huddling with the others, the malformed ones in the middle, and who I reckon to be figures representing outsiders being shunned.” “I see,” you sigh. “What do you make of it, Edward?” “Well,” Edward takes a deep breath. “The first few panels are straightforward enough. A remote community suffered some sort of famine, plague or what have you, and in their superstition committed human sacrifice. What happens next, to my mind, can only be explained by appealing to the supernatural. An extraplanar entity, perhaps even a mysterious ‘Old One’, sent an emissary to this village, and in return for their devotion lifted their burden. What do you make of that explanation?” <ul> <li> <<link "“It is possible, but matters little for our current situation.”">> <<replace "#choice-final" t8n>> “It is possible, but matters little for our current situation.” “Perhaps,” Edward shrugs, “however, one should not underestimate the potential value of knowledge. Just because we cannot see its use in this moment does not mean such knowledge will not prove useful in the future.” He fidgets a loose bit of cotton on his shoulder. “But your point is well taken in the present. We should be on our way, for we do not know how much ground there still is to cover in this maze.” <ul><li> [[Tell Edward about what you discovered.|Ch5-Chapel3]]</li></ul> <</replace>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "“We should not assume these panels were made faithfully. For all we know, they are naught but occult propaganda.”">> <<replace "#choice-final" t8n>> “We should not assume these panels were made faithfully. For all we know, they are naught but occult propaganda.” “Perhaps,” Edward shrugs. “Truthfully, many religions embellish mundane events until their only explanation is the supernatural. And yet…” he looks at the panels, a passionate fire burning in his eyes, “something about this feels… right. As if the last piece of a particularly challenging puzzle just fell into place. <<if $belief is "no">>I know you care little for theories on the occult veil draped over our reality, but this discovery confirms many of my prior suspicions.<<elseif $belief is "skeptic">>I know you usually do not think too much about such things, but I have thought about these matters extensively, and they follow a pattern mimicked well by this discovery.<<else>>I know you share some, if not all of my beliefs regarding the occult, and you should know that this discovery confirms many of my conjectures regarding the beings called “Old Ones” in the ancient scriptures.<</if>>” He sighs. “We should be on our way, for we do not know how much ground there still is to cover in this maze.” <ul><li> [[Tell Edward about what you discovered.|Ch5-Chapel3]]</li></ul> <</replace>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "“It seems quite likely, as far as I can tell. But how does this knowledge help us along?”">> <<replace "#choice-final" t8n>> “It seems quite likely, as far as I can tell. But how does this knowledge help us along?” “I must admit… I am not entirely certain,” Edward shrugs, “however, one should not underestimate the potential value of knowledge. Just because we cannot see its use in this moment does not mean such knowledge will not prove useful in the future.” He shines a light on the panel. “Moreover, I must admit that it is… gratifying, on a personal level I mean, to see some minor vindication of my hunch, even in such a gruesome form.” He sighs. “We should be on our way, for we do not know how much ground there still is to cover in this maze.” <ul><li> [[Tell Edward about what you discovered.|Ch5-Chapel3]]</li></ul> <</replace>> <</link>></li> </ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> Edward shudders as you explain the results of your own survey. “Such barbarism… it is truly abominable.” He looks around the room, his eyes lingering a moment longer on the stone slab than on the other places. He shoots a look at one of the panels, featuring a similar slab, in an altogether gruesome and bloody tableau. "I wish I had the power to put a stop to this much earlier…” <ul> <li> <<link "“Would you really want such power?”">><<replace "#choice"t8n>> “Would you really want such power?” He ponders that question silently for a long moment. “You raise a fair point… Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely, as the Baron Acton wrote… Nevertheless, the suffering imposed here on the foolish and the desperate is despicable, and ought to have come to an end a long time ago. Let us move on, so that we can finally make it so.” Disgusted, he looks at the chapel room, and spits on its floor. “It is time for this sordid trial to come to an end.” <ul><li> [[Return to the anteroom.|Ch5-U][$rooms.u ++]]</li></ul> <</replace>><</link>></li> <li> <<link "“The past is the past. Focus on stopping these atrocities in the here and now.”">><<replace "#choice"t8n>> “The past is the past. Focus on stopping these atrocities in the here and now.” He nods enthusiastically in response to your point.“You are, of course, quite right. We achieve nothing by pondering our past mistakes, and have everything still to gain. The suffering imposed here on the foolish and the desperate must come to an end, finally, after all these centuries. It is up to us this night, so let us move on, that we can make it so.” Disgusted, he looks at the chapel room, and spits on its floor. “It is time for this sordid trial to come to an end, finally.” <ul><li> [[Return to the anteroom.|Ch5-U][$rooms.u ++]]</li></ul> <</replace>><</link>></li> </ul>

An ominous noise, like angry hornets swarming through your skull, grows louder as you move further into the stone bowels of the mansion. It is the chanting and clamouring of many people in the ecstasy of veneration… //but who or what do they venerate?// “I would hazard a guess that we are finally nearing the end of this maze… at least, as far as we’re concerned right now,” Edward says. He sounds exhausted and slightly antsy, and you cannot say you do not share his unrest. Who knows what further trials still await you? “I think I see something ahead, Edward,” you call out to your companion. “It looks like… some sort of door?” “If so, it is a mighty strange door, indeed,” your <<if $rekindle>>lover<<else>>friend<</if>> responds without exaggeration. Within the wall, brass hinges line a door made of tough granite. There are no obvious handles, or even a crack to indicate how it would swing. Strange gaps have been carved into the solid rock; small niches where you might expect a candle or some sort of small offering. A closer inspection reveals the existence of detailed indentations at the base of each niche. They resemble the runes you saw carved into the moss last night. <ul><li> <<link "“$FirstName, come look over here!”" "Ch5-Exit2">> <<if !$achievements.mazeTwoHard && $difficulty is "extreme">> <<set $achievements.mazeTwoHard to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Who Needs Maps Anyway?">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</link>></li></ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> You head over to your companion, who holds up a strange figurine, looking vaguely like an emaciated bear, its elongated furry arms ending in the paws of an ape. A face like a grinning hyena, eyes bulging in too large a fashion even for a totem this crudely carved, sits atop the rail-thin body. “That is a rather disturbing idol, Edward… Would you mind explaining your interest in it?<<if $visited.chFourCulley2b1>> Given what happened last time, should you even be touching it?<</if>>” “It is not the idol itself that interests me, for you see, it is not its shape that counts, it is the shape of its soles.” Edward turns around the figurine, and there are strange protrusions on the bottom of its base. Protrusions that mirror the indentations in the niches… “You… you don’t suppose other figurines are the key to opening this door, do you? “As a matter of fact, that is exactly what I suppose, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>. The only question is, where are the rest of these peculiar keys? This is the only one I could find already placed in the door. Going by the number of niches, there ought to be five figurines, including this one.” <ul> <li> [[“Well then, what are we waiting for? Let’s go look for them!”|Ch5-Exit3]]</li> <li> [[“Are you sure we should go back into the maze? Would we even know how to find our way back?”|Ch5-Exit3]]</li> </ul>

“Mhm,” Edward grunts. “I do not think we should act hastily here. I said I found only one placed in the door, but I imagine the others should not be too far. Consider that this door is most likely used by Mrs Culley, who is not the most spritely individual, and thus it would not do to have her run around the whole maze trying to collect five keys. More likely, I imagine these will be hidden close by.” Your companion’s intuition proves to be correct. Hidden within a crack in the rock, over to the far side of the door, you find a puzzle box made out of what looks and smells like old driftwood. Its top is covered by silver filigree, which, in some places, has turned black and flaky from oxidization. The embellishments resemble the night sky, multiple stars, moons, and clouds covering the soft wood. “Interesting,” you muse, “although I cannot seem to be able to open it. It must have some sort of locking mechanism… Here, Edward, see if you can see how it works.” He takes the puzzle box from you, and turns it over a few times in his hands. “It looks like some of the parts can move around, just as the constellations move around in the night sky… The top ring has stars, the middle ring has moons, and the bottom ring has stars as well… I am not certain what outcome we ought to be aiming for here, but I recognize the constellations on the bottom as those in the Northern Celestial Hemisphere. The moons are nothing more or less than the phases of the moon of Earth.” Edward frowns. “Only the top set of stars is unknown to me. Here, $FirstName, you give it a try. Do you recognize any of those?” <<listen>> The upper ring shows <<CycleUpperRing>>. The middle ring shows a <<CycleMiddleRing>> moon. The lower ring shows <<CycleLowerRing>>. <<when 'click'>> <<if _upperring && _middlering && _lowerring && !_unlock>> <<set _unlock to true>> <<replace "#clickbox" t8n>> <ul><li> [[With a click the box opens.|Ch5-Exit4]]</li></ul> <</replace>> <</if>> <</listen>>

“Excellently done, $FirstName!” Edward exclaims. “You will have to explain the logic behind your choices sometime: I, for one, could not see a pattern in there.” You grin. //Okay, so maybe you needed a little luck to get it open. No need to let your companion in on that secret though!// “Sure, Edward, I promise. But first, we ought to have a look at what is in here and figure out how they fit into the door.” As you lift the lid of the box, it feels like the air around you gets just a little bit chillier. //Probably just your imagination.// Within it lie another four figurines, in addition to the one Edward took from the wall earlier. The first has a vaguely canine snout, with a drooling mouth and dim, dull eyes. Its body is humped and muscular like that of a gorilla, walking on clawed knuckles with long, blade shaped claws. The second totem is grotesquely fat in shape, and you wonder whether it would even fit into one of the small niches. Its head is that of a vulture, or perhaps a mangy sea eagle, its curved beak tearing a strip of flesh from its own rotund body. The third totem is unlike any animal you have ever seen, but it could be compared most directly to a scorpion with the body of a centipede and a lamprey like mouth with multiple bladed teeth. Between its maw, its pincers, and its vicious stinger, it looks decidedly aggressive. The fourth is shaped like a man, though closer inspection reveals it to have thin, spindly fingers and gills. The creature stands upright, a taunting smirk on its face. Despite being naked, it is not shown to have any genitalia. “Now, let us see…” Edward muses, “I am fairly certain I should put the figure I found earlier back in the spot where I found it.” With a soft, barely audible //click// your companion puts the bear-like totem back in its niche. “There is some scribbling below this niche… It is written in charcoal and says ‘Envy’… It seems there are other words written underneath other niches. Those are where we should [[place the other figures|Ch5-Exit-Puzzle]], I am certain… but which?”

<<if not navigator.userAgent.includes('Mobile')>> <<set _array to [1,2,3,4], _array to _array.shuffle()>> <<listen>> <div id="statues"> <<drop id "envy" slots 1 type 'envy'>> <<drag size 1>> Bear <<data 'envy' type 'envy'>> <</drag>> <<onDrop 'none'>> <</drop>> <<drop id 'wrath' slots 1>> <<onDrop 'fillswap'>> <<if _drag.data is 'wrath'>> <<set _wrath to true>> <<else>> <<set _wrath to false>> <</if>> <<onRemove>> <<set _wrath to false>> <</drop>> <<drop id 'pride' slots 1>> <<onDrop 'fillswap'>> <<if _drag.data is 'pride'>> <<set _pride to true>> <<else>> <<set _pride to false>> <</if>> <<onRemove>> <<set _pride to false>> <</drop>> <<drop id 'gluttony' slots 1>> <<onDrop 'fillswap'>> <<if _drag.data is 'gluttony'>> <<set _gluttony to true>> <<else>> <<set _gluttony to false>> <</if>> <<onRemove>> <<set _gluttony to false>> <</drop>> <<drop id 'sloth' slots 1>> <<onDrop 'fillswap'>> <<if _drag.data is 'sloth'>> <<set _sloth to true>> <<else>> <<set _sloth to false>> <</if>> <<onRemove>> <<set _sloth to false>> <</drop>> </div> <<drop class "pieces">> <<for _i to 0; _i lt _array.length; _i++>> <<if _array[_i] is 3>> <<drag size 1>> Scorpion <<data 'wrath'>> <</drag>> <<elseif _array[_i] is 2>> <<drag size 1>> Man <<data 'pride'>> <</drag>> <<elseif _array[_i] is 4>> <<drag size 1>> Vulture <<data 'gluttony'>> <</drag>> <<else>> <<drag size 1>> Sloth <<data 'sloth'>> <</drag>> <</if>> <</for>> <</drop>> <center> <<link "Inspect the Totems">> <<popup "Totems" "Totems">> <</link>> </center> <<when 'drop'>> <<if _wrath && _pride && _gluttony && _sloth && !_unlock>> <<set _unlock to true>> <<replace "#exit" t8n>> <style>.macro-drop {pointer-event: none}</style> <<fadein 2s>><ul><li> [[Far more quiet, and far more ominously than you would have expected, the door slides down, inviting you into the heart of occult reverie…|Ch6-1][$chapter to "Chapter 6"]]</li></ul><</fadein>> <</replace>> <</if>> <</listen>> <<else>> <div id="mobile-statues"> <div id="envy"> <<listbox "_envy">> <<option "Bear">> <</listbox>> Envy </div> <div id="wrath"> <<listbox "_wrath">> <<option "-Empty-"checked>> <<option "Vulture">> <<option "Sloth">> <<option "Scorpion">> <<option "Man">> <</listbox>> Wrath </div> <div id="pride"> <<listbox "_pride">> <<option "-Empty-" checked>> <<option "Vulture">> <<option "Sloth">> <<option "Scorpion">> <<option "Man">> <</listbox>> Pride </div> <div id="gluttony"> <<listbox "_gluttony">> <<option "-Empty-" checked>> <<option "Vulture">> <<option "Sloth">> <<option "Scorpion">> <<option "Man">> <</listbox>> Gluttony </div> <div id="sloth"> <<listbox "_sloth">> <<option "-Empty-" checked>> <<option "Vulture">> <<option "Sloth">> <<option "Scorpion">> <<option "Man">> <</listbox>> Sloth </div> </div> <center> <<link "Inspect the Totems">> <<popup "Totems" "Totems">> <</link>> | <<link "Confirm your choice">> <<if _wrath is "Scorpion" && _pride is "Man" && _gluttony is "Vulture" && _sloth is "Sloth">> <<replace "#exit" t8n>> <<fadein 2s>><ul><li> [[Far more quite, and far more ominously than you would have expected, the door slides down, inviting you into the heart of occult reverie…|Ch6-1][$chapter to "Chapter 6"]]</li></ul><</fadein>> <</replace>> <</if>> <</link>> </center> <</if>>

The first has a vaguely canine snout, with a drooling mouth and dim, dull eyes. Its body is humped and muscular like that of a gorilla, walking on clawed knuckles with long, blade shaped claws. The second totem is grotesquely fat in shape, and you wonder whether it would even fit into one of the small niches. Its head is that of a vulture, or perhaps a mangy sea eagle, its curved beak tearing a strip of flesh from its own rotund body. The third totem is unlike any animal you have ever seen, but it could be compared most directly to a scorpion with the body of a centipede and a lamprey like mouth with multiple bladed teeth. Between its maw, its pincers, and its vicious stinger, it looks decidedly aggressive. The fourth is shaped like a man, though closer inspection reveals it to have thin, spindly fingers and gills. The creature stands upright, a taunting smirk on its face. Despite being naked, it is not shown to have any genitalia. <center><<button "Return to Niches">><<dialogclose>><</button>></center> /* END OF CHAPTER 5 */

<<unset $chapel, $stone, $idol>> <<fadein 5s>> The cave you have entered is enormous, more than easily capable of holding a hundred people. Ahead, you can see and hear the gathered throng of villagers. They are wearing frayed, tattered robes, and their hums and chants echo eerily through the cave. Edward has chosen to hide behind a large boulder and motions for you to <<linkappend "join him." t8n>><<ScrollABit>> The language the cultists use to sing praise to their dark deity is like none you have ever heard. No words or definitions which have sprung from a human mind, could ever adequately describe its sound. The voices speak to you on a primordial level, whispering promises of home, hearth, and protection from the cold outside. None of the evil supplicants below seem to have noticed your entrance. They are far too enraptured by their demonic hymns, their heads bowed and hands clasped in ungodly reverence. At the head of the crowd stands a cloaked and hooded feminine figure. She faces a large granite wall and has her back turned towards you. Her arms are raised in supplication as she leads her followers’ abyssal chorus. <<if $clue.darge>>//Mother Darge…//<</if>> The walls of the cave are covered in markings, like writing in a language too malignant for sane mortal minds to comprehend. From all around, the symbols look down on you, like terrible, judgemental eyes, seemingly piercing into your very soul. <<if $dream.book>>//This eldritch script is familiar to you. It all comes back to the dream…//<</if>> The voices in the cave reach a bone chilling crescendo. Anticipation hangs palpably in the air. The chanting mesmerizes and entrances you. Why would you fear these tenebrous shadows? Surely, they will be kind enough to wrap you in their otherworldly embrace. <ul> <li><<if ($insanity > 6)>> [[You stand up to head the call. Join your brethren in darkness…|Ch6-1a]] <<else>> [[You steel yourself against the honeyed lies your mind tells you.|Ch6-1b]] <</if>></li> </ul> <</linkappend>> <</fadein>>

“Blasted, //$FirstName//! What do you think you’re doing by Jove?” Edward grabs you by the back of your garb and yanks you back behind the rock. You are momentarily dazed, unable to explain what came over you. “Ed… Edward?” You stumble over your own words as you try to respond. “What was I…?” “Never you mind that! Focus, //$FirstName//! <<if $rekindle>>I would never forgive myself if something happened to you, not after everything we have gone through.<<elseif $relationship is "friend" or $feeling > 6>>I will not have my friend die here, you hear me? We shall get through this together.<<else>>If we are to both make it out of here alive, we need to keep our wits about us.<</if>>” You shake yourself out of your stupor. Edward is right: now is not the time to lose your nerves. And yet… <ul><li> //[[If you cannot trust your own mind, what are your chances of escaping this nightmare unscathed?|Ch6-2]]//</li></ul>

You fight the impulse to stand up and join the ravenous choir. It takes every bit of willpower you have left at this point to maintain control of your body, your limbs fighting you at every step. A hand on your shoulder shocks you out of the fight you are having with your own mind. “//$FirstName//? Come on, snap out of it. <<if $rekindle>>We are so close to the end of our trials, my love. Please, let us finish this together!”<<elseif $relationship is "friend" or $feeling > 6>>You can take a good long nap when we’re done, friend, but keep your eyes on the prize for now.”<<else>>If we are to both make it out of here alive, we need to keep our wits about us.”<</if>> You put your hand on his shoulder and nod to indicate that you are okay. Edward is right: now is not the time to lose your nerves. Your experiences over the past few days have left you fatigued and stressed, but you have managed to keep yourself together up to this point. You shan’t buckle now. <ul><li> //[[For his sake…|Ch6-2]]//</li></ul>

Suddenly, the chanting stops. For a few seconds longer, the voices of the cultists reverberate through the cave, and then an eerie silence descends upon you. You hazard a glance over the boulder to the gathered villagers and their leader. <<if $clue.darge>>Mother Darge<<else>>The head cultist<</if>> has turned around, facing her enraptured followers. Her hands are extended as if inviting a child into a warm embrace. “Brothers and Sisters! Your Deep Siblings and our Great Old God have heard our prayers!” A raucous roar emanates from the crowd, their jubilation heartfelt. <<if $clue.darge>>Darge<<else>>The leader of the cultists<</if>> raises her hand, entreating her followers for their attention. “They have told me that they will get rid of the outsiders for us, if we can prove our purity of purpose to them. We must remain vigilant in guarding against a dilution of the blood, which was so lovingly bestowed by the Old God. I know you have remained true to this task, and I shall lead us in summoning Our Brethren From Inside The Earth.” She brandishes a talisman from between the pleats of her robes and shows it to the gathered villagers. As if one entity, they gasp in unison. //Is it just your imagination, or did you feel Edward tense up as well?// Evidently, they must hold this item in great reverence. Brandished above her head, the talisman hangs in the air, solemnly adored by the villagers. Ceremoniously, she lowers it around her neck, resting upon her chest. Her attention then returns to the wall behind her, as she starts chanting once more in that otherworldly voice. Edward and you huddle behind the rock once more. You speak first. “That talisman, do you suppose that is what we are here for?” Your companion furrows his brow. “There is something about it… I get this feeling it holds //actual// power, that it might not be just symbolic.” <ul> <li> [[You still think Edward’s ideas about the occult border on an obsession, but this is neither the place nor the time to have that conversation.|Ch6-3][$choice to true]]</li> <li> [[You nod. You could see it in the reverence with which the item was handled. It is obvious that the cult believes it to hold some sort of power and that is enough for now.|Ch6-3][$choice to false]]</li> </ul>

“Very well, Edward. <<if $choice>>You sigh.<</if>> Then, it seems our next goal ought to be coming into the possession of that talisman. I do hope it will cure your mother. For all we know it could make things worse.” “No.” Edward’s response is gentle, yet resolute. “$FirstName, my studies have been long and arduous. I have given up the better part of my life researching a cure for her insanity. I am certain that this is it. It //must// be.” //Do you detect but a momentary quaver of uncertainty in his voice?// You cannot imagine what he had to go through to arrive at this culmination. //Could it be that his certainty is nothing but wishful thinking?// //No matter.// He seems set on recovering the item and you have committed to helping him. The only way you will make it out of here alive is if you are both fully focussed on the same thing. “Okay, then let us focus on the task at hand.” You hazard a quick glance over the boulder. The cultists and their leader are still chanting in their eldritch tongue. No one has bothered to look in your direction, all still far too engaged with their unholy hymns. “I do not think we could get it without being seen.” you say. “<<if $clue.darge>>Mother Darge<<else>>That lady at the front<</if>> had it on her when she came in. We could try to surprise the whole lot of them, or we could wait for them to disperse and follow her. But we don’t know whether a good opportunity will present itself later, nor am I too happy with the prospect of following her around in these godforsaken tunnels.” “I agree, $FirstName.” Edward rubs the back of his neck. “There doesn’t seem to be a good way to go about this. I guess it would have been too much to ask for this cult to just deliver their prized relic to us on a silver platter. So, how would you like to play this?” <ul> <li> [[“It is probably the wisest course of action to wait until these wretches disperse. We will never be able to get away from all of them.”|Ch6-4]]</li> <li> [[“I really do not want to spend any more time in these winding, labyrinthine tunnels. Let us sneak closer, grab the talisman and run before they have recovered from the shock.”|Ch6-4]]</li> <li> [[“I think I can create a distraction. When these creatures try to chase me, you use the confusion to grab the talisman and make a break for it.”|Ch6-4]]</li> </ul>

Before Edward can respond to your suggestion, the chanting in the cave stops. //And here you thought you had far more time to come up with a plan!// From behind the rock, you hear <<if $clue.darge>>Mother Darge<<else>>the head cultist<</if>> screaming in triumph. “The Deep Siblings are upon us! Our Brothers and Sisters from within the bowels of our ancient Ancestor have arrived!” The exultant crowd roars. You can feel the zealous attachment to their leader and whatever horror just arrived. You do not think that even the citizens of London would be this jubilant if King George were to parade through the city in full regalia. <ul><li> [[You peak over the boulder and your blood turns to ice.|Ch6-5]]</li></ul>

Hulking, four-limbed monstrosities crawl over the podium. The creatures defy all categorisation. Some possess elongated, three-jointed legs and shortened arms with vicious claws. Others stand out by equine or ichthyic heads. Even amongst the skulking horrors themselves, you struggle to find a commonality by which to define them. One, however, immediately draws your attention. A muscular brute with a hog’s curled tail, black hair covering its body, creeping over the floor on all fours, malignant red eyes lighting up the darkness. //Visions of being hunted across the moors flit through your vision. The creature that stalked you when you arrived at Gairbuie has haunted your dreams and waking hours with equal frequency. And now it is here… and it brought its family along for the ride.// These monstrosities keep being referred to as ‘siblings’, ‘brothers’ and ‘sisters’. You recollect your encounter with the deformed man in the village yesterday and shudder at the implications. However, deformed they may be, these are still human beings. Grotesque warped human beings, but human nonetheless. How they could have come to look like this, you can only guess. “By the stars…” Edward’s involuntary mutter rouses you from own ruminations. “Look at those… //things//, $FirstName. Look at them!” <ul> <li> [[“Be quiet, Edward! Do you want those bastards right on top of us?”|Ch6-6][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“I know, I see them as well… But we cannot let it distract us, okay?”|Ch6-6][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> [[“Shit… You know this was a massive mistake, right?”|Ch6-6][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> “No, no of course not. You’re right of course, I’m sorry I…” Edward tries to steady himself, but you observe that he struggles seeing these warped mockeries of humanity so clearly. <<elseif $choice is 2>> “Yes, yes of course. I’m sorry <<if $rekindle>>my love<<elseif $relationship is "friend" or $feeling > 6>>my friend<<else>>$LastName<</if>>, it is just that… I mean just look at //them//.” Edward tries to steady himself, but you observe that he struggles seeing these warped mockeries of humanity so clearly. <<else>> “Mistake or not, we are here now, and I do not think we shall have another chance. You heard what that woman said: those cultists will be coming after us sooner rather than later. And with those creatures involved…” Edward shudders in barely contained horror. <</if>> “My studies indicated that such things may come to be due to eldritch influence. Yet, I did not think that they would be quite so… //hideous//.” You wipe the cold sweat from your brow. ‘Hideous’ is indeed the right word for the things crawling among the gathered throng of cultists. Even so, the villagers themselves show not dread, but awe and adoration. They touch the monsters and squeal with glee, they wave at them, and some even hug their ‘siblings’ with exuberance, as if they had not seen each other in ages. //What in the blazes is wrong with these people?// “These eldritch horrors notwithstanding, we must get that talisman, $FirstName.” Edward’s voice still trembles, but he has regathered his focus. You turn to answer your companion, and you find your breath stop in your throat. Looking straight at you with beady, bloodshot eyes is one of the Deep Siblings. Its devilish face looks vaguely hoggish, with grotesque teeth jutting from its awful, lipless mouth. For a terrifying second, it stares you square in the eye. You can barely see the humanity hiding behind its malevolent glare. Then, it turns its body towards its hideous ilk and bellows a screeching warning. <ul> <li> //[[Oh, bugger.|Ch6-7]]//</li> <li> //[[Well, blast it all.|Ch6-7]]//</li> <li> //[[Blimey, this isn’t good.|Ch6-7]]//</li> </ul>

An utter pandemonium breaks loose. The monstrosities howl like predators, while the villagers stand around confusedly, worrying what could have led to the displeasure of their icons. Edward turns around and looks past his shoulder to find the horrific mockery of a man crouching behind him. His body freezes in fear, as he realises that all possible plans to get the item without confrontation have gone out the window. “My brethren!” <<if $clue.darge>>Mother Darge<<else>>The head cultist<</if>>’s voice cuts through the clamouring villagers and monsters like a thunderclap. “It seems our quarry has chosen to make things easy for us!” //Bloody hell, can that woman understand the inhuman gibbering of these monsters?// You sigh and put a hand on Edward’s shoulder, aiming to shake him from his shock. He looks at you dazed, as if he cannot fathom all could end here and now. It very well could, of course. Then again, $FirstName <<if $MiddleName>>$MiddleName <</if>>$LastName has never been one to take $pronoun.their fate lying down. You give Edward a squeeze and a grin. <ul> <li> [[“Chin up Edward. Live or die, might as well do it standing up.”|Ch6-8]]</li> <li> [[“Care for a last roll of the dice, Edward?”|Ch6-8]]</li> <li> [[You don’t say a word, but wink for good measure.|Ch6-8]]</li> </ul>

Edward stares back at you. His eyes are like emeralds, and you could swear you see a twinkle. //Could it be a tear, or maybe just his last speck of hope?// Then, he sighs, and pulls himself upright to stand next to you. “Well, $FirstName,” he says, “if this is where it all ends, know that it has been an honour and a privilege to have known you. <<if $rekindle>> Whatever happens next, the time we have spent together… I will fight to make sure we will have many more hours to enjoy one another’s company.” You can see that he blushes, but tries not to let it faze him. <<elseif $relationship is "friend" or $feeling > 6>> I know I could, at times, have been a better friend to you.” He chuckles despite himself. “I suppose that you have few other friends who would lead you on to your doom at the hands of an insane cult. In any event, thank you. From the bottom of my heart.” <<else>> Perhaps in another life we could have gotten to know one another better. As it stands, I’m sorry for dragging you into this. Dying at the behest of a mere acquaintance… I wish I could have prevented it somehow.” <</if>> There you stand, shoulder to shoulder, facing a horde of zealous fanatics and deformed monstrosities. It is hard to determine which group the majority of hateful snarls emanate from. And in the middle of that cruel orchestra stands its cold conductor. With an assured motion of her hand, the harmony of malice ceases. She lets the ensuing silence hang in the air for just a moment, only to address the two of you with a dismissive confidence. “I would ask you to introduce yourselves, given that you are our guests in these hallowed halls, but we all know who you are, //outsiders//. Do you know who it is you are speaking to?” <ul> <<if $clue.darge>><li> [[“Mother Darge, I presume? For someone who plays the role of shadowy puppeteer, you sure do enjoy leaving your name written down.”|Ch6-9][$choice to 1]]</li><</if>> <li> [[“Someone with a sense for the dramatic, but little sense for anything else if your little theatrics are any indication.”|Ch6-9][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> [[“The matriarch of this cult, I would presume. I do hope we can keep this civilized.”|Ch6-9][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> Her features twist in a grimace momentarily, but she recovers her composure remarkably quickly. “I had heard reports that you had been snooping around our village. Though given that you are here, I suppose I should not be surprised you cannot help but fail to mind your own business.” <<elseif $choice is 2>> Her features twist in a grimace momentarily, but she recovers her composure remarkably quickly. “Impudent words!” the cult leader exclaims. “But they show how little you understand. You think we play at theatre? This is no stage play or make-believe, little <<if $mc.gender is 1>>boy<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>girl<<else>>child<</if>>. For we have seen our God in the flesh. And soon, so shall you.” <<else>> She lets out a cackling, gleeful laugh. “And what civilization are you referring to there, <<if $mc.gender is 1>>boy<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>girl<<else>>child<</if>>? That of your dirty city, where the downtrodden are spat upon by a corrupt cabal, who sent thousands of people to their death in the trenches? I have seen the ruins of a civilization far greater than yours. And soon, so shall you.” <</if>> She turns around, raises her arms towards the marked wall and exclaims: “My title is Mother Darge, but I am little more than a conduit between the Old One and its chosen family.” She caresses the closest monster with the back of her hand. “//We// have been chosen, touched by a fraction of its immense power.” She turns to face you once more. “You would take all that away. Break up our perfect family for your own, selfish reasons. We won’t let you. //It//… won’t let you.” “We are not here for any such purpose.” Edward interjects. “You wish to protect your family, and I can respect that. I too wish to safeguard those closest to me.” He swallows. “And to achieve this, I need //that// talisman.” Mother Darge laughs in your faces, her cackle sending a shiver down your spine. “You seem to misunderstand, //my lord//.” The sarcasm and venom in her voice are hard to miss. “You shall not take anything that belongs to our family. In fact, you shall not even leave with your lives!” <ul><li> [[The assembled villagers let out a zealous roar, and their malformed brethren scuttle across the cavern’s floor.|Ch6-10]]</li></ul>

To your surprise, Mother Darge lifts a halting hand and calls for her followers to stay. “No, my siblings. These outsiders must see the error of their ways. They must recognize the truth we all know in our hearts. They must be made to learn… and the only way they will is through a glimpse of our salvation. If we were to tear them apart like the savages they believe us to be, what would that say about us?” She turns towards the wall covered in eldritch carvings. “For we shall call upon our Dark Master! Let its magnificence brighten these last moments of your pathetic, meaningless, empty lives, so that you may finally recognize the purity you have missed all along!” The matriarch brandishes her symbol, and starts chanting in the cult’s unholy tongue. Edward grabs you by the arm. “$FirstName!” he hisses, “We must wrest that talisman from her before they can finish the ritual!” “What do you think they hope to accomplish with it?” you ask. “Does it //matter//? It cannot be anything good.” Edward turns toward Mother Darge. Most of the villagers are facing the wall, holding hands and humming along with their leader’s chant. The ‘Deep Siblings’, however, are facing you with malicious eyes and have formed a defensive cordon around her. <ul><li> [[Then, the ground quakes.|Ch6-11][$entry to 14]]</li></ul>

<<JournalUpdate>> A deep, stygian rumble emanates from the far wall of the cave. The sound is clearly inhuman in its evil origin, but there is an obvious, malignant intelligence behind it. By now, even the most zealous of the villagers have ceased their ecstatic revelry, and look taken aback by what is happening around them. You dive for the ground, rocks and rubble tumbling from the ceiling all through the cave. Edward gets separated from you. You think you hear him yelling your name, but it is difficult to be certain with the chaos going on around you. You cover your eyes with your hands. The very air around you turns icy cold, crawling over you like a gaseous blanket sucking all the warmth from your very being. Your bones feel like icicles in your skin, ready to snap at the first sudden movement. <ul> <li> [[Peak through your hands. You must know from whence this horrifying sound comes, the last vestiges of your sanity be damned.|Ch6-11a][$insanity +=3]]</li> <li> [[Keep your eyes covered. Beg for this maddening noise to be a mere imagination conjured up by the horrors you have recently seen.|Ch6-11b]]</li> </ul>

Your limbs shaking in barely contained dread, you raise your protesting body above the rock. The cave has become pure pandemonium. Half of the cultists are screaming in adoring, deranged ecstasy, the other are scrambling over another, fleeing in mad terror. The Deep Siblings are converging on Mother Darge. //No, not her but…// They are moving towards something right behind her. A thing terrifying beyond comprehension. Merely looking at it makes your head hurt. Your brain is registering something that should not be there, something that should not physically exist. A festering wound in reality itself. Your vision blurs around the gash’s edges, as if innumerable maggots writhe and wriggle, eating away at the fabric of your world. //You may not be looking at this wound from the outside, but from the inside. The being on the other side has ripped open the flesh of its victim, and is looking to feast.// Despite the protestations of your fragile psyche, you try to catch a glimpse from beyond your own reality. What you see was not meant to be processed by human reason. Churning eddies and cyclones shift in and out of colours never before seen in your lifetime. And behind it all – or perhaps a part of it – is an intelligence that dwarfs the combined capabilities of all mankind. The implications of the existence of a lifeform so far beyond your own that you cannot even begin to grasp the harrowing implications of its being are almost too much for your battered mind. You think you can see a watery, bovine eye stare at you from the other side of the wound. A moment later, it is gone, replaced by a serpentine one just off to its side. Suddenly, there are a thousand eyes of all shapes, sizes, and colours staring at you unflinchingly. It is as if your mind knows you are being observed, yet is entirely unable to process the entity responsible. <ul><li> [[Then, a heavy impact shakes you from your spiralling thoughts.|Ch6-12]]</li></ul>

You can hear cultists screaming. Some sound delirious with adoring, deranged ecstasy; but there also those whose screams betray their terror. Many of them, in fact. Clearly, the face of their malign god was not what they believed it to be. You have no intention to find out for yourself just how valid their disappointment may be. Closed as your eyes may be, you can feel an [[entity slithering|Ch6-11b2]] at the edge of your mind, probing your consciousness.

//How foolish you were. Did you truly think that this being, which has existed since before the dawn of man, needed you to see it in order to be aware of you?// It knows humanity’s nature better than any mortal ever could, as a hobby naturalist knows the inner workings of animals in a way they will never be aware of themselves. You are just a pretty butterfly being pinned to a cosmic board by a bored, omnipotent being. Perhaps [[your entire world|Ch6-11b3]] is nothing more than a [[collectible|Ch6-11b3]] to such a creature.

An icy wave of dread and despair washes over you. Tonight, your life may be snuffed out. The being responsible will surely give you about as much thought as a particularly intriguing ant you might accidentally step on. In all likelihood, humanity, the planet Earth, and every speck of dust in your universe means nothing to a being of such immense power. <<linkappend "You">> <<linkappend "will">> <<linkappend "die">> <<linkappend "here.">><<ScrollABit>> It is as clear as day. You feel it in every part of your simple soul with the instinct that has protected humanity since the dawn of time from that which it cannot comprehend. When faced with a power for whom time is irrelevant, energy infinite, and humanity alien, how could the outcome be anything but the cold, uncaring embrace of oblivion? Dark reflections on your mortality wriggle across your mind’s eye. It is impossible to tell how much of it is your own brain coming to terms with the triviality of your existence, and how much of it is the malignant influence of this eldritch god. <<linkappend "Shock." t8n>><<ScrollABit>> <<linkappend "Paralysis." t8n>><<ScrollABit>> You can feel an icy claw rake your brainstem, leaving nothing but a numb feeling of uselessness. <ul><li> [[Then, a heavy impact shakes you from your spiralling thoughts.|Ch6-12]]</li></ul> <</linkappend>> <</linkappend>> <</linkappend>><</linkappend>><</linkappend>><</linkappend>>

“$FirstName? $FirstName! Oh blast, it all! Come on now, we need to finish this //together//!” Edward has grabbed you by the shoulders, shaking you vigorously. How long has he held you by the lapels like this? How long were you out for? Screams, yelling, and a deep, earthy rumbling overwhelm your hearing. It is as if suddenly someone has removed a set of earmuffs from your head. And, amongst the chaos, Edward’s face looks at you, concerned. Your own dirty, ruffled face reflected in the deep green fields that are his eyes. <<if $rekindle>>Even under these circumstances, you cannot help but feel your heart jump, and your breathing stall for a brief moment, as you lose yourself in those beautiful emeralds.<</if>> “Edward… my stars, Edward, what is happening?!” “I do not know… Whatever that ritual was, it must have created some sort of foothold for… I had read about it, but never in my wildest dreams did I expect this.” <<if $feeling < 6>>//Is it just you, or does he seem a little too eager?//<<else>>He looks you in the eyes, concerns for your wellbeing evident in his bright, emerald irises.<</if>> “In any event, we need to do everything in our power to grab that talisman from Darge. I am not completely certain, but… No. I am //positive// that breaking her hold of that item would close the rift. But we need to make it through those monsters in order to get to her. Thoughts?” You search for a path as yelling cultists and gibbering monstrosities contribute to a cacophony amidst the falling rubble. //A chilling realization grips you…// To your horror you see that the passageway through which you entered this cavern is on the verge of collapsing. Either you leave through that same way //now//, hoping against all odds that the collapsing cavern will bury the cultists and their god, or you need to think of some other escape. Or you die here. <ul> <<if $insanity < 3 && ($destination.morning is "docks" or $destination.afternoon is "docks")>><li> [[“As a matter of fact, I have a plan to get us both out of here alive. How would you feel about a little boating trip?”|Ch6-FightA][$path to "docks"]]</li><</if>> <<if $insanity < 3 && ($destination.morning is "church" or $destination.afternoon is "church")>><li> [[“As a matter of fact, I have a plan to get us both out of here alive. We will have to go through some of the other tunnels, but it will get us to the village in one piece.”|Ch6-FightB][$path to "church"]]</li><</if>> <li> [[“Yes, but you will not like it. We could get away now. Forget the talisman, forget Darge and everything that is going on here. At least that way we live!”|Ch6-GiveUp][$path to "back"]]</li> <li> <<link "“Well… I did not like the way my life was going up until now anyway. Get to the exit! I will take care of Darge. See you in some other life, <<if $rekindle>>my love<<else>>Edward Harcourt<</if>>.” " "Ch6-Tribute">><<set $path to "tribute">><</link>></li> </ul>

“Boating trip? Bloody hell, what are you talking about, <<if $mc.gender is 1>>man<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>woman<<else>>friend<</if>>? Have you hit your head? Please tell me you are not concussed.” “Far from it, Edward. Recall that I visited the docks the other day? I saw some boats come around from behind the cliff. They emerged as if… //by magic//. Either that, or they came from the cliff itself. Do you not //see//? There must be some sort of underground cove!” “And given how many villagers are here tonight, there should be at least one boat! Great Scott, $FirstName, you are a miracle! I knew I could count on you to keep a cool head.” “Let us not count our chickens before they hatch, Edward. <<if $rekindle or $feeling > 6>>We<<else>>You<</if>> still need that talisman, or all will have been for naught.” “Not to worry about that. See that half gap in between those two monsters? The one with the fleshy pincer claw and the one that keeps drooling all over the place? I can create a distraction, which should give you just enough space to get behind them, get the talisman, and get out. We can then head down one of the side passages that isn’t collapsed, and find the cove.” <ul><li> [[“Okay, let’s make our move.”|Ch6-Fight1]]</li></ul>

“The tunnels? I must say $FirstName, I cannot say that I relish the idea of getting trapped in there with this– well… //all of this//.” “And you won’t, my dear Edward. Recall the abandoned church I investigated in the village? One of the pews hid the entrance to a secret tunnel. I suspect, nay, I know for certain that that tunnel leads into the larger tunnel system.” “Therefore, we can say that there is another exit. However, we knew that already. All these cultists very well could not have come in through my house, could they have?” “Naturally. But consider that the rain was a veritable torrent this evening, and the road from the village to the church is not paved.” “Which means that the villagers will have left mud trails in the tunnels! Great Scott, $FirstName, you are a miracle! I knew I could count on you to keep a cool head.” “Let us not count our chickens before they hatch, Edward. <<if $rekindle or $feeling > 6>>We<<else>>You<</if>> still need that talisman, or all will have been for naught.” “Not to worry about that. See that half gap in between those two monsters? The one with the fleshy pincer claw and the one that keeps drooling all over the place? I can create a distraction, which should give you enough space to get behind them, get the talisman, and get out. We can then head down one of the side passages that isn’t collapsed, find the mud tracks and get out.” <ul><li> [[“Okay, let’s make our move.”|Ch6-Fight1]]</li></ul>

Edward and you creep as close as you can to the platform without raising the awareness of the monstrous cretins. It takes all your fortitude of mind to block out the horrifying extraplanar rift. Not looking at it is like not picking at the itchiest scab imaginable. Still, you persist. When the Pincer and the Drooler notice the two of you, they seem on edge. Edward gives you a quick nod and a wink, then dashes to the left of the monstrous cave dwellers. They are momentarily taken aback by his sudden movement. However, that surprise quickly gives way for ravenous zeal and a desire to rush to the protection of their dark matriarch. It gives you exactly the opening you needed. You dash onto the platform, no malformed villager being close enough to stop you. This close to the rift, the grating feeling in your consciousness turns into outright ripping. You try to put it out of mind as best as you can. Judging by her baffled expression, Mother Darge had not expected you to show up right next to her. <<linkappend "You grab the talisman from her hand." t8n>><<ScrollABit>> <ul><li> [[And everything goes black.|Ch6-Void]]</li></ul> <</linkappend>>

When you open your eyes, you find yourself standing on… //on nothing//. Blackness surrounds you. Beyond the darkness, you see the twinkling of stars, though you do not recognize any of the constellations. You would not be surprised to learn that it is no pattern observable from Earth. Your surroundings are neither chilly, nor hot, nor can you feel a breeze on your skin. //Nothing…// you feel absolutely nothing. And so, you hang in nothingness; a universe that may or may not be your own. Time means nothing. Life, in its purely biological sense, means nothing. Only your consciousness can truly be said to exist right now, and your body is a mere projection of your mind meant to anchor your sanity. If only it were so simple. For //[[you|Ch6-VoidExtra]]// are not alone.

<<fadein 5s>> <<if !$achievements.metGod>> <<set $achievements.metGod to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: AND SO I MEET">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> SUCH A CURIOSITY You hear no voice, not even your own. The thoughts originate from within yourself. This creature… this //god//… it does not have need for anything so mundane as language. It lets a sliver of its being invade and infect you. A fraction of its intelligence now travels the neural pathways of your mind, conveying meaning, rather than simply conversing. Some of your thoughts are still your own, you think, you hope, but you find yourself in a tug-of-war with a being who could snuff you out in a heartbeat. The ultimate prize? Your //<<if $path is "tribute">>immortal soul<<else>>sanity<</if>>//. I STRUGGLE. WHY IS THAT? <ul> <li> [[You try to regain control of your mind, struggling with all your mind against this unwelcome guest in your consciousness.|Ch6-VoidA]]</li> <li> [[In all likelihood, it takes more effort for this being not to burn out your brain than it would for it to erase all your sense of self. Answering its questions may be your only way out.|Ch6-Void2]]</li> </ul> <</fadein>>

Throughout the past forty-eight hours, you have had many a struggle with your own mind. Yet you could have lived your entire life knowing such hardships, and still not have been prepared for these trials and tribulations. You are truly out of your league. //Take care, lest you end up out of your mind.// EVEN NOW, I FIGHT THAT, WHICH IS I. //No, you are not. You are fighting an invader. An eldritch entity that cannot be named in any human tongue.// WHAT I AM IS NOTHING BUT A COMBINATION OF ORGANIC MATERIAL AND ELECTRIC CHARGES IN A FRAGILE SHELL. I THINK, THEREFORE I AM. I THINK, THEREFORE I AM… I. <ul><li> [[Your struggle, though valiant, is clearly futile. Win or lose your mind, you will answer the questions of this being.|Ch6-Void2]]</li></ul>

//What do I want to know?// ANOTHER OF MY KIND. I HAVE KNOWN HIM, MAY KNOW HIM, YET AM NOT KNOWING HIM. WHY WOULD I HELP HIM, RISK MY BEING? //I want to know why I helped Edward?// YES. <ul> <li> <<link "I would have helped him whatever may have been our history together. That is the kind of <<if $mc.gender is 1>>man<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>woman<<else>>person<</if>> I am." "Ch6-Void3">><<set $choice to 1>><</link>></li> <li> <<link "Because <<if $rekindle>>he is my lover<<elseif $relationship is 'friend' or $feeling > 6>>he is my friend<<else>>I wanted to know him better<</if>>." "Ch6-Void3">><<set $choice to 2>><</link>></li> <li>[[I do not know. Perhaps it was fate, perhaps chance. Perhaps I made the decision because it was better than ending this story early.|Ch6-Void3][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> AM I INDEED THAT PERSON? PERHAPS I AM. PERHAPS I MERELY WISH MYSELF TO BE THUS. IF ONLY BEING WAS AS EASY AS TAPPING A SIGN SAYING IT IS SO. <<elseif $choice is 2>> <<if $rekindle>> DO I LOVE HIM, OR MY MEMORY OF HIM? WE HAVE RECONNECTED MERE DAYS AGO, AFTER ALL. AND YET, THOSE YEARS AND THESE DAYS FEEL LIKE THE SAME TIME. A FEW HOURS AT MOST. <<elseif $relationship is "friend" or $feeling > 6>> FRIEND. SUCH A CURIOUS DESIGNATION OF ONE’S RELATIONSHIP WITH ANOTHER. THE IMPLICATION BEING THAT, SINCE I AM HIS FRIEND AS WELL, HE WOULD DO THE SAME FOR ME. WHAT IS FRIENDSHIP THEN, BUT A TRANSACTION? <<else>> DO I FIND HIM INTERESTING? I SUPPOSE HIS CREATOR WOULD BE PLEASED TO KNOW THAT. THEY PUT EFFORT INTO MAKING HIS PERSONALITY INTRIGUING. THOUGH PERHAPS IT MATTERS LITTLE, AS I WILL NEVER KNOW THEM. <</if>> <<else>> DID I REALLY HELP EDWARD BECAUSE I WAS BORED? BECAUSE THERE WERE NO THINGS TO BE TAKEN CARE OF? PERHAPS RISKING ONE’S LIFE, SOUL, AND SANITY TRULY ARE BETTER THAN THE CERTAINTY OF BOREDOM. <</if>> //Is there a point to me asking a question like that of myself? Surely, I know my own motivations.// IT NEVER HURTS TO REFLECT ON ONESELF. OR PERHAPS ONE SELF KNOWS, BUT ANOTHER ME DOES NOT. //That makes no sense whatsoever.// IT DOES NOT. NO MATTER. I HAVE ANOTHER QUESTION FOR MYSELF. //I am sure I do.// WHY, WHEN FACED WITH OBLIVION, A BEING AS CLOSE TO OMNIPOTENT AS I SHALL EVER KNOW, DID I DECIDE ON CONFLICT, RATHER THAN RETREAT? <ul> <li> [[It was the right thing to do. I always fight against the odds.|Ch6-Void4][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[It seemed the most interesting option.|Ch6-Void4][$choice to 2]]</li> <<if hasVisited("Ending 2-4") || hasVisited("Ending 3-4") || hasVisited("Ending 4-4") || hasVisited("Ending 5-2")>><li> [[I already knew what would happen, had I chosen differently.|Ch6-Void4][$choice to 3]]</li><</if>> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> DO I INDEED? THERE IS SOMETHING TO BE SAID FOR FIGHTING FOR THE DOWNTRODDEN. BUT DID I FOLLOW THAT SELF-IMAGE WHEN I <<switch $background>><<case "noble">>GREW UP IN PRIVILEGE<<case "student">>LIVED IN OXFORD IN PRIVILEGE<<case "vice">>ENTRAPPED THE UNSUSPECTING IN VICE<<default>>KILLED YOUNG MEN IN THE ORIENT<</switch>>? OR PERHAPS “ALWAYS” DOES NOT MEAN ALL OF <<print $FirstName.toUpperCase()>> <<if $MiddleName>><<print $MiddleName.toUpperCase()>> <</if>><<print $LastName.toUpperCase()>> ’S LIFE, BUT RATHER ALL OF MY LIFE? <<elseif $choice is 2>> AH, YES. BOREDOM: PARADOXICALLY, THE GREAT MOTIVATOR OF OUR AGE. I WOULD NOT HAVE EXPECTED THAT I WOULD NEED AN ELDRITCH GOD IN MY LIFE. NOT AFTER <<switch $background>><<case "noble">>GROWING UP WITH THE EXPECTATIONS OF A NOBLE FAMILY<<case "student">>THE PRESSURE TO PERFORM IN OXFORD<<case "vice">>TOSSLING WITH THE LONDON UNDERWORLD ALL THOSE YEARS<<default>>FIGHTING THROUGH THE HORRORS OF THE GREAT WAR<</switch>>. THEN AGAIN, THAT ME IS JUST A MEMORY, PERHAPS LESS. <<else>> <<if !$achievements.meta>> <<set $achievements.meta to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: THE POWER HINDSIGHT">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> THAT IS TRUE. ANOTHER ME, AND YET THE SAME I, MADE A DIFFERENT DECISION. THEN I CHOSE THE EASY WAY OUT. NOT THIS TIME. MY HISTORY REMAINED THE SAME, AND YET MY PATH CHANGED. EXCEPT, HISTORY DID NOT REMAIN THE SAME, FOR I HAD THE POWER OF HINDSIGHT NOW. <</if>> //Do not try to confuse me. My life, who I was, who I am. All of that is my own. No omnipotent god or manipulator of the universe’s flow can take that away from me.// HAS THE VOICE IN MY HEAD NOT BEEN THERE SINCE I STEPPED OUT OF THAT COACH ONLY A FEW NIGHTS AGO? //…// QUITE. //I am getting rather perturbed and upset by this.// I KNOW. //Of course, I do.// ONE LAST QUESTION OF MYSELF THEN, IF I MAY. HAS THIS STORY BEEN WORTH THE TIME INVESTMENT OF A FEW HOURS AT LEAST? <ul> <li> //[[What am I talking about? I have been in this dreadful place for several days!|Ch6-Void5][$choice to 1]]//</li> <li> //[[To be honest? Not really…|Ch6-Void5][$choice to 2]]//</li> <li> //[[You know what? Yes, it was.|Ch6-Void5][$choice to 3]]//</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> NOT AS LONG AS IT TOOK TO CREATE THIS WORLD, LET ME TELL ME. I WOULD NOT HAVE EXPECTED THAT WHEN I FIRST LEARNED OF THIS, PERHAPS YEARS, PERHAPS HOURS AGO, BUT HERE IT IS. <<elseif $choice is 2>> AH… WELL… IT IS A DISAPPOINTMENT TO LEARN THAT SUCH IS MY OPINION. THOUGH I BORE WITH IT UNTIL THIS FAR INTO THE STORY AT LEAST. SO, SOMETHING MUST HAVE INTRIGUED ME SLIGHTLY IF NOTHING ELSE. <<else>> GIVEN HOW LONG IT TOOK TO CREATE THIS WORLD, I AM VERY PLEASED TO LEARN THAT SUCH IS MY OPINION. MAYBE I CAN ONE DAY LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS PLACE, MAYBE IF THE MOOD TAKES ME AND MORE HAS BEEN WRITTEN. <</if>> //Look, whatever I am, I promised me that this were to be my last question.// <<if $path is "tribute">> SO I DID. THOUGH I AM VERY SORRY TO SAY THAT THERE IS LITTLE TO GO BACK TO… //What the hell does that mean?// WHILE I WAS HERE WITH ME, THE BODY WAS EMPTIED OF LIFE. CRIMSON STAINS PAINT THE FLOOR, STILL WARM, BUT SOON TO BE AS FRIGID AS THE DEPTHS OF THE SEA. //Well… shit.// KNOW THAT MY SACRIFICE WAS NOT FOR NAUGHT. I SHALL LEAVE THESE POOR UNFORTUNATE SOULS, WHO YEARN FOR MEANING AND COMMUNITY, AND FIND NEITHER IN HATRED. LET THEM FIND THEIR OWN PLACE IN THE WORLD. I COULD ALWAYS TRY AGAIN, IF I WERE SO INCLINED. BUT FOR NOW, LET ME SEE THE FINAL CONSEQUENCES OF MY ACTIONS. <ul><li> [[Darkness encircles you, and everything goes black one last time…|Ending 5][$chapter to "Epilogue"]]</li></ul> <<else>> SO, I DID. I CAN BRING ME BACK TO THE CAVE. I KNOW THE PATH ALREADY, SO I CAN HEAD BACK TO SAFETY WITH THE OTHER ONE. //No thanks to me, right?// ON THE CONTRARY, ALL BECAUSE OF MY EFFORTS. I SHOULD BE PROUD OF MYSELF. BUT I GROW BORED OF THIS TIME AND PLACE. I SHALL LEAVE THESE POOR UNFORTUNATE SOULS, WHO YEARN FOR MEANING AND COMMUNITY, AND IN FIND NEITHER IN HATRED. LET THEM FIND THEIR OWN PLACE IN THE WORLD. BUT PERHAPS I SHALL SEE ME AGAIN. PERHAPS… <ul><li> [[Darkness encircles you, and everything goes black again…|Ch6-Fight2]]</li></ul> <</if>>

… slowly, the sounds of chaos and panic come back to you. It feels like you spent both an eternity and an instant out there, with whatever that voice was. //Some dark, eldritch god? A fragment of your own battered psyche?// A big rock falls and shatters into several pieces only five feet away from you, and shocks you out of your reverie. //That crunching sound… could it have been…// An arm sticks out of the rubble, robed in dark cloth, its hand twitching with dying spasms. //Mother Darge… so does that mean…?// Still dazed, you gaze at your own hand. In it, you hold the talisman. You look around you. It is still a complete pandemonium, cultists and malformed monsters rushing past one another, trying to make it out of the collapsing cave complex. Slowly coming to your senses, your eyes flit around furtively, looking for <<if $rekindle>>your lover<<elseif $feeling > 6>>your friend<<else>>Edward<</if>>. You cannot find him, and feel panic quickly crawl up your spine. What if he got lost in the chaos? What if he got trampled, or hit by one of the falling rocks? //What if...// You scramble up, nearly losing your footing as you do so. A deep rumble reverberates throughout the cavern, and more lose rocks tumble to the ground. Suddenly, a lurching force restricts you around your abdomen, launching you several feet backward and pushing you to the ground. ''//CRASH.//'' Where you stood only mere moments ago, a massive stalactite crunches into the floor. You were //this// close to losing your life! <ul><li> [[And your saviour is who else but Edward Harcourt!|Ch6-Fight3]]</li></ul>

“Come on, $FirstName,” he pants, “we need to get out of here! Into the tunnels, so we shall not be buried here, and then we can find our way to that <<if $path is "docks">>alcove<<else>>church<</if>>!” You quickly stuff the talisman into your pocket, then stumble your way through the panicked throngs towards one of the exits, one where you can see neither cultist nor monster. You scramble for the passage, barely dodging several fall rocks as you go along. When you jump through the it, a particularly large one comes crashing down violently, blocking off the path from whence you came. That was close… too close. Panting, Edward turns around, then he lets out a nervous laugh, which soon turns into a raucous bellowing. “I… haha… I do apologize… haha… $FirstName… it is just… ahem… it is just that after everything that happened, to go through all that alive… I am merely… relieved… I am sorry, I think the stress is getting to me.” <ul> <li> [[“That is okay, Edward. We are not out of the woods yet, but I do not think they can follow us through that rock.”|Ch6-Fight4][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“I get it, but we need to keep moving, Edward. For all we know there is a different tunnel that circles back here, and someone is already on their way to hem us in here right this moment.”|Ch6-Fight4][$choice to 2]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> He looks at you thankfully, then moves in for a hug. “Thank you, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>. I know we should not dawdle, but… thank you.” No further words are necessary; you know all too well what this outcome means for him, and you are glad this ordeal is nearly over. “We should probably try and find the <<if $path is "church">>exit<<else>>cove<</if>>,” Edward says as he releases you, “so that we may <<if $path is "docks">>acquire a boat to <</if>>get out of here.” <<else>> He gives you a wan smile and a nod. “Good thinking, my <<if $rekindle>>love<<else>>friend<</if>>, imagine coming so far, only to fall at the last hurdle!” He puts a rough hand on your shoulder and gives you a reassuring squeeze. You can see the gratitude for helping him overcome this ordeal in his eyes, even if you cannot take the moment to savour it. “Now then,” Edward continues, “we should probably try and find the <<if $path is "church">>exit<<else>>cove<</if>>, so that we may <<if $path is "docks">>acquire a boat to <</if>>get out of here.” <</if>> The two of you walk through the tunnels, palpably less ominous than they were when you entered them earlier. The air does not feel as clammy, thankfully, nor does the darkness seem quite so impenetrable. <<if $path is "church">> Before too long, you find what you were looking for. “Look, Edward!” you shout. “There are mud-tracks here, just as I thought!” “Fantastic! Now, let us see… they seem to run from this direction to the one over yonder… If we follow them backward, we should manage to get back to an entrance without too much trouble!” Initially, you try to be as sneaky as possible, so as not to run into any of the villagers. But you come across none until you reach a solid wooden trap door. //Some precipitous luck for a change!// “Shall we see what is on the other side then?” Edward asks. <ul> <li> [[“Don’t mind if we do.”|Ch6-Church]]</li> <li> <<link "“After you, <<if $rekindle>>my love<<elseif $feeling > 6>>my friend<<else>>Edward<</if>>.”" "Ch6-Church">><</link>></li> </ul> <<else>> Before too long, you can hear the calming back and forth of waves falling on the shore. The salty smell of the sea fills your nose and lungs, invigorating your step and spurring you on. It almost makes you forget about the fatigue seeped into your body. You turn the last corner and find yourself face to face with a ramshackle jetty. Luckily, you find a simple, but sturdy looking fishing boat moored. //Some precipitous luck for a change!// “Shall we test the waters then?” Edward asks. <ul> <li> [[“Don’t mind if we do.”|Ch6-Boat]]</li> <li> <<link "“After you, <<if $rekindle>>my love<<elseif $feeling > 6>>my friend<<else>>Edward<</if>>.”" "Ch6-Boat">><</link>></li> </ul> <</if>>

<<timed 2s>> <<if !$achievements.finalEscape.throughChapel>> <<set $achievements.finalEscape.throughChapel to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Sunday Mass">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <<if !$achievements.finalEscape.checked>> <<CheckFinalEscape>> <<if $achievements.finalEscape.checked is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Escape Master">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</timed>> “Actually,” Edward says, grinning, “I think it would be… poetic, if we pushed it open together. After all,” he says, looking into your eyes, sincerity and gratitude plain as day in his look, “never in a million years would I have been able to do this without you.” You <<if $rekindle>>flush<<else>>smile<</if>>, nodding at his suggestion. You both put your hands on the heavy wooden trapdoor, and push with all the force your exhausted bodies can muster. It gives way under your combined efforts, and you pop your head out to see where you’ve ended up. As anticipated, it is the church you visited yesterday. You find it entirely empty, save for the muddy tracks running between the pews suggesting that the villagers did indeed reach the tunnels via this building. A faint light shining through the windows hints at the onset of a new morning. You recall this church seeming eerie and ominous. Perhaps it is a change in the light, or perhaps a more supernatural threat has been lifted, but it feels almost serene to you, right now. Edward and you climb out of the fake pew, then try to dust off your clothes. The grime has set in, and you wonder whether the emotional scars sustained – being far more pervasive than any skin-deep bruise could ever be – will ever heal. Edward, meanwhile, walks towards the entrance, his back straight, exhibiting a spring in his step you had not seen in him before now. He throws the doors open, bathing him in the morning sun’s radiance. You can hear him take a deep breath, inhaling and exhaling slowly, savouring the fresh morning air. “You know, $FirstName,” he says, “for the first time in a long time… I think… I think things will be all right…” <ul><li> //[[A few months later…|Ending 2][$chapter to "Epilogue"]]//</li></ul>

<<timed 2s>> <<if !$achievements.finalEscape.throughBoat>> <<set $achievements.finalEscape.throughBoat to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Go Fish">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <<if !$achievements.finalEscape.checked>> <<CheckFinalEscape>> <<if $achievements.finalEscape.checked is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Escape Master">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</timed>> “Let me see,” Edward says, smiling, “I do hope I have not fully forgotten how to sail one of these, as it has been a while. Now… $FirstName, please help me by unmooring us, you can untie that rope over there and haul it in, and we should be good.” He keeps talking as the two of you work on getting the boat ready. “You know,” he says, looking into your eyes, sincerity and gratitude plain as day in his look, “never in a million years would I have been able to do this without you.” You <<if $rekindle>>flush<<else>>smile<</if>>, nodding at his suggestion. You finish readying the boat, get inside, and push it off from the jetty. The two of you need to row with the heavy paddles until you exit the cove, but thankfully a gentle breeze allows you to rest your weary arms afterwards. As anticipated, you perceive the village off in the distance, and, above you, is a cliff on which you know the manor to be standing, even if you cannot see it right now. On the far horizon, behind the village, the first rays of morning sunshine peep over the highlands. As much as you know of the dark secrets its residents harbour, you cannot help but think of the village as just another ordinary, sleepy, peaceful Scottish hamlet in this light. Edward and you try to stretch out your limbs in the tiny boat. The two of you are bruised and physically fatigued, but it is nothing compared to how you feel psychologically. You wonder whether the emotional scars sustained – being far more pervasive than any skin-deep bruise could ever be – will ever heal. Edward gets to his feet, steadying himself by holding onto mast of the small boat. He stands between you and the rising morning sun, bathing him in its radiance. His shoulders and back are straight, despite the fact that you know he must be in considerable physical discomfort due to your ordeals. You can hear him take a deep breath, inhaling and exhaling slowly, savouring the fresh morning air. “You know, $FirstName,” he says, fainting a smile “for the first time in a long time… I think… I think things will be all right…” <ul><li> //[[A few months later…|Ending 2][$chapter to "Epilogue"]]//</li></ul>

<<timed 2s>> <<if !$achievements.finalEscape.throughBoat>> <<set $achievements.finalEscape.throughBoat to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Back Tracking">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <<if !$achievements.finalEscape.checked>> <<CheckFinalEscape>> <<if $achievements.finalEscape.checked is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Escape Master">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</timed>> Edward is deadly silent, as if frozen in time. No amount of crazed raving or roaming cultists seem to reach his consciousness. Ultimately, he manages but a few tortured words, which you can barely make out over the noise surrounding you: “But then… it would have been all for nothing. And my mother…” “Listen to me, <<if $rekindle>>my love<<elseif $feeling > 6>>my friend<<else>>you fool<</if>>! Some things simply are beyond your control. You need to stop living for other people! Start living for yourself!” You are not certain that your companion can hear you above the clamour of the screaming monsters and terrified villagers. Perhaps, it is merely your pleading look, your fright, and your collective fatigue that pushes him over the edge. He yells, perhaps curses something foul, though it is impossible for you to understand what he says over the commotion around you. You can feel his hand close around your wrist like a vice, and yank you off your feet toward him. //''CRASH.''// Where you stood only mere moments ago, a massive stalactite crunches into the floor. You were this close to losing your life! Edward <<if $rekindle>> grabs your shoulders and looks you over, making sure that you are okay. Whispering hoarsely, you utter his name. Multiple conflicting emotions jostle for control in his beautiful emerald eyes. His love for you and the fear he may lose you ultimately win out. <<elseif $feeling > 6>> casually pats you on the shoulder and gives you a roguish grin, but the smile does not extend to his eyes. Multiple conflicting emotions jostle for control in his emerald eyes. Ultimately, his concern for you, his friend, wins out. <<else>> casually pats you on the shoulder and gives you a roguish but restrained grin. Multiple conflicting emotions jostle for control in his emerald eyes. Ultimately, an acceptance of defeat wins out, and his shoulders noticeably sag. <</if>> <ul> <li> [[“Erm… yes, well… I must say it is getting rather too noisy here. Shall we leave?”|Ch6-GiveUp1][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“We need to get out of here before the whole damn place comes falling down!”|Ch6-GiveUp1][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> [[Say nothing. Just grab him and run.|Ch6-GiveUp1][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> Edward is flabbergasted for a moment, then smirks and shakes his head. “Ah yes… there is that vaunted British sense of humour. We must talk about the decision you just made…” Another rock comes crashing down close to where you are standing. “Unfortunately, I am not much in the mood for making merry right this instance. Now, RUN!” <<elseif $choice is 2>> “My thoughts exactly, $FirstName,” Edward says grimly. “But when we get out of here, we have to talk about the decision you just made…” Another rock comes crashing down close to where you are standing. “That can wait until we have reached safety, however. Now, RUN!” <</if>> It is as if your mind turns off as you race to the exit. Blood pounds in your head, and the loudness around you takes on a strange, subdued nature, as if you are listening to it through thick earmuffs. The two of you try to zigzag through the screeching villagers and creatures, dodging falling rocks as well as grasping claws and snatching maws. You feel a hot, burning sensation across your calf, and your pants stick uncomfortably to your lower legs. //No time to stop and see what happened…// To stand still would mean to be caught by falling rocks and who knows what else. To stand still would mean death. You reach the door by which you entered this cavernous room. Thankfully, it had not closed behind you. You sprint through and, as you pass the precipice of the infernal assemblage, the entire rockface comes crumbling down, cutting you off from the throbbing hordes of cultists. A clawed hand, scaly and sickly pale, sticks out from under the rubble. It quite nearly grasped you around your ankle, by the look of it. <ul><li> [[Blood trickles down from the claw to the floor. You regain awareness of the hot, wet feeling in your calf and look down at it.|Ch6-GiveUp2]]</li></ul>

Your trousers are soaked with blood, streaming from a deep gash in your left leg. It hurts and it burns, but it is not so bad that you won’t live through it. However, when you try to put some weight on it, the pain is excruciating – your leg clearly cannot hold you, and you find yourself faltering, your back meeting the wall. Your body shakes from the exertion and the blood loss, the stress running rampant through your system now that the immediate danger has passed. “Dammit!” A soft thud a few feet to your left tells you Edward has just slammed his fist against the floor. “We were so close… so //damn// close… it was merely a couple of yards away… all these years wasted!” He slams his hand on the floor once more. “All the sacrifices I made! Endless nights toiled away in forgotten libraries! Blood, sweat, and tears spent over the years, travelling the most ill-fated places, and for what? Will such a chance ever come again?” He stares at the collapsed heap of rubble, looks at the ground, and sighs. After the tumult just a moment ago, the silence feels heavy, blanketing you. It feels as if a chasm separates you. <ul> <li> [[“Ah… Edward? I could use a little help over here.”|Ch6-GiveUp3][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“Look at the bright side… at least we are both alive to tell the tale.”|Ch6-GiveUp3][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> [[“Are you done moping around yet?”|Ch6-GiveUp3][$choice to 3, $feeling -= 2]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> Your companion says nothing at first. He slowly turns his head to look up to where you are, kneeling as he is on the floor. He is about to say something, but swallows his words when he sees your wound. <<elseif $choice is 2>> Your companion laughs bitterly, and does not look up, kneeling as he is on the floor. “Life… what have I lived it for all these years? Tell me, $FirstName, all these years trying to cure my mother, and what have I to show for it? What…” he swallows whatever further words he intended to say when he sees your wound. <<else>> Your companion laughs bitterly, and does not look up, kneeling as he is on the floor. “You… you have no right to talk to me like that, $FirstName! You cannot even begin to comprehend what I just lost… what you told me to give up so casually… how could you even begin…” he swallows whatever further words he intended to say when he sees your wound. <</if>>> “But, by the stars… you are bleeding!” Edward’s face is drained of all colours. “Hold on, put some pressure on the wound while I grab clean linen and some sterilizer.” Edward rushes to pick up his ragged bag, which had spilled onto the floor when the passage behind you collapsed. He picks up a brown glass bottle, which miraculously has not shattered through your ordeals, as well as some cloth, before joining you where you lean against the wall. “This might sting a bit at first… or maybe a lot…” <ul> <li> [[You nod.|Ch6-GiveUp4]]</li> <li> <<link "“Well, I am a big <<if $mc.gender is 1>>boy<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>girl<<else>>child<</if>>. I can take it.”" "Ch6-GiveUp4">><</link>></li> <li> [[“Just get it over with, will you?”|Ch6-GiveUp4]]</li> </ul>

Edward cuts away the blooded trousers and uncorks the brown bottle. Seen like this, the gash looks larger and deeper than you would have thought. The rusty smell of blood fills the dank room. Edward lets the liquid pour downward over your wound. You shriek. The pain is sharp, nearly causing you to faint in this state, but luckily the shock of the pain dissipates quickly. Your breath quickens as you let out another groan. “That is the worst part, for now at least.” Edward says. “I shall wrap it up, then we can see whether or not you need any help walking out of here.” Your companion does his work diligently and swiftly. You figure he likely picked up those skills during <<if $background isnot "soldier">>his<<else>>your<</if>> time in the army. The knot he ties is sturdy, and as you try to stand up, leaning against the wall at first and then putting your full weight on your own two feet, you feel a pain like before, but you are able to limp, if only slowly. “That will have to do for now,” Edward manages, “but you should definitely have that looked at by a doctor sooner rather than later.” <ul> <li> [[“Thank you, Edward.”|Ch6-GiveUp5][$choice to 1, $feeling ++]]</li> <li> [[“Well, let us not tarry then, we still have a long journey back up to the manor.”|Ch6-GiveUp5][$choice to 2]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> “Hrm,” he harrumphs, “you are welcome, I suppose.” “Are you quite alright?” “Yes… sorry,” he sighs, “I am just… emotionally exhausted.” Edward slowly gets up and collects his bags. “I suppose we should make ready to head back through these tunnels, unappealing as that prospect may be right now. At least the trip back should be more straightforward than our original passage through these crypts. We can go at a leisurely pace to spare your leg.” <<else>> “Hrm,” he harrumphs. “Unappealing as that prospect may be right now, I suppose you are correct.” Edward sighs. “I must admit, I am… emotionally exhausted at this moment. At least the trip back should be more straightforward than our original passage through these crypts. We can go at a leisurely pace to spare your leg.” <</if>> Gingerly, the two of you retrace your steps through the dark, cold tunnel system than runs like a maze beneath Gairbuie. Leaning on your companion, you are not too certain at times whether you are going in the right direction, but Edward seems to have taken mental note of the path that took you down here, and the path that will lead you back up top. Still, your physical condition means that the going is slow, and the silence is between Edward and yourself soon becomes awkward in the extreme. “Edward?” “Hmm?” “You seem like you have something on your mind.” “Do I?” <ul> <li> [[“Look, I know you are not happy about how things went down, but… we ought to at least be able to talk about it.”|Ch6-GiveUp6]]</li> <li> [[“Fine, be like that.”|Ch6-GiveUp6]]</li> <li> <<link "“Playing coy does not become you, my <<if !$rekindle>>friend<<else>>dear<</if>>. We should discuss what just happened.”" "Ch6-GiveUp6">><</link>></li> </ul>

“What do you want me to say, $FirstName? That everything is okay? That I can forget all my tribulations in due time, even if they were all for nothing? That I shall be just fine? Are such comforting lies truly what you desire?” “I would like to think we can be honest with one another, even if the subject matter is… difficult for either of us. Our efforts these past days have earned us that much at least.” “Fine… if it is honesty you seek, let me tell you this. I feel like the ultimate promise, which I had worked towards for years, has escaped me when I had it within my grasp, to never again return. I feel despondent, wondering whether my life has been a waste, and doubting, nay, fearing what may come next. Deep in my soul there used to be purpose, now superseded by naught but emptiness and dread for what that emptiness entails. — “So, you wanted the honest truth, $FirstName? There it is, in all its naked ugliness. I am a shell, a veneer of civilised humanity draped over a shadow of nihilism and animalistic single-mindedness. Take away that the purpose, and what is left? Nothing but fear and self-loathing. And what good is that? What good am I?” <ul> <<if $rekindle>><li> [[“Ask yourself, Edward Oberon Harcourt, would I have fallen for a man who is empty as you seem to think you are?”|Ch6-GiveUp6a][$suicide to false]]</li><</if>> <<if $feeling > 6 >><li> [[“I know this affair has you feeling awful right now. But you have friends, good friends like me, who can help you through it.”|Ch6-GiveUp6b][$suicide to false]]</li><</if>> <li> [[“You can live for yourself, be your own person.”|Ch6-GiveUp6c][$suicide to true]]</li> </ul>

It is difficult to see Edward’s face in the darkness of the tunnels, but you can feel him tremble at your remark, as he stops moving forward. You sense something warm and wet on your arm, and for a frightening moment you worry that it is blood. Then you realise, it is the flow of tears, as your companion sobs next to you. “You have given me a new fear with your love, $FirstName,” he manages, barely containing himself. “I lay awake at night, wondering, fearing, what you would think of me if you saw me like this, naked with all my fears and doubts, bereft of my supposed calm and poise. Could you still love me, if you saw the emptiness inside?” You wish with your entire being that you would be able to hug and kiss him, but the pain in your leg forbids you from doing so. Instead, you squeeze him with the arm you use to lean on him, and whisper in his ear. “Your fears are misplaced, my love, for I see not emptiness, but care, and love, and pain. I see a man who has pushed himself to his limit, who gave his all, and who, faced with astounding odds, came just short. There is no fault in that, Edward, least of all yours.” If Edward was trembling before, he is downright shaking now, quaking with silent sobs as he buries his face in his hands. “Edward, I know how much of your life you put into this, I witnessed it myself, but… It would greatly pain me to see it wither away so. You do not deserve to spend the rest of your days in such pain. Edward, my love, sometimes it is better to let go, to not let your failure or other what-ifs rule your life. Maybe, you could live for yourself, for once. To selfishly seek happiness and contentment. And if that is not enough, please, live for me.” “$FirstName, I… I do not know what to say.” “Then say nothing, my dearest, for while we find ourselves in an unfathomable darkness now, there is the light of the morning on the other side. Whatever needs to be said between us, let it be said under the auspices of a new dawn.” His exhausted face held tenderly between your hands, you place a gentle kiss on his lips to tell him it will be okay, whatever fate may have in store for you two. <ul><li> [[And so, you move on in silence, finding solace and comfort in one another’s presence amid these oppressive, dark hallways.|Ch6-GiveUp7]]</li></ul>

It is difficult to see Edward’s face in the darkness of the tunnels, but you know your friend well, and can easily imagine the perplexed look, the raised eyebrows, and the amused snort that follows shortly after. “Hah, friends you say, $FirstName?” You feel your companion shaking his head. “I have long since lost the privilege of having those. You are the only one that remains, and I thank you for the pleasure, however undeserving I may be, but…” “No ‘buts’, my friend.” Edward seems taken aback by your words, yet remains silent. “I am sorry, Edward, but it is not up to you to decide whom I call friend, or what I am willing to do for them. And right now, I know you need someone to tell you the truth, cold and hard as it may be.” You stop moving, forcing your friend to stop as well, and hear your words. “You have lived in the past for far too long. The horror that befell your mother was a travesty, and <<if $background is "noble">>though I knew you even then, <</if>>I cannot begin to imagine what it did for you as a child. I have no expectations that your youth should not forever burden you in some fashion; I merely wish to offer you an alternative. One where you no longer carry that burden alone, but open up and share it. You need not bear this cross you have hoisted on your back, my friend. Let us instead look to the future, for who knows what tomorrow’s dawn may bring?” Edward covers his face with his free hand, and his body starts shaking. For a moment, you worry that horror and emotion have gotten the better of your friend. The you can hear a chuckle escape his hand. He is laughing with mirth, not crying with grief! “$FirstName, I… I do not know what to say.” “Then say nothing, my dear friend, for while we find ourselves in an unfathomable darkness now, there is the light of the morning on the other side. Whatever needs to be said between us, let it be said under the auspices of a new dawn.” <ul><li> [[And so, you move on in silence, finding solace and comfort in one another’s presence amid these oppressive, dark hallways.|Ch6-GiveUp7]]</li></ul>

It is difficult to see Edward’s face in the darkness of the tunnels, but you can hear a scoff escape his lips. “And what is a person in isolation, but a sack of flesh and bones? We base our identities, our very being, on how we compare and relate to others, and our actions matter only to the extent to which they affect someone else. To live for oneself is an oxymoron. I had lived to deliver my mother from this madness that has haunted her for so long. My solitude and isolation over the past few years has all been for naught then. Much more the fool I have been.” You sigh. //You cannot force him to hear you if he doesn’t want to. No sense in wasting your breath: just focus on getting out of here and getting home.// <ul><li> [[And so, you move on in silence.|Ch6-GiveUp7]]</li></ul>

After passing a few more hallways, you reach the oblong room where your foray into the bowels of the manor commenced some hours prior. Just one more tunnel separates you from being back into the well-lit dining room. “Edward?” you ask. “Hmh?” “The entrance to the maze closed behind us when we entered. Are you confident that we can exit through this way?” “Reasonably so. Recall that we heard Mrs Culley talk to someone in the dining room. Unless they had previously arranged for that meeting, it is quite likely that it was opened from within these halls. Even if we do not find the mechanism to open it from this side, we know there are other exits dotted around the manor, which should logically not be too far off from here.” “Right.” When you reach the dead end that signifies the entrance to the manor, Edward hands you his torch and starts to search for a hidden mechanism to open up the passage. A few moments later, you hear a loud //click// and the fireplace rumbles open. Fresh air fills your lungs as you finally step out of the dank air of the tunnel. A faint light shining through the windows hints at the onset of a new morning. Edward lets out a long sigh, as if releasing something that had been pent up inside him for a long time. When he speaks, his voice sounds serious, but his eyes seem distant, preoccupied. “We should probably make preparations to leave for a little while, $FirstName. I doubt the cultists will look kindly on last night’s… interruption of their activities.” He looks at you ruefully<<if !$suicide>>, but smiles kindly, putting you at ease<</if>>. You nod, and quickly make your way to the guest room to pack what little you brought with you to Gairbuie. As you put your clothes and other belongings into your suitcase, you take a last look out onto the rolling coastline from your window. The sound of the waves breaking on the cliffs reminds you of the rumbling of falling rock, the screeching of gulls of the inhuman inhabitants of the world below the manor and the village. You shudder, wondering whether you will ever be able to forget what you have seen here. <ul><li> <<link "//A few months later…//">><<set $chapter to "Epilogue">><<if $suicide>><<goto "Ending 4">><<else>><<goto "Ending 3">><</if>><</link>></li></ul>

“What on Earth are you talking about, $FirstName?! Hey, wait! $FirstName!” Edward yells after you. But you have made up your mind. Perhaps you will pay the ultimate price, //perhaps…// Whatever may have driven you to do so, it is a price you are willing to pay for <<if $rekindle>>your lover<<elseif $feeling > 6>>your friend<<else>>him<</if>>. <<linkappend "So, you run…" t8n>> Edward’s hurled words dissipating in the cacophony surrounding you. <<linkreplace "… you run towards the podium…" t8n>>… you run towards the podium, on which Mother Darge now stands. Falling rocks and scrambling mutants hurtle by you as you weave your way forward. <<linkappend "… and when the podium is just within your reach… " t8n>>something hits you in the midriff, sending you sprawling across the hard stone floor, gasping for air.<<ScrollABit>> You look up, seeing a horrific, snarling form, hunched on all fours, with a canine snout, matted patches of fur on an otherwise smooth, naked, muscular body. The retch-inducing smell of rotting meat emanates from its gaping maw, jutted with a disturbing collection of teeth that at times look human, and at times are needle-like as if from a fish. The large, dog-like hunter from the night. Here to finally end the hunt and face its quarry. Unlike the other cultists and creatures, who are too focused on dodging the falling rocks and running for their lives to pay much attention to you, this beast has eyes for nothing //but// you. Malignant, disturbingly human hate burns like coals in its eyes. You can feel adrenaline course through your body, steadying your nerves despite the circumstances. <ul><li> [[It’s time to strike.|Ch6-TributeFight][$attack to either(true, false), $fist to 0, $weapon to 0]]</li></ul> <</linkappend>> <</linkreplace>> <</linkappend>>

<<if $prepare is "cloth">>You wrap your fists in the kitchen cloth<<else>>You ready yourself, brandishing your trusty <<if $prepare is "knife">>kitchen knife<<else>>poker<</if>><</if>>. <<if $attack>>You can see the creature tense up, looking like it is getting ready to jump you.<<else>>The creature seems uncertain. Perhaps it has failed to find an opening in your defences. Or perhaps it is baiting you.<</if>> <ul> <<if $prepare is "knife" or $prepare is "poker">> <li> <<link "You take a swing at them with your <<if $prepare is 'knife'>>kitchen knife<<else>>poker<</if>>." "Ch6-TributeFight2">> <<if $attack>> <<set $failed to false, $weapon ++>> <<else>> <<set $failed to true>> <</if>> <</link>></li> <</if>> <li> <<link "You swing wildly with your fist<<if $prepare is 'cloth'>> wrapped up in the kitchen cloth<</if>>." "Ch6-TributeFight2">> <<if $attack>> <<set $failed to false, $fist ++>> <<else>> <<set $failed to true>> <</if>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "You try to duck and weave, anticipating an attack." "Ch6-TributeFight2">> <<if $attack>> <<set $failed to true>> <<else>> <<set $failed to false>> <</if>> <</link>></li> </ul>

<<if $attack && !$failed>> <<print either("Your attack connects, and the creature stumbles and growls, but does not relent.", "You land a fine hit, causing the monstrous wretch to whimper, though it still seems intent on hurting you.")>> <<elseif !$attack && $failed>> <<print either("You initiate your attack right when the creature jumps. You barely manage to dodge its vile jaws.","You are about to swing when the monster lunges, and it is only by the whims of providence that it misses you with its bite.")>> <<elseif $attack && $failed>> <<print either("The creature and you circle one another, neither willing to risk landing a hit.", "In trepidation, you shuffle to the side, but no attack was forthcoming and you miss an opportunity to launch an assault of your own.")>> <<elseif !$attack && !$failed>> <<print either("The creature snarls and jumps at you, but you manage to dodge its vile jaws.", "Right when the monster’s jaws snap close, you have evaded its lunge, rolling to safety.")>> <<else>> //This is an error message, it shouldn't appear... contact the author for debug!// <</if>> <<if $attack>><<set $attack to either(true, false, false)>><<else>><<set $attack to either(true, true, false)>><</if>> <<if $attack>>You can see the creature tense up, looking like it is getting ready to jump you.<<else>>The creature seems uncertain. Perhaps it has failed to find an opening in your defences. Or perhaps it is baiting you.<</if>> <ul> <<if $prepare is "knife" or $prepare is "poker">> <li> <<link "You take a swing at them with your <<if $prepare is 'knife'>>kitchen knife<<else>>poker<</if>>.">> <<if $attack>> <<set $failed to false, $weapon ++>> <<else>> <<set $failed to true>> <</if>> <<if $fist gt 3 or $weapon gt 2>> <<goto "Ch6-Tribute2">> <<else>> <<goto "Ch6-TributeFight2">> <</if>> <</link>></li> <</if>> <li> <<link "You swing wildly with your fist<<if $prepare is 'cloth'>> wrapped up in the kitchen cloth<</if>>.">> <<if $attack>> <<set $failed to false, $fist ++>> <<else>> <<set $failed to true>> <</if>> <<if $fist gt 3 or $weapon gt 2>> <<goto "Ch6-Tribute2">> <<else>> <<goto "Ch6-TributeFight2">> <</if>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "You try to duck and weave, anticipating an attack." "Ch6-TributeFight2">> <<if $attack>> <<set $failed to true>> <<else>> <<set $failed to false>> <</if>> <</link>></li> </ul>

You hit the monster again, and you manage to hit it right on the snout! It whimpers and wails, stumbling backwards, distracted just long enough for you to make a break for it! But your struggle doesn’t end there, as an intangible shimmer hangs in the air. It takes all your fortitude of mind to block out the horrifying extraplanar rift. Its mere existence is like a wound in reality. Not looking at it is like not picking at the itchiest scab imaginable. The distraction proves to be fatal… A monstrous cretin you had not noticed, with a fleshy pincer for its left arm, lunges at you with its giant appendage. You hear a crack and scream out. “AAAARrrrrgh…” It has become all too painful to breathe, but you are so close now that you cannot give up. Not daring to look down to see how bad it is, you grit your teeth and try to keep your momentum up, knowing that every moment now could be your last. Holding your hand to your side and wincing in agonizing pain, you dash onto the platform, no malformed villager being there to stop you. This close to the rift, the grating feeling in your mind turns into outright ripping. You try to put it out of mind as best as you can. Judging by her baffled expression, Mother Darge had not expected you to show up right next to her. You [[grab the talisman|Ch6-BeforeVoid]] from her hand.

[[And everything goes black…|Ch6-Void]] /* END OF CHAPTER 6 */

<div class="idcard"> <div class="city">LONDON CITY COUNCIL</div> <div class="number">No. <<= $player.fam>></div> <div class="city">RESIDENT IDENTIFICATION CARD</div> <div class="rest"> <div class="id1">Full Name: $FirstName <<if $MiddleName>>$MiddleName <</if>>$LastName</div> <div class="id2">Family No. <<= $player.no>></div> <div class="id3">ID <<= $player.id1>>-<<= $player.id2>></div> <div class="id4">Gender <<if $mc.gender is 1>>M<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>F<<else>>NB<</if>></div> <div class="id5">Age. 32</div> <div class="id6">Ht. <<print random(150, 200)>>cm</div> <div class="id7">Eye Clr. $mc.eyec</div> <div class="id8">Hair Clr. $mc.hairc</div> <div class="id9">Skin Clr. $mc.skin</div> <div class="id10">Background $background</div> <div class="id11">Relationship $relationship</div> </div> </div>

<<if !$journal || $journal is 99>><<set $journal to 1>><</if>> <<do>> <div class="journal"> <<switch $journal>> <<case 1>><<include "C-Letter">> <<case 2>><<include "C-Castle">> <<case 3>><<include "C-Edward Tale">> <<case 4>><<include "C-Nightmare">> <<case 5>><<if $clue.accept>><<include "C-Accept">><<else>><<include "C-Refuse">><</if>> <<case 6>><<if $destination.morning is "store">><<include "C-Store Clues">><<elseif $destination.morning is "pub">><<include "C-Pub Clues">><<elseif $destination.morning is "docks">><<include "C-Boat Clues">><<else>><<include "C-Church Clues">><</if>> <<case 7>><<if $destination.afternoon is "store">><<include "C-Store Clues">><<elseif $destination.afternoon is "pub">><<include "C-Pub Clues">><<elseif $destination.afternoon is "docks">><<include "C-Boat Clues">><<else>><<include "C-Church Clues">><</if>> <<case 8>><<include "C-Hunted">> <<case 9>><<include "C-Supper">> <<case 10>><<include "C-Tunnels">> <<case 11>><<include "C-Chess and Confess">> <<case 12>><<include "C-Lunch Garden and Idol">> <<case 13>><<include "C-Second Tunnels">> <<case 14>><<include "C-Final">> <<case 99>><<include "Death List">> <<case 999>><<include "Achievements">> <</switch>> </div> <center> <<if $journal is 1>> <<disable>><<button "Previous Entry">><</button>><</disable>> <<else>> <<button "Previous Entry">> <<if $journal is 999>><<set $journal to 99>> <<elseif $journal is 99>><<set $journal to $entry>> <<else>><<set $journal -->><</if>> <<redo>> <</button>> <</if>> | <<if $journal is 999>> <<disable>><<button "Next Entry">><</button>><</disable>> <<else>> <<button "Next Entry">> <<if $journal is 99>> <<set $journal to 999>> <<elseif $journal is $entry>> <<set $journal to 99>> <<else>> <<set $journal ++>> <</if>> <<redo>> <</button>> <</if>> </center> <</do>> <ul><li> <<back [[Return to the Story|$return]]>></li></ul>

<div class="letter"><date>Friday February 2nd, 1923</date> My dearest friend, Such good fortune has befallen me, that I scarcely dare write to you in case it is merely some joke played on me by fate. Lord knows Fortuna has not been kind to me in this life. Yet fortune is fickle, and it seems the Lady has finally deigned to smile on me. My late uncle Cornelius has bequeathed me his castle and lands in far off Gairbuie, on the North-Western coast of fair Scotland, as well as a sizeable stipend to ensure me a leisurely life. You should have seen the shock on my cousins’ faces as their late father’s will was read; you would think they had seen the devil himself! I do not forget my true friends easily. You, who knew and cared for me before I was the heir to a princely fortune. As such, I would like to reward for your loyal friendship. I would kindly request you join me at Gairbuie Castle post-haste, so that we may make a toast to my new life! Yours faithfully, His Lordship Edward Oberon Harcourt</div>

<div style="text-align: right;">The Evening of Tuesday, 6th of February, 1923. </div> After receiving a most curious letter from my old <<switch $relationship>><<case "lover">>lover<<case "friend">>friend<<default>>acquaintance<</switch>>, I travelled to Gairbuie, a small hamlet on the western coast of Scotland. The weather has been extraordinarily foul, and any who learned of my destination past Inverness were perplexed I wished to make my way there. I must admit, my neck hair stood up at one point or another whilst walking the gravel road to the manor, yet I am confident that things will look better in tomorrow’s sunlight.

<div style="text-align: right;">The Evening of Tuesday 6th of February, 1923.</div> Edward hosted me in the dining hall of his new manor, which is peculiarly both grand and morose. Apparently, he believes the manor to hide some sort of magical secret; a cure to the madness that has plagued Lady Harcourt since his childhood. I am uncertain what to make of his weird tale, or, for that matter, his state of mind. In any event, it is too late now to do anything but sleep. I shall think about his plea for help on the morrow.

<div style="text-align: right;">The Morning of Wednesday 7th of February, 1923.</div> The unsettling events of last night must have upset me more than I had thought. I experienced the most dreadful night terrors, more lifelike than any I have had the ill luck to remember. A shapeless shadow hunted me, but that was the least of what bothered me… <<switch $background>><<case "noble">>My dream took me back to a youthful summer, long forgotten. Edward and I were young then, enjoying ourselves as children do. Yet the affliction of his mother hung over him even then, sullying the life of an otherwise privileged youth.<<case "student">>My dream took me back to my early days at Oxford, when Edward and I were inducted into the Society of the Scarlet Hand. I recall our ceremony as a gay affair, but Edward, though popular and gregarious, was found more often than not studying the occult and obscene.<<case "vice">>My dream took me back a decade to when I first knew Edward, in London. He had requested my help then as well. The business involved the liberation of some medical reports pertaining to his mother. He must be truly desperate to resort to the occult now.<<default>>My dream took me back to those horrible days spend on the shores of the Dardanelles. Edward was my commanding officer, and arranged for my early release from the army. He was always vague on his reasons for joining the most dangerous missions. I suppose little has changed.<</switch>> The dream was so lifelike, more so even than a memory might be. It must be because Edward reached out so suddenly. I hope I sleep better tonight, be it here or in my own bed.

<div style="text-align: right;">The Morning of Wednesday 7th of February, 1923.</div> Against my better, rational judgement, I acquiesced to Edward his wish that I help him uncover the secrets of Gairbuie in the days to come. Certain struggles, one should let no person fight on their own. Edward has carried this load by himself for too long. Whatever aid I can offer, I shall give now.

<div style="text-align: right;">The Morning of Wednesday 7th of February, 1923.</div> I write from the station of Inverness, waiting for the first train bound southward. I have elected not to stay in Gairbuie. Although it pains me to have to turn down a man so desperate, I cannot be part of a scheme of such utter insanity. I hope Edward will find what he needs, though what he is looking for now is not that. May closure and peace come to this poor soul…

<div style="text-align: right;">The Afternoon of Wednesday 7th of February, 1923.</div> I went to the small grocery store in the village. <<if $clue.darge>>Apparently, the villagers look up to a leadership figure who goes by the title ‘Mother Darge’. Presumably, it is a honorific, as it is unlikely she could not have birthed all the local inhabitants. Perhaps she may have answers to Edward’s questions, though it is unlikely indeed that she will answer them, if she is as hostile as the other villagers.<</if>> <<if $clue.storetrapdoor>>There is a trapdoor in the backroom of the general store. It is not noteworthy in and of itself, but it bears pointing out that it was locked from the inside. There is no obvious reason for doing so, unless there were another entrance. Perhaps an underground tunnel system?<</if>> <<if $clue.ledger>>I flipped through a strange ledger in the store, one that included ‘special transactions’. What kind of exchanges requires so much from the villagers? And why would they do such a thing?<</if>>

<div style="text-align: right;">The Afternoon of Wednesday 7th of February, 1923.</div> I thought it best to visit the pub. Everyone knows alcohol loosens tongues. <<if $clue.meeting>><<if $destination.morning>>A helpful villager, though they emphasised they were not local, overheard that a meeting was supposed to take place the night of Thursday the eight. The exact purpose of said meeting was left unclear. However, my informant mentioned that the organisers seemed to be of malevolent intent.<<else>>Eavesdropping on a group of locals, I learnt that they were not particularly keen on Edward snooping around. And that a meeting is supposed to take place tomorrow evening.<</if>><</if>> <<if $clue.village>>It may be of little import, but it is said that the hamlet was built before the manor. It is unclear how long the village has existed, or what purpose it served prior to the arrival of the first Lord of Gairbuie.<</if>>

<div style="text-align: right;">The Afternoon of Wednesday 7th of February, 1923.</div> I took a stroll in the small harbour. <<if $clue.cove>>There is a decent chance that there is a cove underneath the cliff upon which the manor stands. Edward has not mentioned it, and may not be aware of its existence. Who knows what could be hidden in such a place?<</if>>

<div style="text-align: right;">The Afternoon of Wednesday 7th of February, 1923.</div> I took a chance and chose to visit the abandoned church outside the village. <<if $clue.churchtrapdoor>>The church in Gairbuie, though seemingly long abandoned, has a secret tunnel running underneath it, which can be accessed from one of the pews. The pattern of dust and cobwebs suggests that it has recently seen use, though how regular that might be I cannot say.<</if>> <<if $clue.dust>>Someone visited the church recently. Is it truly abandoned? Or is someone else on the same trail as I?<</if>> <<if $clue.mouchoir>>I found a handkerchief in the church. Underneath several layers of grime, one could make out the initials “G.B.” with some little effort.<</if>>

<div style="text-align: right;">The Evening of Wednesday 7th of February, 1923</div> As I made my way from the village back to the estate, I had the uncanny feeling of being stalked by an unknown being. Its form was obfuscated by the ambient shadows, but it acted with an animal intelligence, betraying the mannerisms of an accomplished predator. <<if hasVisited("Ch3-2b")>>Not knowing the exact capabilities of my assailant, I decided to make a run for the manor. I escaped unscathed, although my attire was damaged during my escape.<<elseif hasVisited("Ch3-2a")>>I panicked, and froze. It gives me no shame to put these words on paper, as the events of the past two days have fatigued me greatly. Thankfully, whatever predator had set its sights on me made no moves to inflict me bodily harm, and I ended up escaping, shaken, yet unscathed.<<else>>I stood my ground, ready to face my unknown would-be assailant. Perhaps my standfast display frightened the predator, or perhaps it only ever sought to observe me. In any event, I encountered no further obstacles on my way to the manor.<</if>>

<div style="text-align: right;">The Evening of Wednesday 7th of February, 1923</div> Edward and I shared the fruits of our day’s labours. He seemed intrigued by what I found in the village. For his part, he has perused the ancient architectural designs of Gairbuie. He suspects that there may be a hidden passage or room, hidden somewhere in the southwestern corner of the manor. Whether he is correct or not, I imparted on him the wisdom that it would be foolish to focus solely on this endeavour, at the exclusion of potential other avenues of research. Unfortunately, my exertions seem to have gotten the better of my constitution. I hallucinated, and saw a tenebrous tentacle reach out to Edward. In my delusion, I yelled out to him, only to have him wake me from my waking dream. It was an altogether embarrassing experience. These cold, intimidating stone walls are speaking poorly to my sanity. I hope that we may finish our business here shortly, so that I may put this sordid business behind me. <<if $feeling gt 3>>Still, it has been nice to reconnect with Edward. I find myself comforted by his presence, even though we had not spoken for several years.<</if>>

<div style="text-align: right;">The Night of Wednesday 7th of February to Thursday 8th of February, 1923</div> After the dreadful terrors of last night, I had hoped my sleep would be unperturbed now. If anything, it was decidedly worse, as the terrors moved from the land of dreams to the real world. An unknown trespasser seemed to have invaded my room, but fled when I was awoken by an opened window. I exited my room, and to my horror ended up trapped in a confounding maze, hidden somewhere behind the masonry of the estate. This theory of Edward’s may very well be correct after all. These tunnels were dark, clammy, and unsettling on their own. My ordeal was made infinitely worse by the presence of someone, or something, else. Whether it is the same wretch that was in my room, I cannot tell, nor did I have any wish to find out. I managed to escape, only to find myself in the kitchen. Thankfully, the cook did not ask too many pointed questions.

<div style="text-align: right;">The Morning of Thursday 8th of February, 1923</div> In a valiant effort to provide some distraction from our ever more gruelling trials, Edward suggested that we engage in a friendly contest of wits. It had been some time since he and I played chess, and so I gladly accepted. The experience reminded me of simpler times, when <<switch $background>><<case "noble">>we played this game as adolescents<<case "student">>final examinations were the most dangerous thing we might face<<case "vice">>I needed but to snap my fingers to take care of my problems<<default>>the enemy was to be found on the battlefield, not skulking in the dark<</switch>>. <<if hasVisited("Ch4-7a2") or hasVisited("Ch4-7aR")>>A most momentous thing occurred during our chess game. Edward asked whether my behaviour over the past few days indicated a romantic interest in him. <<if $rekindle>>My heart skipped a beat – nay, several! – when he asked, for indeed I have found myself enamoured with him. His intense gaze, his wit, the way he carries himself with such poise and confidence are enough to sic Cupid’s arrows onto any <<if $mc.gender is 2>>woman<<elseif $mc.gender is 1>>man<<else>>person<</if>>. Despite the less than perfect circumstances, it has been exhilarating to <<if $relationship is "lover">>rekindle our love<<else>>explore these new feelings we have for one another<</if>>. We shared a brief, but breath-taking kiss…<<else>>It was unfortunately a highly awkward moment, for while I enjoy his company to a great degree, I cannot say that I hold any amorous desires for him. He seemed disappointed, perhaps even hurt, although he was attempting not to let it show. Still, there seem to be no hard feelings, and Edward accepted my decision with grace.<</if>> <</if>> <<if hasVisited("Ch4-7aR2") or hasVisited("Ch4-7a4") or hasVisited("Ch4-7b")>><<if $chesswin>>To my surprise, victory was mine today. From past games, I know Edward is no slouch at this game by any means. In any event, we both enjoyed ourselves, which is all one can ask for given the circumstances.<<else>>Alas, victory was not to be mine. I suppose Edward always had a mind predisposed towards complex mental games. Still, the experience was relaxing, and that is all I could have asked for given the circumstances.<</if>><</if>>

<div style="text-align: right;">The Afternoon of Thursday 8th of February, 1923</div> After our <<if $rekindle>>romantic<<else>>light-hearted<</if>> interlude, Edward and I adjourned for lunch. Yet we never had to the opportunity to enjoy a filling repast. When we came to the dining hall, we could hear voices, talking in hushed tones about conspiratorial matters. Yet when we entered the room, there was no one there. Who did we hear? Mrs Culley? Yet another unannounced, unwelcome visitor? <<if $insanity > 7>>I fear my psyche has borne the tribulations of the last two nights poorly, and my mind is suffering for it. Could I be going mad?<</if>> <<if hasVisited("Ch4-Garden5")>>Edward, in a moment of illumination, deduced that his gardener, one Graeme Barlow, would be able and willing to talk about his knowledge regarding Mrs Culley’s whereabouts. The man is a simple individual, who seemed easily perturbed by social interaction. Still, he provided some useful information to us<<if $clue.mouchoir is "given">>, after returning his previous handkerchief<</if>>. Apparently, the portrait of Cornelius in the dining hall hides an entrance to the hidden tunnel system of the manor! If Mrs Culley was indeed whom we overheard, then she could have escaped the room without our notice. Still, whomever she was talking to remains a most vexing mystery…<</if>> <<if hasVisited("Ch4-Culley3")>>An investigation of Mrs Culley’s humble living quarters provided yet another troubling sign that not all is well in this place. We uncovered an idol hidden underneath her bed, clearly never meant to be seen by prying eyes. It is black as a starless night, teeming with an otherworldly power. <<if hasVisited("Ch4-Culley2b1")>>Fool that I am, I let my bare flesh touch that forsaken figure of malevolence. What I saw before my mind’s eye defies all human capability for description. The experience was unquestionably perturbing, horrifying even. Thankfully, my host managed to save me from further exposure to these vile visions. <</if>> Edward and I hastily covered the idol. We decided to <<if $idol>>take it with us<<else>>keep it locked up securely in the Edward’s room<</if>> while we delve into the tunnels underneath the manor.<</if>>

Ah, stone hallways and cavernous passages, I cannot say I have missed thee, yet here I find myself once again entombed in your cold embrace. Impossible to avoid it may be, for Edward is convinced that the culmination of his quest is bound to be reached down below, in the dark. If my previous experience is any indication, we may be in for a trek of several hours, if not more, for these caverns are winding and could go as far as the village. In the dark, we could find salvation… or doom. <<if $clue.letters>>Amidst the ancient maze, we found a room upholstered as a cozy, personal reading room of all things. Evidence suggests it was where Cornelius kept his more esoteric and scandalous tomes, not to mention his personal diary. It is clear that the man was obsessed with the eldritch and the supernatural, though his recent demise suggests that either what he found was not what he believed, or he was unwilling to pay its price. What little Edward and I could piece together from it suggests that his uncle performed some sort of ritual but ended up regretting it recently before his death.<</if>> <<if $rooms.chap>>Deep inside the bowels of Gairbuie, Edward and I stumbled upon some sort of temple, seemingly modelled after the chapels of early Christianity. Yet the scenes depicted on its walls told not of the disciples, but of the founding of Gairbuie and its mysterious cult. These ancient tableaus were quite perturbing, to say nothing of the evidence we found that this horrid group performed their diabolical rites quite recently…<</if>> <<if $clue.sleep>>Edward had surmised his housekeeper to have preceded us into the hidden passages of Gairbuie, and he was right, for we found the wretch in a hidden away laboratory filled with chemical reagents. After some pressure from Edward and myself, she admitted a few facts about her history with Cornelius and her knowledge of these tunnels and the village. She claims she came down here to create a powerful narcotic to keep us asleep throughout the night. Was that all she and hers wished to do with us this night? I may never know.<</if>> <<if $rooms.end>>We are on the cusp of finding the source of all our misery these past few days, but one last hurdle remains for us to overcome. The passage to where we can hear the ominous chants of the cultists is blocked by a hidden door, one which can only be unlocked by a puzzle involving the placing of idols in the correct spot. It seems like the idols represent certain sins, but how to figure out which one is which…<</if>>

I scribble down these thoughts in the final hectic moments I have before the culmination of this sordid tale. Within inches of the cult’s leader and the source of her power… Rocks falling, cultists screaming all around me… A piercing, burning sliver of something eldritch in my mind…

<<if $EndedGames.length is 0>> //Complete the story to unlock this page.// <<else>> <date>Completed Chronicles</date> <<for _i to 0; _i lt $EndedGames.length; _i++>> ''$EndedGames[_i].ending'' $EndedGames[_i].name - $EndedGames[_i].background - $EndedGames[_i].relationship. Final score: $EndedGames[_i].insanity - $EndedGames[_i].feeling <hr> <</for>> <</if>>

<div class="achievement">I- And so, the Adventure Commences...</div> You started your first playthrough. <hr> <div class="achievement">II- <<if $achievements.newPlaythrough>>Here We Go Again...<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.newPlaythrough>>You started a new playthrough with NewGame+<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">III- <<if $achievements.useRandomiser>>Choose for me!<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.useRandomiser>>You used the Character Randomiser<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">IV- <<if $achievements.allNames>>Extended Name<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allNames>>You gave your Character a Middle Name<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">V- <<if $achievements.mapChecker>>Not Lost, Just need a Peek!<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.mapChecker>>You opened the Map while in the Tunnels<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">VI- Some Light Reading</div> Opened the Journal <hr> <div class="achievement">VII- <<if $achievements.mapChecker>>Who Am I?<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.mapChecker>>You checked your Character's ID<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">VIII- <<if $achievements.wentInsane>>Totally Batty<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.wentInsane>>Your encounters with the supernatural have left you quite insane.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">IX- <<if $achievements.becameLovers>>Paramour<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.becameLovers>>You reciprocated Edward's feelings.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">X- <<if $achievements.leftIdol>>Best Left Behind<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.leftIdol>>You thought it prudent to leave the Idol behind.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XI- <<if $achievements.keptIdol>>Maybe We Can Use It?<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.keptIdol>>You took the Idol along in your decent into the depth of Gairbuie.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XII- <<if $achievements.kindSoul>>Returned to Owner<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.kindSoul>>You returned the handkerchief you found in the Chapel to Barlow.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XIII- <<if $achievements.metGod>>AND SO I MEET<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.metGod>>You met the ELDRITCH BEING BEHIND THE VEIL. Or were you just talking to yourself?<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XIV- <<if $achievements.mazeNoDeath>>On The First Try!<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.mazeNoDeath>>You found the exit without ever meeting the Beast.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XV- <<if $achievements.mazeOneHard>>Blind Escape<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.mazeOneHard>>You completed the First Maze on Cataclysmal difficulty.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XVI- <<if $achievements.mazeTwoHard>>Who Needs Maps Anyway?<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.mazeTwoHard>>You completed the Second Maze on Cataclysmal difficulty.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XVII- <<if $achievements.restartMaze>>Let's Try This Again<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.restartMaze>>You restarted one of the Mazes.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XVIII- <<if $achievements.mazeTwoAllThreeRoomsOneRun>>The Long Way Around<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.mazeTwoAllThreeRoomsOneRun>>You visited the Library, Laboratory and the Chapel in one single run.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XIX- <<if $achievements.allMazeOne>>Dungeon Delver<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allMazeOne>>You visited every single room of the First Maze.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XX- <<if $achievements.allMazeTwo>>Explorer of Gairbuie<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allMazeTwo>>You visited every single room of the Second Maze.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXI- <<if $achievements.allVillage>>Meeting the Locals<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allVillage>>You visited every location in the village.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXII- <<if $achievements.allClues.checked>>Regular Sherlock<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allClues.checked>>You uncovered all the clues.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXIII- <<if $achievements.allOutfits.checked>>Dress-Up Party<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allOutfits.checked>>You tried on all the outfits in your luggage.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXIV- <<if $achievements.allBackgrounds.checked>>Walker of Many Ways<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allBackgrounds.checked>>You met Edward Harcourt in all stages of life.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXV- <<if $achievements.allRelationships.checked>>Personal Issues<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allRelationships.checked>>Your relationship with Edward Harcourt took many forms.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXVI- <<if $achievements.finalEscape.throughChapel>>Sunday Mass<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.finalEscape.throughChapel>>You escaped the cave-in through Gairbuie’s chapel.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXVII- <<if $achievements.finalEscape.throughBoat>>Go Fish<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.finalEscape.throughBoat>>You escaped the cave-in rowing the little barge.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXVIII- <<if $achievements.finalEscape.backTunnels>>Back Tracking<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.finalEscape.backTunnels>>You escaped the cave-in back the way you came.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXIX- <<if $achievements.finalEscape.checked>>Escape Master<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.finalEscape.checked>>You found all the ways to escape the cave-in.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXX- <<if $achievements.allEndings.nopedOut>>Short Visit<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allEndings.nopedOut>>You cut your visit short, and let Edward deal with his problem by himself.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXXI- <<if $achievements.allEndings.diedMaze>>Dead Prey<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allEndings.diedMaze>>You couldn't outrun the Beast hunting you through the tunnels.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXXII- <<if $achievements.allEndings.bestEnding>>The Light After The Darkness<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allEndings.bestEnding>>Following your narrow escape, Edward sells the manor and focuses on his mother’s recovery.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXXIII- <<if $achievements.allEndings.uncertainFuture>>Alive, But At What Cost?<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allEndings.uncertainFuture>>You and Edward escaped with your lives, but left behind what might have cured his mother’s ails.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXXIV- <<if $achievements.allEndings.deadEdward>>Everything Went Wrong<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allEndings.deadEdward>>Months later, Edward contacts you out of the blue to bestow upon you the Gairbuie estate, before disappearing again.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXXV- <<if $achievements.allEndings.youDied>>The Ultimate Sacrifice<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allEndings.youDied>>You gave your life to overcome the Trials and Tribulations.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXXVI- <<if $achievements.allEndings.checked>>Walked All Paths<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.allEndings.checked>>You discovered all six different endings.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> <hr> <div class="achievement">XXXVII- <<if $achievements.meta>>THE POWER HINDSIGHT<<else>>LOCKED<</if>></div> <<if $achievements.meta>>You clicked on the secret option.<<else>>Play more to unlock<</if>> /* END CODEX */

<<set $entry to 5>>Knowing he will not like your answer, you break eye contact with Edward. You would rather not look him in the eyes and see his disappointment. “I am sorry, Edward. This whole thing… I cannot help you.” You shake your head in frustration. “For Pete’s sake, you are dealing with the <<if $belief is "no">>‘<</if>>supernatural<<if $belief is "no">>’<</if>>! Do you have any idea how //crazy// that even sounds?!” Edward does not answer right away, but you can hear him swallow as he processes your words. When he finally speaks, you can sense his voice waver in a manner you never thought possible. “I see. Of course, I respect your decision, //$FirstName//. I must confess, ‘t is not the answer I had hoped for, although I cannot blame you for choosing thusly. Had I been in your position… but I am not, and it is my family in need of my help, not yours. I shall continue walking this path by myself then, with no one by my side but the last vestiges of my belief in redemption.” For a long while, the two of you sit in uncomfortable silence. Whatever relationship you may have had before this moment has truly come to an end now. Edward stands up, and walks towards the painting of his late uncle, staring at the portrait as he utters: “I shall inform the staff that you would prefer to leave today. I would not want to keep you here against your sense of ease, and I certainly would not want to expose you to whatever may happen next. I suppose this is goodbye then. Have a safe journey home.” <ul><li> [[Leave the room.|Ending 1-2]]</li></ul>

When you walk down the path on which you arrived only yesterday evening, you notice that with the sun shining, the surroundings seem far less unpleasant. As you turn around, you catch a glimpse of Edward standing by one of the windows, watching you make your way to where the coachman will pick you up. Steeling yourself, you turn away one last time, and <<linkappend "head down the beaten path." t8n>><<ScrollABit>> You head back to London, and life resumes its normal course. Your only memory from your brief vacation in Gairbuie Castle is the occasional nightmare of an ill-lit hallway. As for what happened to Edward Harcourt? Three months after your return, the Northern tabloids report on a sinister and mysterious murder that took place in a castle by a remote village on Scotland’s West Coast. You never read it. You live out the rest of your days happy, blissfully unaware of the stygian dangers, which your erstwhile relation released in his desperation. So end the trials and tribulations of Edward Oberon Harcourt and $FirstName <<if $MiddleName>>$MiddleName <</if>>$LastName. <center><<link "START AGAIN?">> <<popup "End of Run" "Start Again?">> <<if !$achievements.allEndings.nopedOut>> <<set $achievements.allEndings.nopedOut to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Short Visit">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <<if !$achievements.allEndings.checked>> <<CheckAllEndings>> <<if $achievements.allEndings.checked is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Walked all Paths">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</link>></center> <</linkappend>>

<<if $difficulty is "hard">><<set $passages to []>><</if>> A blood-curdling howl reverberates through the ancient hallways of Gairbuie. The stones of the manor shake, and flecks of dust and mortar fall down from the ceiling. You turn around, and stand face-to-face with your diabolical pursuer. It – for no human could look so beastly – stands on two legs, yet hunched at the shoulders. Two beady yellow eyes gaze at you with malicious intent over a hoggish nose, accentuated by a protruding lower jaw and brutish tusks. Its skin is pale and sickly, its hair grey and bristly like that of a wild boar. You stand petrified in this grotesque hunter’s gaze. It extends an elongated arm, its fingers adorned with filthy, blackened nails. Suddenly, it swipes you across the abdomen. You can feel a sharp, burning sensation, and hear a sickening wet, ripping sound. The force of the lunge throws you against the stone wall. You gingerly touch your belly, where the beast hit you. It feels warm and wet. The pungent odour of rusted iron penetrates your nose. You cough, and notice – in the dim green light of the moss – the unmistakable dark red hue of human blood on your clothes and the floor. The creature comes closer. Its warped visage is twisted in a sadistic grimace. Your vision goes blurry as it reaches for you. You slip into unconsciousness, and soon after into the dark embrace of death… <ul> <li> <<link [[Restart the maze?|Ch3-13b]]>> <<set $mazeDeath to true>> <<if !$achievements.restartMaze>> <<set $achievements.restartMaze to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Let's Try This Again">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</link>></li> <li> <<link "START AGAIN?">><<popup "End of Run" "Start Again?">><</link>></li> </ul> <<if !$achievements.allEndings.diedMaze>> <<set $achievements.allEndings.diedMaze to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Dead Prey">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <<if !$achievements.allEndings.checked>> <<CheckAllEndings>> <<if $achievements.allEndings.checked is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Walked all Paths">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>>

When it is not raining in London, there is a good chance it is misty. On this a grey, cloudy spring morning, you are walking down the Temple, London’s most preeminent legal district. The yellow lights of the lampposts are barely visible, glowing in the fog like small moons floating in the galaxy. Although it is already late May, the forenoon weather is downright chilly, prompting you to tighten your coat around yourself. When you received Edward’s letter the week prior, asking you to come to this place at this time, you were somewhat perplexed. Since you left the Gairbuie estate some months prior, you had been in frequent correspondence with one another regarding the dreadful horrors you encountered there. You initially stayed around to ensure Edward’s safety from retaliation, only returning to London about a month ago. Wonder above wonders, the collapse of the underground tunnels, the loss of their spiritual leader, and being cut off from their… //source of spirituality//, have left the cultist villagers silenced and rudderless. Most have fled the village, having simply boarded their boats one night never to return. What few that remain seem mollified, and have caused trouble for neither Edward nor anyone else in the hamlet. You were rather happy yourself for this small stroke of good luck. Edward, on the other hand, seemed somewhat upset that the collapsed maze precluded him from going back into the tunnels “to do further research”, and perhaps search for the amulet of Mother Darge. Still, without needing to be concerned with his safety or his search, Edward had more time available to help organize improvements to the manor and the hamlet. <ul><li> //[[Ah, here is the location you were told to go.|Ending 2-2]]//</li></ul>

You enter a luxurious building, housing the offices of the city’s top solicitors and notaries. Following Edward’s instructions, you head up to the first floor and knock on the door of one Mr Angell. “C’mon in!” an elderly, frail male voice responds. Behind a well-lacquered, maple desk sits an old man with cropped white hair and a deep tan. Before him, dressed in a dark green tweed coat, sits Edward Oberon Harcourt. “Lord Harcourt and I had been awaiting your arrival, <<if $mc.gender is 1>>Mr<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>Ms<<else>>Mx<</if>> $LastName.” The tanned, leathery hands, skin taut over the knuckles move to gather some papers on his desk. “Indeed?” you reply. “Well, I for one would like to know what this is about, Edward my <<if $rekindle>>darling<<else>>friend<</if>>.” “Of course,” he smiles warmly.<<if $rekindle>> Even after several months of courtship, you still cannot help but get a little flushed whenever he shows his tender side.<</if>> “I am finalizing the sale of the Gairbuie estate to a party that wishes to remain anonymous. I need an additional witness to sign, and could not think of any more appropriate individual to do so than yourself<<if $rekindle>>, my dear<</if>>.” <ul> <li> [[“Good riddance to that place!”|Ending 2-3][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“Are you quite certain that this is wise? Does that place not need a custodian aware of its dangers?”|Ending 2-3][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> [[“Well, I hope you fetched a good price. I understand it is quite the seller’s market for haunted manors at the moment.”|Ending 2-3][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> Edward takes a deep breath. “Perhaps some of my cousins would disagree with you on this point, but I must admit… I have quite had my fill of that place myself. There are simply too many bad memories associated with it. Though, it seems that whatever evil was lurking there has been exorcised through our actions.” The notary raises a sceptical eyebrow, but holds his tongue. “I have no reason to cling to those cold, dark halls. I am quite ready to move on, and start a new chapter of my life, free from concern. Not to mention,” Edwards tries and fails to suppress a chuckle, “I could do with some pocket money while exploring my options.” <<elseif $choice is 2>> Edward smiles reassuringly at you. “Your concern is appreciated, $FirstName, but I took every precaution to make sure that the evil which was lurking within the walls has been fully exorcised.” He sighs. “Not to mention, there are simply too many bad memories associated with that place. I am quite ready to move on, and start a new chapter of my life, free from concern. Not to mention,” he tries and fails to suppress a chuckle, “I could do with some pocket money while exploring my options.” <<else>> Edward tries and fails to suppress a chuckle, while the old man raises a sceptical eyebrow. “Nothing to worry about, Mr Angell,” Edward smiles reassuringly, “just an inside joke among friends. From an evening of too much brandy and howling winds, you see?” The notary shrugs. “Well, <<if $mc.gender is 1>>Mr<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>Ms<<else>>Mx<</if>> $LastName, whereas the price paid by my anonymous client is confidential and between them and Lord Harcourt, I can assure you that it goes quite above and beyond market value.” Edward turns to you. “Really, $FirstName, I am certain this is the right thing to do. Whatever evil was lurking there has been exorcised through our actions.” <</if>> <ul><li> [[“Very well… so, where must I sign|Ending 2-4]]?”</li></ul>

Over the next hour, the three of you go through all the paperwork, and close this chapter in your life with a signature. When everything is finalised, Mr Angell signs a cheque for Edward and bids you both a good day. Together, you walk down Tudor Street<<if $rekindle>>, tenderly holding hands<</if>>. “How is your mother doing?” you ask gingerly. “Better,” Edward responds. “She remains bedridden on most days, though she is now strong enough to have a short conversation. Whatever madness ailed her all these years, she seems to have little recollection of her manias… it has been good reconnecting with her, making up for the relationship we never really had.” <<if $rekindle>> He smiles roguishly. “You know, she has been asking about the <<if $mc.gender is 1>>sir<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>lady<<else>>one<</if>> that has her darling son so smitten. It is a good thing she still prefers to stay in bed most days, or she would have likely tracked you down already and exposed you to a veritable interrogation.” “Oh, hush you,” you retort. “I promise I will visit once she feels strong enough to have guests over for more than half an hour.” You give his hand a squeeze. “Until then, I guess I will simply have to make do with just one Harcourt in my life.” The two of you head towards the banks of the River Thames, fingers intertwined. There is something eerily romantic to watching the water flow by when the fog is so dense you can barely make out the other side. “So, what is next for us?” you ask. “I do not yet know,” he says. “But whatever tomorrow may bring, I know I will share it with you.” There, the water flowing by, the touch of his hand hot on your cheek, you share a loving kiss by the shore. After all you have been through, things finally feel right. <<elseif $feeling > 6>> “I am very glad to hear that,” you reply, smiling warmly. “It sounds like whatever rite you performed on that totem did the trick.” “Indeed,” Edward replies as he lazily walks along the street, hands in his pockets. “However… I must admit I am somewhat disappointed that it was destroyed in the process. Its exact workings still perplex me, though I do not think I could study it further without its physical presence.” “Oh, come on my friend!” You throw an arm over his shoulder. “Cheer up a little, and forget about your occult studies for a moment! I have heard there is a brilliant tavern close by. Their pies are allegedly to die for, and I could do with a warming beverage right about now. How about it, Edward? My treat.” “Okay, okay, I yield.” Edward holds up his hands in mock surrender. “If you so graciously provide the fare, I suppose it will fall on me to recount an interesting story over lunch.” “Good man! But it is not some horrifying weird tale, is it? I think I have had quite enough of those for a while.” Edward smiles mischievously. “Well, no promises on that front my friend. This all started when I left for America after the War… But ah, I suppose this is the famed tavern? Order me a pint of ale, and I shall regale you with the rest of the story.” The two of you spend a wonderful afternoon filled with great food, top notch conversation, and many a laugh. After all you have been through, things finally feel right. <<else>> “That is good to hear,” you reply. “It sounds like whatever rite you performed on that totem did the trick.” “Indeed,” Edward replies as he lazily walks along the street, hands in his pockets. “However… I must admit I am somewhat disappointed that it was destroyed in the process. Its exact workings still perplex me, though I do not think I could study it further without its physical presence.” “I suppose,” you shrug, not entirely certain you wish to discuss any of this further. “Could I interest you in brunch? I believe there is a tavern close by, which has a reputation for serving excellent pies. Perhaps we can enjoy a meal and talk about something less macabre?” “You know what, I think I would like that.” Edward smiles. “It would be good to get to learn each other a bit more. And I am a bit peckish I suppose.” Cautiously, you return his smile. “Okay, well… good then. So… what have you been up to in between your discharge from the army and… well you know.” Edward rubs his chin. “That’s a pretty interesting story, actually. I’m not sure I can tell all of it over a single meal… But ah, I suppose this is the tavern you were talking about? Let’s sit down and enjoy a repast, and I’ll tell you over a pint of ale.” The two of you spend a simple, but interesting afternoon getting to know each other, almost as if you are normal acquaintances instead of survivors of an eldritch horror tale. After all you have been through, things finally feel right. <</if>> So end the trials and tribulations of Edward Oberon Harcourt and $FirstName <<if $MiddleName>>$MiddleName <</if>>$LastName. <center><<link "START AGAIN?">> <<popup "End of Run" "Start Again?">> <<if !$achievements.allEndings.bestEnding>> <<set $achievements.allEndings.bestEnding to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: The Light After The Darkness">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <<if !$achievements.allEndings.checked>> <<CheckAllEndings>> <<if $achievements.allEndings.checked is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Walked all Paths">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</link>></center>

When it is not raining in London, there is a good chance it is misty. It is a grey, cloudy spring morning and you are waiting outside Saint George’s Institution for the Frail of Mind. The yellow lights of the lampposts are barely visible, glowing in the fog like small moons floating in the galaxy. Although it is already late May, the forenoon weather is downright chilly, prompting you to tighten your coat around yourself. When you received Edward’s letter the week prior, asking you to come to this place at this time, you were somewhat perplexed. Since you left the Gairbuie estate some months prior, you had been in frequent correspondence with one another, and he kept you updated on the health of his mother. After the showdown in the deepest cave of the manor, her condition deteriorated markedly. Unfortunately, despite the collapse of the underground tunnels, the cultist villagers were emboldened by their final confrontation with you. Barely a week after Edward locked the gates behind him, Gairbuie manor burned down under suspicious circumstances. Rather than get the law involved, Edward chose to sell the land, and used the proceeds to pay for his mother’s transfer to Saint George. While he did not want you to follow him through the iron gates of the institution, he had asked you to wait for him here. //For moral support? Or because he would like to discuss something important?// <ul><li> //[[Looks like you will know soon enough. Here he is now, approaching the gates.|Ending 3-2]]//</li></ul>

Whether or not it was the reason he asked you to be here, Edward sure as hell looks like he could use <<if $rekindle>>you<<else>>a friend<</if>>. You put your arms around him and give him a good, strong hug. When you release him, you ask how it went, and how he feels about it. “Well…” he sighs deeply, his breath making a little cloud in the cold morning air. “I will not lie and say that it was easy. She used to be far from lucid, at the best of times. //Now?// … It is a blessing when she is silent, rather than violently raving. Father wanted to keep her at home, but he is no longer in his youthful prime, and I am afraid she will hurt him in her mania. This hurts, but… but I believe it to be for the best.” He smiles at you warmly. “Thankfully, <<if $rekindle>>your love makes<<else>>good friends make<</if>> it easier to carry this burden. Speaking of which, how are you? Still experiencing those vivid nightmares?” <ul> <li> [[“Yes… they feel so… lifelike. I am stalked by a shadow, waking just when it pounces, never able to see its true form.”|Ending 3-3][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“Oh, you know, I see big dark foreboding shadows during the day anyway. Might as well add my nights to that.”|Ending 3-3][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> [[“I try not to think about it too much, to be honest. The more one worries about these things, the more power you give them, right?”|Ending 3-3][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> “I am not surprised…” Edward shakes his head ruefully. “I have experienced similar terrors whilst asleep. Some are like yours, in others I look into a mirror, and see my late uncle… or some inhuman mockery of him. When I wake, I look out of my window at the stars, and find that they provide little comfort, unknowable and alien as they are.” “Well…” you say, “let us try to go someplace nicer. This place is depressing.” <<elseif $choice is 2>> Edward chuckles. “If I were you, $FirstName, I would not say it so out loud. Not until we are out of earshot of the Institution. We would not want an overzealous nurse to drag you behind those doors now, would we?” You let out a raucous laugh. “Most certainly not! Come on then, before they put both of us loonies where we belong!” <<else>> “I can understand that line of reasoning,” Edward nods. “However, if you ever feel the need to talk about it, know that I am here, always. Your resilience is admirable, $FirstName, but you needn’t hide it from me. I think, after all we have been through together, we owe one another that much.” “That much and then some,” you smirk. <</if>> Without further ado, you leave the grounds of Saint George, your mood lifting just a little bit with [[each step you take|Ending 3-4]] away from the tall, foreboding building, and into the city proper.

<<if $rekindle>> The two of you head towards the banks of the River Thames. There is something eerily romantic to watching the water flow by when the fog is so dense you can barely make out the other side. “So, what is next for us?” you ask, nuzzling up to Edward to feel the warmth of his embrace. “I do not yet know,” he says. “But whatever tomorrow may bring, I know I will share it with you.” There, the water flowing by, the touch of his hand hot on your cheek, you share a loving kiss by the shore. And while the recurring nightmares, though growing fainter with the years, will haunt you for some time to come, you do not face them alone. Neither does your lover. <<else>> “You know what, my friend?” you say as you try to warm your hands by rubbing them together. “I have heard there is a brilliant tavern close by. Their pies are allegedly to die for, and I could do with a warming beverage right about now. How about it, Edward? My treat.” “Okay, okay, I yield.” Edward holds up his hands in mock surrender. “If you so graciously provide the fare, I suppose it will fall on me to recount an interesting story over lunch.” “Good man! But it is not some horrifying weird tale, is it? I think I have had quite enough of those for a while.” Edward smiles mischievously. “Well, no promises on that front my friend. This all started when I left for America after the War… But ah, I suppose this is the famed tavern? Order me a pint of ale, and I shall regale you with the rest of the story.” The two of you spend a wonderful afternoon filled with great food, top notch conversation, and many a laugh. And while the recurring nightmares, though growing fainter with the years, will haunt you for some time to come, you do not face them alone. Neither does your friend. <</if>> So end the trials and tribulations of Edward Oberon Harcourt and $FirstName <<if $MiddleName>>$MiddleName <</if>>$LastName. <center><<link "START AGAIN?">> <<popup "End of Run" "Start Again?">> <<if !$achievements.allEndings.uncertainFuture>> <<set $achievements.allEndings.uncertainFuture to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Alive, But At What Cost?">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <<if !$achievements.allEndings.checked>> <<CheckAllEndings>> <<if $achievements.allEndings.checked is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Walked all Paths">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</link>></center>

When it is not raining in London, there is a good chance it is misty. On this a grey, cloudy spring morning, you are walking down the Temple, London’s most preeminent legal district. The yellow lights of the lampposts are barely visible, glowing in the fog like small moons floating in the galaxy. Although it is already late May, the forenoon weather is downright chilly, prompting you to tighten your coat around yourself. When you received Edward’s letter the week prior, asking you to come to this place at this time, you were somewhat perplexed. You had not spoken to one another since you parted ways at Inverness Railway Station. Edward seemed preoccupied, distant, and while he still had your contact information, he would not tell you where you might be able to reach him. You shudder, thinking of that last night in Gairbuie, the seemingly endless trudging through the dark, cold catacombs, and running for your life through the throngs of screaming cultists and monsters. You have not slept well since, as your dreams remain haunted by terrors. Stalked by an unnamed shadow, waking right before it pounces, unresolved tension hanging thick in the air. His <<link "latest letter">><<LastNote>><</link>> similarly did little to put you at ease. Just a location, a date and time, and his signature. Honestly, were it not for the fact that you were already in London, you may not have bothered to come at all. Hopefully you will get some closure from whatever he has planned at the very least. <ul><li> //[[Ah, here is the location you were told to go.|Ending 4-2]]//</li></ul>

You enter a luxurious building, housing the offices of the city’s top solicitors and notaries. Following Edward’s instructions, you head up to the first floor and knock on the door of one Mr Angell. “C’mon in!” an elderly, frail male voice responds. Behind a well-lacquered, maple desk sits an old man with cropped white hair and a deep tan. “<<if $mc.gender is 1>>Mr<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>Ms<<else>>Mx<</if>> $LastName, I presume. A pleasure to make your acquaintance. My name is Mr Angell, and I have been awaiting your arrival.” The tanned, leathery hands, skin taut over the knuckles, move to gather some papers on his desk. “Indeed?” you reply. “Well, I for one would like to know what this is about, Mr Angell, as I received nothing but a cryptic note from Lord Harcourt. I cannot help but notice that he is not present.” “Yes, well…” //Did the old man’s hands just start to shake, or did they already do so before you asked that question?// Mr Angell clears his through and resumes his professional air. “I am the fully empowered personal attorney of Lord Edward Harcourt. He came by my office about a month ago to inform me that a <<if $mc.gender is 1>>Mr<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>Ms<<else>>Mx<</if>> $FirstName<<if $MiddleName>> $MiddleName<</if>> $LastName would visit me on this very day, at this exact hour.” The old man hands you a light brown envelope. “I was instructed to give you this letter, and to… well, you can read it for yourself.” <ul> <li> [[“I should very much like to have a word with Lord Harcourt. Could you help me track him down?”|Ending 4-3][$choice to 1]]</li> <li> [[“Oh, this is just too much! Who does he think he is?! Not speaking to me for months, after all that happened in that forsaken manor, then giving me this runaround?! Can he not speak plainly for once in his damned life?!”|Ending 4-3][$choice to 2]]</li> <li> [[Don’t comment, just read the letter.|Ending 4-3][$choice to 3]]</li> </ul>

<<if $choice is 1>> The attorney clasps his hands and leans his thin arms on the desk, maintaining a cool, professional composure. “I am afraid that would be quite impossible, <<if $mc.gender is 1>>Mr<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>Ms<<else>>Mx<</if>> $LastName. Even if I were not bound by attorney-client privilege, the young Lord has left no forwarding address, despite me urging him otherwise. He merely dropped off some paperwork, including that letter, and declared that it be given to you when you showed.” You sigh. It would have been unreasonable to hope that Edward had not adequately covered his tracks. Lacking other options, you open the envelope and read the letter. <<elseif $choice is 2>> If your outburst surprised the aged attorney, he does not let it shake him from his cool, professional composure. “I am afraid that the young Lord provided no further message for you, <<if $mc.gender is 1>>Mr<<elseif $mc.gender is 2>>Ms<<else>>Mx<</if>> $LastName. He merely dropped off some paperwork, including that letter, and declared that it be given to you when you showed up. Despite me urging him otherwise, he left no forwarding address. Perhaps the clarity you seek can be found within.” You snort contemptuously. //It would be a cold day in hell before Edward will write clearly without half-truths and obfuscation.// Still, you open the envelope and read the letter, hoping for a smidgen of an explanation. <</if>> <div class="letter"><date>Wednesday 18th of April, 1923</date> $LastName, This shall be the last time you hear of me. After all that transpired in Gairbuie, I took some time to reflect on my life. As a tally, it was altogether a net negative, as I have left naught in my wake but broken promises and pain. This world would be better without me in it, I am certain of this. Thus, I have decided to leave it altogether. Before I journey into the beyond, I have instructed Mr Angell to transfer ownership of the Gairbuie estate to you. I imagine that you have little interest in it, and will promptly want to sell it on. Mr Angell will take care of the procedures and details for you, free of charge. I am sorry, more than you could ever know, for involving you in this horrid affair. May we meet again, in another life, under better circumstances. Yours faithfully, His Lordship Edward Oberon Harcourt </div> <ul><li> //[[Well… at least he used your actual name this time.|Ending 4-4]]//</li></ul>

You make arrangements with Mr Angell to facilitate the sale of the Gairbuie estate as soon as possible. Walking back home through the thick London fog, you cannot help but ruminate on Edward’s letter. While certainly ominous, you cannot come to terms with the obvious implication of suicide. Certainly, he was extremely upset at the culmination of events at Gairbuie, but to take such a drastic step? //It would not be like him… would it?// At least, you would not think so. //But how well did you know Edward, really?// Moreover, how else could you interpret the phrase ‘//leaving the world altogether//’? You pull your coat closer around you, as you can feel a chill breeze blow through the street. It is not as if there is some other world he could go to instead… //right?// You steady yourself with a deep breath of cold, calming air. When all is said and done, nothing really matters. //It is not like you could go back in time and avoid all this yourself.// Either way, you are done with the occult. You are //done// with monsters and ancient gods. And you are truly done with Edward Harcourt. The sounds of merriment and raucous laughter are emanating from a pub around the corner. You realise you have not yet had lunch, and decide to stop by for a piping hot meal. But for the occasional nightmare, and the thoughts of horrors beyond our realities, which grow ever less frequent as the years pass, time will help you heal. So end the trials and tribulations of Edward Oberon Harcourt and $FirstName <<if $MiddleName>>$MiddleName <</if>>$LastName. <center><<link "START AGAIN?">> <<popup "End of Run" "Start Again?">> <<if !$achievements.allEndings.deadEdward>> <<set $achievements.allEndings.deadEdward to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Everything Went Wrong">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <<if !$achievements.allEndings.checked>> <<CheckAllEndings>> <<if $achievements.allEndings.checked is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Walked all Paths">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</link>></center>

It is cold, especially for a morning in May. Mist swirls around the gravestones, creating a melancholy air that could only be matched by the likes of Shelley and Stoker. Yet to walk among the names of the departed evokes neither horror nor sorrow, but rather a sense of calm: the knowledge that no matter what happens, this too shall pass, and at the end of it all, there is only the peace of oblivion. Or so Edward Harcourt likes to tell himself as he walks among the many mementos of humanity’s fragility. He despises going to London<<if $background is "vice">>, and not just because of his brush with its criminal underbelly<</if>>, preferring to stay in the family’s country house to aid his mother in her recuperation. She has improved markedly every day going back to that fateful night in Gairbuie, yet remains frail of constitution. Still every other week at the very least, he comes down here, driven by <<if $rekindle or $relationship is 'lover'>>a broken heart and a flame of passion snuffed out before its time<<elseif $relationship is 'friend' or $feeling > 6>>a need to remember better times with a good friend<<else>>a feeling of guilt and obligation to an old acquaintance<</if>>. Taking care not to drop a bouquet of daffodils, the young nobleman tugs his coat more closely around himself. His path is well known by now, and he does not hesitate as he walks it. His destination is a small stone, unassuming, but clean and well kept. He is not a man given to monologues or talking to the dead as if they were still there. But had he been given to such habits, he might have said… <ul><li> <<link "“Hello<<if $rekindle or $relationship is 'lover'>>, my love<<elseif $relationship is 'friend'>>, old friend<</if>>…”" "Ending 5-2">><</link>></li></ul>

He replaces the old flowers on the grave with the new ones he brought, taking a moment to touch the cold, smooth stone with the tips of his fingers. <<if $rekindle is true or $relationship is "lover" or $feeling > 8>>Though it does not rain, a single droplet hits the ground next to the bouquet. <</if>>The young lord remains standing by the grave, solemnly brooding. A person more prone to soliloquy would have reflected on what brought them here, would perhaps have expressed guilt, or sorrow, or mourning. Yet Edward is not given to such things, and so he remains silent, alone with his thoughts and feelings. He ruminates on those few days spent together with $FirstName <<if $MiddleName>>$MiddleName <</if>>$LastName, wondering whether he could have done something, //anything//, to alter the outcome of that fateful part of his life. He knows there is no such thing as going back and changing the past, yet he will always wonder… about what could have been. So end the trials and tribulations of Edward Oberon Harcourt and $FirstName <<if $MiddleName>>$MiddleName <</if>>$LastName. <center><<link "START AGAIN?">> <<popup "End of Run" "Start Again?">> <<if !$achievements.allEndings.youDied>> <<set $achievements.allEndings.youDied to true, _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: The Ultimate Sacrifice">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <<if !$achievements.allEndings.checked>> <<CheckAllEndings>> <<if $achievements.allEndings.checked is true>> <<set _AchievementAnnouncement to "Achievement: Walked all Paths">> <<Achievement>> <</if>> <</if>> <</link>></center>