ToW Silver Protector

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<<fadein 2s>><span class="logo"> <img src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0a/Twine_vector_logo.svg/896px-Twine_vector_logo.svg.png"> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'start-menu'>><</cont>>

<<fadein 1s>> <div id="start-title">Tales of Wocdes: The Silver Protector</div> <div id="start-subtitle"></div> <<nobr>><div id="start-menu"> /*<<nobr>><<if Save.autosave.ok() and Save.autosave.has()>><<button "Resume Game">><<run Save.autosave.load()>><</button>><</if>><</nobr>>*/ <<button "New Game" "Selfharmoption">><<set $chapter to "Prologue">><</button>> <<button "Load Game">><<run UI.saves();>><</button>> <<button "Settings">><<run UI.settings();>><</button>> <<button "Skip ahead" "skipping_options">><<set $chapter to "beginnings">><</button>> <<button "Tales From The Past" "TalesFromThePast">><</button>> <<button "Credits">> <<script>> Dialog.setup("credits","credits"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("credits").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>> <</button>> </div><</nobr>> <</fadein>>

<h2>Twine + Sugarcube</h2> <li>Twine by Chris Klimas - <a href="https://twinery.org/cookbook/" target="_blank">Twine Cookbook</a></li> <li>Sugarcube by Thomas Michael Edwards - <a href="https://www.motoslave.net/sugarcube/2/docs/" target="_blank">Sugarcube 2 Documentation</a></li> <li>Custom Macros - <a href="https://github.com/ChapelR/custom-macros-for-sugarcube-2" target="_blank">ChapelR Custom Macros Collection</a></li> <li> Guide how to embed fonts: <a href="https://philome.la/vatavian/import-and-embed-fonts-in-twine/play/index.html" target="_blank"> Import and Embed Fonts in Twine by vatavian </a></li> <li>Charater profile basics: <a href="https://jasmineta.itch.io/character-profile-card-template-twine-sugarcube" target="_blank">Character Profile Card Tutorial (Twine Sugarcube) by jasmineta </a></li> <h2>Resources</h2> <li>Icons - <a href="https://fontawesome.com/" target="_blank"> Font Awesome Icons</a></li> <li>Fonts - <a href="https://fonts.google.com/" target="_blank">Google Fonts</a>, <a href="https://opendyslexic.org/" target="_blank">Open Dyslexic</a></li> <li>CSS + HTML Tutorials - <a href="https://www.w3schools.com/">W3Schools</a></li> Special fonts: <li> <a href="https://www.fontsquirrel.com/fonts/WC-Rhesus-Bta?filter%5Blicense%5D%5B0%5D=web" target="_blank">WC RHESUS</a></li> <li> <a href="https://www.fontsquirrel.com/fonts/nymphette" target="_blank">NYMPHETTE</a></li> <li> <a href="https://www.fontsquirrel.com/fonts/rothenburg-decorative" target="_blank">ROTHENBURG DECORATIVE</a></li> <li> <a href="https://www.fontsquirrel.com/fonts/bloody" target="_blank">BLOODY (copyright by J. Fordyce) </a></li> <h2>The Twine template</h2> <li> A custom Sugarcube 2 template for desktop, tablet, and mobile by "becky" on <a href="https://losingface.itch.io/a-sugarcube-template" target="_blank">Itch.io.</a>, dowloaded 24.4.2024</li> <h2> Special thanks </h2> <li> Thanks to Jenny Truong for language feedback! </li> <h2>Disclaimer</h2> The Tales Of Wocdes: The Silver Protector is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. ''This story is meant for adults.'' The game contains depictions of violence, blood, gore, sexually suggestive content, black humor, explicit language and other mature topics.//

<h1>Beginnings</h1>\ <<button "Info about the game" "p_00">><<set $chapter to "beginnings">><</button>> Date: <<currentdate>> Time: <<currenttime>> <font face='fancy'> Font test </font> <font face='wavylines'> Font test </font> <font face='splater'> Font test 1</font> <font face='bloody'> Font test 1</font> @@.shadow;This text should have a shadow@@ @@.emboss;This text should be embossed@@ @@.blur;This text should be blurred@@ @@.blurrier;This text should be blurrier@@ @@.smear;This text should be smeared@@ @@.mirror;This text should be mirrored@@ @@.upside-down;This text should be upside-down@@ @@.fade-in-out;This text should fade in and out@@ @@.rumble;This text should be rumbling@@ @@.shudder;This text should be shuddering@@ @@.smear; Seems like light! @@@@ <<set $chapter = 'Preface'>>\ <h2>Preface</h2>\ Wocdes is a world of full of magic, fantastical creatures and secrets. No beings in this world embody all three better than the Ancients, the most powerfull of the beings that predate this world. The Ancients are supposedly all godlike in power, unbeatable in battle. Incredibly wise and compassionate. Incredibly terrible and cruel. The great rulers of the continent Anwol. Immortal and glorious. You know nothing of the world or the Ancients. You pretty much know nothing about yourself. Your life is pain and suffering at the hands of people you know nothing about. But not for much longer. <h2>To the game!</h2>\ There are not many choices in the prologue or the interlude but they are important introductions to several important characters. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[To the prologue!|Selfharmoption]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Skip to the Chapter 1!|Chapter 1_1 note]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Test names|Names]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Current demo version|Version]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Twine template info|template info]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Lexia interlude fadein]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Interlude_twins_0]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Interlude Orphanage 4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Chapter 2 fadein]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[character]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Chapter 2_6]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Chapter 4 dream fadein]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[C4 lullaby]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Interlude Nylora fadein]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1>Heading 1</h1> <h2>Heading 2</h2> <h3>Heading 3</h3> <<button "Button">><</button>> <<textbox "$textbox" $textbox>> <<listbox "$listbox">> <<option "Listbox 1">> <<option "Listbox 2">> <<option "Listbox 3">> <</listbox>> <<cycle "$cycle">> <<option "Cycling 1">> <<option "Cycling 2">> <<option "Cycling 3">> <</cycle>> <li>List Item</li> <li>List Item</li> <li>List Item</li> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Continue|p_00]]</div> <div class="flirt-choice-item">[[Continue|p_00]]</div> <div class="special-choice-item">[[Continue|p_00]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<if not hasVisited("PassageName")>> [[Go to passage|PassageName]] <</if>> https://twinery.org/questions/25979/getting-health-and-stats-to-change-dynamically https://twinery.org/questions/7394/how-to-compare-and-rate-npcs https://www.motoslave.net/sugarcube/2/docs/#methods https://www.reddit.com/r/twinegames/comments/o117a9/how_do_you_count_the_number_of_objects_in_an_array/ https://www.reddit.com/r/twinegames/comments/rgbfcw/arrange_a_lot_of_variables_call_and_modify_them/ https://twinery.org/cookbook/arrays/sugarcube/sugarcube_arrays.html https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/JavaScript/Reference/Global_Objects/Array/includes

<<if settings.notifs>><<if tags().includes('autosave')>><<notify 3.5s>>Saving...<</notify>><</if>><</if>> /* autosaving -- the autosave notif needs to be 'present' at all times so is stored in the passageheader, only popping up when you add the [autosave] tag onto one of your passages. this is mainly for aesthetics as the autosave function is currently set up to save on EVERY passage. this can be changed in the javascript settings, e.g. you could configure it to only autosave on passages with the [autosave] tag notify is also a ChapelR macro, not a default sugarcube macro, so make sure to familiarise yourself with the documentation!*/ <script> var myDiv = document.getElementById('passages'); myDiv.scrollTop = 0; </script> /* scroll top -- this script makes the page scroll back to the top every time you move on to the next passage -- do not delete it! */

<div align="center"><h1>PROFILE</h1></div> The stats are a work in progress. At the moment these are some meters that might move if the author remembers to change them once in a while. All choices are not equal in terms of stat changes. Some things are much more stupid things to do... looking at you Careful-Reckless meter! /*Additionally, your options as a child are not quite as extensive as they would be for an adult. For example, as a child you can only increase the "oblivious" stat but can not be "smooth" (for obvious reasons).*/ <h2>Who are you?</h2>\ <<if $named is true>>\ <<if $MC_name_random is true>>\ <li>Your name is unknown, even to yourself. </li> <li>You are a $gender with $SkinColor skin.</li> <<else>>\ <li>You are $MCname $lastname, a $gender with $SkinColor skin.</li> <<if $named_by_Havard>> <li> You were given your name by Havard. </li> <<elseif $named_by_Lexia>> <li> You were given your name by Lexia. </li> <</if>><</if>>\ <<else>>\ You are not known. <</if>>\ <<if $HairCustomization is true and $EyeCustomization is true and $HeritageCustomization is true>>\ <li> You have $HairLength $HairType $HairColor hair, and $EyeColor eyes. <<if $HairLength is "waist-long" or $HairLength is "mid-back" or $HairLength is "shoulder-long" >> <<if $HairStyle is 'loose'>> Your hair is $HairStyle. <<else>> Your hair is bound in a $HairStyle.<</if>><</if>> <li><<if $HeritageFeature.length > 0 >> You also have <<HeritageFeatureList>>, making you part <<HeritageRaceList>>. <<if $HeritageRace.concatUnique($HeritageRace2).includes("beastkin") >> You have heritage from the <<BeastkinTribeList>>. <</if>><</if>> <li> Currently you are wearing $clothes_color $clothes. </li> <li> The cloak you received from //something//, the Ancient known as Sheo, is $cloak_color with patterns like tree roots, or perhaps branches, covering it. The clasp is made entierly of cloth, where the branches from both sides come together and weave into a tree shape. Pulling the clasp apart unwinds the tree, as if by magic. </li> <<if $blades_trauma>>\ <li>You are afraid of blades and knifes. </li> <</if>><</if>>\ <h2>Personality</h2> <div id="stat-title"> <span>Friendly ($friendly%)</span> <span>Blunt (<<print 100 - $friendly>>%)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Friendly' `$friendly/ $max_friendly`>> <div id="stat-title"> <span>Stoic ($stoic%)</span> <span>Lively (<<print 100 - $stoic>>%)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Stoic' `$stoic/ $max_stoic`>> <div id="stat-title"> <span>Oblivious ($oblivious%)</span> <span>Smooth (<<print 100 - $oblivious>>%)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Oblivious' `$oblivious/ $max_oblivious`>> <div id="stat-title"> <span>Innocent ($innocence%)</span> <span>Jaded(<<print 100 - $innocence>>%)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Innocence' `$innocence/ $max_innocence`>> <div id="stat-title"> <span>Shy ($shy%)</span> <span>Bold(<<print 100 - $shy>>%)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Shy' `$shy/ $max_shy`>> <div id="stat-title"> <span>Careful ($careful%)</span> <span>Reckless(<<print 100 - $careful>>%)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Careful' `$careful/ $max_careful`>> <h2>Coping with all that lovely trauma</h2>\ Maybe eventually there will be a less unhealthy option. Or maybe just choices that will decrease these... Maybe. Some day. <div id="stat-title"> <span>Madness -- Laughter can fix any ill! ($madness%)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Madness' `$madness/ $max_madness`>> <div id="stat-title"> <span>Numbness -- The best way to deal with trauma is to not feel it, or anything else! ($numbness%)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Numbness' `$numbness/ $max_numbness`>> <<if $selfharmoptions is true>>\ <div id="stat-title"> <span>Selfharm/suicidal behaviour -- Why are we still here? Just to suffer? ($selfharm %)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Selfharm' `$selfharm / $max_selfharm `>> <</if>>\ <div id="stat-title"> <span> Avoidance -- Everything is fine, everything is always fine! ($escape %)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Escape' `$escape / $max_escape `>> <div id="stat-title"> <span>Anger -- Feeling things is good! ($anger%)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Anger' `$anger/ $max_anger`>> <<if $hidden_coping_vis is true>>\ <div id="stat-title"> <span>Trust -- Do you have any in anyone? ($trust%)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Trust' `$trust/ $max_trust`>> <</if>>\ <h2>Censor: selfharm choices are <<if $selfharmoptions is true>>visible.<<else>> hidden.<</if>></h2> <div align="center"> Do you wish to see active selfharm choices: <<listbox '$selfharmoptions_vis'>> <<option 'Yes'>> <<option 'No'>> <</listbox>> <<button 'Click to apply.'>> <<if $selfharmoptions_vis is 'Yes'>>\ <<set $selfharmoptions to true>>\ <<notify 3s>>The censor has been turned off. Selfharm options are visible.<</notify>>\ <<else>>\ <<set $selfharmoptions to false>>\ <<notify 3s>>The censor has been turned on. Selfharm options are hidden<</notify>>\ <</if>>\ <</button>>\ </div> //''This page needs to be reloaded for the choice to take effect in the meters above. Changes in the middle of playing also need reloading of that page (and going back to the previous page will undo the setting).''// <<button 'Close Profile'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

/* comment -- this is where to set up your variables -- you can delete the examples below. note that $chapter is used to change the chapter title in the title bar. you can either delete this, change the variable name, or change the variable(s) used entirely note that $chapter and $name are also used for the autoname save function. you can either delete this, change the variable name, or change the variable(s) used entirely (in the Javascript file) */ <<set $name = "ToW: Silver Protector">> <<set $chapter = "">> <<set $MCname = "Unknown">> <<set $textbox = "textbox">> <<set $listbox = "listbox">> <<set $cycle = "cycle">> <<set $year = 147>> /* ChapelR Meter Macro set up */ /* these stat meter set ups are purely examples and do not need to be used */ /* PERSONALITY */ <<set $friendly = 50>> <<set $max_friendly = 100>> <<newmeter 'Friendly' $friendly>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> <<set $stoic = 50>> <<set $max_stoic = 100>> <<newmeter 'Stoic' $stoic>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> <<set $oblivious = 50>> <<set $max_oblivious = 100>> <<newmeter 'Oblivious' $oblivious>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> <<set $innocence = 50>> <<set $max_innocence = 100>> <<newmeter 'Innocence' $innocence>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> <<set $shy to 50>> <<set $max_shy = 100>> <<newmeter 'Shy' $shy>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> <<set $careful to 50>> <<set $max_careful = 100>> <<newmeter 'Careful ' $careful >> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> /* COPING */ <<set $madness to 0>> <<set $max_madness = 100>> <<newmeter 'Madness' $madness>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> <<set $numbness to 0>> <<set $max_numbness = 100>> <<newmeter 'Numbness' $numbness>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> <<set $selfharm to 0>> <<set $max_selfharm = 100>> <<newmeter 'Selfharm' $selfharm>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> <<set $escape to 0>> <<set $max_escape = 100>> <<newmeter 'Escape' $escape>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> <<set $anger to 0>> <<set $max_anger = 100>> <<newmeter 'Anger' $anger>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> <<set $trust to 0>> <<set $max_trust = 100>> <<newmeter 'Trust' $trust>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> <<set $hidden_coping_vis to false>> <<set $PersonalityChoice to "">> <<set $CopingChoice to "">> /*------------- CHARACTER LIKES ---------------------------*/ <<set $Havard_love = 100>> <<set $max_Havard_love = 200>> <<newmeter 'Havard' $Havard_love>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> <<set $Lexia_love = 100>> <<set $max_Lexia_love = 200>> <<newmeter 'Lexia' $Lexia_love>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> /*-Twins-*/ <<set $Azha_love = 100>> <<set $max_Azha_love = 200>> <<newmeter 'Azha' $Azha_love>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> <<set $Atru_love = 100>> <<set $max_Atru_love = 200>> <<newmeter 'Atru' $Atru_love>> <<colors '#777' '#777' '#333'>> <<sizing '100%' '1.2em'>> <</newmeter>> /* OTHER*/ <<set $lastname to "">> <<set $SkinColor to "">> <<set $SkinType to "">> <<set $BodyType to "">> <<set $HairLength to "">> <<set $HairColor to "">> <<set $EyeColor to "">> <<set $HairType to "">> <<set $Height to "">> <<set $HeritageFeature to []>> <<set $HeritageType to []>> <<set $HeritageRace to []>> <<set $beastkin_tribe to []>> <<set $CurrentRaces to []>> <<set $HeritageRace2 to []>> <<set $gender to "">> <<set $HeritageRacesOptions to ["elf", "dragon", "dryad", "garuda", "demon", "kitsune", "beastkin", "elemental", "merfolk"]>> <<set $HeritageTypesOptions to ["pointy ears", "horns", "animal ears","tail","scales", "nature features", "feathers", "wings", "elemental","eyes", "sea"]>> <<set $beastkin_tribe_options to ["wolf", "cat", "fox", "rabbit", "squirrel", "sheep", "deer", "goat", "elk"]>> <<set $favoritesnack to "">> <<set $HavardMeetingReaction to "">> <<set $named to false>> <<set $spire to false>> <<set $equinox to false>> <<set $codex to false>> <<set $skills to false>> <<set $personality to false>> <<set $coping_mechanism to false>> <<set $disclaimer_c2 to false>> <<set $AskedHavardPast to false>> <<set $plural to false>> <<set $MC_name_random to false>> <<set $injured to 0>> <<set $deathinjured to 10>> <<set $seriouslyinjured to 0>> <<set $deathseriouslyinjured to 3>> <<set $dead to false>> <<set $brokenhands to false>> <<set $naked to false>> <<set $flowers to false>> <<set $flowersbroken to false>> <<set $selfharmoptions to false>> <<set $charactercreatoroptions to 0>> /* Chapter 1*/ <<set $gardenespace to false>> <<set $q1 to false>> <<set $q2 to false>> <<set $q3 to false>> <<set $q4 to false>> <<set $q5 to false>> <<set $q6 to false>> <<set $got_injured_c1 to false>> <<set $speakingC1 to false>> <<set $trustHavardC1 to false>> <<set $sawHealingBaths to false>> <<set $SawTheSeaC1 to false>> <<set$stay_in_gardenc1 to false>> <<set $nonverbal to false>> <<set $named_by_Havard to false>> <<set $angry_at_being_carried_about to false>> /* C2*/ <<set $HairStyle to 'loose'>> <<set $skipped_haircut to false>> <<set $$HavardHugC2 to false>> <<set $asked_Havard_about_babiesC2 to false>> <<set $investigateHeritageC2 to 0>> <<set $AskedHavardHeritage to false>> <<set $not_deserving_clothes to false>> <<set $HeritageFeatureCounter to 1>> <<set $asked_why_heritage_now to false>> <<set $HairCustomization to false>> <<set $HeritageCustomization to false>> <<set $EyeCustomization to false>> <<set $HeritageCodex to false>> /*Codex*/ <<set $OathsCodex to false>> <<set $RaceCodex to false>> <<set $CurrencyCodex to false>> <<set $AdventurersCodex to false>> <<set $EternalWandererCodex to false>> /*C3*/ <<set $trustHavardC3 to false>> <<set $trustLexiaC3 to false>> <<set $crowds_trauma to false>> <<set $LightSwitch to false>> <<set $newpeople to 0>> <<set $orphanage_tour to ''>> <<set $gate to 0>> <<set $gate2 to 0>> <<set $CrowdReaction to 0>> /*C4*/ <<set $Twins_reaction to 0>> /*character profiles*/ <<set $MCmetTwins to false>> <<set $MCmetLexia to false>> <<set $MCmetHavard to false>> <<set $MCmetAlessa to false>> <<set $MCmetTSandor to false>> <<set $MCmetEthel to false>> <<set $MCaskedEthelHavard to false>> <<set $TwinsProfile to false>> <<set $LexiaProfile to false>> <<set $HavardProfile to false>> <<set $AlessaProfile to false>> <<set $SandorProfile to false>> <<set $EthelProfile to false>> <<set $LexiaMeetingReaction to "">> <<set $apologize_for_playing_dead to false>> <<$character_choice to ''>> <<set $SawLexiaHeritage to false>> <<$pchoice to ''>> <<set $fountainreaction2 to 0>> <<set $fountainreaction to 0>> <<set $fountainreaction2_s to 0>> <<set $EthelReaction to 0>>

<div id="title-container"> <span class="title-item">Tales of Wocdes: The Silver Protector</span> <span class="chapter-item">$chapter</span> </div>

<<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-bookmark" alt="saves"></i>'>><<run UI.saves();>><</link>> <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-gear" alt="settings"></i>'>><<run UI.settings();>><</link>> <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-user" alt="profile"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("profile","profile"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("profile").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>> <</link>> <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-users" alt="Characters"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Characters","Characters"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Characters").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>> <</link>> <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-book" alt="Codex"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Codex","Codex"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Codex").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>> <</link>> <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-arrow-rotate-left" alt="return"></i>'>><<run Engine.backward();>><</link>> <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-door-open" alt="restart"></i>'>><<run UI.restart();>><</link>>

Set up your widgets here! /* Personality*/ <<widget "addfriendly">><<set $friendly to Math.clamp($friendly + $args[0], 0, $max_friendly)>><</widget>> <<widget "addstoic">><<set $stoic to Math.clamp($stoic + $args[0], 0, $max_stoic)>><</widget>> <<widget "addoblivious">><<set $oblivious to Math.clamp($oblivious + $args[0], 0, $max_oblivious)>><</widget>> <<widget "addinnocence">><<set $innocence to Math.clamp($innocence + $args[0], 0, $max_innocence)>><</widget>> <<widget "addshy">><<set $shy to Math.clamp($shy + $args[0], 0, $max_shy)>><</widget>> <<widget "addcareful">><<set $careful to Math.clamp($careful + $args[0], 0, $max_careful )>><</widget>> /*Coping*/ <<widget "addmadness">><<set $madness to Math.clamp($madness + $args[0], 0, $max_madness)>><</widget>> <<widget "addnumbness">><<set $numbness to Math.clamp($numbness + $args[0], 0, $max_numbness)>><</widget>> <<widget "addselfharm">><<set $selfharm to Math.clamp($selfharm + $args[0], 0, $max_selfharm)>><</widget>> <<widget "addescape">><<set $escape to Math.clamp($escape + $args[0], 0, $max_escape)>><</widget>> <<widget "addanger">><<set $anger to Math.clamp($anger + $args[0], 0, $max_anger)>><</widget>> <<widget "addtrust">><<set $trust to Math.clamp($trust + $args[0], 0, $max_trust)>><</widget>> /* Heritage Feature widgets: lists your features, types and races, see https://twinery.org/questions/2126/extra-space-w-widgets*/ <<widget "HeritageFeatureList">>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.length > 0>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.length == 1>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageFeature[0]\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.length == 2>><<if $HeritageType[0].includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageFeature[0] and <<if $HeritageType[1].includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageFeature[1]\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.length == 3>><<if $HeritageType[0].includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageFeature[0], <<if $HeritageType[1].includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageFeature[1], and <<if $HeritageType[2].includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageFeature[2]\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.length == 4>><<if $HeritageType[0].includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageFeature[0], <<if $HeritageType[1].includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageFeature[1],<<if $HeritageType[2].includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageFeature[2], and <<if $HeritageType[3].includes("tail") >> a <</if>>$HeritageFeature[3]\ <<else>>//You somehow have more heritage features than should be possible. Or something else went wrong. Please contact the author to report a bug with details of your heritage choices. //<</if>><</if>>\ <</widget>> <<widget "HeritageTypeList">>\ <<if $HeritageType.length > 0>>\ <<if $HeritageType.length == 1>><<if $HeritageType.includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageType[0]\ <<elseif $HeritageType.length == 2>><<if $HeritageType[0].includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageType[0] and <<if $HeritageType[1].includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageType[1]\ <<elseif $HeritageType.length == 3>><<if $HeritageType[0].includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageType[0], <<if $HeritageType[1].includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageType[1], and <<if $HeritageType[2].includes("tail") >> a <</if>>$HeritageType[2]\ <<elseif $HeritageType.length == 4>><<if $HeritageType[0].includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageType[0], <<if $HeritageType[1].includes("tail") >> a <</if>>$HeritageType[1], <<if $HeritageType[2].includes("tail") >> a <</if>> $HeritageType[2], and <<if $HeritageType[3].includes("tail") >> a <</if>>$HeritageType[3] \ <<else>>//You somehow have more heritage types than should be possible. Or something else went wrong. Please contact the author to report a bug with details of your heritage choices. //<</if>><</if>>\ <</widget>> <<widget "HeritageRaceList">>\ <<set $list = $HeritageRace.concatUnique($HeritageRace2)>>\ <<if $list.length > 0>>\ <<if $list.length == 1>> $list[0]\ <<elseif $list.length == 2>>$list[0] and $list[1]\ <<elseif $list.length == 3>>$list[0], $list[1], and $list[2]\ <<elseif $list.length == 4>>$list[0], $list[1], $list[2], and $list[3]\ <<else>>//You somehow have more heritage races than should be possible. Or something else went wrong. Please contact the author to report a bug with details of your heritage choices. //<</if>><</if>>\ <</widget>> <<widget "BeastkinTribeList">>\ <<set $list = $beastkin_tribe.toUnique() >>\ <<if $list.length == 1>> $list[0]-tribe\ <<elseif $list.length == 2>>$list[0] and $list[1] tribes\ <<elseif $list.length == 3>>$list[0], $list[1], and $list[2] tribes\ <<elseif $list.length == 4>>$list[0], $list[1], $list[2], and $list[3] tribes\ <<else>>//You somehow have more beastkin tribes than should be possible. Or something else went wrong. Please contact the author to report a bug with details of your heritage choices. //<</if>>\ <</widget>> /*Find the index of a specific feature*/ <<widget "FeatureIndex">>\ <<if $args.length gt 0>>\ <<set _passedArr to $args[0]>>\ <<set $FeatureIndex to 0>>\ <<set $Feature to "">>\ <<set $Race to "">>\ <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf(_passedArr)>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ <<if $HeritageType.length == $HeritageRace.length>>\ <<set $Race to $HeritageRace[$FeatureIndex]>>\ <<elseif $HeritageRace.length==1>>\ <<set $Race to $HeritageRace>>\ <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>> <<widget "max_coping">>\ <<set $max_coping to []>>\ <<set $coping_values to []>>\ <<set $highest to []>>\ <<set $coping_values to [$madness, $numbness, $selfharm, $escape, $anger, $trust]>>\ <<set $highest to Math.max($coping_values)>>\ <<if $highest == $madness>>\ <<set $max_coping.push("madness")>> Your default comping mechanism is madness.\ <<elseif $highest == $numbness>>\ <<set $max_coping.push("numbness")>>Your default comping mechanism is numbness.\ <<elseif $highest == $selfharm>>\ <<set $max_coping.push("selfharm")>>Your default comping mechanism is selfharm.\ <<elseif $highest == $escape>>\ <<set $max_coping.push("escape")>>Your default comping mechanism is avoidance.\ <<elseif $highest == $anger>>\ <<set $max_coping.push("anger")>>Your default comping mechanism is anger.\ <<elseif $highest == $trust>>\ <<set $max_coping .push("trust")>>You have chosen to trust people, which has helped you cope more with your trauma.\ <</if>>\ <</widget>> <<widget "Name">>\ <<set $Name to []>>\ <<if $MC_name_random>>\ <<switch random(8)>>\ <<case 0>> <<set $Name to 'Kinbilnarg'>> <<case 1>> <<set $Name to 'Giledzir'>> <<case 2>> <<set $Name to 'Tumunzan'>> <<case 3>><<set $Name to 'Toheath'>> <<case 4>> <<set $Name to 'Nandorthell'>> <<case 5>> <<set $Name to 'Falonde'>> <<case 6>> <<set $Name to 'Nionorith'>> <<case 7>> <<set $Name to 'Brondorion'>> <</switch>>\ <<else>>\ <<set $Name to $MCname>>\ <</if>>\ <</widget>> /*Characters*/ <<widget "addHavard">><<set $Havard_love to Math.clamp($Havard_love + $args[0], 0, $max_Havard_love )>><</widget>> <<widget "addLexia">><<set $Lexia_love to Math.clamp($Lexia_love + $args[0], 0, $max_Lexia_love )>><</widget>> <<widget "addAtru">><<set $Atru_love to Math.clamp($Atru_love + $args[0], 0, $max_Atru_love )>><</widget>> <<widget "addAzha">><<set $Azha_love to Math.clamp($Azha_love + $args[0], 0, $max_Azha_love )>><</widget>> /* Other stuff*/ <<widget "reaches">><<if $plural>>reach<<else>>reaches<</if>><</widget>> <<widget "wakes">><<if $plural>>wake<<else>>wakes<</if>><</widget>> <<widget "nuzzles">><<if $plural>>nuzzle<<else>>nuzzles<</if>><</widget>> <<widget "lets">><<if $plural>>let<<else>>lets<</if>><</widget>> <<widget "is">><<if $plural>>are<<else>>is<</if>><</widget>> <<widget "Is">><<if $plural>>Are<<else>>Is<</if>><</widget>> <<widget "was">><<if $plural>>were<<else>>was<</if>><</widget>> <<widget "Was">><<if $plural>>Were<<else>>Was<</if>><</widget>> <<widget "does">><<if $plural>>do<<else>>does<</if>><</widget>> <<widget "pulls">><<if $plural>>pull<<else>>pulls<</if>><</widget>> <<widget "flings">><<if $plural>>fling<<else>>flings<</if>><</widget>> <<widget "needs">><<if $plural>>need<<else>>needs<</if>><</widget>> <<widget "staggers">><<if $plural>>stagger<<else>>staggers<</if>><</widget>> <<widget "closes">><<if $plural>>close<<else>>closes<</if>><</widget>> <<widget "currentdate">>\ <<print new Date().toDateString()>>\ <</widget>> <<widget "currenttime">>\ <<set _d to new Date(), _am to (_d.getHours() < 12), _hr to ((_d.getHours() % 12) || 12), _mins to (_d.getMinutes() < 10 ? "0" : "") + _d.getMinutes()>>\ <<print _hr + ":" + _mins + " " + (_am ? "A" : "P") + "M">>\ <</widget>>

<h1>Interlude - Havard</h1>\ <h2>The Head Custodian of Firgrat Orphanage</h2> <<set $chapter = 'Interlude - Havard'>>\ Havard, the newly appointed head custodian of the Firgrat orphanage was having breakfast in his chambers when the sound of armored footsteps disturbed him. He had no time to even rise before the door to his chambers burst open and a woman wearing gleaming silver armor rushed in. Havard knew her as he knew everyone inside these walls. Her name was Lexia. She was one of the guardians of the orphanage, the Silver Protectors. She was in fact his partner, the one who would share his burdens when the time came. "Head custodian! Lord Sheo is here!" she blurted out without any preamble. She was vibrating with excitement, her face flushed. Havard could understand why, one of the Ancients visiting was cause for excitement even if he personally had to hide a small grimace at the name. Dealing with the Ancients was exhausting on some subconscious level, and this one was... more difficult than most. Still he was the head custodian, his responsibility was to gently guide and protect the children in his care. Even if at the moment the orphanage was not officially open yet, and there were only two children. The young protector was not one of them, he thought that his duty extended to all inside this orphanage. Though Havard was in truth barely older than Lexia. Perhaps it was her demeanor that made Lexia seem so young to Havard. "Protector Lexia, please calm down." The young woman seemed to remember herself. She blushed a bit before steadying herself, and visibly deflating. "Sorry, I got carried away." She shuffled awkwardly. “I’m just excited. It is one of the Ancients!” "That is fine but, in the future, remember to knock." Havard gave her a kind smile to take the sting off the gentle rebuke. "Now, do you know why Lord Sheo is here?" Lexia perked up. "The gate guard said he came in with a new child!" She was practically bouncing with excitement. Havard felt excitement bloom in his own mind as well. To be immediately devoured by sadness. Another child meant that their family grew! It also meant that a tragedy had occurred. Such was the nature of an orphanage. He could not dwell on the tragedy, it would do no one any good. He had a duty and no matter what had happened, the child would be fine in the end. Havard would make sure of it. He was new to his role, but they all were. And he had been chosen for a reason. Havard got up. Outwardly he was calm, even if on the inside he was conflicted between excitement and sadness. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["Let us go and meet them then."|Interlude Orphanage 2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $chapter = 'Chapter 1'>> //Whatever your character is a boy/girl/child is chosen in the Havard interlude. Skipping to chapter 1 means that the choice needs to be made now. This will set the pronouns used (he/she/they).// Your character is a <<listbox '$gender'>> <<option 'boy'>> <<option 'girl'>> <<option 'child'>>. <</listbox>> <<button 'OK' 'Chapter 1 fadein'>> <<if $gender is 'girl'>>\ <<set $heshe to 'she'>>\ <<set $capitalheshe to 'She'>>\ <<set $hisher to 'her'>>\ <<set $capitalhisher to 'Her'>>\ <<set $himher to 'her'>>\ <<set $capitalhimher to 'Her'>>\ <<set $hishers to 'hers'>>\ <<set $capitalhishers to 'Hers'>>\ <<set $himselfherself to 'herself'>>\ <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>>\ <<set $child to 'girl'>>\ <<elseif $gender is 'boy'>>\ <<set $heshe to 'he'>>\ <<set $capitalheshe to 'He'>>\ <<set $hisher to 'his'>>\ <<set $capitalhisher to 'His'>>\ <<set $himher to 'him'>>\ <<set $capitalhimher to 'Him'>>\ <<set $hishers to 'his'>>\ <<set $capitalhishers to 'His'>>\ <<set $himselfherself to 'himself'>>\ <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>>\ <<set $child to 'boy'>>\ <<else>>\ <<set $heshe to 'they'>>\ <<set $capitalheshe to 'They'>>\ <<set $hisher to 'their'>>\ <<set $capitalhisher to 'Theirs'>>\ <<set $himher to 'them'>>\ <<set $capitalhimher to 'Them'>>\ <<set $hishers to 'theirs'>>\ <<set $capitalhishers to 'Theirs'>>\ <<set $himselfherself to 'themself'>>\ <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Themself'>>\ <<set $child to 'child'>>\ <<set $plural to true>>\ <</if>>\ <</button>>

<<set $named to true>>\ <<if $MC_name_random is true>>\ "Do not worry about your name. We will get back to it later." Havard says softly. You stare at Havard. You seem to be doing a lot of that lately. There is nothing to do about it is there. <<else>>\ <<if $lastname is not "">>"Hello $MCname $lastname." <<else>> "Hello $MCname."<</if>> Havard says softly. "As Head Custodian I officially welcome you to the Orphanage of Firgrat." He gets up and bows to you. "I am very happy to meet you. Officially I mean." You stare at Havard. You seem to be doing a lot of that lately. He is happy to meet you? Does he not have any real people to meet? You are not sure you count as a person. <</if>>\ <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ You nod. <<else>>\ “Ok” you whisper. <</if>>\ Havard smiles at you. He is always smiling; he smiles softly, sadly, kindly and who knows what else. He seems to have a thousand different smiles. The point is that Havard smiles a lot. Does he smile at everyone this much? Maybe his face is stuck this way? Always smiling, even if he can change the type of smile. It could well be, all that smiling must have some consequences. Can you smile? You don't know. Can you make expressions? What does your face look like? Did you think some of that already? Can you think things more than once? So many questions. In the void, you never had questions. You were too busy suffering and screaming. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["Now then, time for those questions." Havard says.|Chapter 1_8]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h2>Version</h2>\ <<set $chapter = 'Version'>>\ This demo is a work in progress, and is subject to changes. The current demo draft contains: <li> Prologue (~ 5500 words), </li> <li> Interlude 1 (~ 6000 words),</li> <li> Chapter 1 (~ 32250 words)</li> <li> Interlude 2 (~ 12000 words),</li> <li> Chapter 2 (~ 48000 words)</li> <li> Interlude ??? (~1000 words)</li> <li> Chapter 3 (~ 82350 words)</li> <li> Interlude 3 (~ 11 000 words)</li> <li> Interlude: Sheo (~ 7000 words) (For the one year anniversary of the demo)</li> <li>Total words: ~205 000.</li> The word counts include the code inside the text and all branches and repetitions. /*If I remember correctly, at publication of first chapter, twine said about 55000 words -> 55 000 - 43500 = 11500 in code and notes (which roughly increases but still. */ In addition, the codex has ~5 k words and the character profiles have ~600 at the moment. (Wordcount of these not updated since chapter 2). The available bonus content: <li> Tales From the Past -- Havard Part 1 (~ 11 000 words)</li> <li> Tales From the Past -- Havard Part 2 (~ 11 500 words)</li> <li> Tales From the Past -- Havard Part 3 (~ 13 000 words)</li> Total bonus content: ~35 500 words. <h2>Feedback</h2>\ Feedback is always welcome. This is my first interactive fiction, so please share any feedback you have. Here are some examples of what is especially useful: <h3>Technical errors:</h3>\ ''Spelling/Language Errors:'' If you notice any typos or misspelled words throughout, please let me know. I expect there are quite a lot of these. English is not my first language and I know for a fact that I mix up British and American English quite often. I suppose American is the one I am going for. ''Coding Errors:'' If you encounter any issues with variables or errors related to coding, please report them. ''Missing/Duplicating Text:'' If you come across any text passages that are missing or duplicated, I’d appreciate it if you could indicate them. ''Features:'' Is there some game features you would like to see? I can not promise I would/could add them since it may exceed my current skill with Twine, but I might try if I like the idea enough. <h3>Content issues:</h3>\ ''Clarity and Coherence:'' Are any passages difficult to understand? Do some sections feel boring or too short/overly verbose? Are there inconsistencies? Please highlight them. Chapter 1 is a bit of nightmare so I am sure there are places like this. ''Pacing:'' Is the story progressing too fast or slow. Is there something disrupting the flow of the narrative. Does the varying tone make it jarring? ''Writing:'' The thing about writing is that one can only get better by doing more of it, and hopefully having some feedback. I am not a professional at this, and this is my first interactive fiction, so constructive feedback and critism is welcome. I do also have a tendancy to sometimes go quite dark and I fear I am overdoing it at times (hence the option to censor the most extreme option to "coping" with trauma). Also, are there types of choices you would wish for? Are the constant questions MC has inside their head too much or too random? ''Heritage Features:'' Have I missed an obvious spot to make use of some heritage feature? Let me know! ''Other things:'' Anyone have a good name for magic/mana that is not quite so generic? I originally called mana "ardor" as in strong emotion, or great enthusiasm or excitement etc. However, it did not feel right meaning wise though it does partially work. Additionally, ardor can also mean sexual excitement which (while hilarious) seemed like something you might not want to call your magic unless it's a very specific kind of story. For your feedback, the comments on the Itch.io page should be on. Or you can use email: talesofwocdes@gmail.com There is now also a form to report any bugs (and maybe feedback, but mostly bugs): https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScnzYNhSsAzsaIc2JwXSv0R4rnIReIflus2IHk3t0dc9C_dtA/viewform?usp=dialog There is also a Tumblr page, that can be accesed from Itch.io, assuming I can figure out how Tumblr actually works. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Back to the starting screen|start-menu]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[To the prologue!|Prologue 1]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1>Prologue -- Shattered self</h1>\ <<set $chapter = 'Prologue'>>\ Alone on your knees, chained, abandoned, and surrounded by darkness. That is your life. The chains around your wrists holding you in place, arms spread wide, have long since eaten into skin and flesh but you no longer care. Feeling in your hands has long since left you. A blessing with how the chains have dug into your flesh. You do not feel your knees bleeding from your thrashing against the hard ground nor the countless cuts, tears, and bruises marring your body that have barely started healing. You almost miss the days of active torment. This void you have been confined to now is just empty and dark. Why did they decide to put you in here? You don't know. They never said a word to you as they carved into your flesh. Obviously, they did not tell you why they chained you up here. Alone in the darkness you know nothing but the void and the periodic onslaught of excruciating pain. It drowns out all else. You would think yourself tolerant to pain after so long, but no. Your flesh grew numb to the cuts and bruises, the burning and the prodding, but this pain is //different//. It eclipses everything else, a relentless tide that engulfs your senses. As if the pain does not just attack your body but your mind and soul as well. You have tried screaming and crying when pain emanates from the chains holding you. But your screams do nothing, have revealed nothing. No one answers them and no one shows themselves anymore. Your tears fall to the ground, unnoticed and only wasting whatever fluids you have left in your ravaged body. There is only darkness and the fading fragmented memory of distant past under the light of the sun. Of soft grass. Of warm comforting hands holding you and faces smiling down at you. Of safety. All now gone. Alone in the darkness you have been broken, and you do not even know why. The pain begins again, radiating from the chains that bind you, spreading from your wrists to your whole body and intensifying into blinding searing agony that commands your entire being. <<set $prologue1 to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You scream your heart out!|Prologue 2][$prologue1 to $prologue1+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Plead for the pain to stop!|Prologue 2][$prologue1 to $prologue1+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Ignore the pain!|Prologue 2][$prologue1 to $prologue1+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Laugh!|Prologue 2][$prologue1 to $prologue1+4]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Continue|p_01]]</div> <div class="flirt-choice-item">[[Continue|p_01]]</div> <div class="special-choice-item">[[Continue|p_01]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <div class="choice-item">[[Eye him warily!|Chapter 1_3_wary]]</div>

<<if $prologue1 is 1>>\ <<addanger 1>><<addstoic -1>>\ The pain is too much! So, you scream and scream. You scream until your throat is raw. The chains constricting you clang and clink as you thrash in pain. Your broken screams of agony echo in the void for a small moment before they are swallowed by the endless void. The void cares nothing for your pain. As usual, no one answers your screams. <<elseif $prologue1 is 2>>\ <<addinnocence 1>><<addescape 1>>\ You plead to the void, promising to do whatever they want, promising everything you can think of if only the pain stops. Of course, your plea is more of a screaming and mewling sound with no actual words. In your head however, you plead and plead fervently, hoping that someone hears you. Hoping that someone cares. As usual, no one answers your pleas. <<elseif $prologue1 is 3>>\ <<addstoic 1>><<addnumbness 1>><<addinnocence -1>>\ You do your best to ignore the pain. A groan still escapes your lips but otherwise you are silent. There is no point in making a fuss anymore, nothing will come of it. No one hears you, or if they do then they do not care. No one cares. Nothing matters. As usual, no one would answer even if you made a fuss. <<elseif $prologue1 is 4>>\ <<addmadness 1>><<addstoic -1>>\ It is welcome, this feeling of burning. A distraction from the void that surrounds you. Oh how it makes you laugh! Pain is so much fun! Not at all like the boring void! Pain is better than the void after all, each and every time. Your laughter echoes in the void for just a moment. A glorious sound! The only sound in this emptiness, at the same time far too loud yet not enough. The void swallows the sound soon enough. As usual, no one answers your deranged laughter. <</if>> You contort and convulse within the relentless grip of torment, feeling your muscles spasm and fingers twitching involuntarily. Beads of sweat cling to your skin, the cold air gnawing at your drenched form. Eventually, the pain subsides, and the void takes you again. A realm without memory, where only darkness persists... and you, alone at the heart of the void. A resurgence of pain jerks you back to consciousness. Again, it builds up to intolerable agony before the void's icy embrace envelops you anew. Again and again, the cycle repeats and repeats itself. Your existence becomes an endless cycle, a ceaseless repetition of pain and retreat into the void, each episode blending into the next until the boundaries between them blur. There is only pain and the void, and you don't know which you hate more. In this desolate existence, time has no meaning. Only the pain brings you back to lucidity from losing yourself to the void. You are tired, so tired of this hollow existence but your existence is not yours to control. You have had no food or drink as long as you have been alone in the void but there is still no end. No blessed release of sweet death, only pain and the void. You are alone in the darkness, trapped in a cycle of suffering. Longing for release from the chains that bind both your body and soul to this realm of perpetual agony. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[And the cycle goes on.|Prologue 3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

The frigid air of the void feels like frost on clammy skin, and your body shivers uncontrollably. The cold at least is different from the cycle, a silent witness to the unending struggle that defines your hollow existence. An eternity spent between the pain and the void. Time and time again the void takes you, and the pain brings you back. Your world is confined to the ceaseless dance of pain and the engulfing void, an unrelenting symphony that offers no respite. Time and again, you find yourself ensnared in the rhythm of this torturous symphony. Void, pain, void, pain—a discordant sequence that echoes endlessly, offering no respite from the unyielding grip of your existence. You lose yourself in the cycle. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[And the cycle goes on and on.|Prologue 4]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

The ceaseless dance persists, where the void claims you only to be disrupted by the returning surge of agonizing pain. So you begin to think. What else is there to do? You can at least use your mind and tell the story of your existence. Pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void.... on and on it goes. You scream, cry, plead, laugh and bear it quietly. Time and time again the cycle comes but it does not matter. Your existence becomes a blurred continuum, a relentless succession that blends into a disorienting tapestry. Nothing changes, no matter what you do. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Again and again, the cycle repeats and repeats itself.|Prologue 5]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

Time is meaningless, existence is pointless. There is only the cycle, and it repeats in your mind. Pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void.... Death would be a blessing, you think as your hands spasm uncontrollably. But of course, there is no end, only the cycle. Pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, <font face='splater'>pain</font>, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void.... Why are you here? Why is this your life? Is this what life is supposed to be like? Pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, <font face='splater'>void, pain, void, pain, <font face='wavylines'>void</font>, pain, void, pain, void, pain,</font> void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void,... You try to bite your own tongue in defiance of the cycle but the chains that bind you seem to sense your rebellion. A new feeling floods into you, infiltrating your senses. An invasive feeling that makes you feel impure. Suddenly your body is not yours to control, it rebels against you and you cannot bring yourself to bite down. You try and try but cannot fight against the magic that has a hold on you. You give up and surrender to the power that holds you captive. And the agony returns. Pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, <font face='splater'>void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain,</font> void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain, void, pain.... <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Nothing changes, and the cycle continues.|Prologue 6]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, <font face='splater'>PAIn</font>, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, <font face='splater'>pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn,</font> vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, <font face='splater'>pAIn</font>, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin.... You can no longer think. Your mind has become as empty as the void that surrounds you. No longer do you pay any mind to the cold or the twitching and spasming the agony triggers in your broken body. But there is no end to the cycle, and a little broken voice sounds in your head, narrating your existence now that you yourself are no longer capable. Or maybe the voice is yours? It does not matter. PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, <font face='splater'>paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID</font>, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PaIn, vOiD, pAIn, VoID, paiN, VoiD, PAIn, vOID, pAin, PAiN, pAIN, PaiN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, <font face='splater'>PAIN, PAIN</font>, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,<font face='splater'>PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN,</font> PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, @@.shudder;PAIN@@.... <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Finally you begin to notice a difference. The pain has become a constant.|Prologue 7]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

You almost enjoy it. Perhaps this pain, this agony, is better than the void. The voice in your head sounds almost gleeful. Stronger. PAIN, <font face='splater'>PAIN</font>, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, <font face='splater'>PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,</font> PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,@@.shudder;PAIN, PAIN@@.... You don't have any strength left to do anything but whimper. You have no control over your body. You think you have soiled yourself, again, but it hardly matters. <font face='splater'>PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,</font> PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, <font face='splater'>PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, P</font>AIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, <font face='splater'>PAIN<\font>, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PA</font>IN, PAIN, PAIN,<font face='splater'> PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,PAIN, @@.shudder;PAIN, PAIN, PAIN,@@</font>@@.shudder;PAIN@@, .... You were wrong. Pain is still pain, and the void would be a relief from the searing agony. Anything to end the pain. Death.... Death.... Death would be a blessing. <font face='splater'> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Only pain is left and even death is denied to you.|Prologue 8]] </div> </div><</nobr>> </font>

PAIN, PAIN, <font face='splater'>PAIN, PAIN, PAIN</font>, PAIN, PAIN, Pain, PAIN, pAIN, PaiN, pAIn, pAin, paiN, pain, pain, pain, void, pain, void, void, pain, void, void void, pai... void, void, void, void, void, void, <font face='wavylines'>v</font>oid, void.... Again your world shifts, and the voice warbles and changes. Slowly you notice a change. You no longer feel pain and agony. No longer feel the cold. Your body continues spasming uncontrollably, but you don't feel it. You have no control, but at least the pain is gone. Now there is only the void. Only the blessed void... Void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, <font face='wavylines'>void, void, void,</font> void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, void, Void, voiD, vOid, voId, vOiD, voId, voID, VoID, voId, VOId, VoiD, voiD, vOid, void, voId, Void, VOId, VOId, VoId, VOId, vOiD, voID, VoId, voiD, vOid, voiD, voId, VOiD, void, VOID, VOiD, VoId, voiD, voId, vOId, VoID, vOiD, VOId, voiD, VOID, <font face='wavylines'>VO</font>ID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, <font face='wavylines'>VOID,</font> VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID... Only the void remains, and it drives you mad. Or maybe you were already mad? It does not matter. The @@.mirror;VoID@@ has you, and it is never letting go. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You are alone and broken in the VoiD.|Prologue 9]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

VOiD, <font face='wavylines'>void</font>, VOID, VOiD, VoId, voiD, voId, vOId, VoID, vOiD, VOId, voiD, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID,<font face='wavylines'> VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID,</font> VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOiD, void, VOID, VOiD, VoId, voiD, voId, vOId, VoID, vOiD, VOId, voiD, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VOID, VoID, VOid, vOi..., l..., vo..., li..., v..., lig...,....,ligh...,....,light,....,...., light, ...., Light,.... LIGHT! LIGHT! @@.smear;LIGHT!@@ The voice in your head seems to scream at you, drowning out all else. Then it goes silent, like it was never there to begin with. Perhaps it was just you? Your numb and broken mind takes a long time to notice the change. There is light in the void. Maybe.... No... There is only the void.... But there is light.... But the void.... There is only the void... No! There is light in the void! A small fragile shimmer that burns away the dark void. Never have you seen anything so beautiful as the small light. And you feel something... different. Something other than pain and agony. Something that you had forgotten existed. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You have trouble with the word.|Prologue 10]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

What is the word, you have forgotten? Your foggy mind is painfully slow. You have not had to think in the void. Your mind is shattered and it is so hard to connect the fragments. You think and think... and slowly.... tentatively.... The little light has driven back the void. It has given you... what? Still, you struggle to put words to this feeling. It feels so hard to think. To feel. Did the void eat away your feelings? What is it? You feel like you should know! Should you? Why would you know? There is only the void. Nothing else.... right? But there is light in the void! Why is there light? Why do you feel like this? What is this? What? WhaT? WHa@@.upside-down;T@@? WHAT? WHAT? W@@.upside-down;HA@@T? @@.upside-down;W@@HAT? WHA@@.upside-down;T@@?... You almost lose yourself again. But somehow you do not. Because there is light in the void. It arrives unexpectedly. A moment of clarity. Of insight. As if your mind was providing an answer it did not know it had. This feeling... You know what it is. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Hope!|Prologue 11]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

You feel hope! Hope! The most wonderful feeling there is! The only feeling you know right now! The pain fades, the fog in your mind retreats. There is light in the void! And it has given you hope! Hope that there is more than the void! More than pain! There is also light! And hope! You begin to remember. It begins with distant echoes of warmth and safety. Of sunlight on your skin. The sounds of birds. Visions of green grass. All things you had forgotten in the void. All the things the void ate away. Hope has brought a part of yourself back. And the void shakes with the strength of tentative memories! You remember a different time. A time when you were not alone in the void. Glimpses of laughter. Of smiling faces. Of safety. The feeling of a warm embrace. A kiss upon your brow. Soothing words gently murmured. Glimpses of home. Home! A word you had forgotten! But now you begin to remember! A house on a hill! People! Who are these people who you remember? These people who do not carve and cut away at you..... Your parents! All of it rushes back to you now! Because there is light in the void! And hope! And you remember! Memory! What wonderful bliss! For a glorious moment you remember and there is no void! No pain! Only memories, and happiness! <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Happiness fills you at the memories!|Prologue 12]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Until the light in the void goes out. It takes a moment for you to process. The light is gone. Hope shatters. The void rushes back. But not before you remember. Splatters of red coating the front door of your home. So much red inside your home... such a vibrant red. Why is it so red? It's all blood. Your father's head placed on the kitchen table in a pool of crimson, his empty gaze staring at you accusingly. His body laying on the ground with his entrails pulled out. Your mother twisted and broken with a knife in her hand. A last defense that had not mattered. Her arms and legs snapped to unnatural angles. A gaping hole in her chest, her neck snapped, her head twisted fully around. Bones sticking out from her torn flesh. Hands closing around your throat and holding you still. Figures with masks and hoods, covered in the blood of your parents. They said nothing as they took you. Then came the prodding, cutting and tearing. Rough hands on you pushing you down and keeping you in place. Knives cutting your flesh. Pliers twisting and tearing as you screamed. In the beginning, your captors would torture you in person hidden behind their masks and hoods. Or perhaps they experimented on you. It does not matter. For you, the two are the same. You grew numb to it all the same. After a while, you felt nothing. Then they left you in chains, alone in the dark, and the cycle began. Pain and the void. Different from what came before. The all-encompassing pain. The all-devouring void. There was no escape. And now the cycle begins anew. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Except now it is different. The cycle has a new flavor, a constant called despair.|Prologue 13]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

The pain comes again, radiating from the chains on your wrists, building up to a blinding agony. Then the void comes. Blessed oblivion. Except the void is no longer empty. A stubborn memory of light lingers. It had been horrible before. The pain and the void, over and over again, repeatedly. Now the cycle is unbearable, because you remember the light, the hope, and the despair. The memory lingers, and what came before cannot compare to this new agony. Because you can remember. A home... a family. All lost. It is such a simple thing, memory. Something everyone has. Now it brings you nothing but despair. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Alone in the darkness you have been broken again, and you do not even know why.|Prologue 14]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

It is the despair that triggers another memory. Of a story you once heard while visiting the village with your parents. It was a sunny day, or so you think. There is no light in the void and the memory blinds you. Holding hands with both of your parents you felt safe and warm. Protected and safe. You remember the bard. He had colorful clothes, and a hat with a feather, that you had found very impressive back then. The bard told a story of Carbus, a famous wizard. Of his childhood, when his father took him to see the sea for the first time. The story tells how excited Carbus had been. Back then you could relate, you have never seen the sea. Now it seems so inconsequential. What did the sea matter in the void? How excitement turned to confusion as on the path to the cliffs by the seashore, the father suddenly stopped, his eyes turning terribly cold. The father had pulled out a dagger and stabbed Carbus, his own son, in the stomach. Carbus could quite not comprehend what had happened as he fell to the muddy ground. For a moment he gazed on his own bloody hands before his strength failed. His father abandoned him there. Carbus was bleeding and dying. Lying in the mud, in a moment absent hope, drowning in despair, young Carbus called out for help. Despite the barely audible whisper, //something// heard him, and //something// came to help. On the seaside, //something// heard the dying child and appeared. The bard's story did not say what that help was but Carbus was saved. He lived and Carbus became a famous adventuring wizard. That was the only story your parents let you hear. You wanted to hear more about Carbus! Still, it had been a good story, you had thought. Except, it was not just one story. It became more. More such stories had made their way into your little village over time. Bards from different directions passing through telling stories of great heroes! And in each the same thing happened. In a moment of despair, the hero called for help. And //something// answered. The stories never said what. But help was given to those who asked for it. You remembered the stories. Stories where //help// is given to those who are desperate enough to ask for it. To those who //need// it. Truly and desperately need it. When there is nothing else left, call out for help and //something// will hear you. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[What did you have to lose?|Prologue 15]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

It takes you several tries to form a sound. Can you even talk? You do not know, but you have to try. "P..." A coughing fit makes you stop. You think there is a splatter of blood, though you feel nothing. It takes a while for it to subside, and you are exhausted beyond all measure. The attempt at speaking, or making a sound really, drains you. But the memories burn in your mind, the stories you had heard while safe and happy. The void will smother the memories. You can feel it. Oblivion awaits once again. Now is your only chance before your mind is too gone again. You need to make it simple. Nothing extra. It takes everything you have but finally you manage. "Help" you whisper in a hoarse broken voice. Even to you the sound seems pitiful. A broken whisper in an endless void that swallows the sound whole. You are not even sure it's a real sound. It could have just been in your head. Your mind and body are far past the point where you can distinguish what is real and what is not. The void feels oppressive. Somehow emptier than before. You dared to make a request, even if it might have been only in your head. You think the void heard it. Maybe you made the void angry... You hope not. Though you suppose, the void cannot get much worse than it already is. The memories begin to fade away, the time before the void fragments into confusing pieces. You don't think it matters anyway. How could anything ever hear your plea? This is the void, there is only pain and despair. Why would anything care? Is there blood trickling down from your lips? You don’t know. You don’t care. The void surrounds you. Despair is all you have. Nothing heard the plea. It must have been just in your head. The memory is gone now. You doubt you could try again, even if you remembered how. But //something// does hear your plea. An ancient being that is always listening because he made a promise once long ago before the world existed, and everything died. It's just a feeling at first but then a faint sound reaches your ears, and a light flashes. You flinch, closing your eyes from the sudden intrusion of light to your world of darkness. The light goes out again, and despair floods you stronger than ever before. Not again, you can't do this again. Please. You were wrong, the void can be so much worse than it was. Futile hope makes everything so much worse... Then you hear it, a sound of faint footsteps. And a now familiar feeling floods you. It is called hope. Real genuine hope. Is this another trick of your ailing mind? The memories do not return, but you know you feel hope with certainty that might not be your own. You realize there is something or someone in front of you. You do not have the strength to see who or what it is but your insides do odd things and hope surges in you so much you think you might burst from it. //Something// heard you! Just like the stories! //Something// came! Are they really here to help you though? What if //something// is actually a bad creature? What if there will be something worse than the void and cycle? Something worse than pain and despair? Your doubts do not hold sway for long. A calm and soothing voice echoes in the void and does not vanish into it. The void quails and shakes at the sound, trying to drown out the sound but fails. The voice is stronger than the void. Such a soothing sound. Calm and clear. The sound of hope.... The voice asks you <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["Do you wish to live?"|Prologue 16]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

You are surprised at how clearly you can make out the words. The first words you have heard in an eternity. The perfect sound for your abused body and mind. Not too loud or quiet. Just the perfect volume. The voice asked you a question. @@.emboss;"Do you wish to live?"@@ The question burns in your mind. After everything you have endured, do you still wish to live? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Yes|Prologue 17]]</div> <<if $selfharmoptions is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[No|Ending prologue 1]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<if hasVisited("NoEnd1")>>\\ "Time to go then." <<else>>\ "Yes." you whisper in a hoarse voice. It feels like the correct answer. Even without the memories to guide you, something inside you tells you that it feels right to live. "Let us go then, and leave this place behind." <</if>>\ The figure seems to glow softly and the chains around your wrists fall away. For the first time in your memory, you are free. You fall forwards but strong gentle arms catch you. The sudden touch would make you flinch, but you have no energy for such things. You cannot remember when you were touched for any other purpose than to inflict pain on you but now you are held in your savior's arms. Lifted to the air in the arms of a stranger, or perhaps some creature, and you feel safe for the first time in your limited memory. And very very tired. "Tha... ..u." you whisper fighting the sleepiness that suddenly overtakes you. The last thing you remember is the shouting and lights flaring as countless sigils and runes sprang to life in the void but you soon fall asleep. You have no memory of how the sigils and runes meant to trap any intruder burned away in the presence of the Ancient being your despair had summoned. The very traps designed to ensnare your savior were meaningless before a being older than the world itself. No memory of the wrathful merciless light that incinerates your captors as they try to stop the Ancient that had heard your plea for help even when you never managed to say the words properly. No memory of your captors abandoning their fight and falling to their knees pleading for their lives. Pleading for forgiveness and salvation from the Ancient for their transgressions against you and the world. You have no knowledge that their pleas are as useless as their magic. The Ancient slaughters all your captors regardless. You might not know why this had happened. But the Ancient knows the secrets that your captors had hoped to uncover. Secrets that must never be revealed. Wrath over what had been done to you was enough to kill all your captors. The duty of ensuring that the secrets of creation remain undiscovered ensured that none would escape. You have no memory of the face of your savior, completely blank to hide the tempest within. Even if the whole affair made the Ancient //seethe// on the inside, none of it showed to the people that had been your tormentors. You only remember the feeling of safety you have lacked for so long. Snuggled in his arms and wrapped in his cloak you slept peacefully for the first time in eternity. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of the prologue|Interlude 1 fadein]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"No." you whisper in a hoarse voice. "Then you seek death? An end to your suffering?" The voice asks, so calm and clear. No judgment. No disdain. Only calm acceptance of your decision. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["Please kill me."|Ending prologue 2]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[["I don't know."|NoEnd1]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"I will grant you the end you desire." The figure suddenly seems to glow softly and the chains around your wrists fall away. You fall forwards but strong gentle arms catch you. You are lifted into your savior's arms. For the first time in your memory you feel safe. And very very tired. "Thank you." you whisper giving in to the sleepiness that suddenly overtakes you. The last thing you ever feel is comfortable and safe. Oddly enough, you feel loved enveloped in the warmth of a stranger. It is a good way to die in these arms carrying you, both gentle and firm. You never know of the merciless light that incinerates your captors as they try to stop the Ancient that had heard your desperate plea for death. You pass away peacefully and safely. Your last moments are happy, and that is more than you could have hoped for in the void. //You have reached the ending: Ending Before Truly Beginning// //Do you wish to go back, and try living?// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Yes|Prologue 16]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[[No (this will take you to the starting screen)|start-menu]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

"If you do not know, I will take you away. You will have time to decide away from this place." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod weakly.|Prologue 17]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Havard and Lexia had to ask several protectors and custodians where Lord Sheo had gone. Lexia was vibrating with excitement at the prospect of meeting Lord Sheo. Havard was more subdued. The Ancient had not waited at the gates, or in the main hall. He had indeed rushed to the healing baths designed by Lord Abalf, the Archmage of the Ancients, himself. The water in those baths had powerful restorative healing properties to ensure the children could be healed even if the custodians or protectors could not help them. Havard knew there could only be one reason for that, and it made his stomach twist. The child was hurt! And if Lord Sheo had gone to the healing baths, it was serious. As far as Havard knew, Lord Sheo was not considered to be a great healer, but he was still an Ancient. A master of magic. He should be able to deal with most injuries in an eyeblink. That he had sought out the healing baths did not bode well for the state of the child. Havard did not let the worry show on his face, but he increased his pace. Lexia had lost her cheer and excitement, her face concerned as together they rushed towards the baths. Technically she had no need to come, she was one of the Silver Protectors not a custodian, but Havard was glad to see how much she cared. It boded well for the future of the orphanage. He would not want the protectors to be aloof faceless figures. They would be a part of the children's lives just as much as the custodians, and they were undoubtedly dashing figures to any child with their gleaming silver armor. Both the orphanage he was now in charge of, and the order of Silver Protectors had been founded recently. By the Council of Ancients themselves no less. A great honor, and a greater responsibility. In these tentative phases they were all new to their roles, the custodians and protectors both. But each one had been handpicked by the Ancients. Gathered for a single purpose. To protect the future of Wocdes in the form of the children abandoned by all others. Now the future was in peril before they had even truly begun. A child was hurt and an Ancient could not heal them. Havard knew that there would be those they could not save, but he //wanted// to make sure no child suffered. He //wanted// to save them all. It would be a horrible start to their duty if they failed now. Havard could only hope that the Ancient and the healing baths could do whatever needed doing. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[But it would be alright. It had to be.|Interlude Orphanage 3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

As Havard and Lexia arrived at the entrance to the baths, a crowd had gathered. Newly appointed custodians and protectors milled about, all clearly concerned and speaking in hushed whispers. Havard felt that the Ancients had chosen well when deciding who would guide and protect the children. For Havard knew everyone who had been chosen, and they were all here aside from Custodian Alessa and Protector Sandor who had been chosen to watch over Atru and Azha, the young twins already in their care. The first children in the orphanage and the first custodian and protector to be chosen for permanent duty. The sight of all the custodians and protectors filled Havard with warmth. Everyone who was free to be here, was here, all worrying about a child they did not know. A reminder that while the world at large might not care, there were people who did. These people had been chosen because they cared. None had entered the baths. All waited outside, for him to arrive. Out of respect or fear for what lay inside, it did not matter. As the head custodian he would not hesitate. "Let me through!" His voice made the crowd part. Havard did not stop to speak with anyone but marched to the door, Lexia following on his heels. One breath of hesitation was all he allowed himself, before knocking on the door and pulling it open without waiting for an answer from inside. He had a duty to fulfill, regardless of what lay inside. Havard was going to enter immediately, to see what was wrong. But he could not. As soon as the door was open, the overwhelming feeling of raw //power// made him recoil. Oh that was not a good sign. The amount of mana, of //magic//, was suffocating. The water in the bathing pool was glowing softly, and it took Havard a moment to be able to withstand the feeling. But he gathered himself and strode in. Lexia did not follow this time. She was frozen in place, looking pale and scared but Havard had to know. He could not be deterred, not even by an Ancient flexing their magical muscles. There in the middle of the bathing pool stood Lord Sheo, gently holding a small form in the water while supporting the head, keeping the face above the water. Mana was rolling off the Ancient in waves, lending strength to the healing waters. In his limited experience with the healing baths, they should not need more mana. This was Firgrat, the flows were the strongest there. The bath should have had enough. Yet, an incomprehensible amount of mana was being pooled into the waters, much more than should ever be needed. Havard could barely process anything he was seeing, the room felt suffocating with the Ancient's power. Havard could feel sweat trickling down his back, his breathing grew labored immediately. How could any creature possess so much power? Still, he had to ignore this. Magic was not why he was here. Havard forced himself to look at the small form. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard felt his heart break when he saw the state of the child.|Interlude Orphanage 4]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

The child. The small <<listbox '$gender'>> <<option 'boy'>> <<option 'girl'>> <<option 'child'>> <</listbox>>, maybe seven or eight years old, was naked but for a delicately wrapped cloak protecting what modesty remained. The child had long matted messy hair spreading out into the water. From what Havard could see, a horrifying amount of barely healed cuts, tears and bruises covered the small form, some still bleeding crimson into the healing waters. Older scars that no one should be subjected to littered what skin remained. But that was not the worst part. Torn skin and flesh could be mended. Burns could be healed in time and broken bones fixed. No. <<button 'The terrifying part was the wrists.' 'Interlude Orphanage 5'>> <<if $gender is 'girl'>>\ <<set $heshe to 'she'>>\ <<set $capitalheshe to 'She'>>\ <<set $hisher to 'her'>>\ <<set $capitalhisher to 'Her'>>\ <<set $himher to 'her'>>\ <<set $capitalhimher to 'Her'>>\ <<set $hishers to 'hers'>>\ <<set $capitalhishers to 'Hers'>>\ <<set $himselfherself to 'herself'>>\ <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>>\ <<set $child to 'girl'>>\ <<elseif $gender is 'boy'>>\ <<set $heshe to 'he'>>\ <<set $capitalheshe to 'He'>>\ <<set $hisher to 'his'>>\ <<set $capitalhisher to 'His'>>\ <<set $himher to 'him'>>\ <<set $capitalhimher to 'Him'>>\ <<set $hishers to 'his'>>\ <<set $capitalhishers to 'His'>>\ <<set $himselfherself to 'himself'>>\ <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>>\ <<set $child to 'boy'>>\ <<else>>\ <<set $heshe to 'they'>>\ <<set $capitalheshe to 'They'>>\ <<set $hisher to 'their'>>\ <<set $capitalhisher to 'Their'>>\ <<set $himher to 'them'>>\ <<set $capitalhimher to 'Them'>>\ <<set $hishers to 'theirs'>>\ <<set $capitalhishers to 'Theirs'>>\ <<set $himselfherself to 'themself'>>\ <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Themself'>>\ <<set $child to 'child'>>\ <<set $plural to true>>\ <</if>>\ <</button>> //Note: This will set the pronouns used to refer to your MC by other characters (he/she/they).//

Shackles had eaten deep into flesh, leaving behind ruined arms where muscle and flesh might have been torn away, but that too was inconsequential. The worst was the black dead flesh of $hisher hands, and the markings running up $hisher arms along the blood veins towards the tips of $hisher fingers. The markings, black and horrifying, held his attention. There was something //wrong// with the flesh. It had become a twisted ruined mess, a mockery of what should have been. The tiny form spasmed uncontrollably at regular intervals, and each twitch of the tiny, ruined fingers made Havard flinch. He could not conceive why, but he knew some horrifying magic had been cast on the $child. Something even the healing waters and the Ancient pouring power into them could not undo. It was much easier to ruin something than to repair it. Havard thought he had understood evil long ago, but now he was reminded that even still he understood very little. How could anyone do such a thing! To a //child//! Each ragged breath the small form took, every small whimper, felt like someone tearing his heart apart time and time again. Havard heard an audible gasp as Lexia finally caught up and saw what he had. He thought he saw the moment her heart broke, saw her hands shake. He reached out and held one of her arms in his own. They were practically strangers, but she allowed it, too shaken by the sight before them. Too horrified by the reality unfolding before them. The two watching adults, strangers really, were still young and new to their roles, but so eager to do their duty. They had been chosen, a guide and a protector. At this moment, they stood united. Right now, they were companions in grief. And helplessness. Neither of them could do anything for the child. Not one //damn// thing to help the poor $child in agony! But they were not alone. They were not the ones who held the power, not the ones who could destroy nations, not the ones who could force reality to obey with a thought. They were not the ones who could save the $child. They were not incomprehensible creatures from beyond the world, beyond time. It all depended on the Ancient in front of them. The tall man stood in the pool with the small $child delicately held in the waters. This Ancient looked like a man, but he was not really a man at all. Snow white hair cascaded down in loose waves, glowing with gentle light. Whether the light was from the hair itself or reflected from the light from the healing waters, Havard did not know. Bright luminescent white irises shone with power, even as they focused on those horrifying mangled wrists with determination. A face marked by age, but untouched by time showed nothing but concentration. Havard and Lexia could only watch in silence as Lord Sheo fought to save the tiny life in his arms. To undo the damage the world had inflicted on the most innocent among them. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[It was all wrong. But the Ancient gave Havard hope.|Interlude Orphanage 6]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

The Ancient did not acknowledge Havard or Lexia. He was entirely focused on his task. Time ruthlessly moved on, as it always does. Havard could not tell how long he and Lexia stood there, holding hands, spellbound by the battle unfolding before them. And it was a battle. A battle between the Ancient and death. A battle for the life of a single child. Havard was sure that if the Ancient lost, death would take the child in an instant. As far as stakes went, a single life, even that of a child, meant nothing in the grand cruel world. Thousands of lives perished every day, from disease, from accidents, from a life well lived. What did one little life matter? The world would go on no matter what happened here. Yet for those present, what could matter more? Havard remembered the past. A memory of another small life in peril. One that had gone out far too soon. The grief that had broken him. Because of one single life that did not have an Ancient to defend it. His hands shook, and his jaw ground together but he barely noticed. He did not see the glance full of worry that Lexia shot him. What did one life matter? What had the life of his infant daughter mattered when it went out? Everything! The life of a single child was worth everything! Children were the future. Unlike Havard's daughter, this $child had a chance. The Ancient, a being who had seen more lives lost than anything else in existence, a being who had taken more lives than anything else, was fighting for $himher. And if the rumors were to be believed, there was one thing this Ancient knew better than any other, one thing from amidst the skills and experiences gained over millennia of life, it was battle. The black marks and flesh were not reducing or receding, not giving way in face of the power that kept the room clear of new arrivals with its sheer unfathomable quantity. But as Havard and Lexia watched, and hours or maybe days passed, each breath the $child took became easier. The whimpers lessened. Life was winning out. The Ancient was not showing any signs of stopping. Instead, he seemed to focus even more intently on the $child's horrifyingly mangled arms. Even more magic poured out of the Ancient, forcing Havard and Lexia to step back. The air grew thin, the feeling was suffocating. Havard had never seen so much power. The healing waters began to glow so brightly they hurt Havard's eyes, forcing him to look away. The intensity of the magic grew and grew, making Havard and Lexia fall to their knees with the sheer pressure of it. Havard wanted to shout, the $child could not possibly take this in $hisher wounded state so why was Lord Sheo doing this. He struggled and began to look up. It took everything he had, but he focused his gaze on the Ancient and the $child in his arms. The //eternal flow// had become visible in the room, so much magic was present. Like liquid droplets of shining light in the air, forming dancing rivers of light twirling around the Ancient. Havard opened his mouth to shout at the Ancient, and stopped. The flows showed how mana moved, how the Ancient had been pouring it into the healing water, but none had touched the wounded $child directly. The flows danced in complex patterns and split and combined in an intricate manner Havard could not comprehend. Magic that was far more complex than he had ever seen. The child breathed easier, and the flows all went around $himher, not a single strand touching the $child. The $child was protected from the suffocating power in the room by the Ancient that had called it all forth. Instead, the healing waters were supersaturated with power gently and delicately directed towards the black mangled flesh. It seemed like the water was softly tugging at something, there was movement in the mana and the ruined flesh. As Havard watched, a bit of black muck leaked from the $child's arms. As soon as the blackness tried to spread into the waters, it was purified. Havard watched in stunned silence, as black muck was drawn forth one small droplet at a time. Time and time again. Each time the waters purified whatever foul taint it was. Until the leaking stopped and no more black muck appeared. The Ancient finally stopped. The glow faded from the waters. The eternal flow seemed to dance around the Ancient in a joyful manner before fading from sight. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The black mangled flesh remained.|Interlude Orphanage 7]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

But the flesh seemed... better. Not as quite as twisted and mangled. The $child's hands were still covered with the black markings and $hisher fingers withered. $capitalhisher wrists had not healed properly, deep indentations were left in the black flesh. But the $child was breathing steadily, and no longer twitching and whimpering. That in itself seemed like a miracle. The $child would live. Havard sagged in relief, as if he had been the one battling for the little one's life. He heard a shaky exhale of breath and turned to see Lexia. Relief mirroring his own showed on her face. He smiled at her and offered her a hand to get up. He must have let go of her hand at some point. Lexia took his offered hand, and for a moment they stood together, simply smiling together in relief. "Head custodian." A calm voice pulled Havard out of the moment and he turned towards the Ancient still standing amidst the healing waters. Lord Sheo was looking at him. It caught Havard by surprise but he met the gaze of the Ancient as steadily as he could. The glow had faded from Lord Sheo's hair, he was no longer radiating power. Except for the eyes. Those still shone brightly. In those eyes lurked eternity. One could fall to madness seeing the countless years, countless memories that hid in those depths. The endless depths trapped Havard for one eternal moment in complete and utter fascination. Then the glow faded, leaving Lord Sheo's eyes still unnaturally bright but bearable. Indifference masked what depths lay beyond. Havard had only met Lord Sheo once, when he had been interviewed for his current position as head custodian. Taking place in front of the council of Ancients, it had been the most nerve-wracking experience in his life. Even if only three had been present in Firgrat at the time. Lord Sheo had sat there silently observing him with indifference while others asked questions. He had tried to focus on the questions and ignore the silent gaze but it had made Havard uncomfortable. He had found the indifference insulting in the face of the task the Ancients had laid out before him. Lord Nuaran and Lady Irosia had asked him question after question, laid out his life and history, forced him to consider parts of himself he did not like. But not Lord Sheo. He had been silent until the end. But at the end of the interview, Lord Sheo had voiced his approval for Havard. It had not been a glowing endorsement, more of an offhanded statement, almost insulting. But it had been something. It had been his approval of Havard that led to his current position. To be honest, his one meeting with Lord Sheo had left him confused and conflicted. Now looking into the indifferent gaze of the Ancient, something felt different. For a moment Havard had seen beyond the mask of indifference. An indifferent being would not fight so hard for a child. Though had Lord Sheo fought hard? He was an Ancient, what he considers hard is likely very different from what others consider hard. Havard was pulled out from his thoughts by the Ancient, still standing in the healing pool with the $child gently held in the waters. "I have done what I can. As have the waters." Havard blinked, still dazed. The Ancient waited patiently, as Havard's wits caught up with him. He looked at the Ancient, stared into those unfathomable eyes and he asked the first question in his mind. "Will $heshe be alright?" That was the most important thing. The only thing that mattered here was that the child would be alright. He would have time to be awestruck later. Lord Sheo nodded. "I believe so. But make no mistake, there will be consequences. There is no undoing what has been done." A wave of sadness hit Havard and he felt his hands clench involuntarily. His head sagged. "But everything that can be done to help $himher, will be done." Havard looked up at Lord Sheo. The Ancient was not looking at him. Instead, Lord Sheo had his eyes set on the $child he held. His face held an indecipherable blank look as his gaze inspected what damage remained. Lexia jumped in, all excitement and awe about the Ancient forgotten in the face of the small mangled $child. "<<Is>> $heshe in pain?" "Not right now. The enchanted sleep chased away much, and the healing waters have taken the rest. As for when $heshe <<wakes>> up, I do not know." The Ancient gently raised the child to his chest and began walking out of the pool. Lord Sheo rose from the pool and walked towards them with his precious burden. Havard could only stare. The countless cuts, tears and bruises had closed, the bleeding stemmed, but a network of scars remained. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["What happened?"|Interlude Orphanage 8]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

The question came out as a whisper. But it had to be asked, even if Havard was afraid of the answer. Of how cruel the world was, even to children. Lord Sheo considered his answer while inspecting Havard. He wanted to fidget under that ancient gaze but stopped himself. The Ancient turned his head to Lexia who had no compulsion about fidgeting and shuffling awkwardly in place. But after a moment Lexia looked at Lord Sheo right in the eye and she stilled. Havard held his breath. The Ancient's face revealed nothing. A perfect mask of neutrality. "I found this $child chained and tortured. The scars can tell you as much." He nodded towards the child in his arms, and Havard had to agree. The network of scars and bruises on the tiny body were enough to tell as much, even if the healing waters had significantly reduced all of it. Perhaps the scars would fade in time with regular soaks in the healing baths. Only time would tell. "As for the wrists and the black twisted flesh... Instead of giving $himher food and drink, the chains they had bound $himher with, had been crudely enchanted to sustain $hisher life." Lord Sheo's face was blank his voice even and controlled but still Havard thought that something like anger tinged the words. "An enchantment that kept the $child alive even without food and drink by supplying $himher with mana at regular intervals. With a steep price." The Ancient nodded towards the arms. "With such a poor enchantment, there was too much excess mana not absorbed into the body. They poured so much power into the chains for so long, that the flesh began to twist and mutate. So much and so long that the flesh began to die. Simultaneous mutation and decay has led to what we see now. A twisted mess of flesh and muscle." It went unsaid that those arms may never work properly. Everyone awake in the room understood as much. Havard was staring at the poor child, his mind reeling. All this damage, all this pain because they did not want to //feed// a child! A life that may never be the same because of something so trivial, something so petty! "Why? Why would they do such a thing?" Havard felt the heavy gaze of the Ancient settle on him, and felt his stomach twist, but he ignored it. He only had eyes for the child. "Does it matter? No matter the reason, the damage is done." "What about the culprits?" Lexia pushed into the conversation. Her voice was cold, completely at odds with her usual cheery demeanor making Havard look at her. She looked cold. Havard hated that look. He had only known Lexia for a short time, yet he knew that she should be smiling. She was most herself, when she was smiling. Or perhaps he just liked her smile. "Dead." "Did any get away?" "No." "Any collaborators? Clues?" Lexia spoke in a hurried but calm voice and Lord Sheo turned his gaze on her. They stared at each other and the Ancient seemed faintly displeased for the first time. Lexia looked away first, glancing down. Lord Sheo considered Lexia and Havard silently for a time. Observing, judging. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["Do you remeber your oaths? Custodian Havard? Protector Lexia?" |Interlude Orphanage 9]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Havard and Lexia looked at each other in surprise. The coldness faded from her face, replaced by confusion. Then Havard saw understanding bloom on her face. She understood the reprimand for what it was. He and she shared a common purpose. A common goal. The oaths they had sworn before the Ancients bound them to the orphanage, and to the children but not to the Ancients themselves. As one, they nodded. And turned to face the Ancient. "To guide, love, and cherish the children that are our future. To provide them a home and family in this orphanage, so that they always feel loved and wanted." Havard said. "To guide and protect the children that are our future. To find and safeguard the lost souls who need it. To protect their home in this orphanage, so that they may always feel welcome and safe." Lexia said. The oaths were something only the Ancients, Silver Protectors and custodians knew. The Ancients were their leaders, the rulers of Firgrat. The custodians and protectors alike obeyed them, but they had not sworn loyalty to them. Their first duty was to the future in the form of the young lives sheltered here. Lord Sheo observed them carefully. And smiled for the first time. A small but genuine smile that brought with it peace and safety to all who witnessed it. Havard felt his worries and anxieties fade away in the face of that small smile. Lexia’s tenseness seemed to deflate. "I see you understand. Do not let dark thoughts consume you. Worry not of vengeance. You have a duty that takes precedence over all others." The Ancient looked at the small form in his arms. “This is what you should focus on.” Lexia blushed faintly but nodded. Havard smiled. "Now then, I believe we are done with this conversation. Why don't we get this one." The Ancient nodded towards the $child in his arms. "To a bed and discuss what the future holds for $himher." As he talked he rearranged the cloak covering the $child so that no injuries were visible, hiding the scars and blackened twisted flesh from view. At the clear dismissal of the conversation, Havard was suddenly quite aware of how //casually// he and Lexia had addressed the Ancient. How they had asked questions and received answers as if among equals. He nearly fainted at the thought. While he had his issues with Lord Sheo, the man was an Ancient. A being so old and powerful he defied understanding. And they had just had a conversation.... He glanced at Lexia and noted that she had frozen in place, face pale. So, she had realized the same thing. Havard was not sure how to proceed. Should he address this breach of decorum or continue with the casual atmosphere? Luckily, he did not have to decide. Suddenly the $child moved. $capitalheshe nuzzled into Lord Sheo and let out a small, contented sigh. It was adorable. Havard did not remember when he had seen a sight or heard a sound that filled him with so much joy. It also broke his daze, pulling him back to reality. He glanced at Lexia again. She was staring at the child, all her worries forgotten, but she still noticed his gaze. She turned to him and grinned brightly. Havard grinned back, just for a moment he let the joy show on his face. In a moment, he regained himself. Turning to the Ancient seemingly caught up in observing the child. Making this awkward would serve no point. Lord Sheo had already shown, he did not mind them not standing on ceremony. "Of course, Lord Sheo. Let us find a room and a bed. Please follow me." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard lead them out of the room.|Interlude Orphanage 10]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

The custodians and protectors gathered around the entrance to the healing baths immediately opened a path as Havard, Lexia, and Lord Sheo, who was still carrying the sleeping $child, approached. All eyes focused on the Ancient, awestruck at his presence. Some started bowing, but then gazes fell on the precious burden Lord Sheo carried. The awe faded; the bowing ceased. The worried murmurs started soon after. "Well? Don’t keep us in suspense! Spit it out!" Custodian Ethel was a blunt and stout older woman. "Will the $child live?" Havard could see the worry etched in her worn face. He always could read her better than most. "$capitalheshe will be fine." Havard assured her. "All of you, please return to your duties. We shall discuss the happenings after the $child has been settled." It was enough. The crowd began to disperse, and the somber mood started vanishing at the good news. Havard led Lord Sheo and Lexia away from the baths, walking briskly on the marble hallways of the orphanage. Most rooms of the orphanage were still free, and all were good rooms, furnished, spacious and adaptable. However, some were located better than others. He had a good room in mind. One close to the one of the smaller inner courtyards of the orphanage, and just a bit of a walk away from a gorgeous view towards the sea. He felt this child should have a balance of peace and companionship, if $heshe should wish for it. The room was not too close to the twins, nor too far away. The twins had freely picked their room, choosing to share instead of each having their own. As an experience, the twins were likely a bit overwhelming as the first people to meet, but he would not place the new child too far away from them either. The three children were going to be growing up together after all. And the rooms could always be changed anyway. Soon they strode into the room. Havard marched to the perfectly made bed and pulled the covers back. Lord Sheo gently laid the child, still wrapped in a cloak, down on the bed and Havard covered $himher. "What about clothes? And the cloak?" Lexia asked. "I will find something suitable for $himher when $heshe <<wakes>> up, but now let us let the $child simply rest." Havard glanced at Lord Sheo for confirmation. The Ancient nodded and added. "Everyone needs a cloak, the $child can keep mine." Havard and Lexia looked at the Ancient. It was his own cloak? That would be expensive and definitely enchanted. But they had no time to question as the Ancient continued. "I will order some enchanted bandages to be made for $hisher arms. It will take some time to get, but should arrive within a day. They should help with any lingering pain. I will also commission for special gloves to be made. $capitalheshe will need to wear them to avoid aggravating the injuries, at least for now." "Thank you, Lord Sheo. Is there anything else we can do?" "I shall leave instructions on $hisher care in regard to the injuries. Otherwise, do what you would do with any child entrusted to you." The Ancient looked at Havard and Lexia. "I know the orphanage is well funded, but should anything be needed, contact the Spire, and ask for me. I shall leave instructions to use my personal funds even if I am not present." Havard's brows shot up in surprise. Saying that the orphanage was well funded was an understatement. The Ancients had allocated a massive budget. But Lord Sheo seemed adamant in making sure this $child would be alright. Havard had thought him detached and cold after their first meeting. Detachment was appropriate for an Ancient, one of the most powerful being in Wocdes, but it did not endear the Ancient to Havard. Now he had to consider that perhaps the man was not as cold or detached as he seemed. In Havard's mind that was good. It was excellent in fact, to know that the Ancient cared. Lord Sheo's voice called Havard away from his thoughts. "I will take my leave now." "Thank you, Lord Sheo." "May I escort you out?" Lexia asked. "No need. I know the way. Goodbye for now. Custodian Havard. Protector Lexia." He nodded to each of them and marched out with no further delays. Havard and Lexia stared at door, a sudden relief washing over them their shoulders slumping. They had not realized how tense everything was with the Ancient present. Havard doubted that it was anything purposeful on Lord Sheo's part, simply that a being like him mingling with relatively normal people was tiring on a subconscious level. Soon however, Havard and Lexia turned towards each other. "Would you please stay by the door, in case the $child needs anything. I shall go prepare for a meeting between all custodians and protectors. Call me should $heshe awaken. I will be back to look over $himher as soon as I can." "Yes, head custodian." Lexia saluted and winked at him. Havard smiled at her. "Thank you, Protector Lexia." Soon he was walking down the hallway to make summons of his people, and only then realized how little the Ancient had actually said of what had happened. He did not even know the name of their new charge. But it was all right for now. There was so much to do, and it seemed much to make right as best he could against the cruelty of the world. But the child would live, and Havard would make sure they had as good a life as he could give. He had plenty of time to ask about everything once things were settled. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of the Interlude|Act 1]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1>Chapter 1 - First Impressions</h1>\ <<set $chapter = 'Chapter 1'>>\ <h2> Your POV</h2>\ <<set $LexiaProfile to true>><<set $HavardProfile to true>><<notify 3s>>New character profiles: Havard and Lexia<</notify>>\ The void surrounds you. An infinite emptiness you know so well. It feels different than before. This new void is not oppressive and suffocating. You float in the void and how very odd it all is. This new void, it feels... safe. Comforting. You refuse to be fooled. There is no safety, only the void followed by agony. You wait for the pain, tense and ready. You wait for the cycle to start again, and swallow you whole. For the agony and emptiness, the two things that define your existence. You wait and wait. And wait.... Wait... Any moment now... But it does not come. There is no debilitating pain. Instead, you feel... nice. A soft cool feeling covers your body, soothing aches that you never knew you had. A soft and gentle tugging at your hands brings relief you did not know you needed. Like a pain you have gotten used to slowly fading away with each gentle tug. Slowly, bit by bit, you relax. Out of nowhere, a softness envelops you. It is warm. Comfortable. Safe. The void that surrounds you is something you have never known. Or perhaps you have, but you do not remember. It is not a place full of loneliness and pain but one of safety and comfort. You finally let go of the fight, and just let yourself be. A small contented sigh leaves your lips, and you shift to be even more comfortable. Everything fades away, and you know nothing but rest. A blissful sleep devoid of any distractions. You don't remember the last time you slept properly. Have you ever slept properly? It does not matter. You are comfy and sleepy. You have no idea how much time passes. It does not matter. You are safe. There is no pain here. Slowly, you come to. You are surrounded by warmth. You feel safe here, lying in bed. You turn sideways and wrap the quilt around yourself more tightly with a contented sigh. You snuggle into the soft pillow. You wish to sleep some more. It feels so nice... You realize something... you are in a bed? It's nice and soft and warm? But the void? The pain? The cycle? Panic floods you for a moment. The memory of asking for help in your most desperate moment hits you. Of //something// appearing in the void. "Do you wish to live?" That voice rings in your head. So clear, so soothing. Hope. //Something// shattering your chains... The safety of the arms that held you. Sleep for the first time in eternity. It seems //something// left an impression even your damaged mind can remember. It makes sense to you. //Something// had come for you. //Something// had listened when nothing else would, and saved you from the void. Ended the cycle... Or was that all a dream? A delusion of a broken mind? Is this warmth and softness surrounding you just a trick, an illusion? A new torment your kidnappers bestowed upon you? You have no way of knowing. Maybe it is, maybe it isn't. Unless //something// is here to confirm the truth... Still what is real and what is false? Does it matter? This place is much better than the void. Even if it is a delusion, so what? Does it matter if there was only the cycle and now there is a fluffy bed? One seems infinitely better than the other. You have no idea what is going on. But you need to do something... probably. You think you should do something... Isn't that what people do? Something? Living outside the void, or in a delusion inside the void, is so hard. You are not used to such luxury. <<set $chapter1_1 to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You bolt upright!|Chapter 1_2][$chapter1_1 to $chapter1_1+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Slowly you open your eyes, and calmly get up.|Chapter 1_2][$chapter1_1 to $chapter1_1+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You firmly keep your eyes closed, enjoying the warmth.|Chapter 1_2][$chapter1_1 to $chapter1_1+3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $chapter1_1 is 1>>\ <<addstoic -1>><<addcareful -1>>\ Or try to. Your movements are sluggish and uncontrolled. You try to sit up but your body would not move properly. So, you push and push and nearly fall out of the bed. Nearly but not quite. You manage to stay in bed. Even manage to sit up. Somewhat. After this minor victory, you look about the space you had woken up in. <<elseif $chapter1_1 is 2>>\ <<addstoic 1>><<addcareful 1>>\ Or try to. Your eyes open just fine, but your movements are sluggish and uncontrolled. You do not manage to sit up at first. But you persist and slowly manage to get to a position where you can observe the place you suddenly find yourself in. <<elseif $chapter1_1 is 3>> \ <<addinnocence 1>><<addescape 1>>\ You do not wish to wake up. Even if this is a lie, you want it to be real. Want to feel warm and safe again. So you snuggle back into the bed, keeping your eyes tightly shut. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You fall asleed after a while.|Chapter 1_2_sleep]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\ <<if $chapter1_1 is 1 or $chapter1_1 is 2>>\ As you had observed, you are in a bed. In a room you do not know. The floors and walls are some sort of white stone, and sunlight streamed in through an open window. There is not a whole lot in the room. A desk, a bookcase and a trunk, all made from some dark wood. A large rug covers the floor, softening the impression the room gives. A divider hides some of the room from your view. One door is visible to you on the opposite side of the space. A gentle breeze drifts in from the open window, making you shiver as it hits your exposed skin. You look down and realize that you are in fact probably naked. The quilt is still covering your lower body and arms, so you are not quite sure. Well, you were naked in the void, you think, so it made sense you would be naked now. Of course, that whole experience was not really your choice with the pain, the void and the cycle. Now you are in a clean room, in a fluffy and comfortable bed. Naked. Probably. <<set $chapter1_2 to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Not that it makes a difference to you. You don't really mind.|Chapter 1_2_1][$chapter1_2 to $chapter1_2+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don't really mind, but you are feeling a bit cold.|Chapter 1_2_1][$chapter1_2 to $chapter1_2+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You glance around suspiciously for people.|Chapter 1_2_1][$chapter1_2 to $chapter1_2+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You dive under the covers embarrassed.|Chapter 1_2_1][$chapter1_2 to $chapter1_2+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don't really get why being naked matters. Everybody is naked sometimes.|Chapter 1_2_1][$chapter1_2 to $chapter1_2+5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Why does you being naked matter? You were naked in the void, and probably not even a person.|Chapter 1_2_1][$chapter1_2 to $chapter1_2+6]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

You come to again. You lay there eyes closed, enjoying the peace you are unfamiliar with. You might doze off again. But nothing bad happens. There is still no pain. The warmth has not disappeared. Something disturbs your peace. Light invades your eyes, even if they are closed. You open your eyes slowly. Sunlight is streaming in through an open window. You attempt to sit up but your movements are sluggish and uncontrolled. Slowly you managed to get to a position where you could observe the place you suddenly found yourself. As you observed, you are in a bed. In a room you did not know. The floors and walls are some sort of white stone. There is not a whole lot in the room. A desk, a bookcase and a trunk, all made from some dark wood. A large rug covers the floor, softening the impression the room gave. A divider hides some of the room from your view. One door is visible to you on the opposite side of the space. A gentle breeze drifts in from the open window, making you shiver as it hits your exposed skin. You look down and realize that you are in fact naked. Well, you were naked in the void, so it made sense you be naked now. Of course, with the pain, the void and the cycle, you hardly cared. Now you are in a clean room, in a fluffy and comfortable bed. Naked. Probably. <<set $chapter1_2 to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Not that it makes a difference to you. You don't really mind.|Chapter 1_2_1][$chapter1_2 to $chapter1_2+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don't really mind, but you are feeling a bit cold.|Chapter 1_2_1][$chapter1_2 to $chapter1_2+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You glance about suspiciously for people.|Chapter 1_2_1][$chapter1_2 to $chapter1_2+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You dive under the covers embarrassed.|Chapter 1_2_1][$chapter1_2 to $chapter1_2+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don't really get why being naked matters. Everybody is naked sometimes.|Chapter 1_2_1][$chapter1_2 to $chapter1_2+5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Why does you being naked matter? You were naked in the void, and probably not even a person.|Chapter 1_2_1][$chapter1_2 to $chapter1_2+6]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $naked to true>> <<if $chapter1_2 is 1>>\ <<addshy -3>><<addcareful -3>>\ You don't really mind. You are not shy about yourself. You pull a hand out from beneath the quilt and reach out to grab the quilt covering your lower body to throw it off, and go off exploring. Suddenly you come to a halt, staring at your hands. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 2>>\ <<addinnocence 3>><<addoblivious 3>><<addstoic 3>>\ You don't really mind being naked, but you are a bit cold. It was important to be comfortable, naked or not. You glance about and see that with you in the bed, there is a cloth twisted into a clumpy mess. You pull a hand out from beneath the quilt and reach out. It is then you notice something odd. You stare at your hand. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 3>>\ <<addcareful 3>><<addshy 3>>\ You suppose it is fine, if there are no other people. Of course, considering you have no idea where you are, there could have been other people before. That seems suspicious. Maybe it would be a good idea to look for clothes. You notice that there is a cloth twisted into a clumpy mess with you in bed. You pull a hand out from beneath the quilt and reach out towards it, and freeze in place. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 4>>\ <<addinnocence 3>><<addshy 3>>\ How terrifying. You are not comfortable just being naked in unknown places. Alone or in front of others. You feel a lump in the bed with you. You look and notice it is some sort cloth, twisted into a mess. You pull a hand out from beneath the quilt and reach towards it. You freeze as you see your hand. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 5>>\ <<addinnocence 3>><<addoblivious 3>><<addstoic -3>>\ As far as you can figure, being naked is fine. You don't really understand why it would be a bad thing. Somewhere in your memory, you think your parents scolding you about wearing clothes when going outside to play. But soon the memory fades and you cannot remember what you were thinking. Anyway, you want to explore! You pull a hand out from beneath the quilt and reach out to grab the quilt covering your lower body to throw it off. You freeze in place as you see your hand. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 6>>\ <<addinnocence -3>>\ You are a wretched broken thing, not really a person. Or so it feels like. Why else would you have been tortured so, and left in the void? Your nakedness is rather irrelevant. No one cared in the void, or before it. So why should ayone care now? There does not seem to be any point in worrying about such things. You should try and figure out what this new place is, and if you will be tortured or stuck somewhere unpleasant. You pull a hand out from beneath the quilt and reach out to grab the quilt covering your lower body to throw it off. Suddenly come to a halt, staring at your hands. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[There is something wrong with your hand.|Skin color chapter 1]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $charactercreatoroptions to $charactercreatoroptions + 1>>\ From above the elbow to the very tips of your fingers, bandages have been carefully wrapped around your arms. Each individual finger has been wrapped so that no skin is visible. Just above the elbow, the bandages end but a trace of dark, twisted flesh mixes with your... //Please select a skin color for your character:// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Ivory|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "ivory"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Porcelain|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "porcelain"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Tan|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "tan"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Beige|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "beige"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light brown|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "light brown"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Brown|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "brown"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark brown|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "dark brown"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Olive|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "olive"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light blue|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "light blue"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Blue|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "blue"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark blue|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "dark blue"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light golden|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "light golden"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Golden|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "golden"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark gold|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "dark gold"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Almond|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "almond"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Honey|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "honey"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Bronze|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "bronze"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light red|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "light red"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Red|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "red"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark red|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "dark red"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Umber|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "umber"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Black|Chapter 1_2_2][$SkinColor to "black"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Input your own|Choose skincolor]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Just above the elbow, the bandages end but a trace of dark, twisted flesh mixes with your $SkinColor skin. You quickly bring your other hand in front of you, and see that the bandages cover both your arms. You move your fingers. They feel sluggish as if swollen. You can only close your hands very slowly. You can't bring any strength to the motion. You doubt you can grip anything properly. At least there is no pain. And then there are the traces of the dark, blackened flesh you can see disapearing under the bandages. <<set $chapter1_2_2 to 0>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You try to tear off the bandages.|Chpater 1_2_3][$chapter1_2_2 to $chapter1_2_2+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You decide to leave the bandages be.|Chpater 1_2_3][$chapter1_2_2 to $chapter1_2_2+2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $chapter1_2_2 is 1>>\ <<addcareful -10>>\ You try to tear off the bandages from your hands. Your fingers can't grasp at the tightly woven cloth. Nor can you scrape off the bandages against the edge of the bed. There is nothing to be done, the bandages are here to stay. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You are still naked so you should do something about that.|Chapter 1_2_3b]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Look for something to cut the bandages!|Chapter 1_2_3a]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[The door opens and someone walks in.|Chapter 1_3]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<elseif $chapter1_2_2 is 2>>\ <<addcareful 10>>\ You decide to leave the bandages be. They are probably there for a reason. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You are still naked so you should do something about that.|Chapter 1_2_3b]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[The door opens and someone walks in.|Chapter 1_3]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

<<set $naked to false>> First things first. The bandages are there to stay and you are naked. <<if $chapter1_2 is 1>>\ Even if you are not shy, you should probably do something about this. You look around and see that with you in the bed, there is a cloth, possibly a cloak of some sort, twisted into a clumpy mess. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 2>>\ You are a bit cold. You remember the cloth you noticed in you bed before the bandages. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 3>>\ There could be other people about, so you should find something to dress yourself. You remember the cloth you noticed in you bed before the bandages. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 4>>\ You do not want to be naked. You remember the cloth you noticed in your bed before the bandages. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 5>>\ Being naked is fine with you, but you suppose sooner or later somebody will be along and make you wear something. Adults are so fussy about clothes, or so your mind tells you though you cannot remember why you think that. You look around and see that with you in the bed, there is a cloth twisted into a clumpy mess. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 6>>\ Even if you don't think your nakedness matters to anyone, you are the only one here at the moment. And as much as your opinions have never mattered, that means you can currently cover yourself, even if it will probably be pointless later. You look around and see that with you in the bed, there is a cloth twisted into a clumpy mess. <</if>>\ Grabbing the cloth turns out to be surprisingly hard. Your fingers are weak and clumsy. Eventually you manage to wrangle the cloth and unfurl it. It turns out to be a cloak. That seems good enough for now, so you wrap it around your shoulders. It is much too large for your small frame but it provides warmth. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The door opens and someone walks in.|Chapter 1_3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $flowers to true>>\ <<set $drawer to false>>\ You look around the room. Still the same white floors and walls. There is a desk, a bookcase and a trunk, all made from dark wood. A divider hid some of the room from your view. Nothing immediately stands out to you as useful to help with your bandage problem. So, you try to stand. And almost fall down. Luckily, you fall down to the bed. What was that? You try again. And a third time. Then you manage it. Standing up on legs that barely manage not to collapse under you. There is an odd numbness enveloping your legs. Your legs are wobbly and weak as you take your first step.. Standing alone is a chore, and walking even more so but you manage with a lot of effort. There is some pain, of course. Every time you take a step it shoots out from your feet. But what is a bit more at this point? You are not bothered in the least. The void and the cycle were far more painful, so this is hardly anything. You decide the nearby desk is a good place to start. Maybe there is a knife or something. You have the vague indication that you are not allowed to handle a knife. You wonder why that is? Slowly and painfully, you get to the desk, and grab it for support. Was walking always so hard? Maybe it was and you have just forgotten. You think you have forgotten a lot of things. Still, standing up is hard, your legs are collapsing from out under you. So you sit down on the chair by the table to rest. And take a look at the table and its drawers. It's quite barren. The only thing on the desk is a flower vase with fresh delicate flowers. Red, blue and yellow. That strikes you as odd. Why are there flowers? What are flowers? How do you know all these words? Are flowers edible? People need to eat, right? You don't think you have eaten for a long time. The flowers don't really fit the void and the pain... Could this be real? At least they smell nice! All... flowery? Even if they might be imaginary flowers. Can you touch imaginary flowers? Can you taste them? You think you used to have an imaginary friend. Why can't there be imaginary flowers if one can have imaginary friends? Whatever friends are... You decide to put all these important questions into the back of your head for now, and check the drawers. Opening one turns out to be surprisingly hard. Your fingers are weak and clumsy. You don't have the grip strength to actually open it... <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You refuse to be beaten by a drawer!|Chapter 1_2_3a_1][$drawer to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Best stop before you hurt yourself.|Chapter 1_2_3a_1]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $MCmetHavard to true>><<notify 3s>>Havard profile updated.<</notify>>\ A man walked into the room, and you froze. His footsteps had been silent. You had not heard him! He was tall and lean, at least from your point of view. The man was wearing a set of simple gray robes and shoes. His face was shaved clean, and showed no signs of age. His black hair was long and straight, pulled back from his eyes. His eyes scanned the room briefly before landing directly on you. His eyes widened. They are hazel, blend of colors, a combination of green, brown, and gold tones in a captivating mix. For a moment you are lost staring at this man. How do you know what hazel is? The thought passes quickly, as you realize that ''there is a strange man in the room with you!'' <<if $injured > 0>>\ You scramble off the floor as quickly as you can, the panic giving you strength you lacked before. <</if>>\ Maybe you could talk to him? The people who kidnapped you never said a word to you though? Can you risk it? Then again, can you even talk? The only proper talking you ever remember doing was the "help" in the void that brought //something// to you, and even that might have been more in your head. So does it count? You have to do something! What should you do? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Hide!|Chapter 1_3_hide]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Grab a weapon!|Chapter 1_3_weapon]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Stand there frozen.|Chapter 1_3_frozen]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Run away, escape time!|Chapter 1_3_escape]]</div> <<if $naked is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[Cover yourself!|Chapter 1_3_naked]] </div> <</if>> <<if $injured > 0>> <div class="choice-item">[[Hide your injured hand!|Chapter 1_3_injured]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<div align="center"><h1> Codex</h1></div> Information about the world of Wocdes will be provided here. Click the books or words. Please note that these are quite barebones at the moment. <<if $codex is true>> <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-book" alt="Ancients"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Ancients"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Ancients").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "Ancients">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Ancients"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Ancients").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div> <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-book" alt="Magic"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Magic"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Magic").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "Magic">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Magic"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Magic").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div> <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-book" alt="Firgrat"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Firgrat"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Firgrat").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "Firgrat">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Firgrat"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Firgrat").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div> <<if $q6 is true>>\ <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-book" alt="orphanage"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("orphanage"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("orphanage").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "The orphanage">><<script>> Dialog.setup("orphanage"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("orphanage").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div><</if>> <<if $HeritageCodex is true>>\ <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-book" alt="Heritage"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Heritage"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Heritage").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "Heritage">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Heritage"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Heritage").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div><</if>> <<if $RaceCodex is true>>\ <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-book" alt="Races"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Races"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Races").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "Races">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Races"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Races").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div><</if>> <<if $OathsCodex is true>>\ <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-book" alt="Oaths"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Oaths"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Oaths").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "Oaths">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Oaths"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Oaths").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div><</if>> <<if $CurrencyCodex is true>>\ <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-book" alt="Currency"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Currency"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Currency").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "Oaths">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Currency"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Currency").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div><</if>> <<if $AdventurersCodex is true>>\ <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-book" alt="Adventurers"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Adventurers"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Adventurers").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "Adventurers">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Adventurers"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Adventurers").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div><</if>> <<if $EternalWandererCodex is true>>\ <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-book" alt="EternalWanderer"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("EternalWanderer"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("EternalWanderer").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "EternalWanderer">><<script>> Dialog.setup("EternalWanderer"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("EternalWanderer").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div><</if>> <<else>> The codex has not been unlocked yet. <</if>> <<button 'Close Codex'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<div align="center"><h1>The Ancients</h1></div> The Ancients are the true rulers of Wocdes, whatever the rest of Wocdes know it or not. Masters of magic. The immortal rulers. Godlike in power, unbeatable in battle. Incredibly wise and compassionate. Incredibly terrible and cruel. Only the Ancients themselves know what or who they are, but they are considered the most powerful beings in all of Wocdes. Some of course dismiss this as rumors. Some claim they created Wocdes itself. A council of the Ancients that gathers when there is a need. Sometimes when there is not. The Ancients decide on laws of the world, not things like tax rates though they may do sometimes do even that. /*The most important thing is the magical laws of the world.*/ The Ancients have their headquarters in the city of Firgrat, right in the center of the city. They are the rulers of the city, as well as the continent Firgrat is located on. Their grasp on the rest of the world is more indirect. <<if $q2 is true>> <h2> Lord Sheo </h2> The Ancient that saved you from the void. <</if>> <<button 'Close Codex'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<div align="center"><h1>Magic</h1></div> Magics the ability to control and shape the energy known as mana to do your will. Mana needs a conduit, something to pass through (some material or phenomena). The source of that mana can be the individual or the environment, the life-force of other living things, the mana of objects, the radiation from the sun etc. Magic can, in theory, do anything if enough mana is applied, but only in theory. Reality is often limited by the individual. Controlling mana takes practice and the task is a mental one; a manifestation of imposing ones will on the world. Thus, a trained mind is needed for magic, skill and knowledge determine how efficiently one can use mana for magic. <div align="center"><h2>The Eternal Flow</h2></div> The source of magic is the eternal flow of mana in Wocdes. The great flow permeates everything, it is like the very fabric of reality. Even the individual ardor everyone possesses comes from the great flow, and will eventually return to it. To cast magic, one temporarily imposes their will upon mana to create effects through it; in effect a temporary method for manipulating reality. The effects of such an act can however be more permanent in nature. For example, creating a fire; the creation of fire is magic, the burning (if unaided) is not. The flow can become visible if enough mana is called into one place such that anyone can see it. <div align="center"><h2>The Blessed of the Eternal Flow</h2></div> The Blessed of the Eternal Flow, Blessed of the flows, or simply the Blessed are technically those who practice magic. However, as with anything, some are simply born talented; the true blessed of the flows can wield magic instinctually from a very young age with very little practice. <<button 'Close Codex'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<div align="center"><h1>Firgrat</h1></div> The largest and oldest city in the world of Wocdes, and the residing place of the Ancients. Located on the continent of Anwol, and protected on three sides by mountains, this sprawling metropolis is the home to millions. To the north of the city is Firgrat bay. The waters here are famously transparent and crystal clear, so pure that were one to climb high in the city and look down from above, one can see straight to the sea floor below. The city itself is largely circular, trapped between the mountains. Space to build more ran out long ago. The city therefore now has layers built atop one another. <<if $spire is true>>\ <div align="center"><h2>The Spire</h2></div>\ The heart of Firgrat, the heart of the continent Anwol and the heart of Wocdes itself. The convex point of all the flows mana in Wocdes. The home of the Ancients. The oldest structure in Wocdes. The Spire has hundreds of levels, and it towers over the city of Firgrat at the city's center. <</if>>\ <<if $equinox is true>>\ <div align="center"><h2>The Equinox</h2></div>\ A famous magic shop in Firgrat. It encompasses several fields from artifacts, custom spells, dispels etc. One of the rather more peculiar things is the Equinox bakery, separate from the main store. There baked goods are made with just a hint of something special, happiness in the form of cake, relief from anxiety in chocolate, from stress in pie, baked bread that relieves fatigue etc. <</if>>\ <<if $brothel is true>> <div align="center"><h2>The Velvet Veil/h2></div> A high class brothel near the orphanage. This particular establishment is known for the wonderful massages it offers. In fact, almost a third of their customers are not aware this is a brothel at all, thinking it is the premium massage parlor and spa in Firgrat. Their list of services contains both innocent options that are just massages, and coded options where the opportunity for brothel services occurs. The most expensive of these services is the Velvet Hour: A euphemism for full brothel services, offered only to known and vetted patrons who have visited before. Discretion is absolute, and the Velvet Hour is not available on the list of services. One needs to know enough to ask for it. It includes private chamber, including spa services. The service includes a “veilkeeper” assigned to tailor the experience to the customer's desires. The Velvet Veil's madam is Marelith Vonn, a dark haired woman with generous curves. She wears only dresses, always cut low enough to reveal the upper swell of her bosom. She was once a courtesan there, but unknown events lead to her taking over for the whole place. There are rumors she manages the place for a silent owner, but the truth of these rumors is not widely known. What is known, is that she has complete control over the day-to-day operations of the Velvet Veil. Her voice is low and velvety, with just a faint rasp. A very distinctive voice. Aside from the courtesans, there is plenty of security at the Veil. The head of security (the "veilguard") is Grath Morrow, towering, broad-shouldered with stone-colored skin, long dark braids, and gold rings piercing each ear. Grath is exceedingly calm, and rarely speaks to the customers, but when he does, even the rich listen. He has however ripped doors off their hinges on several occasions when someone tried to do things not allowed to the courtesans. Worst comes to pass, and Grath carries a halberd with him he is not afraid to use. The doorguards at the Velvet veil are "Darnie" (real name unknown), and Brilla ("Bree"). Darnie is almost 10 feet tall, and has a wide smile that never seems to leave his face. Gentle giant to the core. Darn greets everyone with a kind “Welcome t’ the Veil”. He loves birds, and has a tiny nesting box on his shoulder pauldron where small birds sometimes perch. Bree is about 8 feet tall. She is cheerful, and an absolute sucker for romance stories. She hums lullabies while on watch and knits during quiet hours, despite not being very good at it. Bree has a massive broom built for her size. She calls it “Sweepy,” and she uses to gently encourage rowdy patrons to reconsider their decisions. /*The Friend Of the Unfortunate happened. She is the "matron" that owns the Velvet Veil, but only the madam knows this. Aside from the Ancients of course. Irosia took over the place, in a rather hostile manner, when Marelith was a young courtesan. She was however brilliant, and was made the madam despite her young age.*/ <</if>> <<button 'Close Codex'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<div align="center"><h1>CHARACTER PROFILES</h1></div> Please note that these are quite barebones at the moment. <<if $HavardProfile is true>> <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-user" alt="Havard"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Havard"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Havard").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "Havard">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Havard"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Havard").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div><</if>> <<if $LexiaProfile is true>> <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-user" alt="Lexia"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Lexia"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Lexia").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "Lexia">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Lexia"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Lexia").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div><</if>> <<if $TwinsProfile is true>> <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-user" alt="The Twins"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("The Twins"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("The Twins").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "The Twins">><<script>> Dialog.setup("The Twins"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("The Twins").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div><</if>> <<if $AlessaProfile is true>> <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-user" alt="Alessa"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Alessa"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Alessa").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "Alessa">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Alessa"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Alessa").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div><</if>> <<if $SandorProfile is true>> <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-user" alt="Sandor"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Sandor"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Sandor").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "Sandor">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Sandor"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Sandor").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div><</if>> <<if $EthelProfile is true>> <div class="container"> <div class="card"> /*<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_1716e2748e7d41c7a6ecb6126b19ee57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%">*/ <<link '<i class="fa-solid fa-user" alt="Ethel"></i>'>> <<script>> Dialog.setup("Ethel"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Ethel").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> <<link "Ethel">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Ethel"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Ethel").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div><</if>> <<button 'Close Characters'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>> /* <div class="card"> <img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_9eba1162f8cb41cbbfdc3b63e644c8da~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%"> <<link "Character Name 2">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Character Name 2"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Character Name 2").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div> <div class="card"> <img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_3c6f2d014c464b1fa6d000e9d1d84a57~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%"> <<link "Character Name 3">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Character Name 3"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Character Name 3").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div> <div class="card"> <img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_233aeae6d02f431abe72d329612ee505~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%"> <<link "Character Name 4">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Character Name 4"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Character Name 4").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div> <<if $haveMetChar5 == true>> <div class="card"> <img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c44d51_f8232af8bebf492089a9d3381e581dc4~mv2.jpeg" style="width:100%"> <<link "Character Name 5">><<script>> Dialog.setup("Character Name 5"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Character Name 5").processText()); Dialog.open(); <</script>><</link>> </div> <</if>> </div> */

A custom Sugarcube 2 template for desktop, tablet, and mobile by "becky". Dowloaded from: https://losingface.itch.io/a-sugarcube-template 24.4.2024 <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Back|previous()]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Back to the starting screen|start-menu]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $drawer is true>>\ <<set $injured to $injured+1>>\ <<if $injured > $deathinjured>>\ [[You pass out.|Death by a thousand cuts]]\ <<set $dead to true>> <<elseif $seriouslyinjured > $deathseriouslyinjured>>\ [[You pass out.|Death by a thousand cuts]]\ <<set $dead to true>> <</if>>\ <<if $dead is false>>\ <<addcareful -10>>\ You grasp harder using both your hands and pull as best you can. Your weak grip slips and you almost fall over. But you are not done. You get up from the chair to get a better position. You grasp and pull... and pull... and fall over on your ass as your grip fails and slips. <<if $naked is true>>\ At least the rug softens your fall a bit which is appreciated as falling on the hard floor naked could hurt. Though you have doubts if it would actualy hurt you. <<else>>\ At least the rug softens your fall a bit. Even if you are wearing the cloak you found, the floor is hard. Though you have doubts if it would actualy hurt you. <</if>>\ Maybe this was not the best idea. You try to get up but your body protests and you fall right back down on the rug, jolts of pain running through your whole body. But this pain is nothing compared to the cycle, so you barely notice it. Laying there, you consider your choices. Something is clearly wrong with your hands. Slowly you bring your hands in front of your eyes. They feel heavy. How can your own hands feel heavy? As your eyes adjust, you take in your hands. Your breath hitches. Your struggle with the drawer partially solved your bandage problem. The bandage on your right hand has come loose around the fingers, perhaps torn on the handle of the drawer. Underneath is black, twisted, and mangled flesh, now oozing dark muck that may be blood. Flesh is not supposed to look like that... Blood is not supposed to be that dark? Is blood supposed to be that dark? Or has your mind simply broken? Are you actually in the void and have conjured up this delusion that is now shattered because of your actions? Does it matter? You stare for a moment. Or maybe an eternity. <<set $handsreaction to 0>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You laugh!|Chapter 1_2_3a_2][$handsreaction to $handsreaction+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You feel nothing. You do nothing.|Chapter 1_2_3a_2][$handsreaction to $handsreaction+2]]</div> <<if $selfharmoptions is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[Your hands are wrong. You should get rid of them. |Chapter 1_2_3a_2][$handsreaction to $handsreaction+3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You close your eyes. Nothing is wrong!|Chapter 1_2_3a_2][$handsreaction to $handsreaction+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You see red, wrath fills you!|Chapter 1_2_3a_2][$handsreaction to $handsreaction+5]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<addcareful 10>>\ You decide it is best to leave the drawer be, least you injure yourself. Time to move on! Based on your experience with the drawer, no use in trying the chest. You also doubt the bookcase holds any tools for getting your bandages off. So you slowly stand and wobble towards the divider that is hiding some of the room from you. You have to lean on the divider for support but manage to see the other side. There is a larger dresser and a chair next to the door. Some kind of a big glass thing? You aren't focusing on that. The dresser is more interesting. Maybe there are clothes in there! Though do you even want to dress? The decision is taken out of your hands as <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[the door opens and someone walks in.|Chapter 1_3]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

You have suffered too many injuries. Darkness takes you. You know nothing of the world, as you life slips away. //You have reached the ending: Death by a thousand cuts.//

<<if $handsreaction is 1>>\ <<addmadness 5>>\ Your laughter echoes in the empty room. A hollow and terrible sound. The most hilarious sound in the world. Your throat feels as if it is on fire. Is there blood coming out from your mouth? But what else is there to do but laugh at the absurdity of your young life? What else is your life but a joke? The least you can do is laugh until the end. So you laugh, a broken child alone in an unfamiliar room. You laugh and laugh, despite how bad it feels in your throat. You fall to the floor laughing, but you care not. It's all a part of the joke. Eventually your laughter fades, and the room feels empty without it. Oppressive. Luckily, it does not stay that way for long. <<elseif $handsreaction is 2>>\ <<addnumbness 5>>\ A numbness envelops you. You embrace the void in your mind, and it welcomes you home. All color fades from the world. You no longer hear the sounds from the open window. You feel nothing. You care about nothing, and therefore nothing can hurt you. You are safe in the void. This is where you belong. This blessed nothingness. Your hands are twisted and disgusting. Your flesh may be ruined forever. You cannot even open a drawer. So what? Why does that matter? Why does anything matter? There is peace in the void. Unfortunately, the world does not stop even when you do. <<elseif $handsreaction is 3>>\ <<set $brokenhands to true>>\ <<addselfharm 5>>\ You stare at your twisted flesh for a moment. It feels wrong. Your hands should not be like this. You know it. These things should not exist. You should get rid of them. In a swift movement you swing your hand down on the floor as hard as you can. You can hear the crack and pain shoots up your arm. Again and again. The dark bloody muck is oozing from the broken thing as you smash it on the hard floor again and again. It hurts. Agony radiates from your hand, just like it did from the chains back in the void. But you are used to it. This pain is nothing. Soon enough, you are satisfied. Just as you are planning on doing the same to your other hand, a sound interupts you. <<elseif $handsreaction is 4>>\ <<addescape 5>>\ You close your eyes to no longer see your hands. It is not real. Your hands are fine. It is just a bad dream. You desperately focus on blocking out what you saw. Nothing is wrong. Everything is just fine. Everything is always fine. You just woke up and wanted to investigate this strange place. Nothing more. Nothing is wrong. <<elseif $handsreaction is 5>>\ <<addanger 5>>\ Your jaw clenches. Your mangled hands tighten in fists. Dark, murky blood soaks the bandages on your right hand. You do not care. You stare down at your fists. They are shaking. You have never been this angry. How dare they? Those people who kidnapped you? How dare they! Perhaps you should scream? Rage and break everything around you? The choice is taken from you. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The door opens and someone walks in.|Chapter 1_3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $HavardMeetingReaction to "hide">>\ <<addinnocence 5>><<addcareful 5>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ You need to hide! You don't want any more pain or void! No more knives or tearing flesh! <<if $drawer is true>>\ In a blur of panic and a surge of adrenaline, you dash back to the bed and dive under the covers! <<else>>\ In a blur of panic and a surge of adrenaline, you dive fully under the cover in the bed. <</if>>\ You dig into the bed completely and hold your breath. This might not have been the best hiding place, but it is too late for regrets. <<if $injured > 0>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand hurts and is probably bleeding out black muck onto the pristine sheets. For now, you just hide. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers are probably leaking some droplets of dark murky blood onto the pristine sheets. For now, you just hide. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ Then you listen carefully. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard POV|Chapter 1_3_hide2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $flowersbroken to true>>\ <<set $HavardMeetingReaction to "weapon">>\ <<addcareful -5>><<addinnocence -5>>\ <<addHavard -20>>\ As soon as you see the man enter, visions of groping hands, of slicing knives, and of flesh tearing invade your mind. You desperately look for a weapon. <<if $flowers is true>>\ Your mind goes to the flower vase you saw earlier. <<else>>\ You look around and notice a flower vase full of flowers on the desk. <<set $flowers to true>>\ <</if>>\ You dash to the desk with a surge of adrenaline and grab the vase. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Or try to. Your broken hands can't even grip it. All you manage to do is knock the vase off the table. <<else>>\ And drop it, your weak hands unable to hold their grip on the vase. <</if>>\ It shatters on the stone floor, water flooding out and soaking the rug and wetting your bare feet. You panic looking up and see the man staring at you in what you think is shock. But you know that all too soon it will turn to indifference or hatred and the cycle will begin again. The pain will return. Hands prodding and tearing at you. Knives cutting into your flesh. In your panic, you retreat right into the shards of the broken flower vase. A sharp pain erupts as a shard sinks into your leg. It hurts but this pain is nothing compared to the pain you experienced before the void and in it. <<set $injured to $injured+1>>\ <<if $injured > $deathinjured>>\ [[You pass out.|Death by a thousand cuts]]\ <<set $dead to true>> <<elseif $seriouslyinjured > $deathseriouslyinjured>>\ [[You pass out.|Death by a thousand cuts]]\ <<set $dead to true>> <</if>>\ <<if $dead is false>>\ Still your abused and weak body can't handle the surprise and you begin falling. You close your eyes in expectation of the sharp pieces of the flower vase piercing your skin. But the pain never comes. Instead, something warm has caught you. You open your eyes and see that the man has caught you. He kept you from falling, but now he has you. "You are hurt!" he says firmly, startling you a bit. His voice is firm but not cruel, his hold on you is so gentle. Your injuries are not really a worry for you. Your life is pain and suffering. Why should you care? Your leg has a shard of the flower vase in it. So what? <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your hand is broken, because you broke it. But it's all messed up anyway. All twisted and wrong, even if you had not broken it. It hardly matters. <<elseif $injured > 1>>\ Your fingers are also bleeding but they are a mess anyway. It's just a bit of bleeding. It hardly matters. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[But the man is making such an odd expression.|Chapter 1_3_weapon2]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

<<set $HavardMeetingReaction to "frozen">>\ <<addstoic 1>><<addinnocence 3>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ As soon as you see the man enter, visions of groping hands, of slicing knives and flesh tearing invade your mind. You want to do something. Anything. But you freeze, unable to move. The memories are overwhelming. Why does your mind work like this? You cannot remember a happy time before the void, yet you can remember every slice and tear. You can only stare and wait for the pain to begin again, drowning in despair. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard POV|Chapter 1_3_frozen2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $HavardMeetingReaction to "wary">>\ <<addinnocence -5>><<addcareful 3>>\ You stare at the man suspiciosly. Your eyes narrow. You just stare intently. The man eyes you with an odd look in his eyes. You don't know or perhaps remember what such a look means. It does not seem like indifference. Or hatred. It almost seems like he is in pain. But why would he be in pain while looking at you? It is such an odd look. You wonder what it means. <<if $naked is true>>\ Does it have something to do with the fact that you are naked? <<else>>\ You are only wearing the cloak you found. Does it have to do anything with that? <</if>>\ He looks you over from head to toe. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Then his gaze snaps to your broken hands. His eyes widen. "Your hands!" He rushes forward, startling you. <<elseif $injured > 0>>\ Then his gaze snaps to the dark muck you think is blood on your hands. His eyes widen. "You are hurt!" <<elseif $seriouslyinjured > 0>>\ Then his gaze snaps to your injuries. His eyes widen. "You are hurt!" <</if>>\

<<set $HavardMeetingReaction to "escape">>\ <<addcareful -5>><<addstoic -3>>\ <<addHavard -20>>\ As soon as you see the man enter, visions of groping hands, of slicing knives and flesh tearing invade your mind. You dash for the open window, not even registering your sore wobbly legs. Fear gives you strength. You think the man's eyes widen in shock, but you are in too much of a hurry to see properly. In a blur of panic and adrenaline, you manage to climb out and jump down. At no point did you stop to think that there may be a significant drop. Death would be preferable to the pain and void but luckily the window is at ground level. You land on your feet, but your weak legs give out and you fall on your knees. You expect pain but to your surprise, the ground is soft. And green! It's grass! You glance around and find yourself in a garden, or what you think is a garden. Have you ever seen a garden? All you remember is the pain and the void... For a moment you falter but manage to shake off the memories and look around. You suck in a breath in shock. The garden is full of luscious green grass, towering trees full of fruit, bushes and rows of blooming flowers. You see colorful blossoms fill the space--pinks, purples, and whites. The canopy of the trees spreads out, the dense leaves a vibrant green and swaying in the breeze; filtering the sunlight into soft golden beams. This is not at all like a place full of pain and death and knives and tearing flesh. Long forgotten scents assault your senses--the fresh scent of earth and greenery, the sweet fragrance of the flowers. Birds flit in and out of the branches of the trees and peck at fruit and berries. But this is no time to gawk at flora! There was a man you ran away from! However, the garden is nice... more than nice… the best place you can remember. //Do you still want to escape?// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Yes, I won't be tricked by a pretty garden!|Chapter 1_3_escape_2][$gardenespace to true]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[[No, I want to stay in the pretty garden.|Chapter 1_3_escape_2][$gardenespace to false]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $HavardMeetingReaction to "naked">>\ <<addinnocence 5>><<addshy 5>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ You become very aware of the fact that you are naked and alone in a room with a man you don't know. <<if $drawer is true>>\ In a blur of panic and a surge of adrenaline, you dash back to the bed and dive to cover yourself with the sheets. <<else>>\ In a blur of panic, you cover your self with the sheets in a hurry. <</if>>\ You dig into the bed to make sure you are completely covered. Then you slowly stick out your head to stare at the man who entered. <<if $injured > 0>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand hurts and is probably bleeding out black muck onto the pristine sheets. For now you just stare. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers are probably leaking some droplets of dark murky blood onto the pristine sheets. For now you just stare. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ The man is making an odd expression. His lips twitch upwards and he seems to be trying to not make sounds. You have no idea what the man is thinking. What are his lips doing? Somehow you think it's called hiding a smile. It is all very suspicious. Those hazel eyes are glinting. His gaze finds yours, hiding under the covers. His gaze changes, the mirth going out in his eyes. His eyes turn sad and kind. You almost wish to ask him what is wrong. Why does he look at you like that? Then he smiles at you kindly. You think it's a kind smile anyway. It's hard to say... it could be a grimace? Maybe the man plans on biting you? Tearing at your flesh with his teeth? You imagine he would be showing more teeth in that case. "Apologies for barging in on you like this." He bows slightly. "There should be a cloak somewhere in that bed that you could use to cover up." You ponder this for a moment. <<if $chapter1_2 is 1>>\ Earlier you were comfortable without the cloak. However, the situation changed once you were no longer alone. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 2>>\ Earlier you were a bit cold and wanted the cloak anyway. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 3>>\ You are embarrassed about someone seeing you naked. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 4>>\ You are really embarrassed about being naked, and your face feels really hot. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 5>>\ Eearlier, you didn't mind being naked! It was sort of freeing, but you were alone earlier. It feels odd to be naked now. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 6>>\ Earlier, you thought you being naked did not matter at all to anyone. Turns out that now it matters to you. Who knew a thing like you could still have preferences. <</if>>\ You retreat fully back under the covers, and rummage about to find the cloak. It does not take long. The cloak is all bunched up in bed with you. How to put it on and stay hidden under the covers? Oh well, you will just have to manage somehow. <<set $naked to false>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard POV|Chapter 1_3_naked2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $HavardMeetingReaction to "injured">>\ <<set $TriedToHideHandFirst to true>>\ <<addcareful -2>><<addstoic -2>>\ <<addHavard -20>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ You try to hide your broken hand behind your back. It hurts but you are used to pain. There is however nothing you can do about the dark blood spilled out to the floor already, standing out clearly against the white tiles. The man’s eyes immediately snap to the blood and then to you. "Your hand!" He rushes forward, startling you. <<else>>\ You try to hide your bleeding hand behind your back. A few droplets of murky blood fall at the sudden movement, standing out clearly against the white stone floor. The man’s eyes immediately snap to the blood and then to you. "You are hurt!" He rushes forward, startling you. <</if>>\ You try to back up but the man is quick. Your mind conjured up images of grasping and probing hands. You begin to panic. It must show on your face because the man immediately stops in his tracks. "I will not hurt you." His voice is quiet but firm. Somehow it soothes your wounded soul. You stare back at the man, now kneeling in the room. "I will make any oath you wish, but please let me tend to your injuries." Your injuries are not really a worry for you. Your life is pain and suffering. Why should you care? Still, that gaze makes you feel odd. His eyes are hazel, and terribly kind. They remind you of times before the void. Before the pain and the cycle. Parents… Soothing touches and warmth. The fragment of a memory fades. What was all that about? Why are they so sad when he looks at you? Why do you know he is sad? You stare at the man. Could it really be? Does he actually want to help you? Or just trick you? You could let him help you... assuming he actually wants to help. You doubt you can run away or grab a weapon anymore. Obviously, you cannot hide either. You are in the middle of a room, standing out in the open. You let your hand fall to your side. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ The broken hand plops in a rather disgusting manner, though you only vaguely register the sudden movement. <<else>>\ Your bleeding fingers are limp. Your whole twisted hand is limp. The loose bandages sway slightly. <</if>>\ <<set $hide_coping to 0>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You only nod. What else is there to do than let him come closer?|Chapter1_injury_treating][$hide_coping to $hide_coping+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You close your eyes and pretend the man is not here.|Chapter1_injury_treating][$hide_coping to $hide_coping+2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h3>Havard POV</h3>\ Havard was shocked to see the $child awake. He had gone to check on the other children as he did every few hours. For the past two days, he had been sitting and watching over his new charge to ensure they would not be alone when they woke up. Everyone had been eagerly waiting to meet $himher officially, and Havard had decided that only one person should be present to not overwhelm $himher. The poor $child must have been startled to awake alone in a strange place, though if $hisher reaction to seeing him was anything to go by, this would have gone horribly in any case. His heart broke a little seeing the small $child panic and hide at the first sight of him. The hiding could have been cute, if not for the brief look of absolute terror Havard had glimpsed. Not that Havard had expected much different considering the circumstance Lord Sheo had saved the $child from. There in the bed, a small lump lays completely still. No matter how much he wanted to, Havard knows that marching over and hugging the hiding $child would not end well at the moment. But damn, he just wants to scoop the $child into his arms and tell $himher that everything is all right. That $heshe <<is>> now safe. <<if $naked is true>>\ To make matters worse, he had wanted to get the $child some clothes ready but there had been an emergency with the twins. All the clothes were still in the dresser. So Havard doubted the $child had anything on. <<else>>\ To make matters worse, he had wanted to get the $child some clothes ready but there had been an emergency with the twins and he had forgotten. All the clothes were still in the dreser. So Havard doubted the $child had anything other than perhaps the cloak left by Lord Sheo. <</if>>\ He is not sure how to defuse the situation. How do you approach someone who has been so abused? How can he prove to the $child that he will not harm $himher in a way that would be believed? Doubt makes him hesitate. But Havard decides, he must do something. He was chosen for this! He refuses to fail! So he slowly walks closer to the bed and the lump contained on it. But he does not go too close. "I won't harm you." Havard says in a soft and calm voice. "Could you please come out?" <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Havard POV|Chapter 1_3_hide3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h3>Your POV</h3>\ "I won't harm you. Could you please come out?" The man says. His voice is so gentle and soft. You could almost believe it. You are almost tempted to take a look. You should probably take a look. Your hiding attempt has clearly failed. Unless it is a trick? Could he be trying to locate you by tricking you to come out? You need a visual to confirm. Slowly and carefully, you lift the cover ever so slightly and peek out from under it. Nope, he is looking right at you. He knows where you are. So much for hiding. Not much choice now. You might as well come out before he comes to you. So slowly you emerge from the pile of blankets. Or really you just sit up in the bed. The covers fall to reveal your head and upper body. The man looks you over, his gaze focused but not cruel or indifferent. Not looking as if he means to carve you up. What an odd feeling. <<if $naked is true>>\ His gaze stops. He coughs politely. "You are a bit underdressed child. Where did your cloak go? I am sure you had one." <<if $chapter1_2 is 1>>\ Earlier you were comfortable without the cloak. You still figure you should put on the cloak. It seems something the man would prefer and your plan to hide failed. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 2>>\ Earlier you were a bit cold and wanted the cloak anyway. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 3>>\ You are embarrassed about someone seeing you naked. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 4>>\ You are really embarrassed about being naked and your face feels really hot. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 5>>\ You didn't mind being naked earlier! It was sort of freeing! You figure you should still put on the cloak. It seems something the man would prefer and your plan to hide failed. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 6>>\ Well this is new... He wants you to put on a cloak? That is not the way it usually goes. No one cares if you are naked. But if that is what the man wants, you suppose you should oblige him in case he gets violent if you disobey. <</if>>\ So, you rummage about and find the cloak. As you do, the man can see your hands. <<else>>\ You sit there, under his gaze. Your hands were uncovered as you rose to sit up. <</if>>\ <<if $injured > 0>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ The man’s gaze snaps to your broken hand. His eyes widen. "Your hand!" <<else>>\ Then his gaze snaps to the dark muck you think is blood on your hands. His eyes widen. "You are hurt!" <</if>>\ He rushes forward, startling you. You try to back up, but the man is quick and you are in a bed. Your mind conjured up images of grasping and probing hands. You begin to panic. It must show on your face because the man immediately stops in his tracks. "I will not hurt you." His voice is quiet but firm. Somehow it soothes your wounded soul. You stare back at the man, now kneeling in the room. "I will make any oath you wish, but please let me tend to your injuries." Your injuries are not really a worry for you. Your life is pain and suffering. Why should you care? Still, that gaze makes you feel odd. His eyes are hazel, and terribly kind. They remind you of times before the void. Before the pain and the cycle. Of soothing touches and warmth. Parents... The fragment of a memory fades. What was all that about? Why are those eyes so sad when he looks at you? Why do you know he is sad? You stare at the man. Could it really be? Does he actually want to help you? Or just trick you? You could let him help you... assuming he actually wants to help. You doubt you can run away or grab a weapon anymore. Definitely not hide. You already tried that. <<set $hide_coping to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You only nod. What else is there to do?|Chapter1_injury_treating][$hide_coping to $hide_coping+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You close your eyes and pretend he is not here.|Chapter1_injury_treating][$hide_coping to $hide_coping+2]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ The man smiles at you. “Could I come a bit closer. Perhaps sit down.” He gestures to a chair by the table. “I already promised not to hurt you. There is much to discuss. I am sure you have questions.” You eye the man warily. True. You do have questions. You give a miniscule nod. You don’t see a way out. The man drags a wooden chair from the nearby table next to your bed and sits down in it. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He looks at you with those kind eyes.|Explanations]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>

<h3>Havard POV</h3>\ Havard was shocked to see the $child awake. He had gone to check on the other children as he did every few hours. For the past two days, he had been sitting and watching over his new charge to ensure they would not be alone when they woke up. Everyone had been eagerly waiting to meet $himher officially, and Havard had decided that only one person should be present to not overwhelm $himher. The poor $child must have been startled to awake alone in a strange place, though if $hisher reaction to seeing him was anything to go by, this would have gone horribly in any case. His heart broke a little seeing the small $child frozen in terror upon seeing him. Not that Havard had expected much different considering the circumstance Lord Sheo had saved the $child from. The $child stands there staring at Havard with those eyes are eerie eyes. No child should have eyes like that, so lifeless. No matter how much he wants to, Havard knows that hugging the $child would not end well at the moment. But damn, he just wants to scoop the $child into his arms and tell $himher that everything is all right. That $heshe <<is>> now safe. <<if $naked is true>>\ To make matters worse, the $child is standing there in their birthday suit. He had wanted to get the $child some clothes but there had been an emergency with the twins. All the clothes were still in the dresser. <<else>>\ To make matters worse, the $child is standing there in just the cloak left behind by Lord Sheo. Havard had wanted to get the $child some chlothes but there had been an emergency with the twins. All the clothes were still in the dresser. <</if>>\ He is not sure how to defuse the situation. How do you approach someone who has been so abused? How can he prove to the $child that he will not harm $himher in a way that would be believed? Doubt makes him hesitate, and the $child is the first one to act. <<set $frozen to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Laughter fills the room.|Chapter 1_3_frozen3][$frozen to $frozen+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Their face turns completely blank.|Chapter 1_3_frozen3][$frozen to $frozen+2]]</div> <<if $selfharmoptions is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[Bandaged hands reach for their own face, towards the eyes, as if intending to gouge them out.|Chapter 1_3_frozen3][$frozen to $frozen+3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[The child closes their eyes, and focuses.|Chapter 1_3_frozen3][$frozen to $frozen+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[The child's eyes blaze with fury.|Chapter 1_3_frozen3][$frozen to $frozen+5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addHavard -10>>\ <<if $frozen is 1>>\ <<addmadness 5>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ It is a horrible sound. Unhinged and mad. The laughter of a broken child. It chills Havard to his very heart and breaks what is left of it into a million pieces. The sound of that broken laughter and the tiny frame of the $child shaking with it will haunt Havard for the rest of his days. <<elseif $frozen is 2>>\ <<addnumbness 5>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ A blank face. A small hunch of the shoulders. Eyes like a corpse stare back at Havard in numb acceptance of whatever horrible fate is in store for them. It chills Havard to his very heart and breaks what is left of it into a million pieces. Those empty eyes on the face of a child will haunt Havard for the rest of his days. <<elseif $frozen is 3>>\ <<addselfharm 5>><<addHavard -20>>\ Havard darts forward and despite his reservations grabs the small hands before they can reach the $child's eyes. As gently as he can, he holds those damaged hands in his own as he kneels down. The reaction chills Havard to his very heart and breaks what is left of it into a million pieces. Why would that be the $child's first reaction. He stares into eyes that stare back at him, wide and uncomprehending. Those empty eyes on the face of a child will haunt Havard for the rest of his days. <<elseif $frozen is 4>>\ <<addescape 5>>\ <<addHavard -5>>\ Then the $child just stands there, eyes firmly closed. As if the world would go away if you just willed it hard enough. As if the things one cannot see, could not hurt you. The sight of a child stubbornly ignoring everything around them should be innocent, perhaps even amusing. It is not. It can't be because of the hunched shoulders, locked jaw, and tiny hands curled into fists. As if awaiting pain that could come at any moment. The small rocking movement that seems like a repetead plea. The reaction breaks what is left of Havard's heart into a million pieces. <<elseif $frozen is 5>>\ <<addanger 5>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ The $child just stands there, eyes blazing. Little fists clenched up into fists. Jaw locked and teeth grinding together. The sight of a child glaring at him made Havard stop. This was a child full of anger. Someone who had been hurt so badly, only anger remained. This $child needs help and needs someone to trust. But it will take time. A lot of time and effort. The reaction breaks what is left of Havard's heart into a million pieces. <</if>>\ He had no idea what to do. It hurt him to see such a young life in so much pain this was their reaction to seeing a stranger. But he had to try. He had been chosen, and he would not fail. Not now, not ever. He had to do something to salvage this situation. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Havard POV|Chapter 1_3_frozen4]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h3>Your POV</h3>\ <<if $frozen is 1>>\ "I swear I will not hurt you." His voice is soft and sad. It makes the laughter stop, soothes the edges of madness creeping in. Suddenly, everything is not so funny anymore. <<elseif $frozen is 2>>\ "I swear I will not hurt you." His voice is soft and sad. It intrudes upon the void you have built for yourself. Makes the numbness flee from you. <<elseif $frozen is 3>>\ "I swear I will not hurt you. So please don't hurt yourself." His voice is soft and sad. You try to struggle, but there is no point. “Please” The man pleads, and you go limp. After he is sure you are not going to try again, he lets you go. <<elseif $frozen is 4>>\ "I swear I will not hurt you. So please open your eyes." His voice is soft and sad. So hard to ignore in your head. Such a kind concerned voice. It somehow makes the lie better. It makes it seem like everything is actually alright. <<elseif $frozen is 5>>\ "I swear I will not hurt you." His voice is soft and sad. "You are allowed to be angry but please let me help you." The sincerity in the mans voice makes it hard to be angry at everything. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 6>>\ Well this is new... He wants you to put on a cloak? That is not the way it usually goes. No one cares if you are naked. But if that is what the man wants, you suppose you should oblige him in case he gets violent if you disobey. <</if>>\ You could almost believe the man. You certainly relax a bit. No longer are you frozen in place or panicking so much. You still don’t know this man. Can you trust him? He sounds so sincere. You can tell he is sincere somehow. The man looks you over, his gaze focused but not cruel or indifferent. Not looking as if he means to carve you up. What an odd feeling. <<if $naked is true>>\ His gaze stops. He coughs politely. "You are a bit underdressed child. Where did your cloak go? I am sure you had one." <<if $chapter1_2 is 1>>\ Earlier you were comfortable without the cloak. You still figure you should put on the cloak. It seems something the man would prefer that. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 2>>\ Earlier you were a bit cold and wanted the cloak anyway. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 3>>\ You are embarrassed about someone seeing you naked. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 4>>\ You are really embarrassed about being naked and your face feels really hot. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 5>>\ You didn't mind being naked earlier! It was sort of freeing! You figure you should still put on the cloak. It seems the man would prefer that. <</if>>\ So, you rummage about the bed and find the cloak. As you do, the man can see your hands. <<else>>\ You have no choice but to let the man look you over. You wonder what he is looking for? <</if>>\ <<if $injured > 0>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ <<addHavard -20>>\ The man’s gaze snaps to your broken hand. His eyes widen. "Your hand!" <<else>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ Then his gaze snaps to the dark muck you think is blood on your hands. His eyes widen. "You are hurt!" <</if>>\ His loud voice startles you. You try to back up, but the man is quick, and seemingly intent to grab you. Your mind conjured up images of grasping and probing hands. You begin to panic. It must show on your face because the man immediately stops in his tracks. "I will not hurt you. I will promise as many times as is needed." His voice is quiet but firm. Somehow it soothes your wounded soul. You stare back at the man, who is now kneeling in the room. "I will make any oath you wish, but please let me tend to your injuries." Your injuries are not really a worry for you. Your life is pain and suffering. Why should you care? Still, that gaze makes you feel odd. His eyes are hazel, and terribly kind. They remind you of times before the void. Before the pain and the cycle. Of soothing touches and warmth. Parents... The fragment of a memory fades. What was all that about? Why are those eyes so sad when he looks at you? Why do you know he is sad? You stare at the man. Could it really be? Does he actually want to help you? Or just trick you? You could let him help you... assuming he actually wants to help. You doubt you can run away or grab a weapon anymore. Definitely not hide. You already tried that. <<set $hide_coping to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You only nod. What else is there to do?|Chapter1_injury_treating][$hide_coping to $hide_coping+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You close your eyes and pretend he is not here.|Chapter1_injury_treating][$hide_coping to $hide_coping+2]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ The man smiles at you. “Could I come a bit closer. Perhaps sit down.” He gestures to a chair by the table. “I already promised not to hurt you. There is much to discuss. I am sure you have questions.” You eye the man warily. True. You do have questions. You give a miniscule nod. You don’t see a way out. The man drags a wooden chair from the nearby table next to your bed and sits down in it. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He looks at you with those kind eyes.|Explanations]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>

<<if $gardenespace is true>>\ Sure, it looks pretty, but you won't be fooled! The grass may be soft, the gentle wind may feel good and the place smell nice, but you were in the void. You were alone, only your pain for company. This is either a dream or a trap. Running away is the only course of action. So, you rise, and on wobbly weak legs you begin to run towards an opening between the buildings surrounding the garden before the man can catch up! <<else>>\ It's a pretty garden. You don't feel like running away anymore. Maybe it's a trick. Maybe it's just to make the pain and the void even worse. Somehow you feel that maybe people who have such a pretty garden can't be the same ones that you knew. The bed was nice too, so maybe this is just a dream, and you are really in void. Maybe the cycle broke your mind so badly your brain can't cope with reality anymore. You don't know. All you know is that the grass beneath you is soft, the gentle wind feels good and it smells nice in this paradise. Even if it is just a delusion, even if reality will come crashing down at any moment, you want to stay here and just be for as long as you can. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard POV|Chapter 1_3_escape_Havard_POV]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h3>Havard POV</h3>\ Havard was shocked when the $child went out the window. He had gone to check on the other children as he did every few hours. For the past two days, he had been sitting and watching over his new charge to ensure they would not be alone when they woke up. Everyone had been eagerly waiting to meet $himher officially, and Havard had decided that only one person should be present to not overwhelm $himher. The poor $child must have been startled to awake alone in a strange place, though if $hisher reaction to seeing him was anything to go by, this would have gone horribly in any case. Not that Havard had expected much different considering the circumstance Lord Sheo had saved the $child from. Still, the dash for the window stumped him but the shock held him for only a moment before he was in motion, running for the window. It led to one of the inner gardens of the orphanage. <<if $gardenespace is true>>\ He got to the window just in time to see a small shape running on unsteady legs towards the arch that lead to the hallways of the orphanage between the inner gardens. <<if $naked is true>>\ Unfortunately, that small form was completely naked. <<else>>\ Unfortunately, that small form only clutched the cloak left by Lord Sheo around $hisher shoulders as $heshe ran. <</if>>\ Havard sighed. He could already hear the gasps and rumors when someone saw the running figure. Hopefully no one outside the orphanage heard about it. Children running around indecently was not the sort of reputation that the orphanage needed before it was even officially opened. He really should not have put all the clothes he had gotten for the child into the drawer but left some next to the bed instead. His main worry however, was for the $child. $capitalheshe <<was>> weak and wounded. Who knew when the last time $heshe had some physical exercise was? Pushing $himselfherself to run would not be good. What if $heshe fell? Or got lost? Havard had to catch up quickly to minimize the risk of the $child getting hurt any more. Life had been unkind enough. With determined steps, he took off after his newest charge. <<if $injured > 0>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ As soon as he climbed out the window and got onto the white marble, Havard froze. He saw a trail of droplets on the white ground, a trail made from black mucky blood that reminded him of the stuff Lord Sheo had drawn out from those horribly mangled hands. The $child was hurt and bleeding! Havard pursed his lips and took off at full speed. He cast a spell on his communication pin to inform every Silver Protector on duty to catch the $child as soon as possible! And as gently as possible! Still the orphanage was huge, and this area had been purposefully left sparsely populated in case the child woke up and panicked at seeing so many armed people. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ There was a lot of mucky blood, and Havard sprinted faster than he had in years. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Havard POV|Chapter 1_3_escape_runnning_injured]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Havard POV|Chapter 1_3_escape_runnning]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ Rushing to the window himself and looking out he found a small shape just outside, kneeling in the grass. The $child was slowly looking around with wide disbelieving eyes. <<if $naked is true>>\ They were completely naked, the cloak given by Lord Sheo, having gotten lost somewhere. It was not difficult to figure out that said cloak was still in the bed, so with quick steps Havard grabbed it. <<else>>\ The small form clutched the cloak left by Lord Sheo around $hisher shoulders. <</if>>\ Havard gently went outside into the garden. For a moment he watched the $child looking around the garden as if in a daze. Then Havard approached the small form. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Havard POV|Chapter 1_3_escape_garden]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

<h3>Your POV</h3>\ You run as fast as your wobbly legs can carry. It's not very fast at all. You stumble and almost fall every step, but you waddle forwards with the power of panic and terror. You run and run, as fast as you can. Despite your wobbly burning legs, you run. This place was huge! The floor was some kind of white stone and there were so many hallways and doors. So you just pick randomly. You have no idea where you are, or where you are going, but you just run. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ You feel pain from every step. Your legs are sore and weak but far more painful is the broken hand that jostles and flaps as you ran. You notice the very noticeable trail of dark muck you are leaving behind easily enough. Following you would be easy. Still, you do not stop. This pain is still nothing to you. <<else>>\ It took you a while to notice you are leaving a trail dark muck after you. It is not a huge trail but clearly visible on the white floor. It would not be difficult to follow you. Still, you do not stop running. <</if>>\ You have to run away. You are out from the void and the cycle! Maybe this is all a delusion of your mind, but there is no void surrounding you, no chains digging into your flesh. No cycle to torment you. You are out! So all you need to do for now is run. Except you can hear voices and footsteps all around you. This whole place is coming alive. Or maybe it was always alive. It is huge however, and you have not run into anyone. Though you think you saw some people but dared not stop to see properly. Unfortunately, you are not exactly hard to track, probably due to the tail of dark, mucky blood. Almost immediately you hear hurried footsteps behind you. Of course, the man who made you run in the first place is following you! Your trail is very clear, and the man does not need to slow down to consider anything. He just runs, much faster than you are capable of. Looking back you see the man. He is catching up really quickly. So, you run harder! You think you heard the man shout something, but you don't care. You need to get away! No more void! No more pain! The man is right behind you so you have to run! Run! Run! RUN! <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Until your legs give out.|Chapter 1_3_escape_runnning_injured2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h3>Your POV</h3>\ <<set $SawTheSeaC1 to true>>\ You run as fast as your wobbly legs can carry. It's not very fast at all. You stumble and almost fall every step, but you waddle forwards with the power of panic. You must not be captured again! You run and run, as fast as you could. This place was huge! The floor was white stone of some kind and there were so many hallways and doors. So, you just picked randomly. You had no idea where you were, or where you were going. You just had to run away. You were out from the void and the cycle! Maybe this is all a delusion of your mind, but there is no void surrounding you, no chains digging into your flesh. No excruciating agony. So, all you need to do for now was run. Except you could hear voices and footsteps all around you. This whole place was coming alive. Maybe it had been alive all along. You think you see some people in passing but you don’t dare stop to see. Luckily this place is massive, and it seems that you You dash and turn corridors, stumbling onwards as best you can. It is practically a miracle you can move; your legs are burning. But this pain is nothing compared to what you are used to. You think you hear some surprised exclamations a few times. Did people see you? Are they chasing you? Were these the people who had put you into the void? Or was there some reason that you were a surprising sight? <<if $naked is true>>\ Maybe because you are as bare as the day you were born. <<else>>\ Maybe because you are only covered by a cloak as you run. <</if>>\ Or maybe random children are not supposed to be running about. Barely running about, almost falling down every step but clinging stubbornly to movement. Who knows? You sure don't. You just need to keep ahead of the man who you are sure is following you. The man who had entered the room you woke up in. However, it's not like you are leaving a trail on these white stone floors. It is not that easy to track you. You realize that you are actually pretty clean as you stumble forwards. You think you were dirty in the void? What happened? Did somebody clean you? You did wake up in that fluffy bed. Maybe cleaning you was necessary to not dirty the bed. The bed was nice. If this is a delusion, then the bed was the best part by far. Maybe you can dream of the bed if you are captured again. Or if this turns out to be a delusion and you wake up in the void again. For now, you keep going. You come across another garden! Would it be safe to stop here? You think your legs will give out if you do stop. So no, you can not stop out here in the open. There is a building nearby, made of the same white stone you have been seeing everywhere here. Right against a wall in fact. A big wall or stone that extends in both left and right to the edges of the garden and beyond. Could there be a way out? You head towards the building. The door is hard. Your hands are so useless, all bandaged up. Your fingers are so clumsy. But somehow you manage to pull on the door handle and the door opens. You wobble inside, lean on the door to close it and take a look around. It is a room, much like the room you woke up in. Similar décor with wooden furniture. A bed, a table, a dresser. A window on the far wall. It is the window you head towards on unsteady legs. You doubt you can keep running. Your legs are shaking violently. Then you freeze in place. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You gaze out in awe at the vast expanse before you|Chapter 1_3_escape_runnning2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Your poor little legs just give out from under you. You only notice because your view changes suddenly. You are in the air. You are falling. The ground will be hard. It will hurt. You were running so hard and fast. But the pain of falling is nothing. It is the fact that you will be caught again that makes you despair. There was grass in the garden you had passed through. This place had light. The bed had been warm.... Now there would be only the cycle between void and pain. You close your eyes and accept your fate. You wait for the pain.... and wait... and wait... Something warm and gentle wraps around you. Your eyes fly wide open. You are held in the arms of the man who was chasing you. "You are hurt!" he says firmly startling you a bit. His voice is firm but not cruel, his hold on you is so gentle. Your injuries are not really a worry for you. Your life is pain and suffering. Why should you care? <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your hand is broken, because you broke it. But it's all messed up anyway. All twisted and wrong, even if you had not broken it. It hardly matters. <<else>>\ It's just a bit of bleeding. Your hands are a mess anyway. It hardly matters. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[But the man is making such an odd expression.|Chapter 1_3_escape_runnning_injured3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

That gaze makes you feel odd. His eyes are hazel, and terribly kind. They remind you of times before the void. Before the pain and the cycle. Back when there was light and soothing touches. Parents... The fragment of a memory fades. What was all that about? Why is this man so sad when he looks at you? Why do you know he is sad? You try to back up, and get out of his hold. Gentle it may be, but your mind conjured up images of grasping and probing hands. Of knives carving into you. You begin to panic. It must show on your face and in your body because the man immediately reassures you. "I will not hurt you." His voice is quiet but firm. Somehow it soothes your wounded soul. You stare back at the man holding you gently. "I will make any oath you wish, but please let me tend to your injuries." You stare at the man. Could it really be? Does he actually want to help you? Or just trick you? <<set $chapter1_runnning_injured3 to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You try to strugle and make some sort of noise.|Chapter 1_3_escape_runnning_injured4][$chapter1_runnning_injured3 to $chapter1_runnning_injured3+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You only nod. What else is there to do?|Chapter 1_3_escape_runnning_injured4][$chapter1_runnning_injured3 to $chapter1_runnning_injured3+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You close your eyes and pretend he is not here.|Chapter 1_3_escape_runnning_injured4][$chapter1_runnning_injured3 to $chapter1_runnning_injured3+3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $chapter1_runnning_injured3 is 1>>\ <<addcareful -5>><<addstoic -3>><<addHavard -5>>\ Of course, the sounds you make are not very comprehensible. More like a terrified animal trying to run away. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ At your thrashing clumsy movement, your broken hand spurts out some more black muck. It falls onto the pristine floor in an ugly mess. <<else>>\ At your thrashing clumsy movement, some droplets of dark murky blood fall to the ground from your injured fingers, staining the while floor. <</if>>\ It makes you freeze. The man would surely be angry at the mess. "Please." The man pleads. His grip on you is firm but so gentle still. You could not escape. "Let me help you." His voice is so soft and gentle. So sincere. What else could you do but just nod? The man looks so relieved. <<elseif $chapter1_runnning_injured3 is 2>>\ <<addinnocence -3>><<addstoic 5>><<addHavard 5>>\ At your nod, the man looks so relieved. You stare at the man silently. His eyes are so kind. The grip on you is firm but so gentle. You could not espcape and you do not really want to. You observe his face silently. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand hurts and is bleeding some more black muck onto the pristine white floor. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers are leaking some droplets of dark murky blood onto the pristine white floor. <</if>>\ The man looks so worried. <<elseif $chapter1_runnning_injured3 is 3>>\ <<addescape 5>><<addinnocence 3>><<addHavard 5>>\ With your eyes closed, you feel pretty good. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Sure your broken hand hurts and is probably bleeding out some more black muck onto the prisite floor. <<else>>\ Sure your injured fingers are probably leaking some droplets of dark murky blood onto the prisite white floor. <</if>>\ But the grip on you is firm but so gentle. You could not espcape and you do not really want to. With your eyes closed like this, you could pretend you are in that fluffy bed. "Please." The man pleads. "Let me help you." His voice is so soft and gentle. So sincere. What else could you do but just nod? Slowly you open your eyes. He looks so relieved. <</if>>\ "Thank you." The man says to you. Like you had given him some great gift. Gently, the man lifts your tiny form fully into his arms. As if you are some precious thing. It is so at odds with how you have been treated for so long, you have no idea how to feel. <<set $coping to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[So you laugh.|Chapter 1_3_escape_runnning_injured5][$coping to $coping+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[So you just tune everything out. Go numb.|Chapter 1_3_escape_runnning_injured5][$coping to $coping+2]]</div> <<if $selfharmoptions is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You don't like feeling unsure. Much like you don't like your hands. Maybe you should just... end it all.|Chapter 1_3_escape_runnning_injured5][$coping to $coping+3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You just close your eyes, and enjoy being carried.|Chapter 1_3_escape_runnning_injured5][$coping to $coping+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You feel a spark of anger.|Chapter 1_3_escape_runnning_injured5][$coping to $coping+5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $coping is 1>>\ <<addmadness 5>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ It is a horrible sound. Unhinged and mad. The sound of your broken laughter makes the man carrying you stop. Your frame shakes with your laughter. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you. <</if>>\ It's funny. How the blackness stains his robes. You laugh and laugh. Until you hear the man speak. "Child, you are safe here. No one will hurt you. I swear it on my life." He whispers to you, his voice so kind and gentle. Those hazel eyes bore into your soul. So sad and kind. It is unbearable. Why does he look at you like that? The laughter freezes on your face. <<elseif $coping is 2>>\ <<addnumbness 5>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ You go practically limp. Your face goes blank. The void welcomes you home. There is safety in the void. In here, nothing matters. The world disappears and you are alone again. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you. <</if>>\ It doesn't matter. Nothing matters. There is only the void. You stare at the man carrying you with empty eyes, lost in the void. He looks back at you and frowns just a bit. He stops walking. "Child, you are safe here. No one will hurt you. I swear it on my life." He whispers to you, his voice so kind and gentle. Those hazel eyes bore into your soul. So sad and kind. It is unbearable. Why does he look at you like that? The void you have created shakes. <<elseif $coping is 3>>\ <<addselfharm 5>>\ What could you do though? <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your hand is already broken. It spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you. <<else>>\ Your fingers are bleeding already. As you ponder, they leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you. <</if>>\ You do have teeth... and a tongue. What if you just... bit down real hard... Would it all end? You don't know. Can people die from that? Are you really even a person? Biting down on your tongue would hurt but you are no stranger to pain. Pain is your constant companion, from the knives cutting and pliers tearing to the void and the cycle. Pain is familiar. But would you go back to the void? That would be no good. The void is a major reason you want to do this... Choices... choices... So tempting to just... try and bite down until your tongue snaps into two. No more pain. No more suffering. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You decide to embrace the thoughs.|Chapter1_tongue_biting]]</div> </div><</nobr>>\ <<elseif $coping is 4>>\ <<addescape 5>>\ <<addHavard -5>>\ You close your eyes and enjoy the warmth of being carried in someone’s arms. You remember how //something// carried you from the void. It feels a bit like that. Closing your eyes makes it feel like you are safe. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand hurts, and probably spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers slightly hurt and probably leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you. <</if>>\ But your eyes are closed, and you cannot see any of that. It feels safe, as if the things one cannot see, could not hurt you. <<elseif $coping is 5>>\ <<addanger 5>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ You are getting angrier and angrier. You are being carried again. Like back when //something// saved you from the void. But this also reminds you of back when you were first kidnapped. Sure, this man is gentle but the memory makes you angry. So you attempt to lash out. To break his hold on you. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand stings, and spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you as you attempt to strike at him. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you as you attempt to strike at him. <</if>>\ His demeanor never changes. He only glances down at you and stops as he sees your face. "I am sorry for picking you up like this but you are hurt and tired." He says gently. "So please let me carry you. You are safe here. No one will hurt you, I swear it on my life." He whispers to you, his voice so kind and gentle. Your anger wavers in the face of his gentle words and kind demeanor. At the hazel eyes looking straight into your soul. So sad and kind. It is unbearable. Why does he look at you like that? <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He carries you back to the room you escaped from.|Chapter1_injury_treating]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $got_injured_c1 to true>>\ <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "hide" or $HavardMeetingReaction is "naked" or $HavardMeetingReaction is "injured" or $HavardMeetingReaction is "frozen">>\ The man comes closer to you. <<if $hide_coping is 1>>\ <<addstoic 5>><<addnumbness 5>>\ You watch passively as he approaches. You cannot bring yourself to care. What does it matter if the man comes closer. <<elseif $hide_coping is 2>>\ <<addinnocence 5>><<addescape 5>>\ Everything is fine. You hear his footsteps and know he is right in front of you. It is fine. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ The man sits you down on the bed you woke up from. It was not that long ago, but it feels like an eternity has passed. <</if>>\ <<if $naked is true>>\ The first thing he does is gently wrap a cloak around you. It was in the bed where you woke up from. Somehow this odd cloak feels safe and warm against your skin. <<set $naked to false>>\ <<else>>\ The first thing he does is gently make sure you are properly covered by the cloak you found in the bed where you woke up. Somehow this odd cloak feels safe and warm against your skin. <</if>>\ "My name is Havard." the man says. "I will tell you more after tending to your wounds." The man has a name? No one told you their name in the void? Right. Injuries. You have some of those. In your life experience, your injuries are quite light, but Havard seems to disagree. Perhaps he has never been properly injured. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "weapon">>\ There is the matter of your leg. A shard of the flower vase is embeded in your flesh. "This will hurt a bit." Havard says as he gently grabs your leg. He looks over the wound at the piece of flower vase embedded deep within. With two fingers the man pinches the piece of the vase and you feel... something odd. A slight tingling. Then Havard just pulls out the shard. Sure, you feel a bit of pain, but it is nothing compared to what you are used to. You are more astonished that he just pulled it out. Havard produces a bottle of some clear liquid from his robes and pours is onto the wound on your leg. It really is a messy wound from the flower vase, ragged and gaping. The liquid could be water but glimmers in the light from the open window. You can feel the liquid soothing your leg, even if the pain was basically nothing to you. You are simply used to it. And the wound starts closing until it is much better, much to your astonishment. You think you feel astonishment? Emotions are so hard. Havard wraps your leg in bandages gently but tightly. <<set $injured to $injured - 1>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $injured > 0>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Then he very gently starts inspecting your broken hand. <<else>>\ Then he very gently starts inspecting injured fingers where the bandages came loose. <</if>>\ You simply sit there wary of this man, despite his seeming kindness. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ His face is very grim as he gently lifts your broken arm. It hurts but you don't make a sound. He looks at the broken bandages--at the odd angle your hand rests at. You really made a mess of it. You think there is some bone visible. It mkaes no difference to you. You blankly stare at the broken hand with no emotion. You had wanted to get rid of it. "What happened?" Havard asks gently. You lift your eyes to his. Those hazel eyes full of sadness and sorrow stare into your soul. Why does he look so sad? Why does he stare at you like that? Not with hatred or indifference. Why does he not carve and tear at your flesh like the others did? It feels so odd. You want to squirm under that gaze. You think he knows what you did to your arm. You are not sure, but it feels like he knows that you did this yourself. But why does that make you feel so odd? Like you did something wrong? Your hand is wrong, so you tried getting rid of it. Still, you are not sure what to say to this strange man, whose eyes you suddenly can't meet. He does not press you for an answer. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He gently starts treating your broken hand.|Chapter1_injury_treating_broken_hands]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ "What happened?" Havard asks gently. You lift your eyes to his. Those hazel eyes full of sadness and sorrow stare into your soul. Why does he look so sad? Why does he stare at you like that? Not with hatred or indifference. Why does he not carve and tear at your flesh like the others did? It feels so odd. You want to squirm under that gaze. Still your gaze flicks to the drawer that caused your bandages to come loose. The man follows your gaze and sees the drawer. He asks no more questions. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He starts treating your bleeding fingers.|Chapter1_injury_treating_fingers]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\ <<else>>\ There are no more injuries for him to treat. Instead, Havard drags a wooden chair from the nearby table next to your bed and sits down in it. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He looks at you with those kind eyes.|Explanations]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

<h3>Your POV</h3>\ You notice the man coming towards you with silent steps. <<if $injured > 0>>\ As soon as he got remotely close to you, the man froze. His gaze was fixed on the ground you were kneeling on. You feel something wet and glance down. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ <<addHavard -20>>\ There was a lot of mucky blood dripping from your broken hand. The vibrant grass under you was stained with the dark murky blood. <<else>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ Your injured fingers were bleeding slightly but the dark murky droplets were visible against the vibrant short grass. <</if>>\ The man observed you from head to toe and his gaze immediately snapped to your hands. "Your hand!" He rushes forward, startling you. You try to back up, but you are kneeling in the grass, and the man is quick. Your mind conjured up images of grasping and probing hands. Of knives carving into you. You begin to panic. It must show on your face because the man immediately stops in his tracks. But the man is making such an odd expression. That gaze of his makes you feel odd. His eyes are hazel, and terribly kind. They remind you of times before the void. Before the pain and the cycle. Back when there were light and soothing touches. Parents... The fragment of a memory fades. What was all that about? "I will not hurt you. I swear it." His voice is quiet but firm. Somehow it soothes your wounded soul. You stare back at the man. Why is this man so sad when he looks at you? Why do you know he is sad? "I will make any oath you wish, but please let me tend to your injuries." You stare at the man. Could it be? Does he actually want to help you? Or just trick you? <<set $chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You try to run and make some sort of noise.|Chapter 1_3_escape_garden_injured][$chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured to $chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You only nod. What else is there to do?|Chapter 1_3_escape_garden_injured][$chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured to $chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You close your eyes and pretend he is not here.|Chapter 1_3_escape_garden_injured][$chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured to $chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured+3]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ Your head turned to the man. The garden was beautiful and sunny. It had been a perfect moment for you. Grass, sunlight, the wind. All things you barely remember but desperately need now that you have seen them all. You did not wish to go back to the void. Maybe this was a delusion, but could your damaged mind even dream up such a paradise? The man stopped walking some way away from you. He seemed worried but unwilling to come closer. You somehow know this. Perhaps he was worried you might still run away. "Hello there. Are you enjoying the garden?" His voice is so gentle. Somehow it soothes your wounded soul. You stare back at the man silently. Is he not attacking you? Locking you up again? <<if $naked is true>>\ "Could I offer you this? You are a bit underdressed child." The man asks and shows you a cloak. Looking down, you see you are still naked aside from the bandages covering your arms. <<if $chapter1_2 is 1>>\ Earlier you were comfortable naked. You still figure you should put on the cloak and wrap it around you. It seems something the man would prefer. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 2>>\ Earlier you were a bit cold and wanted something to wear anyway. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 3>>\ You are embarrassed about someone seeing you naked. You accept the cloak and cover yourself. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 4>>\ You are really embarrassed about being naked and your face feels really hot. You quickly accept the cloak and cover yourself. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 5>>\ You didn't mind being naked earlier! It was sort of freeing! You figure you should still put on the cloak. It seems something the man would prefer. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 6>>\ Well this is new... He wants you to put on a cloak? That is not the way it usually goes. No one cares if you are naked. But if that is what the man wants, you suppose you should oblige him in case he gets violent if you disobey. <</if>>\ You wrap the cloak around yourself as best you can with your mangled bandaged hands. <<else>>\ "I see you have the cloak. That is good. Your savior gave it to you. It is yours now." //Something// gave you the cloak? Why would they do that? Did that mean that //something// brought you here? You stare at the man expectantly, silently demanding answers. <</if>>\ “Now then. Would you be willing to head back into the room you woke up in? There is much to talk about, and I am sure you have questions.” You eye the man warily. True. You do have questions. You give a miniscule nod. You don’t see a way out. “Can you walk back into the room, or perhaps I could carry you if needed?” You don’t much care for the idea of the man coming closer to yoy, let alone carrying you. Do you have much choice? You try to stand and find that your legs refuse to co-operate anymore. It seems kneeling in the grass has not helped with your already far too wobbly legs. “We could also stay out here for our talk?” the man says. “Just nod if you wish to stay out here. Otherwise, I will assume I may carry you.” <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[ Let him carry you to the bed you awoke in.|Explanations]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Nod and indicate that you want to stay out in the garden.|Explanations][$stay_in_gardenc1 to true]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

<<if $chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured is 1>>\ <<addcareful -5>><<addstoic -3>>\ Of course, the sounds you make are not very comprehensible. More like a terrified animal trying to scare away a predator. You try to rise and run but something warm and gentle wraps around you. Turning back, your blood freezes in terror. You are held in the arms of the man who was chasing you. You attempt to break free without success. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ At your thrashing clumsy movement, your broken hand spurted out some more black muck. It fell onto the grass below in an ugly mess. <<else>>\ At your thrashing clumsy movement, some droplets of dark murky blood fall to the grass from your injured fingers. <</if>>\ "Please. I cannot let you run away. Don't hurt yourself." The man pleaded. His grip on you was firm but so gentle still. You could not escape. "Let me help you. Treat your wounds." His voice was so soft and gentle. So sincere. What else could you do but just nod. <<elseif $chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured is 2>>\ <<addinnocence -3>><<addstoic 5>>\ At your nod, the man looked so relieved. His eyes were so kind. He approached you carefully and you stare at the man silently, observing his face. Why does he look at you like this? Like you matter to him. Like you were not just a piece of meat to carve up. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand hurts and spurted out some more black muck. It fell onto the grass below in an ugly mess. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers are leaking some droplets of dark murky blood onto to the grass below. <</if>>\ The man looked so worried as he hurries to you. <<elseif $chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured is 3>>\ <<addescape 5>><<addinnocence 3>>\ With your eyes closed, you feel pretty good. The world dissapears. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Sure, your broken hand hurts and is probably bleeding out some more black muck onto the grass below. <<else>>\ Sure, your injured fingers are probably leaking some droplets of dark murky blood onto the grass below. <</if>>\ The grass was soft, the sunlight warm. You could pretend With your eyes closed like this, you could pretend you were in that fluffy bed. Like everything was fine and nothing bad had ever happened. Everything was fine. "Please." The man pleaded. "Let me help you." His voice was so soft and gentle. So sincere. It invaded your tranquil world. What else could you do but just nod. Slowly you opened your eyes. He looked so relieved. <</if>>\ "Thank you" the man said to you. Like you had given him some great gift. Gently, the man lifted your tiny form fully into his arms. As if you were some previous thing. It was so at odds with how you had been treated for so long, you had no idea how to feel. <<set $coping to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[So you laugh.|Chapter 1_3_escape_garden_injured2][$coping to $coping+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[So you just tune everything out. Go numb.|Chapter 1_3_escape_garden_injured2][$coping to $coping+2]]</div> <<if $selfharmoptions is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You don't like feeling unsure. Much like you don't like your hands. Maybe you should just... end it all.|Chapter 1_3_escape_garden_injured2][$coping to $coping+3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You just close your eyes, and enjoy being carried.|Chapter 1_3_escape_garden_injured2][$coping to $coping+4, $escape to $escape+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You feel a spark of anger.|Chapter 1_3_escape_garden_injured2][$coping to $coping+5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1>Chapter 4 -- Friendship?</h1>\ <<set $chapter = 'Chapter 4'>>\ You wake with a jolt, shooting up in bed, your ruined hands grasping at your face in a panic. You are drowning! Air, you need to breathe! Where are you? What is happening? The panic is overwhelming. Breathe… breathe. Focus on breathing…. As you draw in gasping shallow breaths, you realize you are not in fact drowning….Blood is not filling your mouth and rushing into your lungs.... But you feel like there was something else important… Your eye! Your fingers! Gone! Taken! Stolen! Your fingers! Check your fingers! You stare, and stare, vision blurry. Slowly your hands come into focus. Bandaged and ruined they may be, but all of them are there. What of your eye? You test it out, closing one eye at a time. After a moment, you are fairly certain that you can see out of both eyes. What was that dream? Was it true? It seemed so vivid. What was that about a <font face='splater'>legacy</font>? Your <font face='splater'>mind? A sense for the world</font>? It is so hard to keep a hold of the dream, to remember. Was it a nightmare? How could it be true since you have all your extremities? It can't be true right? Just a nightmare. It must be. You have your eye, your fingers. You are not drowning in your own blood. There is no talking head that seemed oddly familiar... What was the word for the head in the dream... You cannot remember. The dream cannot be true. It’s just a dream. A nightmare. You can have nightmares? It seemed impossible in the void; your whole existence made any potential nightmares pointless. Pleasant even in those endless hours when the void took you away from the pain. At least at first… Before the cycle, and even more pain. Before your brain was broken. Your mind is foggy, refusing to remember the past. The dream looked like the time before the void, in your vague recollection, yet the nightmare is already fading. Just like your memories before the void. Yet you remember the cuts and bruises, the pliers and tearing flesh. At least until you grew numb to it. You have all your fingers and eyes. The dream cannot be true! They cannot have taken so pieces of you. It’s not possible. You have your fingers, and eyes! You would not have them anymore had they been stolen from you! Or is this the dream? Maybe that was reality? Did they take you out of the void and start carving into you again. Maybe there was no void to begin with? What if the void was just the escape of a mind too broken to take it anymore. Maybe that was reality, and this is the dream? Maybe you are still strapped to that table, just like in the dream, that might be real. You are breathing hard and feel lightheaded. Panic grips you. A far too familiar feeling these days—still better than the void. You are breathing but not really feeling it. You need air. You need to breathe! "Are you alright?" A concerned voice asks. What was that? The panic makes it hard to focus. You need to breathe. Someone asked you a question. You are not alone... Did you know that voice? Wait…. What woke you up? How long has it been? Your head snaps up in a panic and you recoil backwards. What breath is in your lungs escapes as your back hits the wall next to the bed. Your eyes focus on the intruders. That did not sound like Havard or Lexia. The voice was different. Who is here? Have the bad people come back for you? But Lexia promised to protect you! She promised! <<if $LexiaOath is 2>> Even if you did not believe her… Is that why this is happening? <<elseif $LexiaOath is 1 or $LexiaOath is 3>> You trusted her oath! Believed in her words! You were a fool.<</if>> Your back presses harder against the wall, eyes snapping to the intruders in your room. The very tiny intruders… about your own size in fact. Huh… that is a bit odd, isn’t it? There by your bedside two tiny people stare at you. Children… or at least, you think these are children. They seem similar in size to you, at least compared to Lexia and Havard, and you are a child… You think. That is what your mind is telling you even amidst all the panic. You stare back frozen. They caught you completely off guard. How did they even get into your room? Shouldn’t Lexia be nearby? Havard? <<if $LightSwitch>>\ Wait… The light panel thing! It felt like the cycle! It caused you pain… It felt like it did in the void, when the chain made you hurt... So much pain... Even now, you are not immune to it. Not to this pain, at least... Why? What happened? Did the void not take you back? Where are the bad people? Instead… You are still in your room, and being watched by two tiny people… What is going on? Did Lexia trick you? Is she bad? Havard? Is this still a dream? A delusion? Some new trick? Does it matter? Lexia and Havard are not here right now... Were they ever even real? Was it all just your mind trying to trick you? What is happening? Is any of it real? It does not matter. There are two tiny people here that require your attention in some manner… You should focus on that. <</if>>\ It is an odd sensation, being stared at with such… curiosity? Is it curiosity? It is not hostility, not indifference or cruelty. Curiosity seems to fit. Perhaps… if you are not terribly wrong, excitement. They seem excited. Is that a good thing? Or a bad thing? You think it would have been worse if the bad people seemed excited before carving into you… But your inner sense of things tells you this is different. They stare at you. You stare at them. The world is silent and all three of you wait for something. This is new... You have no memory of something like this ever happening. Have you ever met another tiny person, a child, aside from yourself? You don’t know. Maybe, before the void in the past you cannot remember. Assuming such a time ever actually existed. Are tiny people the same as big people? You are quite different from Havard and Lexia but you might not be a person, even if you mainly look like one. Then again, Lexia and Havard are quite different from each other too. Except they both smile at you a lot. Like a lot. You wonder if their faces are just stuck that way, but they make other expressions too. They look very similar to each other. The one closer to your bed is staring at you with concern, even leaning closer to peer at you. Her face is so easy for your internal sense to read… So expressive. Nothing like you, you have no idea how to do all those expression things properly. Even after practicing in the mirror. Slightly further back stands the other child. This one is also staring at you but with a blank face. Nothing like the other child, this face barely moves. You can relate, though your face seems to do things without you knowing. Still, something inside you, your internal sense, tells you this child is just as worried as the other one. Their faces are so similar. Both have short blond hair and green eyes. Very similar bright eyes… nothing like your dull $EyeColor ones. Who are these small people? Why are they here? Thinking on it, you remember something Havard and Lexia told you. That at this place, this orphanage, there were two other children already. Twins. Twins means they look really similar, or so you vaguely think. Therefore... <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[These two must be the twins.|Chapter 4_1]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $chapter = 'Chapter 3'>> //Whatever your character is a boy/girl/child is chosen in the Havard interlude. Skipping to chapter 1 means that the choice needs to be made now. This will set the pronouns used (he/she/they). Skipping also mean no varibales have been set in Chapter 1. Therefore errors may occur or the text may significantly lack flavor text. // The child is a <<listbox '$gender'>> <<option 'boy'>> <<option 'girl'>> <<option 'child'>>. <</listbox>> <<set $codex to true>> //In addition, the codex has been unlocked.// <<button 'OK' 'Chapter 4 dream fadein'>> <<if $gender is 'girl'>>\ <<set $heshe to 'she'>>\ <<set $capitalheshe to 'She'>>\ <<set $hisher to 'her'>>\ <<set $capitalhisher to 'Her'>>\ <<set $himher to 'her'>>\ <<set $capitalhimher to 'Her'>>\ <<set $hishers to 'hers'>>\ <<set $capitalhishers to 'Hers'>>\ <<set $himselfherself to 'herself'>>\ <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>>\ <<set $child to 'girl'>>\ <<elseif $gender is 'boy'>>\ <<set $heshe to 'he'>>\ <<set $capitalheshe to 'He'>>\ <<set $hisher to 'his'>>\ <<set $capitalhisher to 'His'>>\ <<set $himher to 'him'>>\ <<set $capitalhimher to 'Him'>>\ <<set $hishers to 'his'>>\ <<set $capitalhishers to 'His'>>\ <<set $himselfherself to 'himself'>>\ <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>>\ <<set $child to 'boy'>>\ <<else>>\ <<set $heshe to 'they'>>\ <<set $capitalheshe to 'They'>>\ <<set $hisher to 'their'>>\ <<set $capitalhisher to 'Theirs'>>\ <<set $himher to 'them'>>\ <<set $capitalhimher to 'Them'>>\ <<set $hishers to 'theirs'>>\ <<set $capitalhishers to 'Theirs'>>\ <<set $himselfherself to 'themself'>>\ <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Themself'>>\ <<set $child to 'child'>>\ <</if>>\ <</button>>

Meeting Sheo: awakening: your blood carries the legacy of RACE NAME; Your race created by Sheo in the void to fight it right after the . The origin of your race has long since been forgotten, and your blood diluted and mixed with the other races of Wocdes. You yourself has no idea of the secret you carry. One day, a stranger passes you by and you fall your your knees. Your blood awakens, your body shakes and tears fall from your eyes. The long lost blood in your veins is calling out to the stranger in a primal need, filling your mind with only one thing. You know you must talk to them! Must hear their voice for it will bring untold joy and elation! You must press every detail of their face to memory. If they leave you now, if they ignore you, your heart will break, your mind and body will shatter! Such is the calling of your blood. You desperately try to call out, but no sound escapes your lips as you realize that the stranger stands in front of you. He is the only thing in your vision. Everything else is unimportant. Everything else melts away and suddenly you stand in a void of darkness the stranger before you. Expectation smothers your lungs. You dare to glance into his eyes and for a moment see into eternity. All your breath escapes you. You mind cannot comprehend the endless depths of the strangers eyes. You reel back as pain erupts in your head, you scream and cover your eyes with your hands. You feel dizzy, nauseous and you sway on your feet. You begin to fall but something steadies you. The world explodes in pain and joy, and you grin and cry like never before just as the darkness takes you. %You try to open your eyes but you see nothing. You realize that the stranger had cau out with a steadying hand. He lays his hand on your shoulder. EDIT THAT TO MATCH WHATEVER IS NEEDED Explanations about why you were tortured (or best guess) legacy of blood. Sheo says the legacy means nothing if MC does not want it to. Freedom. If MC wants to learn more, Sheo will only reveal a little (reaction tot hat could be coping, or complete rejection/not caring could also be coping) since the MC blood is tied to him, he may be used to try and get to Sheo Sheo makes a promise. Always help when asked/needed (needs to have some limits but essentially MC should be able to call upon Sheo, this should maybe be limited to childhood/defensless, can't be a get out of jail free card).

The revelations about you worry you. You in turn worry others. The twins want to cheer you up. The kids sneak out and get into trouble. New character (child of a whore, famous brothel)? Fun time until unsavory sort takes you (probs underworld stuff, maybe prostotution, see how far we can push that, potentially the villain who experiments on children and adults is paying for test subjects, will later find his lab as a Silver protector). New character sneaks away and runs to the orphanage/brothel to get help, meets Lexia looking for the missing trio. Alerts the protectors. Lexia does her duty. Does anyone get hurt? Should someone get hurt? What did you do or did not do to protect the twins? You have been though worse afterall but do you want no more pain or is it better to make yourself the target to help the twins. The twins should be adorable and nice and innocent, need to be established beforehand. Someone is hurt? YOu? Twins? The COOL BROTHEL LADY, mother of new character arrives with guards, ready to put down the lowlives. Worried about "sweet little things". Orphanage far away, but brothel has a healing bath. Lexia agrees to get hurt persons there. Brothel shenanigans (innocent children question things), Lexia very innocent? Naughty? Havard arrives, worried "scolding" to the four kids (yes four, the extra one does not phase him at all). Brothel LADY to Lexia about Havard "Now that is a good man." after witnessing the scolding that includes her own child. Agreement for playdates and lessons are set between the adults for new character and trio. The twins, one in each hand pull you out from the darkness (should have that smoewhere, whatever figurative or literal) Admiration. Plans for the future. Need to have character time with twins (comfort etc. they are orphans but have not really encountered evil.) Need to thank new character, in whatever way our MC chooses to. Engraving proof of your existence somewhre in the orphanage/brothel/firgrat. Should have a scene to reflect ont hat as an adult. TIMESKIP? Or coping, maybe coping first then timeskip. Then magic lesson -> more coping, should probably have some fluff after timeskip first

Injuri to MC: "Magicians syndrome" overexposure to ardor. Later in life, magic can cause spasaming and intense pain. Hands never fully recover, and must be covered. in special glowes to try and mitigate exposure to ardor. Also look horrible. Ocasional spasms and twitches to be expected. Grip strength an issue? There needs to be a magic chapter where child MC learns about their disadvange. And ways are needed to make them feel better. Possibly they ask for help again, alone and scared. That could be the promise sheo makes due to the legacy carried in MC blood. To always answer the call for help. Twins/brothel kid comforting (maybe choose one who comes to comfort you first at the behest of the group and them group hug!) Options for Havard and Lexia as well. //Shoud there be option to choose a room here?Or later?// Posibbly Abalf giving the lesson: (or maybe first someone else, they ask for a volunteer and then choose MC, but MC hands start hurting despite bandages, which MC of course is used to pain and figuring this out takes someone good at reading MC: one of the twins or Havard.) Abalf steps in and explains something. "All the magic, all the mana, in the world flows right through there." He pointed at the tower. "This is the center of Wocdes, here all the beginng and end of the Eternal Flow. All the flows congrigate here, and are redistrubuted and sent back out into the world." "It makes this city the most magical in the world, there is much more mana here, the air is filled with it, the colors are more vibrant, plants stronger, grass greener. Nearly all elsewhere the Flows are equal, but here they are strongest.

Duty as Silver protector, go to save a child (should do this a couple of times during duties, each tragic stories, maybe each one shold be a whole "PArt" in the story, definitely in Firgrat, and at least one away. at least one street rat (fight against a gang), one with abusive parents (maybe noble, some political stuff), remote sacrificial village (against the village tradition). An done in Firgrat where the child is only survivor of mad wizard experimentation, tons of bodies and gore and terrible things, ancients should show up for this one. The child has also been maimed, a missing hand. The MC can emphatize with their messed up hands, even show them. Usually covered by gloves/magic and MC rarely shows them Because they are shy/sad or beucase they make other people ask quostions/uncomfortable/ covering them just makes life easier. Anyway the current one: This one goes fine at first. Tell victim some stories (or a companion does) about asking for help. They did not know the stories. Trap spring on you. Fight. Everybody is down. Hope is lost. The villain is too strong/ maybe too clever and trap went off since MC + posse should kick ass, the villain can be a bit stonger since Sheo will break some bones anyway. On the edge of passing out, you hear VICTIM whisper. "Please, help us." The words give you strength. You laugh in delight. (maybe some more options) Villain "What are you laughing ahout?" MC "Because I know what happens next. Absent hope, VICTIM asked for help." You smile. (the victim is a possibility another child, a cycle or maybe both of you ask for help). "And you believe something heard?" "You don't know the stories?" OPTION 1 "I know he did. He always does." OPTION 2(shoud foreshadow beforehand more than just in prologue, perhaps with stories told to VICTIM by MC while saving them). Villain laughs. A cruel sound. Nothing happens. DESPAIR:::: The laughter stops. You look up. The villain is frozen. A calm and soothing voice echoes is the hall. "Do you wish to live?" You whip around. There he is. Standing in front of victim. "Yes." THE VICTIM whispers in a hoarse voice. "Let us go then, and leave this place behind." Lord Sheo gently picks up the victim who immediately falls asleep in his arms. Lord Sheo then turns to you. "Hello $MCname." He gives you a small smile. "Good job." Pride swells in your chest (and other OPTIONS). "Would you like some assistance as well." Before you can answer, the villain charges lord Sheo. And is blasted back, and crashes into a wall with a sickening crack. Lord Sheo raises an eyebrow. "Or perhaps that is enough. I believe I broke some bones." (If you have injuries, option to have them healed/I good, gonna kick villains ass/ you could just kill villain straight out? (He won't) etc. POtential ending: Fail in the fight (do not heal or something) and MC dies -> Villain celebrates for a moment before Sheo kills them, and probably quite a bit collateral damange.

<<set $injured to 0>>\ <<if $angry_at_being_carried_about is true>>\ <<addanger 5>> Of course you are angry! At everything! Your life is worth being angry at! Your anger has no effect on reality. It rarely does. When you make noises and try to resist, Havard gently just adjusts you. "Apologies child, I promise to get you a way to get around without being carried as soon as possible." He does seem serious. Maybe he really does mean it? Not like you have a choice in the matter at the moment. <</if>> Havard carries you back to the room you woke up in earlier. This time you pay more attention on the way back, looking around. This place seems massive, all corridors made of some white stone. Lots of doors. The most interesting thing by far you see are the gardens. All lush greenery, flowers and trees. So different from the void. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "escape">> There seems to be more than just the garden you saw earlier while escaping the room you woke up in. <</if>> Once back in your room, Havard sets you down on the bed. Your injuries been tended to now. <<if $brokenhands is true>>The black muck has stopped dripping from your broken hand. The bandages clean and neat around a brace holding your hand rightly in place, magic dulling the pain. <<set $brokenhands to false>><<else>>Your bleeding fingers have been wrapped neatly in more bandages. <</if>> <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "weapon">>\ As was your leg earlier, the shard removed, the flesh healed and bandages wrapped around it. <</if>>\ Havard drags a wooden chair from the nearby table next to your bed and sits down in it. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He looks at you with those kind eyes.|Explanations]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Havard starts listing lots of names. You must listen patiently to see if one comes up that sounds familiar. <<else>>\ Havard waits patiently while you consider what your name could be. <</if>>\ It has been a long time since you considered if you have a name. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Male names|Male names]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Female names|Female names]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Neutral names|Neutral names]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Input your own|Choose name]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["I don't know. I don't remember." you say.|No name]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[Shake your head, you don't know. You don't remember.|No name]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Tristan|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Tristan']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Wilmot|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Wilmot']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Tomkin|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Tomkin']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Juhel|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Juhel']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dane|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Dane']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Mauger|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Mauger']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Quinn|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Quinn']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Serill|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Serill']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Gabrien|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Gabrien']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Reese|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Reese']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Charlie|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Charlie']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Gervis|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Gervis']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Ysaac|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Ysaac']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Berenger|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Berenger']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Radolf|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Radolf']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Go back|Names]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Ann|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Ann']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Alison|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Alison']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Catherine|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Catherine']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Melisant|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Melisant']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Emmelin|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Emmelin']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Lina|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Lina']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Janat|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Janat']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Gisella|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Gisella']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Emblin|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Emblin']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Miriella|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Miriella']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Amelia|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Amelia']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Yseult|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Yseult']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Simona|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Simona']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Imania|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Imania']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Elsie|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Elsie']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Go back|Names]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[River|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'River']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Avery|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Avery']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Ezra|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Ezra']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Kai|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Kai']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Nova |Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Nova']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Rowan|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Rowan']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Quinn|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Quinn']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Cameron|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Cameron']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Ash|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Ash']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Remy|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Remy']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Robin|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Robin']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Sage|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Sage']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Carey|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Carey']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Rene|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Rene']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Ariel|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Ariel']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Erin|Chapter 1_4][$MCname to 'Erin']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Go back|Names]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

What is your name? <<textbox '$MCname' $MCname>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Proceed|Chapter 1_4]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[[Go back to choose from the provided options|Names]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

"You don't remember?" The expression on Havard's face is odd as he studies you. Not angry. Not cruel. It seems somehow soft and ... sad? Is it sadness? Why do you know it is sadness? You don't remember what expressions are like, yet he has been showing you so many today and you know what they are. Why? Perhaps you should stand in front of the big mirror later and see your own face to study expressions? But what do you even look like? You have no idea. What sort of expressions do you make? Can you even make expressions? Or was the ability lost to the void and pain? Maybe if you survive here, you can find out. Still, you are not quite sure what to make of the expression Havard is making. You seem to know what it is; you just don't know what you can do. How are you supposed to respond? How do people know what to do? All you have is the void, the pain and cycle. // What do you do?// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Shake you head. You really don't remember.|No name 2]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["I really don't remember" you say.|No name 2]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[Wait, I remember now! (go back to choose)|Names]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

"Your name is $MCname?" <<if $MCname is 'Sheo'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the story already. You may proceed but the story may become confusing.''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Elri'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the story already. You may proceed but the story may become confusing.''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Abalf'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the story already. You may proceed but the story may become confusing.''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Havard'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the story already. You may proceed but the story may become confusing.''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Lexia'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the story already. You may proceed but the story may become confusing.''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Atru'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the story already. You may proceed but the story may become confusing.''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Azha'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the story already. You may proceed but the story may become confusing.''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Hassimir'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the mythos of the story already. ''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Istar'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the mythos of the story already. ''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Irosia'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the mythos of the story already. ''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Alessa'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the story already. You may proceed but the story may become confusing.''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Sandor'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the story already. You may proceed but the story may become confusing.''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Ethel'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of a character in the story already. You may proceed but the story may become confusing.''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Mavia'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the mythos of the story already. ''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Vismay'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the mythos of the story already. ''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Finia'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the mythos of the story already. ''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Malegon'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the mythos of the story already. ''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Nuaran'>>\ //''Please note that the name '$MCname' is the name of an important character in the mythos of the story already. ''// <<elseif $MCname is 'Mara'>>\ Havard looked a bit suprised at first, but now his voice sounds very soft as he askes this. His face is a mixture of sadness and nostalgia... Or so your internal sense things. Why? You have no idea. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Yes!|Chapter 1_5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[No wait, I got it wrong!|Names]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"Would you like me to give you a name?" Havard says gently. Such a nice soothing tone. "Or perhaps you would like to choose one yourself?" He looks at you expectantly. A name? You? People are supposed to have names… But are you really a person anymore? You have a vague idea of being a person once before the void, even if it is a faint idea and nothing concrete. Now? The void, the cycle and all that came before it did not render your personhood invalid? Havard seems to think you are a person. Maybe it’s ok for things that may or may not be people to have names as well? You have a notion that having name would be useful. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod. You would like a name from Havard.|Havard_names_you]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["Yes please. I would like a name." you say.|Havard_names_you]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You are not sure, maybe your name will come back to you.|Need_time_for_name]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Do you really need a name? You are fine without one.|Dont want a name]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head. You want to choose your own name.|Choose name]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["No. I want to choose my own." you say.|Choose name]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[No wait, I remember now! (go back to the lists)|Names]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $named_by_Havard is not true>>\ <<if $MCname is 'Rowan'>>\ Something seems to pass through Havards eyes, his face doing something. Perhaps sadness or recognition, something tells you. It is hard to tell, faces are hard. People can actually tell what some things faces do mean? "It is a fine name." He says very softly. What is that all about? You don't have time to consider as Havard smiles at you. <<elseif $MCname is 'Erin'>>\ Something seems to pass through Havards eyes, his face doing something. Perhaps sadness or recognition, something tells you. It is hard to tell, faces are hard. People can actually tell what some things faces do mean? "It is a fine name." He says very softly. What is that all about? You don't have time to consider as Havard smiles at you. <<elseif $MCname is 'Ash'>>\ Something seems to pass through Havards eyes, his face doing something. Perhaps sadness or recognition, something tells you. It is hard to tell, faces are hard. People can actually tell what some things faces do mean? "It is a fine name." He says very softly. What is that all about? You don't have time to consider as Havard smiles at you. <<elseif $MCname is 'Kai'>>\ Something seems to pass through Havards eyes, his face doing something. Perhaps sadness or recognition, something tells you. It is hard to tell, faces are hard. People can actually tell what some things faces do mean? "It is a fine name." He says, seemingly lost in thought. What is that all about? You don't have time to consider as Havard smiles at you. <<elseif $MCname is 'Mara'>>\ Something seems to pass through Havards eyes, his face doing something. Perhaps sadness or recognition, something tells you. It is hard to tell, faces are hard. People can actually tell what some things faces do mean? "It is a fine name." He says very softly. What is that all about? You don't have time to consider as Havard smiles at you. <<else>>\ Havard smiles at you. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ Havard smiles at you. <</if>>\ <<if $named_by_Havard is true>><<notify 3s>>You have been given your name by Havard.<</notify>>\ "Now that we have a first name, do you also want a last name?" <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Havard starts listing lots of very odd last names. You again listen patiently to see if one comes up that sounds agreeable. <<else>>\ Havard waits patiently while you consider what your last name could be. For some reason the names you think up are very odd. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ "Now that we have a first name, do you have a last name?" <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Havard starts listing lots of very odd last names. You again listen patiently to see if one comes up that sounds familiar. <<else>>\ Havard waits patiently while you consider what your last name could be. For some reason the names you think up are very odd. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Strongmight|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Strongmight']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dustbelly|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Dustbelly']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Phoenixstrike|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Phoenixstrike']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Hallowpunch|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Hallowpunch']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Whitleaf|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Whitleaf']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Graytrap|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Graytrap']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Skyscribe|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Skyscribe']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Glorybrand|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Glorybrand']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Crystalshadow|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Crystalshadow']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Slatespark|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Slatespark']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Twilighttide|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Twilighttide']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Emberhelm|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Emberhelm']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Wheatglade|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Wheatglade']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Meadowbrew|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Meadowbrew']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Hallowedbreaker|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Hallowedbreaker']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Regaldream|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Regaldream']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Marblepunch|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Marblepunch']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Nethermaw|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Nethermaw']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Stardust|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Stardust']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Stillwhisper|Chapter 1_6][$lastname to 'Stillwhisper']]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["I have no last name" you say.|No lastname]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[["I don't know" you say.|No lastname]] </div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head. You have no last name.|No lastname]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare blankly while thinking that you have no idea.|No lastname]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[[Input your own last name.|Choose lastname]]</div> </div><</nobr>> /*<<elseif $name is 'Ariel'>>\ <<elseif $name is 'Nova'>>\ */

Your last name is $lastname? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Yes!|Chapter 1_7]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[No wait, I got it wrong!|Chapter 1_5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"You have no last name?" Havard asks tilting his head. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Yes!|Chapter 1_7]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[No wait, I forgot!|Chapter 1_5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

What is your last name? <<textbox "$lastname" $lastname>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Proceed|Chapter 1_6]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[[Go back to choose from the provided options|Chapter 1_5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $MCmetTwins to true>>\ You were supposed to meet them eventually… is this eventually? How long were you out? <<if $LightSwitch>> True, it could have been for a while after the light switch thing, and the adults migth be mean after all... But you feel like it can’t have been that long…<</if>> There is something odd, you feel like there is something that might tell you more... Oh. It is dark outside. The window shows that. You have to think about it. The sky goes dark during the night, right? So... It is night. Is it the same night? You have no way of knowing. But this is your room? You have a vague sense that people are not supposed to be in your room. Shouldn’t they have their own Protector and Custodian? <<if $LightSwitch>> Though... Can you trust anything you have been told? <</if>> You assume these tiny people, the twins, should not be wandering about alone. Did they run away? Are their Custodian and Protector mean? Did they run away because of that? “Hey!” The one closer to you waves her hands at you. “You should really start breathing again! You stopped a good while back.” What is she on about? Breathing? Why would you not be breathing? Then you remember drowning in your own blood…. Oh, you were drowning in your dream. Unable to breathe out here too… You need air, it all espaced when your back hit the wall. You need air! The surprise drove away what air you had… You are not breathing! You need to breathe. Your hands grasp at your throat. They are of course useless at this, much like most other things. Not sure it would work, even if your hands were not broken. You are panicking! You claw at your throat, but your bandaged fingers are ineffective. Your gaze spins around the room from one thing to another, looking for something, anything… Then stops at the two tiny figures next to you. You stare at the twins…These are children like you. They will probably not drag you to the void, will they? They are at least roughly your own size, maybe you could fight back if they do. Your hands are bad but it’s still more than you have ever had before, and these two are orphans like you. Living here at the orphanage. Children like you… not trying to harm you. They in fact seem to be whispering to each other, likely trying to figure out what to do. You find that your panic has faded somewhat. It lets you think. It lets you remember. <<if $blades_trauma>>\ You remember how Havard made you breathe during your haircut. In and out. You mimic that action now, closing your eyes and forcing yourself to take a breath. You can sort of feel the twins staring at you, curious and worried. But you have no time for that right now. You need to breathe. In and out. In and out. In and out. And it works. Even without Havard, you can breathe with the method he used before to help you breathe! But you need to focus. In and out. In. Out. You are breathing easier now. More calm. More steady. In and out. Your breathing is now pretty normal. You think… it’s hard to tell. You are breathing and not suffocating. That will have to do. So, you slowly open your eyes and find two pairs of green eyes very close to your face. Both twins are leaning in, cheek in cheek, curiously staring at you. They are so close… <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Your wings adjust a bit in surprise.|Chapter 4 wings]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Your tail swishes nervously.| Chapter 4 tail]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("horns")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Their eyes slowly shift to your horns.| Chapter 4 horns]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Their eyes slowly shift to your animal ears.| Chapter 4 animal ears]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>> <div class="choice-item"> [[ Their eyes slowly shift to your hair.| Chapter 4 hair]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("scales")>> <div class="choice-item">[[ Their eyes are fixed on your face. The scales.| Chapter 4 scales]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears")>> <div class="choice-item">[[ Their eyes slowly shift to your pointed ears.| Chapter 4 pointed ears]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>> <div class="choice-item">[[As they stare, your eyes shift. Or so you think by the way they draw back in surprise.|Chapter 4 eyes]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("sea")>> <div class="choice-item">[[They stare at the fins on your face.|Chapter 4 fins]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[They just stare at you.|Chapter 4 normal]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ What can you do? You need to think. How can you calm down? You need to breathe. That is the key. Breathing… How does one breathe? You have no idea. “Atru! Help me!” The closer twin says, grabs your hand and pulls you away from the wall. Your bandaged weak hands have no power to resist her, especially as your other hand is held by the other twin. The two tug you closer to them. You panic even more. Being pulled against your will is no fun… What are they doing? You trash and try to escape, but you are weak, and it is two against one. You brace for whatever horrors they plan to do to you… You hope it is not too bad. You close your eyes and prepare for the pain to come. There is a small amount of pressure on your back… That’s how it starts… Soon something will dig into your flesh, carve away at you. How could you believe Havard and Lexia about being safe here… These children must be just as cruel as the people who took you. You can only shiver and wait for the knives, and pliers and pain. The small pressure on your back grows stronger… What are they doing? It does not feel sharp. Almost… Almost like a pair of small hands rubbing your back. Why would you feel that? “Atru, it’s not working! Let’s try patting!” That’s one of the twins… Patting? What are they on about? The rubbing on your back turns into pats… Just that. You open your eyes… The twins have pulled you forwards enough and are now patting your back. Both of them. They keep staring at you and patting your back. Are they… Are they trying to help? You think so… Even if they are more helpful in spirit than actuality. They look so worried… Well one of them does, though your internal sense is telling you that even the one with the blank face is worried. Something deep inside you… loosens. They don’t want to hurt you; they are doing their best to help you breathe. Even if they went about it in a rather bad manner. These tiny people are trying to help you. Or it is some ruse to make you lower your guard, but it hardly matters now. You need to breathe, or nothing will matter ever again. Maybe. You focus on the rhythm of their patting, closing your eyes again. Despite it all, they are doing it evenly. In and out. You try breathing together with their little pats. In and out. In and out. Something eases. Air enters your lungs. In. Out. “It’s working! Pat harder!” The patting increases in speed and messes up your rhythm. Luckily there is already air in you, and Your breathing is steady enough to survive now. You think… it’s hard to tell. You are breathing and not suffocating. That will have to do. So, you slowly open your eyes, and nearly recoil. Both twins are leaning in really close, one on either side of you. They are still patting your back, but that is secondary to the intent staring aimed at you. You have no idea what to do under those expectant gazes. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Your wings adjust a bit in surprise.|Chapter 4 wings]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Your tail swishes nervously.| Chapter 4 tail]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("horns")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Their eyes slowly shift to your horns.| Chapter 4 horns]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Their eyes slowly shift to your animal ears.| Chapter 4 animal ears]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>> <div class="choice-item"> [[ Their eyes slowly shift to your hair.| Chapter 4 hair]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("scales")>> <div class="choice-item">[[ Their eyes are fixed on your face. The scales.| Chapter 4 scales]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears")>> <div class="choice-item">[[ Their eyes slowly shift to your pointed ears.| Chapter 4 pointed ears]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>> <div class="choice-item">[[As they stare, your eyes shift. At least based on how they draw back in surprise.|Chapter 4 eyes]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("sea")>> <div class="choice-item">[[They stare at the fins on your face.|Chapter 4 fins]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[They just stare at you.|Chapter 4 normal]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>

<<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "weapon">>\ Havard pours more of that liquid, this time into your mess of a hand. The effect is immediately soothing, even you could tell the mess that is your broken hand was hurting quite a lot. <<else>>\ Havard pours a bit of something onto your broken hand. It really is a mess. The liquid could be water but glimmers in the light from the open window. You can feel the liquid soothing your hand, even you could tell the mess that is your broken hand was hurting quite a lot. You are simply used to it. <</if>>\ Havard makes a tsk sound. "This is not enough for such a wound. Can you walk on your own or should I carry you again? We need to head to the healing baths." Healing baths? What are those? You vaguely remember baths, soaking in water, or so you think. But healing baths? Are baths healing? Are baths good for you? Questions for later... probably. If you can talk properly. You had all those issues in the void... For now, you have no choice but to do as he asks. As much as you want to do something, Havard is helping you. Imagine that, someone is //helping you//. No one ever helped you in the void. Not before //something// came. The liquid the man applied feels nice too. Is that water from the healing baths? All you can do is decide if you want to be carried again. <<set $brokne_hands_treating to 0>>\ <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "weapon">>\ Of course considering that your leg was recently wounded as well, there is not much option. Your leg has been mostly healed but you don't think it is all healed. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Let Havard carry you.|Chapter1_injury_treating_broken_hands2][$brokne_hands_treating to $brokne_hands_treating + 2]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<elseif $gardenespace is true>>\ Of course, you ran around earlier, trying to escape Havard. Your legs are shaking even just sitting there. There is no way you can walk on your own, and Havard can see it with a glance. There is no option. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Let Havard carry you.|Chapter1_injury_treating_broken_hands2][$brokne_hands_treating to $brokne_hands_treating + 2]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Get up on your own.|Chapter1_injury_treating_broken_hands2][$brokne_hands_treating to $brokne_hands_treating + 1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Let Havard carry you.|Chapter1_injury_treating_broken_hands2][$brokne_hands_treating to $brokne_hands_treating + 2]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

<<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "weapon">>\ The man pours more of that liquid, this time onto your injured fingers. The effect is immediately soothing, even if you did not know they hurt in the first place. <<else>>\ For your fingers, the man simply pours a bit of something that might be water but glimmers in the light from the open window. You can feel the liquid soothing your fingers, even if you did not know they hurt in the first place. <</if>>\ "There we are. The healing water has done what it can. Now I will just redo the bandages. They need to be tight. Then we can talk properly. Just be patient for a bit longer." Havard tells you. You have no choice but to do as he asks. As much as you want to do something, Havard is helping you. Imagine that, someone is //helping you//. No one ever helped you in the void. Not before //something// came. The liquid the man applied feels nice too. Healing water? Is that different from normal water? You think it is. Your injuries been tended to now. Your bleeding fingers have been wrapped neatly in more bandages. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "weapon">> As was your leg earlier, the shard removed, the flesh healed and bandages wrapped around it. <</if>> Havard drags a wooden chair from the nearby table next to your bed and sits down in it. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He looks at you with those kind eyes.|Explanations]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $naked to false>>\ <<addstoic 1>>\ <<if $chapter1_2 is 1>>\ You are fine being naked. It doesn't really bother you. But you do want he cloak even so. It might be useful later. So you nodded to accept. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 2>>\ It was a bit chilly out here so while you were not bothered about being naked you did want the cloak. The cloak would help with the cold. You are fine being naked. It doesn't really bother you. So you nodded to accept the cloak. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 3>>\ You are embarased about someone seeing you naked. Being alone is one thing, but some stanger seeing you. Not what you wanted so you nodded to accept the cloak. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 4>>\ You are really embarased about being naked and your face feels really hot. Being naked was not something you wanted so you quickly nodded to accept the cloak. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 5>>\ You don't mind being naked! It is sort of freeing! Still the cloak could be useful. So you nod to accept it. <</if>>\ "All right. I will approach then. Please remain calm." immediately panic floods you. You try to back up but you are kneeling and stumble. Your mind conjured up images of grasping and probing hands. You begin to panic. The man immeditelly stops in his tracks. But the man is making such an odd expression. That gaze makes you feel odd. His eyes are hazel, and terribley kind. They remind you of times before the void. Before the pain and the cycle. Back when there was light and soothing touches. Parents... Why is this man so sad when he looks at you? "I will not hurt you. Only put the cloak on you." His voice is gentle but firm. You stare back at the man. "I will make any oath you wish, but please let me put the cloak on you. There are explanations and introductions to make as well." You stare at the man. Could it be? Does he actually want to help you? Or just trick you? <<set $chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You try to run and make some sort of noise.|Chapter 1_3_escape_garden_injured][$chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured to $chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You only nod. What else is there to do?|Chapter 1_3_escape_garden_injured][$chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured to $chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You close your eyes and pretend he is not here.|Chapter 1_3_escape_garden_injured][$chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured to $chapter1_3_escape_garden_injured+3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

NEED TO EDITS! <<if $chapter1_2 is 1>>\ <<addstoic 1>>\ You are comfortable without the cloak you don't need it so you shake your head. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 2>>\ You were a bit cold but you were also wary of the man. Also the sunlight was warm. So you shake your head. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 3>>\ You are embarased about someone seeing you naked, but you are also wary of the man. So you shake your head. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 4>>\ You are really embarased about being naked and your face feels really hot, but you are also wary of the man. So you shake your head even as you hope you could accept. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 5>>\ You don't mind being naked! It is sort of freeing! So you shake your head at the man. <</if>>\ The man studies your face intently. "Well if you are sure. But the cloak is here." His voice is very gentle as he speaks. "May I sit out here as well?" The question surprises you. Why is he being so... nice? It is confusing. You think about telling him to go away. About leaving you alone if he isn't going to hurt you. You aren't even sure you can speak after so long in the void but you could try. But the man is making such an odd expression. That gaze makes you feel odd. His eyes are hazel, and terribley kind. They remind you of times before the void. Before the pain and the cycle. Back when there was light and soothing touches. Parents... Why is this man so sad when he looks at you? "I will not hurt you." His voice is gentle and quiet but firm. You stare at the man. "I will make any oath you wish, but I need to stay with you. Explain what is happening." You stare at the man. Could it be? Does he actually want to help you? Or just trick you?

<<if $coping is 1>>\ <<addmadness 5>>\ It is a horrible sound. Unhinged and mad. The sound of your broken laughter makes the man carrying you stop. Your frame shakes with your laughter. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you. <</if>>\ It's funny. How the blackness stains his robes. You laugh and laugh. Until you hear the man speak. "Child, you are safe here. No one will hurt you. I swear it on my life." He whispers to you, his voice so kind and gentle. The laughter freezes on your face. <<elseif $coping is 2>>\ <<addnumbness 5>>\ You go practically limp. Your face goes blank. The void welcomes you home. There is safety in the void. In here, nothing matters. The world dissapears and you are alone again. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you. <</if>>\ It doesn't matter You stare at the man carrying you with empty eyes, lost in the void. He looks back at you and frowns just a bit. He stops walking. "Child, you are safe here. No one will hurt you. I swear it on my life." He whispers to you, his voice so kind and gentle. The void you have created shakes. Why does his tone make you waver? <<elseif $coping is 3>>\ <<addselfharm 5>>\ What could you do though? <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your hand is already broken. It spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you. <<else>>\ Your fingers are bleeding already. As you ponder, they leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you. <</if>>\ You do have teeth... and a tongue. What if you just... bit down real hard... Would it all end? You don't know. Can people die from that? Are you really even a person? Biting down on your tongue would hurt but you are no stranger to pain. Pain is your constant companion, from the knives cutting and pliers tearing to the void and the cycle. Pain is familiar. But would you go back to the void? That would be no good. The void is a major reason you want to do this... Choices... choices... So tempting to just... try and bite down until your tongue snaps into two. No more pain. No more suffering. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You decide to embace the thoughs.|Chapter1_tongue_biting]]</div> </div><</nobr>>\ <<elseif $coping is 4>>\ <<addescape 5>>\ You close your eyes and enjoy the warmth of being carried in someones arms. You remember how //something// carried you from the void. It feels a bit like that. Closing your eyes makes it feel like you are safe. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand hurts, and probably spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers slightly hurt and probably leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you. <</if>>\ But your eyes are closed and you can not see any of that. It feels safe, as if the things one can not see, could not hurt you. <<elseif $coping is 5>>\ <<addanger 5>>\ You are getting angrier and angrier. You are being carried again. Like back when //something// saved you from the void. But this also reminds you of back when you were first kidnapped. Sure this man is gentle but the memory makes you angry. So you attempt to lash out. To break his hold on you. <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand stings, and spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you as you attempt to strike at him. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you as you attempt to strike at him. <</if>>\ His demeanor never changes. He only glances down at you and stops as he sees your face. "I am sorry for picking you up like this but you are hurt and tired." He says gently. "So please let me carry you. You are safe here. No one will hurt you, I swear it on my life." He whispers to you, his voice so kind and gentle. Your anger wavers in the face of his gentle words and kind demeanor. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He carries you back to the room you escaped from.|Chapter1_injury_treating]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set _answer to "">> Please input a Password to continue. <<textbox "_answer" "">> <<button "Check Password">> <<if _answer is "">> /% They have not supplied an answer. %/ <<script>>UI.alert("You did not supply a password!");<</script>> <<else>> /% Remove extra white space from both ends of the answer then convert it to lowercase. %/ <<set _answer to _answer.trim().toLowerCase()>> /% Check if one of the correct answers was supplied, otherwise send them to the Start passage. %/ <<if _answer is "first correct answer">> /% Send the Reader to the next relevant passage. %/ <<goto "First Correct Answer Passage">> <<elseif _answer is "second correct answer">> /% Send the Reader to the next relevant passage. %/ <<goto "Second Correct Answer Passage">> <<elseif _answer is "third correct answer">> /% Send the Reader to the next relevant passage. %/ <<goto "Third Correct Answer Passage">> <<else>> /% Send the Reader to back to the start. %/ <<goto "Start">> <</if>> <</if>> <</button>>

<<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'> ''Prologue -- Shattered self''</font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'Prologue 1'>><</cont>>

<<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'> ''Interlude -- Havard''</font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 200%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''The Head Custodian of Firgrat Orphanage'' </font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'Interlude Orphanage 1'>><</cont>>

<<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'> ''Chapter 1 -- First Impressions'' </font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'Chapter 1_1'>><</cont>>

<<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'> ''Chapter 4 -- Friendship?''</font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'Chapter 4_0'>><</cont>>

That gaze makes you feel odd. His eyes are hazel, and terribly kind. They remind you of times before the void. Before the pain and the cycle. Back when there was light and soothing touches. Parents... The fragment of a memory fades. What was all that about? Why is this man so sad when he looks at you? Why do you know he is sad? You try to back up and get out of his hold. Gentle it may be, but your mind conjured up images of grasping and probing hands. You begin to panic. It must show on your face and in your body because the man immediately reassures you. "I will not hurt you." His voice is gentle but firm. Somehow it soothes your wounded soul. You stare back at the man holding you gently. "I will make any oath you wish, but please let me tend to your injuries." You stare at the man. Could it be? Does he actually want to help you? Or just trick you? <<set $chapter1_runnning_injured3 to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You try to strugle and make some sort of noise.|Chapter 1_3_weapon3][$chapter1_runnning_injured3 to $chapter1_runnning_injured3+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You only nod. What else is there to do?|Chapter 1_3_weapon3][$chapter1_runnning_injured3 to $chapter1_runnning_injured3+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You close your eyes and pretend he is not here.|Chapter 1_3_weapon3][$chapter1_runnning_injured3 to $chapter1_runnning_injured3+3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $chapter1_runnning_injured3 is 1>>\ <<addcareful -5>><<addstoic -3>><<addHavard -5>>\ Of course, the sounds you make are not very comprehensible. More like a terrified animal trying to run away. <<if $injured > 1>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ At your thrashing clumsy movement, your broken hand spurted out some black muck. It fell onto the rug underneath in an ugly mess. <<else>>\ At your thrashing clumsy movement, some droplets of dark murky blood fall to the ground from your injured fingers, staining rug underneath. <</if>>\ The dark muck mixed with crimson bleeding from your leg, and the water from the broken flower vase. The combination had made a massive mess. <<else>>\ The crimson bleeding from your leg and the water from the broken flower vase mix together on the floor. The combination had made a massive mess. <</if>>\ It made you freeze. The man would surely be angry at the mess. "Please." The man pleaded. His grip on you was firm but so gentle still. You could not escape. "Let me help you." His voice was so soft and gentle. So sincere. What else could you do but just nod. The man looked so relieved. <<elseif $chapter1_runnning_injured3 is 2>>\ <<addinnocence -3>><<addstoic 5>><<addHavard 5>>\ At your nod, the man looked so relieved. You stare at the man silently. His eyes were so kind. The grip on you was firm but so gentle. You could not espcape and you did not really want to. You observed his face silently. <<if $injured > 1>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand hurts and is bleeding some more black muck onto the rug underneath. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers are leaking some droplets of dark murky blood onto the rug underneath. <</if>>\ The dark muck mixed with crimson bleeding from your leg, and the water from the broken flower vase. The combination had made a massive mess. You didn't really care. Neither did the man, he just looked so worried. <<else>>\ The crimson bleeding from your leg and the water from the broken flower vase mix together on the floor. The combination had made a massive mess. You didn't really care. Neither did the man, he just looked so worried. <</if>>\ <<elseif $chapter1_runnning_injured3 is 3>>\ <<addescape 5>><<addinnocence 3>><<addHavard 5>>\ With your eyes closed, you feel pretty good. <<if $injured > 1>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Sure your broken hand hurts and is probably bleeding out some more black muck onto the rug underneath. <<else>>\ Sure your injured fingers are probably leaking some droplets of dark murky blood onto the rug underneath. <</if>>\ The dark muck was probably mixing with crimson bleeding from your leg, and the water from the broken flower vase. Maybe there was a huge mess. But the grip on you was firm but so gentle. You could not espcape and you did not really want to. With your eyes closed like this, you could pretend you were in that fluffy bed. <<else>>\ The crimson bleeding from your leg and the water from the broken flower vase mix together on the floor. Maybe there was a huge mess. But the grip on you was firm but so gentle. You could not espcape and you did not really want to. With your eyes closed like this, you could pretend you were in that fluffy bed. <</if>>\ "Please." The man pleaded. "Let me help you." His voice was so soft and gentle. So sincere. What else could you do but just nod. Slowly you opened your eyes. He looked so relieved. <</if>>\ "Thank you" the man said to you. Like you had given him some great gift. Gently, the man lifted your tiny form fully into his arms. As if you were some previous thing. It was so at odds with how you had been treated for so long, you had no idea how to feel. <<set $coping to 0>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[So you laugh.|Chapter 1_3_weapon4][$coping to $coping+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[So you just tune everything out. Go numb.|Chapter 1_3_weapon4][$coping to $coping+2]]</div> <<if $selfharmoptions is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You don't like feeling unsure. Much like you don't like your hands. Maybe you should just... end it all.|Chapter 1_3_weapon4][$coping to $coping+3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You just close your eyes, and enjoy being carried.|Chapter 1_3_weapon4][$coping to $coping+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You feel a spark of anger.|Chapter 1_3_weapon4][$coping to $coping+5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $coping is 1>>\ <<addmadness 5>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ It is a horrible sound. Unhinged and mad. The sound of your broken laughter makes the man carrying you stop. Your frame shakes with your laughter. <<if $injured > 1>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ Your leg keeps bleeding crimson onto the rug, maybe onto the man. It's funny. How the blackness stains his robes. The crimson on the rug and floor. What a grand joke it all is! You laugh and laugh. Until you hear the man speak. "Child, you are safe here. No one will hurt you. I swear it on my life." He whispers to you, his voice so kind and gentle. Those hazel eyes bore into your soul. So sad and kind. It is unbearable. Why does he look at you like that? The laughter freezes on your face. <<elseif $coping is 2>>\ <<addnumbness 5>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ You go practically limp. Your face goes blank. The void welcomes you home. There is safety in the void. In here, nothing matters. The world dissapears and you are alone again. <<if $injured > 1>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ Your leg keeps bleeding crimson onto the rug, maybe onto the man. It doesn't matter. Nothing matters. There is only the void. You stare at the man carrying you with empty eyes, lost in the void. He looks back at you and frowns just a bit. He stops walking. "Child, you are safe here. No one will hurt you. I swear it on my life." He whispers to you, his voice so kind and gentle. Those hazel eyes bore into your soul. So sad and kind. It is unbearable. Why does he look at you like that? The void you have created shakes. <<elseif $coping is 3>>\ <<addselfharm 5>>\ What could you do though? <<if $injured > 1>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your hand is already broken. It spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you. <<else>>\ Your fingers are bleeding already. As you ponder, they leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ Your leg is probably bleeding crimson onto the rug, maybe onto the man. How would you end it all right now? How hard it is to imagine. You do have teeth... and a tongue. What if you just... bit down real hard... Would it all end? You don't know. Can people die from that? Are you even a person? Biting down on your tongue would hurt but you are no stranger to pain. Pain is your constant companion, from the knives cutting and pliers tearing to the void and the cycle. Pain is familiar. But would you go back to the void? That would be no good. The void is a major reason you want to do this... Choices... choices... So tempting to just... try and bite down until your tongue snaps into two. No more pain. No more suffering. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You decide to embace the thoughs.|Chapter1_tongue_biting]]</div> </div><</nobr>>\ <<elseif $coping is 4>>\ <<addescape 5>>\ <<addHavard -5>>\ You close your eyes and enjoy the warmth of being in someones arms. You remember how //something// carried you from the void. It feels a bit like that. Closing your eyes makes it feel like you are safe. <<if $injured > 1>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand hurts, and probably spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers slightly hurt and probably leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ Your leg is probably bleeding crimson onto the rug, maybe onto the man. But your eyes are closed and you can not see any of that. It feels safe, as if the things one can not see, could not hurt you. <<elseif $coping is 5>>\ <<addanger 5>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ You are getting angrier and angrier. You are in his arms. Like back when //something// saved you from the void. But this also reminds you of back when you were first kidnapped. Sure this man is gentle but the memory makes you angry. So you attempt to lash out. To break his hold on you. <<if $injured > 1>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ Your broken hand stings, and spurts out some more black muck, staining the robes of the man holding you as you attempt to strike at him. <<else>>\ Your injured fingers leak some droplets of dark murky blood, staining the robes of the man holding you as you attempt to strike at him. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ You attempt to strike at him, your weak bandaged hands feeling useless. <</if>>\ His demeanor never changes. He only glances down at you and smiles a sadly, and yet he stops as he sees your face. "I am sorry for picking you up like this but you are hurt and tired." He says gently. "So please let me carry you. You are safe here. No one will hurt you, I swear it on my life." He whispers to you, his voice so kind and gentle. Your anger wavers in the face of his gentle words and kind demeanor. At the hazel eyes looking straigth into your soul. So sad and kind. It is unbearable. Why does he look at you like that? <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The man carries you back to the bed you woke up in.|Chapter1_injury_treating]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

[[Fairy Rings|xx][$favoritesnack to "fairy rings"]] [[Nuts|xx][$favoritesnack to "nuts"]] [[Sweetrolls|xx][$favoritesnack to "sweetrols"]] [[Cinnamonrolls|xx][$favoritesnack to "cinnamonrolls"]] [[Pancakes|xx][$favoritesnack to "pancakes"]] [[Heartstones|xx][$favoritesnack to "heartstones"]] [[Honey cakes|xx][$favoritesnack to "honey cakes"]]

You stare at the people bustling about the huge room. The kitchen, Lexia had called it. The woman in front of you looks at Lexia with an raised eyebrow. "Protextor Lexia, I believe you were banned from the kitchens today." She sounds a bit scary.... "Sorry, but I am showing our newest resident:" She indicated you. "Around and the kitchens are one of the most important stops." Lexia says. The woman's gaze turns to you, and it softens considerably. "Hello little one. Welcome to the orphanage." She says. "Don't let this one." She points at Lexia. "Teach you her bad manners." Lexia has bad manners? What does that mean? "Come on kid, just like we practiced." Lexia whispers to you. "Unleash the puppy dog eyes, and we might get some treats out of this." Right. She promised you something tasty. You have no idea what "cookies" are, but tasty sounds appealing. You tilt your head upwards, and try to make your eyes as wide as possible. Just like Lexia taught you. Innocent and pleading eyes, whatever all of that means.

<h1>Interlude – A Day of mystery</h1>\ <h2> The Twins -- Atru</h2>\ <h3>Early morning</h3>\ <<set $chapter = 'Interlude - Atru'>>\ <<set $TwinsProfile to true>><<notify 3s>>New character profile: The Twins<</notify>>\ "Wake up, little ones." The gentle voice and a light touch on Atru's shoulder roused him, like the first rays of dawn coaxing the world from slumber. Atru stirred, his eyes opening slowly, while Azha stretched next to him with a contented sigh, her endless energy already bubbling beneath the surface. He sat up and was still busy rubbing his eyes, while Azha practically jumped up from their shared bed. "Good morning!" Azha's enthusiastic voice was too loud for just having woken up. Atru opened his eyes just in time to see custodian Alessa smile at Azha. Atru liked how Alessa smiled, always so gently. How her silky chestnut hair fell in soft waves around her shoulders, framing a heart-shaped face. "Good morning, Azha. How did you sleep?" "I dreamed about climbing the Spire!" "Oh? So did you find out what is at the top?" "No..." Azha pouted. "But there were so many cool rooms! Like one filled with books! And butterflies! And ghosts!" Alessa smiled again. Her smile was so pretty. It made him feel warm on the inside. "Sounds wonderful. Perhaps we can hear all about it during breakfast?" Azha nodded her head vigorously at the question. Custodian Alessa turned to Atru, still sitting on the bed silently observing the conversation with a curious gaze, as if absorbing every detail of the morning scene. "Good morning Atru. Did you sleep well?" She smiled at him as well. Atru really like that smile. He wanted to answer her, to be brave like his sister and tell her he had never slept better than in the month the twins had been at the orphanage. But... it was just that Atru was still afraid of talking to people that were not Azha. It was something he had always struggled with, and the bad place had made him not want to talk at all. Even now, surrounded by people as nice as the custodians and protectors. The people at this orphanage were the nicest Atru had even met! Here the twins did not get yelled at! Or told to stay out of sight! Nobody told them to clean up the disgusting white and red stuff! And they got proper beds and clothes! And food! Here, nobody told Azha to shut up when she chattered about whatever caught her interest. Or called Atru creepy because he would not talk. Custodian Alessa was special even among the people of the orphanage. She was //their// custodian! She was kind and pretty and amazing! But Atru was still shy and afraid... so all he managed was a solemn nod in response to her question. Which was good! Atru did not manage to nod every morning, and the little gesture made Alessa smile wider! "Excellent! Another day filled with possibilities awaits my dears, so let's get the two of you washed up and changed." Soon Atru was washing his face next to Azha in front of the mirror and two basins of fresh water. As their eyes met Azha beamed at him, and he felt loved. Soon they were dressed and ready for the day. As always, Azha grabbed his hand before they followed Alessa out of their room ready to face the new day together! <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Atru had a good feeling about today.|Interlude_twins_2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $AlessaProfile to true>><<set $SandorProfile to true>><<notify 3s>>New character profiles: Alessa and Sandor<</notify>>\ Upon walking out of their room with Alessa, a cheerful voice called out to the twins immediately. "Good morning Atru and Azha! Did you sleep well?" The second person they met every morning was Protector Sandor, dressed in gleaming silver armor. He was beaming at them. He was really cool! A Silver Protector—chosen by the Ancients to safeguard the orphanage. Like Alessa, Sandor held a special place in the twins' hearts. Because he was //their// Protector. He was very comforting to Atru in a different way than Alessa. It was probably the cool shiny armor. "Good morning! Yes, we did!" Azha answered, beaming back at the man while Atru again observed silently. "I dreamed about the spire, and there were ghost and puppies!" Atru wondered if she had mentioned the puppies before. He did not think so. She never got all the details of her dreams right… or consistent. "Really? You will have to tell us all about it over breakfast!" Sandor said as he fell into step behind them. "And what about you, Atru?" Sandor asked, beaming at him. His heart beat faster, and his grip on Azha's hand tightened slightly. But then he relaxed as he remembered who was asking. They were no longer in that horrible place. Sandor would never shout at him or hit him. That's what their savior had said. That here the people would not be mean to them. The woman who had taken Atru and Azha away from the bad place had been what Atru thought what a mother or maybe a hero must be like. Strong, firm, brave, and awesome! She had brought them here, assuring them that the Custodians and Protectors were chosen by the Ancients to care for and protect orphaned children. That they would be loved and safe here. Atru trusted that woman, their savior, Irosia Elazor, one of the Ancients. Alessa had been teaching them about the Ancients. How they protected and ruled Firgrat and even the continent, and how they had founded this orphanage to take care of children like them. Atru wanted to meet them; and one day, he wanted to be able to thank them in words. Sometimes he thought his dreams were too big. Azha said that there was no point in dreams if they were not big. She was wise sometimes. They both knew that sometimes dreams did come true—they were here after all. So now he nodded at Sandor. It was a small nod, not quite as bold as the one he had managed to give Alessa. Still, the smile he received in return was as bright as the sun! Pride swelled in Atru. He had managed to nod at both Alessa and Sandor this morning! He turned to stare at Azha who had realized the same thing and was already beaming. That smile had always been what Atru loved most about his sister, a radiant beam that lit up even the gloomiest days. That and how she held his hand when he needed it. "Atru! You managed to answer both today for the first time!" She was bouncing excitedly and Atru felt awkwardly shuffled in place as both Alessa and Sandor looked at him. But soon Azha was hugging him and everything else was forgotten. "Soon you will be charming everybody!" she whispered into his ear. Still trapped in the affection of his sister, out of the corner of his eye, Atru saw both Alessa and Sandor looking at them, both smiling. "Aah, those two are adorable!" Alessa whispered to Sandor who nodded enthusiastically while still watching the twins. He turned to Alessa, probably to answer her in words, and froze. Alessa was standing right next to Sandor, leaning close to his ear. Sandor turned beet red but stayed put. Alessa still observing the twins, turned to say something more, stared into Sandor's eyes for a moment, turned red, and made a hasty retreat. "Apologies, Protector Sandor! For my intrusion into your personal space." Atru and Azha separated to watch this odd interaction. Adults were so silly sometimes. How could space be personal? Like their rooms? Did adults hide things in their rooms that they did not want others to see? Atru had no experience like that. Of course, Atru was certainly not an adult, and all his space was shared with Azha! Head Custodian Havard had asked if they would like separate rooms, but neither of the twins wanted that! Azha was his favorite person, and he was Azha's favorite person! Why would they want to be apart? "That is quite all right, Custodian Alessa!" Sandor exclaimed, still red-faced. Atru wondered if he was feeling hot? Maybe he had gotten too much sun? Did he stand outside in the morning sun for a long time? But Alessa was also red? It was all very mysterious, how adults acted. He shared a confused look with Azha. She had no idea what was happening either. Maybe one day Atru would act like that too, all odd and silly. He hoped not… <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Adults were really weird sometimes.|Interlude_twins_3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

As the group walked toward the dining hall to have breakfast, Atru realized that something was strange today in the orphanage. The Custodians and Protectors whispered to each other and kept glancing in the same direction. It was a mystery, and Atru and Azha were determined to solve it! Or Azha was. Atru was a bit nervous. Not because he was not curious, but solving this mystery would require talking to people. As much as Atru liked the Custodians and Protectors, he was still afraid of interacting with people that were not Azha. How could one just... talk with people? What if they got sick of him? Or mad at him? What if he said something wrong? Azha was so brave and good at talking. "C'mon! Let's ask!" Azha whispered loudly to his ear. Of course, Azha would have to be the one to do the asking, but she liked to include him. Atru thought they would just ask Custodian Alessa or Protector Sandor, but instead Azha dragged him to a nearby person, who just happened to be Custodian Ethel. She was a strict and stout older woman, much older than Alessa at least. Or that is the description that other Custodians used. Atru was pretty sure it was some sort of complicated way to say that Custodian Ethel was scary. "Good morning!" Azha cheerfully called out to the older woman, who seemed to be picking flowers. As Ethel turned to look at the approaching twins, Atru saw that Alessa and Sandor had stopped to observe the interaction. Custodian Ethel did not smile at them, but her keen eyes took their time in looking over the twins. Her gaze made Atru want to fidget but he managed to stay brave, and even meet her gaze! For a tiny moment, before finding the ground very interesting. Grass was nice. Custodian Ethel was also nice in her own way. She baked them cookies every once in a while! It was just... simply put... Custodian Ethel was intimidating. She was not prone to smiling, but to calm observation and action. While Atru himself was much the same, at least in outward appearance and action, but being observed so keenly made him a bit self-conscious. Was this what it was like to be stared at by him? But he only stared because he was too shy to say stuff. "Good morning, Azha and Atru." Ethel said her voice was calm and steady. Like nothing could phase her. Maybe nothing ever had? "Soo... Why are people acting so weird?" Azha blurted out. Ethel looked at the twins. Atru and Azha stared back, one with innocent curiosity, the other with enthusiastic vigor. Atru could swear that Ethel glanced at Alessa and Sandor who stood behind the twins, but it was so fast that he may have imagined it. "Weird?" Ethel raised an eyebrow. "How so?" Now, the twins looked at each other uncertainly. Were they imagining it? Atru saw Azha's questioning gaze and gave a nod so imperceptible that it could barely be called a nod. Azha of course got it immediately. The twins were sure, and they were going to solve this mystery! "All the whispering and glancing that way!" Azha pointed and almost slapped Sandor in her enthusiasm, but Sandor caught her hand before she could hurt herself by smacking his armor. Azha must not have noticed Alessa and Sandor coming to stand right behind them. "Careful Azha." Sandor said, but his deep azure eyes twinkled with amusement instead of reproach. "Sorry!" Atru thought he saw the ghost of a smile on Ethel's face, but again he might be imagining it. Her face was now unreadable for him. He had no idea what she was thinking. She was like a statue… her back was so straight and her face was… regal? "Well, that does seem suspicious now, doesn't it? Have you noticed anything Custodian Alessa? Protector Sandor?" The twins spun around to stare at their Custodian and Protector. "No, Custodian Ethel." Alessa and Sandor said together. But there still seemed to be something in their expressions, a small twinkle in their eyes. They knew something! Atru gave Azha a meaningful look. They were hiding something! Adults always kept secrets; this was a fact of life that Atru had learned. Some secrets were disgusting, like what had gone on in the rooms the twins were not allowed to in the bad place. Some were nice, like when Alessa had refused to tell them why they were not allowed in the orphanage kitchens one day. It was because the custodians were baking cookies as a surprise for the twins! Atru and Azha had never had cookies before that. That had been the best day! Now, this secret was probably of the nice variety. Atru based his assessment on two things. Firstly, and very importantly, this was the orphanage, and the orphanage was a good place. Secondly, the adults seemed amused and happy. Azha narrowed her eyes at the adults. "We think you are all hiding something!" she declares with pride. "So, we are going to investigate!" She announces. "Come on Atru!" Azha started pulling Atru along to dash off to investigate in the direction the adults kept glancing at. However, a gentle hand stopped her. "Not so fast Azha" Custodian Alessa held Azha's shoulder. "You haven't had breakfast yet. Your investigation can start after that." As if to demonstrate her point, two small bellies growled at once. Atru was embarrassed and his face felt hot, but Azha just giggled. "Ok! We will have breakfast!" Azha announced. "Then we will find out what you are hiding!" She pointed defiantly at the amused adults. Custodian Ethel took a step closer… and patted both twins on the head. Atru thought his ears would start to let out steam as the normally stern woman chuckled at them. "So energetic. So lively." She must have meant Azha. Atru had not said anything during the entire conversation. He stared at custodian Ethel with wide eyes. "Yes, you too, Atru," she said ruffling his hair. It felt good, but he wanted to squirm a bit unused to so much affection from anyone but Azha. But it was so nice… "Just because you do not speak your mind, and gesture wildly does not mean that you are not as full of energy and life as Azha. I see it in those eyes." Ethel said. "So full of curiosity and wonder. Others will see it too in time, dear." Azha enthusiastically agreed, and Atru stared at the ground. He was used to people being put off by him. In the bad place, the adults had called him creepy and weird. So now he nodded meekly to Custodian Ethel, overwhelmed but unable to put his feelings into words. It was a lot of social interaction for him in one morning. Three different adults. "Atru says thanks!" Azha said with a beaming smile and held his hand. Yes. That was what Atru had wanted to say. Thank Ethel and Alessa and Sandor for being so kind. But he did not have the courage to speak... so Azha did it for him, like she always did. His twin and best friend. Her timing this time was particularly good, so Atru did something he rarely did. He hugged Azha as thanks. She of course beamed and hugged him back. They heard a tiny sniff and turned to see Protector Sandor drying his eyes and nose. "Why are they so adorable this morning..." he muttered to himself while looking for a tissue. Alessa handed him one, and Sandor took it. He dried his eyes and nose, before realizing who had handed it to him and blushed. "Sorry, Alessa. I'll get it back to you washed." he mumbled to Alessa who was also blushing lightly. "No, it's quite all right. You may keep it." Alessa said, her voice quieter than normal. "Aah young love." Custodian Ethel said turning Sandor and Alessa beet red. They were both so red! Azha's head snapped to the two. "Are you two in love? You said no before!" Her eyes were wide with excitement and Atru knew there would be trouble, even if well-meaning trouble, in the future no matter what the answer was. The twins had heard of love! Love was a thing from stories and a very good thing! It made people silly and brave! Instead of answering Alessa, still beet red, gently took both twins by the hand. "Come on now, it is time for breakfast. A good day to you Custodian Ethel." She nodded her head at the older Custodian and guided the twins along with her. Sandor followed them silently and still beet red. “I remember when I started courting my wife. You should be bold young man! Assertive! Or you should be Alessa! One of you needs to be! Dancing around it will lead nowhere!” Custodian Ethel calls out after Sandor and Alessa. The twins watch their Custodian and Protector speed up, hurrying the twins along, running away from the older woman and refusing to look at each other. Atru can hear the older Custodian cackling behind them. What was all that about? Atru could not ponder this second mystery for long. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[It was breakfast time!|Interlude_twins_4]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Alessa guided Atru and Azha to the breakfast hall. Soon the twins were sitting down by an empty wooden table. Alessa went to fetch them food and drink while Sandor watched over them. Atru and Azha stared intently as Alessa returned, sniffing the tasty breakfast the Custodian set down in front of them. Fresh bread, and butter melting on it. Cool milk, really the best thing for anything recently baked and warm in Atru's mind. Sausages and fried eggs alongside a bowl of assorted fruits, vibrant in color. Each bite was a delightful flavor, much better than what Atru and Azha had eaten before coming to the orphanage in the bad place. The fluffy fresh bread, made each day by the Custodians, was the best part with the butter melting on it. Atru could have gone his whole life just eating that bread with the cool milk. Azha was of the same mind. The twins tore into the bread, breaking the golden and crisp crust with their hands, and attacking the soft fluffy inside and the butter glistening as it melted, by stuffing it in their mouths with a rapid pace. It was warm and soft, and Atru could enjoy it forever. Alessa smiled at them softly as they kept eating the bread and drinking the milk in huge gulps while ignoring pretty much everything else. "How about some fruit as well?" the custodian asked. "No, this is better." Azha said between bites of warm bread. "If you two eat some fruit as well, I will give you each a honey cake as a snack for your investigation." Alessa said, amused. That made both twins stare at Alessa. Azha leaned in for a silent conference with Atru. He was of the mind that a honey cake was acceptable for eating a bit of fruit. Some fruits were nice and sweet… others were horrible. They would just have to choose the right fruit. With a solemn nod, the twins agreed. They each grabbed a few pieces of fruit. The twins shared another nod of solidarity before tentatively tasting the fruit, an apple Atru thought. It was not bad at all. In fact, it was quite good - crisp, crunchy and juicy. Not nearly as nice as the bread but he could eat this. Azha seemingly disagreed and made a face that indicated she was only doing this for the honey cake. Soon Azha started chattering about her dream of climbing up the Spire, the massive tower at the heart of Firgrat. "There was this room with a pool, full of glowing water! Then it turned all black like midnight." Azha chattered. "In another room, there were all these butterflies, except they were like magical and glowing..." Azha kept chattering away and Atru listened as he ate some more bread. It was a good breakfast. Like it had been every day for the past month. It would be another good day. They did have a mystery to solve. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Atru POV|Interlude_twins_5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''Interlude -- A Day of mystery'' </font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 200%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''The Twins - Atru'' </font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'Interlude_twins_1'>><</cont>>

<<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''Interlude -- A Day of mystery'' </font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 200%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''The Twins - Azha'' </font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'Interlude_twins_6'>><</cont>>

<h1>Interlude – A Day of mystery</h1>\ <h1> The Twins</h1>\ <h2>Azha</h2>\ <h3> Mid-morning</h3>\ <<set $chapter = 'Interlude - Azha'>>\ After breakfast it was time to investigate why the adults were behaving so oddly. Azha was excited! A mystery for her and Atru to solve! An investigation worthy of the twins! Maybe they would find something amazing! Like a treasure! Or a dragon! A unicorn! Cookies! All viable options for mysteries that could be making the adults behave oddly. She grabbed Atru's hand. Her twin made no effort to resist her grasp. "Come on Atru, all the adults keep glancing this way!" She took off at a jog with Atru right behind her, his hand held in hers. An amused Alessa and Sandor kept pace with the twins. At the first intersection Azha stopped and looked around. Were there any custodians around? Not within sight. They should just keep going in the same direction. Azha looked at Atru questioningly. Her brother nodded so imperceptibly no one else than Azha could probably tell. Azha was the only one Atru was comfortable talking to but not in front of other people. He did whisper to her at times, though that was limited to only around people he felt comfortable enough with. Like the Protectors and Custodians. Azha had learned how to read his subtle communications. She would talk for them both until Atru was ready to do so for himself. Azha nodded back at her brother, and they took off again. The orphanage was huge, full of marble hallways, rooms and at least three big gardens and several smaller ones! It was easy to get lost but with Alessa and Sandor trailing after them, Azha figured it was fine to just run. Now they just had to keep their eyes peeled for anything unusual! Azha loved the orphanage. It was the best place she had ever been in! Atru was clearly much happier here than he had ever been in the bad place. That made Azha love the orphanage even more! Here they were safe, and the people were so nice! Here they had food and beds! And Alessa and Sandor took care of them and watched over them! Havard always stopped to ask how they were doing when they saw the busy First Custodian. Oh! Alessa had promised honey cakes for eating that disgusting fruit thing at breakfast. Azha spun around and stopped. “We demand honey cakes! For the fruit!” She crossed her arms. “Don’t think we forgot!” Atru stood firmly by her side, supporting her. Alessa chuckled. “Right. I did promise you honey cakes. I will go pick up some from the kitchens.” She turned to Sandor. “Please keep them out of trouble for now.” Sandor simply nodded, seeming faintly red as Alessa smiled. Azha narrowed her eyes… They were so odd. Then again Atru sometimes turned red when he had to talk back in the bad place. Hmm... this seemed different somehow. Ethel had called it young love. Love was a mythical thing from stories, or so Azha thought. Love was very important in stories Alessa told them. Why would Sandor and Alessa not want to do this love thing? Oh well, she could think more about this later. Azha grabbed Atru’s hand again. “Come on!” The twins started running again. At every intersection, they stopped to look around, before dashing off again. Finally, they arrived at one of the smaller inner courtyards containing a garden. Plush green grass and trees filled this place. Not many flowers though. This garden was familiar to Azha. Their own room was in a nearby small courtyard so of course the twins had seen this one before. It was a nice garden if a very basic one. Probably the lack of flowers; sure there were some, but they were not as plentiful as in one of the bigger gardens. This garden was not as colorful as some others and was therefore not among Azha’s favorites. “See anything odd?” Azha asked Atru as they looked about. Atru shook his head. “Let’s keep looking. Maybe we can peek through the windows?” The dashed to the nearest window and stood on their tiptoes. An empty room. Nothing fun or interesting. No dragons or treasures in sight. The twins were not deterred, they dashed to another window and peeked in. Another empty room. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[And another window. And another...|Interlude_twins_7]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addselfharm 100>>\ <<addHavard -200>>\ You open your mouth and stick your tongue between your teeth. You ''bite'' down hard. You can taste the blood gushing out, feel the pain but you just keep ''biting''. The man carrying you makes a startled sound and tries to make you stop. But you just ''bite and bite''. Until your teeth grind together and your tongue is no more. There is so much blood. You are suffocating on it. You can see the horrified panicked look on the man carrying you. He desperately tries to pry your jaws loose, but you are already beyond saving. Do you regret your choices? It does not matter anymore. Darkness takes you. You know nothing of the world as your life slips away. //Do you wish to go back, and try living?// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Yes|previous()]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[[No (this will take you to the starting screen)|start-menu]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $named_by_Havard to true>>\ <<if visited() is 1>>\ <<addHavard 20>>\ <</if>>\ "All right." Havard grasps his chin and hums softly as he thinks. The sound is odd. So peaceful. The only sound you are used to is your own screams. There is nothing to do but to wait for Havard to finnish thinking. Is naming things hard? Havard stops humming and looks at you over for a few moments. He nods to himself. <<switch random(6)>>\ <<case 0>> "Ariel" <<set $MCname to 'Ariel'>> <<case 1>> "Erin" <<set $MCname to 'Erin'>> <<case 2>> "Kai" <<set $MCname to 'Kai'>> <<case 3>> "Rowan" <<set $MCname to 'Rowan'>> <<case 4>> "Ash" <<set $MCname to 'Ash'>> <<case 5>> "Nova" <<set $MCname to 'Nova'>> <</switch>>\ Havard turns to observe you. "Is $MCname good for you?" he asks gently. He seems both oddly happy and nervous. As if naming you was important. Maybe it is? Are names important? You think so but your memory of before the void is so limited. You suppose that knowing what to call something makes life much easier. Like knowing that a table is called a table must make things easier. It’s probably a similar thing. Havard seems to expect some sort of an answer from you. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head. You would like another name from Havard.|Havard_names_you]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are happy, you nod.|Chapter 1_5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head. You want to choose your own name.|Choose name]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[No wait, I remember now! (go back to the lists)|Names]]</div> </div><</nobr>> //Note: For some reason, the random name choice is sometimes just blank or even unknown. If this happens, the first choice reloads the page. There are six names he can say.//

<<set $MCname to 'the $child'>>\ <<set $lastname to 'Unknown'>>\ <<addHavard -5>>\ "It's all right child." Havard says gently. "If you do not remember and wish for more time, it can wait." His words are soothing. "Do not worry for such things. There is time yet to remember or to decide." You stare at Havard for a moment. He is being so odd. Nice. You think the word is nice. It's hard to get used to someone being nice. You think there were people who were nice to you in the past, but your memories are too damaged to remember. You have a feeling you remembered in the void but everything is so blurry and fragmented. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You decide you would like Havard to name you.|Havard_names_you]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are happy with letting it be, so you nod.|Chapter 1_7][$MC_name_random to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Shake your head. No I want to choose my own name instead.|Choose name]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[No wait, I remember now! (go back to the lists)|Names]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1>Disclaimer</h1>\ <<set $chapter = 'Disclaimer'>>\ //This is a work of fiction! Any potential resemblance of appearances, names, or personalities of characters with people in real life is coincidental. ''This story is meant for adults.'' The game contains depictions of violence, blood, gore, sexually suggestive content, black humor, explicit language etc. // <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Here is a more detailed list of content warnings. Possible spoilers! |ContentWarnings]]</div> </div><</nobr>>\ If you are uncomfortable with what you are reading, please refrain from continuing until you feel better. Or drop the story entirely. None of this is worth your health. <<linkreplace "''I understand that this story is for adults and deals with dark themes. Click the text to agree.''">>\ <h2>Censor?</h2>\ Thank you for your understanding! Onto our second order of business before you can let loose on the game itself! The game contains dealing with traumatic events. The author is not a qualified medical professional, and the in-game responses to trauma are not in any way encouraged. If you need help with your trauma, please always seek professional help. As traumatic events are a part of the story, a level of cruel grim reality is needed. The author may also just be a sick fu**. Who knows? In any event, the story is meant for adults no matter what, but the current options to respond to trauma are <li> Madness </li> <li> Numbness</li> <li> Selfharm/Suicidal behaviour</li> <li> Escape from reality/Avoidance</li> <li> Anger</li> As you can see, none of these are ideal, but even so one of these options is not like the others. The selfharm/suicidal behavior option is more extreme than the others, at least in most circumstances. Therefore, for this one thing and it alone, I have decided to include the option to censor it. I also repeat, please seek help if you are struggling with these issues in real life. ''Do you wish to see the active selfharm/suicidal behavior choices while you play? "Active choices" meaning that these are choices presented to you, not that these things cannot be mentioned in the story. This option can be changed in the "profile" menu at any time (Censor title at the bottom). <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Yes, I wish to see the selfharm options. I understand that this may lead to some extreme moments.|Prologue fadein][$selfharmoptions to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[No, I wish to not see the selfharm options.|Prologue fadein][$selfharmoptions to false]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</linkreplace>>

<<set $sawHealingBaths to true>>\ <<if $brokne_hands_treating is 1>>\ You get up. Your legs are unsteady. Walking is hard but you do it yourself out of sheer stubborness. You think you are not supposed to be able to walk. All that time in the void made you broken in more than one way. Slowly and uncertainly you walk, focusing only on this staying up with your own two legs. They shake under you, and each step is unsteady. The man called Havard leads the way, walking slowly. He turns to glance at you often, his eyes sad and worried but kind. You are not sure what getting looked at like this makes you feel. You are pretty sure you are feeling something at least but you are somewhat confused about what specifically. <<elseif $brokne_hands_treating is 2>>\ Havard picks you up again. Gently you are lifted into the air again, wrapped in his arms. As if you are something precious--a person, not a broken thing to carve up and abuse or ignore. You think it is a good feeling. You are pretty sure you are feeling something at least but you are somewhat confused about exactly what it is. <</if>>\ The journey is not long. Or maybe it is. You barely pay attention, too absorbed in your own thoughts. All you know is that the two of you arrive in a chamber where a pool of clear glittering water dominates the room. It is a pool of the liquid that made you feel better earlier! You have never seen anything like this before? The pool glitters and seems to flash a bit as you observe. What did the man call it? The healing baths? Do all baths look like that? You have a feeling they do not. <<if $brokne_hands_treating is 1>>\ Your gawking and pondering come to an end as you fall down. Your weak legs are not capable of supporting you anymore. You can see them shaking, though you cannot feel it. <<elseif $brokne_hands_treating is 2>>\ Your gawking and pondering come to an end as the man sets you down right by the pool. He kneels to set you down gently and inspects you, before finally letting go. Your legs start to buckle immediately. <</if>>\ Havard catches you. "Apologies. It seems walking or standing still is too straining, at least without panic giving you strength. We will find a way to let you get around. Do not worry." He says all these things and you have no idea what to make of it. How are you supposed to react? Havard helps you sit down by the pool of glimmering water. It is really pretty, a pool of crystal-clear water set in white stone, odd streaks of light flashing through it. Probably the prettiest thing you have ever seen. Or at least that you remember seeing. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "escape">>\ Maybe the garden you saw earlier, when deciding to run away. That was nice too. So green. <</if>>\ "This is the healing pool. Soaking in it will help you heal all sorts of injuries. For your hand, I suggest you simply hold it underwater." Havard explains. "It is not an all powerful cure, but it is as close as they come unless Lord Abalf or Lady Irosia is standing right next to you. Lord Abalf made it himself for the orphanage." Who are those people? They sound important. Still, you are not sure you can talk, and it seems there is stuff to do. Maybe you can try talking later? You don't think you have much choice but to do as he suggests. So, you lean down slowly and stick your hand into the water. "Careful, don't fall in." Havard says and hovers nearby. This man is really odd to you. He is worried for you. You can tell somehow. Sure, he has been worried for you before already, but it still surprises you. The waters immediately soothe your broken hand. As you watch, some black muck drips into the pool from the wound. It seems that a vial of the healing water the man applied earlier was not enough to heal all that damage you caused earlier, and some mucky blood is still coming out. The lights in the water flash a bit and the black mucky blood is purified. You almost gasp out involuntarily. Almost. What is this? Magic? You have heard of magic, maybe even experienced it. You don’t know how long you were in the void, but it seems odd you were not fed drink or food. Do people not need such things? Are you not a person? Or was it magic that sustained you? You do not know. You know so little, it is quite frustrating. Yet at times you think you know more than you should. How odd it is to be you, yet you have always been you. Even in the void, broken and abused you were still you. Now you may be fragments of you that survived. Or a delusion of the you that was broken in the void. The waters gently soothe your arm. The lights in the water swirl around your arm, entrancing you with their movements. Is this real? Could this be real? Your eyes are starting to close. The water feels so nice. “Child.” A voice says gently. “Your hand is healed.” The man called Havard says. You forgot he was here. How could you forget? What is wrong with you? Well, more wrong with you. You have no real point of reference but you have an impression that there is quite a lot wrong with you, even if you can’t quite say what specifically. “The healing baths relax you child.” Havard says. “Their magic soothes the soul as well as the body. “ It goes without saying that your soul needs more soothing than most. Even you know that. Havard probably knows that. You lift your hand from the water and inspect it. It is no longer a messy broken thing. It is not healed fully, but bone no longer is visible. Progress. Or maybe a shame. You had wanted to be rid of the things… Wait, this healing bath can cure wounds yet, the flesh of your hand remains as twisted and wrong as it was. Does that mean that your flesh is just like that now? Was it like that before? Are you simply a twisted broken thing? Havard appears beside you as your mind races with these thoughts. “Apologies, but I must rewrap your hand now.” He says and gently takes your hand to wrap the bandages around it. He also applies a splint to support the part that was broken. It makes your hand stiff. “Your hand is much better, but not properly healed. So, a splint will support it. Please avoid using this hand.” His gaze flickers to your other hand, as if to say, “I doubt either of them works”. He does not actually say it, but you sort of agree in your head. Your hands do not seem to be good for much of anything. They certainly did not help in trying to open that drawer. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "weapon">>\ Or holding that flower vase. That reminds you that your leg was also injured, even if it has already been treated. Still, not dipping it into the wonderful pool would be stupid. So you do, and feel the wound from the flower vase completely disappear. Havard nods approvingly. <</if>>\ ”Let us head back then. There is much to discuss.” This time Havard does not give you the option of walking on your own. He just picks you up. Considering that you are not sure you can stand anymore, you can’t quite blame him, can you? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Of course you can! Being carried makes you angry!|Chapter1_injury_treating2][$angry_at_being_carried_about to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[No, not really.|Chapter1_injury_treating2][$angry_at_being_carried_about to false]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1>Content warnings</h1>\ The Tales Of Wocdes may include: <li> graphic depictions of violence and death,</li> <li> gore, dismemberment, scars, blood loss etc.</li> <li> self-mutilation, self-harm, suicidal behaviour</li> <li> dark themes, child abuse</li> <li> nudity </li> <li> traumatic events, mentions of past trauma or abuse</li> <li> mental instability </li> <li> alcohol/substance abuse, mentions of past alchohol/subtance abuse</li> <li> explicit/foul/degrading language</li> <li> dark/black humor, inappropriate humor</li> <li> sexually suggestive content/language, prostitution, mentions of rape, incest etc.</li> <li> supernatural creatures/beings <li> magic</li> <li> generally fucked up shit</li> //If you feel something is missing, do let the author know.// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Return|previous()]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1>Sorry, the end for now.</h1>\ This is the end of the current demo. Thank you all who have arrived here! I hope you have enjoyed delving into Wocdes so far! Your total playtime was (I assume since you opened this game/tab): <<playtime>> Please, check out the feedback section! Only if you want to of course! Also, thanks to "becky", the person who created this gorgeous Twine template. Link in the template info page. I have to say, this was a lot of work, and I started running out of steam during the proofreading and editing... Which I did not do all that well I am sure. It is a lot, and am not sure I am quite happy with all of it. This year has been... fractured in terms of writing. Real life intruding lots :D But I hope it is enjoyable. I might improve it later, if I feel like it :D I know it is slow. Very slow. Glacial. For context, this is where Chapter 1 ended in my origianl plan... Yeah, I am so good at planning. Of course, not all the stuff currently included were in that original draft. To stall any questions... C4 will be about meeting the twins of course. About the Sheo interlude: This one is in thanks for the 1 year anniversiry of the demo :D It was decided by a vote, and even if I did not plan to put it here so early, since people wanted it, I left it there. It does sort of fit, my main problem here is that there is already one interlude after C3. So, it may get moved later. Thank you all for playing! It is a suprise how popular this story is so far. Please use the form to report any bugs you enounter! Link on the itch io page, or in the feedback section below. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Current demo version and about feedback|Version]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Twine template info|template info]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Return to the starting screen|start-menu]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

<div align="center"><h1>Oaths</h1></div> Oaths are things to not be taken lightly. At least oaths that have anything to do with the Ancients. Because they will keep you to your word. The most recent and notable examples of this are the oaths sworn by the Custodians and Silver Protectors of Firgrat Orphanage. <li>//"To guide, love, and cherish the children that are our future. To provide them a home and family in this orphanage, so that they always feel loved and wanted."// -- The oath of a Custodian. </li> <li>//"To guide and protect the children that are our future. To find and safeguard the lost souls who need it. To protect their home in this orphanage, so that they may always feel welcome and safe.."// -- The oath of a Silver Protector.</li> These oaths, sworn before some of the Ancients triggered no reaction to indicate they are somehow special. Yet when officially swearing to their charge, the Custorian - Silver Protector pair will encounter the truth behind their oaths. The voices of the Ancients will be heard, witnessing the oaths sworn. <li>//"I Havard, the First Custodian of Firgrat Orphanage, swear to guide, love, and cherish you from this moment onwards. To provide you a home and family in this orphanage, that you always feel loved and wanted."// -- Havard's oath to $MCname, in the year 147 of the Age of Hope. </li> <li>//"I am Lexia, A Silver Protector of Firgrat. I swear to guide and protect you from this moment onwards. To protect this orphanage, that is to be your home that you may always feel welcome and safe."// -- Lexia's oath to $MCname, in the year 147 of the Age of Hope. </li> It is currently not known what would happen if such an oath were to be broken. <<button 'Close Codex'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>> /* Should the Custodian or Silver Protecter, prove unworthy of their oath, or not intend to keep it, the magic of the Ancients would remove them. During the swearing process, the voices of the Ancients would find them dishonest, their hearts wavering. What actually happens is not known, but the former Custodian or Silver Protector is not seen again. */ /*<div align="center"><h3>//"To protect the people of Firgrat regardless of their origin. To always act fairly, to leave no voice unheard, and no stone unturned. To consider action and cause with care, balancing the scales of deed and consequence, free from bias and prejudice." -- The oath of a Grey Protector.</h3></div>*/ /* Not lesser, different from the Silver Protectors.*/ /*<div align="center"><h3>//"To protect the people of Anwol, both near and far. To always act fairly, to leave no voice unheard, and no stone unturned. To consider action and cause with care, balancing the scales of deed and consequence, free from bias and prejudice." -- The oath of a Green Protector.</h3></div>*/

<<link 'Configure your gender and pronouns.'>> <<pronouns>> <</link>> Exapmles in given in brackets Subjective (he/she): <<textbox "$heshe" $heshe>> Objective (him/her): <<textbox "$himher" $himher>> Possessive (his/hers): <<textbox "$hishers" $hishers>> Determiner (his/her): <textbox "$hisher" $hisher>> Reflexive (himself/herself): <<textbox "$himselfherself" $himselfherself>> Noun (boy/girl): <<textbox "$child" $child>> <<silently>> <<set $capitalheshe to $heshe.toLocaleUpperFirst()>> <<set $capitalhisher to $hisher.toLocaleUpperFirst()>> <<set $capitalhishers to $hishers.toLocaleUpperFirst()>> <<set $capitalhimher to $himher.toLocaleUpperFirst()>> <<set $capitalhimselfherself to $himselfherself.toLocaleUpperFirst()>> <<endsilently>>

The child is a <<listbox '$gender'>> <<option 'boy'>> <<option 'girl'>> <<option 'child'>>. <</listbox>> <<button 'OK'>> <<if $gender is 'girl'>>\ <<set $heshe to 'she'>>\ <<set $capitalheshe to 'She'>>\ <<set $hisher to 'her'>>\ <<set $capitalhisher to 'Her'>>\ <<set $himher to 'her'>>\ <<set $capitalhimher to 'Her'>>\ <<set $hishers to 'hers'>>\ <<set $capitalhishers to 'Hers'>>\ <<set $himselfherself to 'herself'>>\ <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>>\ <<set $child to 'girl'>>\ <<elseif $gender is 'boy'>>\ <<set $heshe to 'he'>>\ <<set $capitalheshe to 'He'>>\ <<set $hisher to 'his'>>\ <<set $capitalhisher to 'His'>>\ <<set $himher to 'him'>>\ <<set $capitalhimher to 'Him'>>\ <<set $hishers to 'his'>>\ <<set $capitalhishers to 'His'>>\ <<set $himselfherself to 'himself'>>\ <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>>\ <<set $child to 'boy'>>\ <<elseif $gender is 'child'>>\ <<set $heshe to 'they'>>\ <<set $capitalheshe to 'They'>>\ <<set $hisher to 'theirs'>>\ <<set $capitalhisher to 'Theirs'>>\ <<set $himher to 'them'>>\ <<set $capitalhimher to 'Them'>>\ <<set $hishers to 'theirs'>>\ <<set $capitalhishers to 'Theirs'>>\ <<set $himselfherself to 'themself'>>\ <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Themself'>>\ <<set $child to 'child'>>\ <</if>>\ <</button>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Alternativelly, click here to set your own custom choices|CustomPron]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Examples in given in brackets. Subjective (he/she): <<textbox "$heshe" $heshe>> Objective (him/her): <<textbox "$himher" $himher>> Possessive (his/hers): <<textbox "$hishers" $hishers>> Determiner (his/her): <<textbox "$hisher" $hisher>> Reflexive (himself/herself): <<textbox "$himselfherself" $himselfherself>> Noun (boy/girl): <<textbox "$child" $child>> <<silently>> <<set $capitalheshe to $heshe.toLocaleUpperFirst()>> <<set $capitalhisher to $hisher.toLocaleUpperFirst()>> <<set $capitalhishers to $hishers.toLocaleUpperFirst()>> <<set $capitalhimher to $himher.toLocaleUpperFirst()>> <<set $capitalhimselfherself to $himselfherself.toLocaleUpperFirst()>> <<endsilently>>

<h3>Havard POV</h3>\ Havard was shocked to see the $child awake. He had gone to check on the other children as he did every few hours. For the past two days, he had been sitting and watching over his new charge to ensure they would not be alone when they woke up. Everyone had been eagerly waiting to meet $himher officially, and Havard had decided that only one person should be present to not overwhelm $himher. The poor $child must have been startled to awake alone in a strange place, though if $hisher reaction to seeing him was anything to go by, this was going surprisingly well. Still, seeing the naked $child hide under the covers in a oddly shaped lump on top of the bed, and try to stay still was surprising. The cloak must have come off while $heshe slept. Such an innocent reaction. A much better reaction than Havard could have hoped for. A normal reaction. Even more so as the pile of covers shifts very slightly and the $child peeks out in what Havard supposes $heshe must think is sneaky but also very obvious. Havard can feel his lips twitch upwards, and he tries hard not to chuckle. Until their eyes meet directly, and Havard can see those haunted broken eyes. His mirth goes out like a light. A child. This is a child yet there is no childhood in those eyes. He can't even make out the color right now. Such harrowed eyes. Such a lifeless gaze. Yet he is the head custodian. Havard must find a way to help this $child. Not because of any oath or duty, but because he wants to. So, he smiles like his life depends on it. "Apologies for barging in on you like this." He bows slightly. "There should be a cloak somewhere in that bed that you could use to cover up." The head retreats and the pile on the bed shuffled about. The $child was rummaging about for the cloak. A good sign in Havard's mind. Then the shuffling stopped for a moment and began anew much larger than before. Havard looked away and avoided chuckling as a tangle of small limbs, and other body parts, momentarily sticks out from the pile of bedding before the $child settled down again, apparently happy with the cloak. The head appears again to stare at Havard warily. It seems the child is not going to make this easy. "Could you come out please? We should talk." Havard says gently. He is not sure how to defuse the situation. How do you approach someone who has been so abused? How can he prove to the $child that he will not harm $himher in a way that would be believed? So he slowly walks closer to the bed and the lump contained on it. But he does not go too close. "I promise. I really won't harm you." Havard says in a soft and calm voice. "Could you please come out?" <<set $comeout to false>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The eyes keep peeking out at him, making no movements.|Chapter 1_3_naked3][$comeout to false]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Slowly, pile of bedding moves and a form emerges.|Chapter 1_3_naked3][$comeout to true]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $comeout is true>>\ <<addcareful -5>><<addtrust 1>>\ Slowly a form covered in a cloak far too big for it emerges. Havard smiles as soothingly as he can. <<else>>\ <<addcareful 5>><<addtrust -1>>\ "I really promise that I won't hurt you. Please come out. I imagine you have questions. We have much to discuss.” Havard coaxes soothingly. “I will stay right here. I will not come any closer for now.” The eyes peeking out at him search for any signs of deceit or danger. It seems the $child decides $heshe <<does>> not have much of a choice. Slowly and carefully, a form covered in a cloak far too big for it emerges. Havard smiles as soothingly as he can. <</if>>\ The child sits up in bed. $capitalheshe <<does>> not stand up. Maybe they can’t. Instead, the $child sits up and stares at Havard. Is it a curious stare? A frightened one? A wary one? Honestly, Havard has a hard time telling. Those eyes are eerie and unsettling. No child should have eyes like that, so lifeless and dull. Those were the sorts of eyes people surviving horrific monster attacks sometimes had. Those were the eyes Havard had once upon a time seen in the mirror. Havard hates the world in that moment. A world where a child has such eyes is not right. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Havard POV.|Chapter 1_3_naked4]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $got_injured_c1 is true>>\ "As I said, my name is Havard." The man repeats his name. Maybe he thinks you already forgot? It's not like you have said a word. Havard looks at you with those hazel eyes that make you feel odd. If only you knew what it is you feel? Are you ill? After the void and the cycle, you are not sure you can get ill? Injured sure, but ill? Why do you know what illness is? Havard interrupts your thoughts. <<else>>\ "I am Havard. I am sorry for not saying so earlier." The man says gently, all the while he looks at you with those hazel eyes that make you feel odd. If only you knew what it is you feel? Are you ill? After the void and the cycle, you are not sure you can get ill? Why do you know what illness is? Havard interrupts your thoughts. <</if>>\ <<if $naked is true>>\ He gently wrap a cloak around you. It was in the bed where you woke up from. Somehow this odd cloak feels safe and warm against your skin. <<set $naked to false>>\ <</if>>\ "I am the head custodian of Firgrat orphanage. Do you know what that means?" Honestly, you are lucky you remember anything in general, or so you figure. Your life in the outside world was all lost in the void. What remains are fragments that come to you randomly. Yet you seem to know things at times. It is all very odd. These things however, you do not know. So you shake your head slightly. You dare not try actually talking, you are not sure you can after all the time in the void and whatever came before. Luckily that is not needed yet. This you can deal with without trying to talk. You do not know what an "orphanage" is, never speaking of a "Head Custodian" or "Firgrat". Havard nods. "Understandable. Well, let us start with the basics." He gestures around. "This is a room in the Firgrat orphanage. Your room to be specific." Your room? Why would you have a room? What does it mean to have a room? Is it good to have a room? Why do you have a room? So many questions. "You see, an orphanage is a place for children who have no other place to go. An institution for the care and education of orphans, children who for one reason or another are alone." Havard seemed sad to you as he said this. He was smiling but it was a sad but firm smile somehow. You think the word is resolute. How do you know all of this? Why do you know how to read people even if you do not really understand yourself? Wait! What had Havard said? An orphanage is a place for children who have no other place to go. You are a child, are you not? At least you are much smaller than Havard, much smaller than the people who kidnapped you too. And you have a room at this orphanage. You think you are staring at Havard who smiles at you kindly. This must be a dream or a delusion. Surely you are just in the void, finally too broken to stay awake. What else could explain this? If you have this right, then you are now a child in the care of this Firgrat orphanage. Did //something// bring you here? Or is this really just in your mind? Somehow Havard can read your thoughts. Maybe you are making an expression? “Yes child. You have been entrusted into our care. I am the Head Custodian, meaning that I oversee this orphanage and will help raise and guide you.” Havard says. “Custodians are the people who will guide and raise you here. I am not the only one here, but for now we thought it best not to overwhelm you.” You have so many questions? You cannot make out what you are feeling, but it sure feels like a lot. More things than you can ever remember feeling. You can't make out any individual thought. Is this what being overwhelmed means? You are not quite sure what you should do. You need some time to process. And is Havard trustworthy to begin with? Every instinct you have tells you yes. Every life experience you have tells you a resounding no. Should you trust him? He has not hurt you so far… <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You decide to trust him for now.|Explanations2][$trustHavardC1 to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You decide you cannot trust him.|Explanations2][$trustHavardC1 to false]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $trustHavardC1 is true>>\ <<addcareful -5>><<addinnocence 5>><<addtrust 5>>\ You decide to trust your instincts. Havard feels different from the people you remember. You don't think he is like the people who kidnapped you. <<else>>\ <<addcareful 5>><<addinnocence -5>><<addtrust -5>>\ You decide to trust your life experience. Even if Havard feels different from the people you remember, that does not mean he is any better. All you remember are the people who kidnapped you. You remember the pain and torment. You cannot trust Havard. <</if>>\ No matter your feelings on the man, it seems you will be staying at this orphanage for now. It is much nicer here than in the void at least. Assuming this is not just in your head of course. However, how would your head be able to explain things like "a custodian" to you, when you have no idea what that is? Though your mind seems to know odd things? Are people's minds usually like this? Is your face doing things? Expressions? You have no way of knowing. Havard only smiles at you and does not comment on your face. "Now then. Did you have any questions?" Havard asks, as if it was such a simple thing. You have so many questions! The first one being, can you actually ask questions? You are not exactly used to using your voice for more than screaming and other sounds that may not convey the nuance that questions require. It does tell you have a voice, but can you actually use it for stuff. Should you try to speak? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Yes. Talking seems important to people. It could be useful.|Explanations3][$speakingC1 to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[No your don't really see the point. But you do have questions. How to ask them without talking?|Explanations3][ $speakingC1 to false]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $speakingC1 is true>>\ <<addstoic -5>>\ You draw in a breath. You open your mouth to talk. Havard patiently waits and watches. The sound that comes out is a dry wheezing sound. Then you start coughing. You cannot seem to stop. You cough and cough. You think there is blood in your mouth. “Easy. Easy.” Havard says gently. He does not touch you but he is right there, by your side. “Let it pass. Do not try to talk again.” Eventually, your coughing lessens and stops. You are left staring at Havard who seems so worried. He rummages around inside his robes and pulls out a bottle of glittering liquid. “Here, please drink this.” He offers you the bottle. <<if $got_injured_c1 is true>>\ You know what that is! It is the stuff he used earlier to soothe your wounds. Healing water he called it. <<if $sawHealingBaths is true>> You even visited the healing baths earlier. <</if>> “It will help your throat.” Havard says. <<if $sawHealingBaths is true>> “No worries. No one has bathed in that one.” He smiles slightly at you. Was that a joke? You know what jokes are? Talking would be good to ask about all these things you know but are not sure how you know. <</if>> The healing water earlier did help soothe your injuries. <<else>>\ You have never seen anything quite like it. Admittedly you have not seen much. The liquid is clear and see-through, but has an odd glimmer of lights that streak through it at times. “It is healing water. It will help your throat.” Havard says. “We have an entire bath of the stuff, but don’t worry. No one has bathed in this one.” He smiles slightly at you. Was that a joke? You know what jokes are? Talking would be good to ask about all these things you know but are not sure how you know. <</if>>\ <<if $trustHavardC1 is true>>\ You decided to trust Havard earlier. Is there any reason to stop now? <<else>>\ You decided to not trust Havard earlier. Is there any reason to start now? <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You take the bottle.|Tried_talking][$trustHavardC1 to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You do not take the bottle.|Tried_talking][$trustHavardC1 to false]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ <<addstoic 5>>\ "You cannot talk? Or don't want to?" Havard asks. Good, he gets it! You nod at him. It does not matter which one he thinks it is. You are not quite sure yourself. "But you still have questions?" Another nod. “Hmm, then how to communicate. Can you write?” You shake your head. Writing is when you make random scribbles onto paper right? You know they make words for some reason, but you don’t know how they possibly could make any kind of sense to anyone. “Then..., hmm. This could be troublesome. If you can’t or won’t express yourself then I suppose I must give you choices or options for your questions.” Havard does not seem annoyed at this. More as if he was not sure that is an appropriate solution. “I suppose some kind of sign language is an option but…” He glances at your bandaged hands. Yeah, you have doubts too. Your fingers are not capable of much at the moment. “Though I am sure we can get you some way to communicate magically in time.” Havard says. You perk up a bit! Magic sounds awesome. Yes, you want that magical way of communicating! Whatever it is. You nod much more enthusiastically than you have so far. Havard seems happy. “All right. I will acquire what is needed. It might take a little while but I promise it will happen.” He seems resolute. “For now, I will try to think of some questions.” <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod.|Not_talking]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

<<if $trustHavardC1 is true>>\ <<addtrust 5>><<addHavard 10>>\ Your fingers are clumsy, and the bottle is hard to hold. Your twisted hands are really hard to use and you can’t grip things properly. You struggle and almost drop the bottle before Havard grabs it. “Apologies. I wished to give you the opportunity to drink it yourself, but it seems your hands are still too recently damaged. I am sure you will get used to them.” He does not sound nearly as sure as you would like. He seems to know something about you. But you can’t ask. It has become clear that you cannot talk after all. Not yet anyway. But soon. He holds the bottle to your lips, and you sip at the healing water. You don’t really know what it tastes like. You have no memories of what anything tastes like. Maybe it tastes like water? Healing? What you do know is that something in your throat eases. You did not ever realize there was something wrong in your throat, but it makes sense. All the screaming you did in the void probably did not do much good to your voice. “Better?” “Yes.” you whisper. A tiny sound. A reserved sound. All your suspicion and wariness manifests in that sound. All your relief that you actually made a coherent sound. Havard beams like the sun. It catches you off guard. He has been smiling at you a lot. Yet now he seems genuinely pleased. As if talking was some sort of an important achievement. It’s too bright for your eyes. That smile. You look away. You do not see if he makes a face at that. “Before we get to your questions, I would ask you one first. What is your name child?” Havard asks. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You ponder. Do you know your own name? |Names]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ <<addtrust -5>><<addHavard -5>>\ You make no move to take the bottle. Havard waits for a moment then smiles sadly. He tucks the bottle back into his robes. “I see. I will not force you into anything, least of all into trusting me after all you have experienced.” He says gently. He seems to know something about you. But you can’t ask. It has become clear that you cannot talk after all. Not yet anyway. “If you wish not to drink the healing water, then we shall communicate in some other manner. I assume you still have questions?” You nod. “Hmm, how to communicate. Can you write?” You shake your head. Writing is when you scribble random scribbles onto paper right? You know they make words, but you don’t know how they possibly could. “Then,… hmm. This could be troublesome. If you can’t or won’t express yourself then I suppose I must give you choices or options for your questions.” Havard does not seem annoyed at this. “Though I am sure, we can get you some way to communicate magically in time.” You perk up a bit! Magic sounds awesome. Yes you want that magical way of communicating! Whatever it is. So you nod much more enthusiastically than so far. Havard seems happy. “All right. I will acquire what is needed. It might take a little while but I promise it will happen.” He seems resolute. “For now, I will try to think of some questions.” <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod.|Not_talking]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

Havard likes wearing a set of simple gray robes and shoes. His face is shaved clean, and shows no signs of age. His black hair is long and straight, pulled back from his eyes. -------------------------------------------------------- Alessa has a gentle smile according to Atru, always so gently. She has silky chestnut hair falling in soft waves around her shoulders, framing a heart-shaped face. ---------------------------------------- Protector Sandor: dressed in gleaming silver armor. Often beaming at the twins. Deep azure eyes. ---------------------------------------------- Ethel - strict and stout older woman. Her back was so straight and her face was… regal? --------------------------------------------------- Lexia Her armor is really shiny, polished to perfection really. She is smiling, yet worried. About you? The woman has an air of almost palpable energy, short wild red hair, incredibly blue eyes - bright and clear - alive with boundless energy. Loose wild strands of hair frame her face, softening the intensity of her expression but unable to hide the spark of excitement dancing in her eyes. Those eyes are intense. Different from Havard, who only gets intense at times, yet is normally gentle and soothing. ----------------------------------------------------- The twins- Green eyes and blonde hair. -------------------------- Lord Nuaran, one of the ancients has golden yes, though darker than yours. Irosia-violet Elri- red The gloves are made of sleek material with intricate patterns like tree-roots or branches lining them, from the fingers up to your elbows. They seem to tighten around your ruined hands into a perfectly form fitting layer. Ethel She once had auburn hair, though now it is mostly gray. Her eyes are also a steely gray, and her face carries the signs of her age int he form of wrinkles.

<<set $nonverbal to true>>\ <<addHavard -2>>\ Havard sits on his chair by your bed and thinks. You stare at him. Not much else you can do right now. He does not seem bothered. Maybe he is used to being stared at? Is he thinking about he questions you might have? Not talking or writing really is inconvenient. That magical communicator thing Havard mentioned would sure be useful. Or being able to write, but that seems difficult. All those scribbles… You have vague memories of things with lots and lots of scribbles. Books. You think they are called books. Another thing you are not sure how you know. You think you have enough trouble remembering things already, learning all those scribbles might be impossible. Your pondering is interrupted by Havard. It seems the custodian is done thinking. “Hmm, I have thought of some questions you might have. However, before we get to your questions, I have one of my own.” Havard turns his gaze on you. “Do you know your own name? If I list some names for you, can you pick it out?” <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You ponder. Do you know your own name? |Names]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

C1 // Havard introduction. Explanations. Resting. Adjuting to your arms 1. Probably should have some brooding and "first time normal interactions" Trust issues? Being mostly stuck in bed. Lexia to the rescue! Offers to carry you, should be able to ask to ride on her shoulders/back, maybe the option for some sort of wheelchair if not confortable being carried. Remember: who knows how long you were imrisoned and several days minimum of sleep -> very weak. Getting aquinted with the grounds with her guidance, getting caught by HAvard who relents (Lexia puppy dog yes, option for a combo with MC). Walls, the spire. Firgrat. Amazement or something else. The twins, Atru and Azha, spot you but are dragged away before they can introduce themselves, or maybe you get tired and fall before they can, latter is better? // IDEA MC does not remember their name, HAvard gives them more time to think about it. The MC can start telling people random names.... and of course gets caught but Azha and Lexia thought it was funny and starts calling the MC by random names Idea for hair: MC hair during capture and void left to grow freely, Lexia and Havard are not trusted to cut it... so either Alessa (the twins custodian) or Sandra comes to cut it, with Havard of course in the room. Then can set color, hairtype, hair style, maybe heritage feature. Childhood climax: The kids (mc, twins at least) try to set up two adults. Alessa and Sandor (who obviously like each other, were friends before the ophanage, she was a worker (librarian in the spire while training), Lexia and Havard (who are becoming good friends, and who could work but Lexia is oblivious), Havard and Sandor (Havard is basically his boss and neither of them gets why they have been locked into a room), Alessa and Lexia (Lexia likes teasing her, and talking with her but is competelly dense about romance), Ethel and anyone: she orders people to open the door so firmly there is no choice but the obey. ----------------------------------- A companion knows "magic" (non-silver protector) and there is a whole discussion about why magic betweenthem and MC or someone else is so different (pre-set spells vs. free form magic taught by the Ancients). ----------------------------------- The magical global laws: Translation spell, anit-posessiona and mind control spells (or maybe only after silver witch the mind control part) ------------------------- The facade of humanity cracked. The Ancient's eye began to glow brighter and brighter, like two stars suddenly brough to earth. Skin around the eyes began cracking, flesh burning away as mana, overwhelming and incomprehensible, began eating away at the flesh puppet the Ancient used to fit it. A hand rose, and flesh burned away from bone as you watched, leaving behind pale ivory before that too was consumed by the ------------------------------------- <<switch $HavardMeetingReaction>> <<case "weapon">> <<set $todaysTasks = ["Go to work", "go to therapist"]>> <<case "hide">> <<set $todaysTasks = []>> <<case "wary">> <<case "escape">> <<case "naked">> <<case "injured">> <<case "frozen">> <<default>> <<set $todaysTasks = ["Go to work"]>> <</switch>> <<set $maxVal to Math.max($madness, $numbness, $selfharm, $escape, $anger, $trust)>> /* Print the value stored in `_maxVal` (will be `21` in this example). */ The max value is: <<= _maxVal>> % IF NO NAME WAS GIVEN, IF THAT OPTION IS INCLUDED THE EVENTUAL NAME REVEAL SHOULD HAVE SOME MEANING? PERHAPS MYSTERY SURROUNDING WHO YOU WERE DURING ADULTHOOD MISSION <div class="choice-item">[[Explanations]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Chapter 1_3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Lexia interlude fadein]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Chapter 1_8]]</div> SHOULD CHANGE IFID: https://lapinlunaire-games.itch.io/leonora SEE INSTRUCTIONS! ALSO ON THE https://ifdb.org It is the same as the template since I knew nothing about it. C4 (meeting hte twins) //The twins, Atru and Azha, sneak into your room since you fanted and Havard thinks you need to rest and should be allowed to do so in peace. They were worried, and should sneak something nice to you. Perhaps in Chap 1 there should be a choice with Havard to set up something you like (can't eat solid food but Havard is a softie). Getting to know the twins, should figure out: who are they, why are they here, choice of gender?, Also did you see the flowers (from the tough custodian Ethel, the tough older woman) mischief, talking, getting caught: custodian Alessa and protector Sandor introduction. She is a firm but very kind woman while Sandor is stoic (but very kind, starting to see a theme, ancient reqruitment strategy is like 80 kindness). adjustment (assume still weak and have to rest a bunch, getting bored. Bath? good time for characted edits. Life at the orphanage maybe, lessons. Actually should meet Sheo before significant timeskip, so now maybe a couple of months//.

<<if $nonverbal is true>>\ "Now then, the questions you may wish answers to.” Havard says. Finally. You hope he came up with questions you actually want the answers to. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $q2 is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[“Let me explain how you got here.” Havard says.|Questions2]]</div> <</if>> <<if $q3 is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["You might be wondering what is “Firgrat”."|Questions3]]</div> <</if>> <<if $q4 is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["I am sure you wish to know about your hands." Havard says gently.|Questions4]]</div> <</if>> <<if $q6 is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["Perhaps you would like to know a bit more about the Orphanage?" Havard says.|Questions6]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[["That is all the questions I think are urgent." Havard says.|Chapter 1_9]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ You have many questions. But you wish to start with some basic ones. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $q2 is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["How did I get here? Where is something, the thing that saved me?"|Questions2]]</div> <</if>> <<if $q3 is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["What is “Firgrat”?"|Questions3]]</div> <</if>> <<if $q4 is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["What happened to my hands?"|Questions4]]</div> <</if>> <<if $q6 is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["I want to know more about the orphanage."|Questions6]]</div> <</if>> <<if $trustHavardC1 is true>> <<if $q1 is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["Is this real?"|Questions1]]</div> <</if>> <<if $q5 is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["Does everyone know things but have no idea how they know them?"|Questions5]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[["I have no more questions for now."|Chapter 1_9]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

<<set $q1 to true>>\ <<addHavard -5>>\ "Is this real?" “Real?” Havard titled his head. “Could you elaborate a bit?” You wave about your bandaged hand. “Is this real? That table? The ceiling? The floor?” It all comes out in a rush of words. Now that you have started talking, it seems hard to stop. “Are you real? Is this place real? Or am I really still chained up in the void and just too broken to stay awake?” Understanding shone in Havard’s eyes. Whatever he saw in your face, made him understand. He smiled at you so softly. So kindly. And so incredibly sadly. How did he do all that? Smile like that at you? At ''you''. No one smiled at you. No one cared about you. Well maybe //something// did, but //something// was not here. You were just some broken thing in the shape of a $child. <<if $MC_name_random is true>>\ "I swear to you that this is real. Everything here is real. You are no longer in that place. You were saved." Havard says softly. <<if $q2 is true>> “I do not know the details, but Lord Sheo saved you.” <</if>> <<else>>\ "$MCname, I swear to you that this is real. Everything here is real. You are no longer in that place. You were saved." Havard says softly. <<if $q2 is true>> “I do not know the details, but Lord Sheo saved you.” <</if>> <</if>>\ You stare and stare, trying to figure out if Havard is telling you the truth. It seems he is. “But… what if you are wrong?” You whisper. “I am not wrong.” Havard says with such certainty you almost believe it. <<if $trustHavardC1 is true>>\ You decided to trust Havard earlier. You should probably trust him now. He says this is real. You can’t trust yourself to know, but maybe you can trust him? <<else>>\ You decided to not trust Havard earlier. Why would you trust him now? He says this is real but if he is just a delusion of yours, then how could he be right? <</if>>\ “You do not have to take my word for it. You are here, you will experience things that will make you believe in time if you don’t believe yet.” Havard says softly. He seems so sincere to you. So certain. “It may take time, but all I ask is that you try to live with us as best you can.” <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Back to questions|Chapter 1_8]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $q2 to true>>\ <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ “Lord Sheo, one of the Ancients, saved you. He brought you here.” <<else>>\ "How did I get here? Where is //something//?" “Something?” Havard seems confused. “What do you mean by something?” “//Something// is the thing that saved me.” You whisper. “I asked for help, or I think I did. And //something// came.” “Aah, I see. One of those stories. The mage Carbus.” He smiles softly. “Something certainly did come for you. Just like it did a century ago for Carbus. That was Lord Sheo, one of the Ancients that saved you.” <</if>>\ You have no idea who that is. An Ancient? Like a grandpa? Havard must be able to see the confusion on your face. Once again, he smiles. “The Ancients are the oldest and most powerful creatures in Wocdes. Some say they created Wocdes itself. I do not know the truth but know that this place, the orphanage of Firgrat was founded by the Ancients. We are not even open yet officially.” That sounds impressive. Your eyes go wide. The oldest creatures? Might have created the world? //Something// is that important! Why is something like that going about helping children? Then again, if the Ancients founded this orphanage place, then maybe they like helping children? Even broken abandoned ones? You shake your head slightly to drive away the unpleasant memories. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ "As I said, Lord Sheo brought you here, did what he could to heal you, and went on his way.” Havard says. “But he may be back some day. If he is, then you may see him in person, and communicate whatever you wish to him as best you can.” <<else>>\ “To answer your question, Lord Sheo brough you here. Where Lord Sheo currently is, I do not know. He brought you here, did what he could to heal you, and went on his way.” Havard says. “But he may be back some day. If he is, then you may see him in person, and say whatever you wish to him.” <</if>>\ You take a moment to absorb this information. It seems there is not much you can do at the moment. To be honest, this Ancient did not do a very good job with your hands. Shouldn’t the oldest grandpa in the world be able to do something like heal your arms. Or maybe you are simply twisted and wrong? Maybe you can make a complaint when you meet this super ancient grandpa creature? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Back to questions|Chapter 1_8]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $q3 to true>>\ <<if $nonverbal is not true>>\ "What is “Firgrat”?" <</if>>\ “Firgrat is the largest and oldest city in Wocdes.” Havard says. “It is the headquarters of the Ancients, and naturally the city where this orphanage is located.” Havard thinks for a moment. “I am sure you will eventually learn a lot more about the city in time.” Well, for once that was a rather simple answer. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Back to questions|Chapter 1_8]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $q4 to true>>\ <<if $nonverbal is not true>>\ "What happened to my hands?" <</if>>\ Havard’s gaze flickers to your bandaged hands. “I do not know the full details. However, Lord Sheo had to fight hard to even get them to this state.” Havard says apologetically. “He said that the chains that held you did this?” He frames it like a question. Maybe this Lord Sheo did not tell Havard everything. Memories of the void and the cycle flood your mind. You think your fingers are twitching but it is impossible to know. You are lost in the void. The cycle starts anew. Pain floods you from the chains holding your arms, digging deep into your flesh. It comes. Again and again, a relentless agony. Your flesh changing. Mutating. Dying. The pain, oh sweet pain. Like an old nightmare. Pain. Pain. PaIn, PaiN. PAiN…. <<if $MC_name_random is true>>\ "Whatever you are seeing, it is not true!" Havard’s voice pierces the void. <<if $q1 is true>> “Remember, this is real! Lord Sheo saved you!” <</if>> <<else>>\ "$MCname! Whatever you are seeing, it is not true!" Havard’s voice pierces the void. <<if $q1 is true>> “Remember, this is real! Lord Sheo saved you!” <</if>> <</if>>\ Havard is right in front of you. His face is worried, terrified. You are shaking. Twitching. Are those your screams? You are screaming your lungs out. Slowly, the screams stop. For a moment, the world stands still. <<set $coping to 0>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[A deranged laughter erupts from you.|Questions4_2][$coping to $coping+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You go numb.|Questions4_2][$coping to $coping+2]]</div> <<if $selfharmoptions is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You pull your head back. There is a stone wall next to your bed. You aim to crack your skull.|Questions4_2][$coping to $coping+3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You close your eyes, hands wrapping around youself as you rock back and forth in place.|Questions4_2][$coping to $coping+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[A scream of anger erupts from your lips.|Questions4_2][$coping to $coping+5]]</div> <<if $trustHavardC1 is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You decided to trust Havard. It is not really a consicous decision. Throwing yourself at him.|Questions4_2][$coping to $coping+6]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $q5 to true>>\ “Does everyone know things but have no idea how they know them?” Havard look at you tilting his head. “Could you be a bit more specific. What do you mean?” You ponder. “The faces you make. Expressions. Somehow, I often know what they mean, but I don’t know how?” You try to remember back. “And I knew the color hazel.” Havard considers this. “Well, most people can read expressions, but it depends on the person. Both people in the interaction. Some people are less expressive. Some people have a harder time understanding others.” Havard explained calmly. “I do not believe there is anything odd about understanding expressions. You learn it by interacting with people.” He looks at you and you think he is thinking hard about why you would find that odd. You don’t know how much he knows about the void. About how messy your mind is. He probably does not know much. That he is the first person you remember talking to. Ever. You are sure you may have talked before the void, but you don’t remember. “As for knowing the color hazel, it is not odd either. I assume you mean my eyes. Lots of people have hazel eyes.” Havard says. Is there nothing odd about knowing things? Are all these things you sometimes know just something you remember from before the void, even if your memories from that time are so fragmented and uncomprehensible? Did the void and pain eat just the memories from your mind? Or is there some other reason… “But please do tell me if you feel something is wrong. “ Havard smiles. “And thank you for trusting me enough to ask. I promise I will listen if you think something is odd.” <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Back to questions.|Chapter 1_8]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $coping is 1>>\ <<addmadness 5>><<addHavard -10>>\ The laughter echoes in the room. Havard looks surprised for a moment. Then worried and just sad. He does not attempt to make you stop. The laughter drives away the memory of the void. What a fun hilarious time it was! Alone in the void! Hilarious! It's so funny. How you shake and shiver. You laugh and laugh. Until you hear Havard. No not hear. The laughter freezes on your face as arms gently wrap around you. Your face is burried into Havard’s robes. <<elseif $coping is 2>>\ <<addnumbness 5>><<addHavard -10>>\ There is peace in the void. A different kind of void from the one you know so well. A blankness that makes you so wonderfully numb. Nothing matters here. You don't even notice Havard move. How his face is so sad and pained. The void shakes as arms gently wrap around you. Your face is burried into Havard’s robes. <<elseif $coping is 3>>\ <<addselfharm 5>><<addHavard -20>>\ You pull your head back and whip forwards as fast as you can. Soon, your head will crack open and this will all be over. Your movement is stopped as arms gently wrap around you. Your face is buried into Havard’s robes. <<elseif $coping is 4>>\ <<addescape 5>><<addHavard -5>>\ Your eyes close, hands wrap around yourself. You rock back and forth. There is nothing wrong. Nothing at all. Everything is fine. There is no void, no cycle. No pain. Your hands are normal. You rock back and forth, back and forth. Life is good. Everything is fine. Always fine. Nothing is ever wrong. Your movement is stopped as arms gently wrap around you. Your face is burried into Havard’s robes. <<elseif $coping is 5>>\ <<addanger 5>><<addHavard -10>>\ Your scream seems to startle Havard for a moment. You grab your pillows and smash them to the wall. Not at all satisfying. You smack the pillow against the bed frame. You tear at the bedding. None of it helps. Your weak mangled hands cannot do any damage. Your grip is weak. Far too weak to satisfy your rage. You are just about to punch the wall in rage, when you are stopped. Arms gently wrap around you. Your face is buried into Havard’s robes. <<elseif $coping is 6>>\ <<addtrust 5>><<addHavard 20>>\ You are not sure why. It seems a thing to do. You hurl yourself at Havard with no warning. His face morphs in surprise. You almost drop off the edge of the bed, your leap far too short with your weak body, but Havard catches you. You bury your head into his robes, breathing ragged. It just seemed like a natural thing to do. <</if>>\ You are being held in Havard's arms. A hug. You are getting a hug. You know the concept. You have no experience in hugs. None that you remember clearly. Only a vague image of a distant past that cannot stay in your damaged mind. Getting a hug is sort of like getting carried but comfier. You were carried out of the void and felt safe for the first time you can remember. A clarity of emotion that has escaped you since then. Havard’s arms surround you. He holds you close to him, your head against his chest. His hold is gentle but firm. As if you were a precious thing that could be broken. You doubt he could do anything to break you more than you already are. “Shh. It’s all right. No one will hurt you here. You are safe.” Havard whispers to you. His voice is gentle, and soft. Reassuring. You have no idea what to do. How should you react to being hugged? <<set $hug_reaction to 0>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $trustHavardC1 is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[Your own hands, damaged they may be, come up and mimic his gesture. You hug him back.|Questions4_3][$hug_reaction to $hug_reaction + 1]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You limply let him hold you, not daring to move. He might stop if you do.|Questions4_3][ $hug_reaction to $hug_reaction + 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You limply let him hold you, having no idea what to do.|Questions4_3][ $hug_reaction to $hug_reaction + 3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You struggle with what strength you have.|Questions4_3][$hug_reaction to $hug_reaction + 4]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[“Let go,” you say and push at him.|Questions4_3][$hug_reaction to $hug_reaction + 4]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<h1>Interlude – A Day of mystery</h1>\ <h2> Lexia -- A Silver Protector</h2>\ <h3> Late-morning</h3>\ <<set $chapter = 'Interlude - Lexia'>>\ Lexia was practicing with her blade. It was a part of her routine. At least for now. With only the twins here at the orphanage, and with Sandor being assigned to them, she did not have a whole lot to do yet. In time the orphanage would officially open, and her days would get a lot busier. For now, she spent most of her time training and patrolling. Occasionally she polished the silver armor given to her by the Ancients themselves as a sign of her status. Not that the enchanted metal needed much polish. It shone all on its own. Lexia moved through her forms with practiced grace, fluidly, naturally. The blade was an extension of her body, a gleaming arc of silver that flashed in the light. Every strike was deliberate, disciplined and focused. Lexia breathed deeply as she moved, in sync with the blade, each exhale releasing tension, each inhale drawing in energy. A grounded and strong stance. The air was still refreshing during this mid-morning, and the sun was not too hot. Only the gentle breeze and the rhythmic sound of steel slicing through the air could be heard. Lexia had seen Lady Elri, the Blade Mistress, train just once. Just once during over a decade she had spent in the Spire, training to become a Silver Protector. Lexia had seen perfection that day, and it had spurred her. Motivated her. Perfection with a blade in hand had been so beautiful. So, Lexia had trained and trained. She had not known what she was training for at the time. Just happy to be out of the streets. Happy to be fed and have a bed. A purpose. Happy to be chasing perfection. What had Lady Elri done that day? A fluid never ending movement that Lexia still could not fully comprehend. She changed stances, going from practicing economical movements to a more continuous fluid style. Almost a blade dance. Not so practical in combat, at least not without magic, but oh so fun for her to practice. A semi-dance that made her feel alive as she swirled and stepped, never stopping, never resting. It would be even more fun and probably look better with flowing clothes, not armor. Lexia loved her silver armor, but she did like other less practical clothes too. That was fine. Not everything needs to be practical. She loved the blade and all it could do. Not the blood it could spill but that which it could protect. How beautiful it was, how she could move with it like she was doing now. Fluidly. Elegantly. She was a Silver Protector. A Protector of the future, in the form of the children abandoned by others. A duty she had accepted with open arms. How could she not? She knew what life as an orphan was like. Firgrat was huge, thousands upon thousands of people. Lexia did not know how many, she did not even know the city in truth. In her life, she had never been to all parts of Firgrat, let alone outside of the city. She sometimes thought that she was far too small to be a grand thing like a Silver Protector. Yet, she had been chosen. The Silver Protectors were newly founded. They were the first generation. She, Sandor and the others. They had been given training and power by the Ancients. They were an elite force among the elite. The Grey Protectors that oversaw the protection of Firgrat and the Green Protectors that oversaw the remote regions as a whole, were both much more numerous and much less trained than the newly found Silver Protectors. Why had the Ancients decided that the most elite force should guard children? Lexia did not know, but she was glad for it. She had been trained for a decade, yet the orphanage was recently founded. Was it always the plan to do this? Or did the Ancients have some other purpose in mind when they started training the Silver Protectors? There was no way to know. As of now, the Silver Protectors were an ideal yet unproven, but the Ancients thought in centuries, perhaps millennia. What Lexia could say was that she would have liked to have someone look out for her when she was a child alone on the streets. Just for a few years before she had been found, but those few years had been harsh. Lexia kept practicing with her blade. Not in hopes of ever needing to use it. That had been drilled into her by her instructors. No, it was for a day when her skills would be needed. Would be tested. For a day she would prove herself worthy of the trust placed in her by the Ancients. It would be best, if such a day never came but life was cruel, unpredictable and could be snuffed out in a moment. So, she kept training. For a day she was the one who walked into a horror like the one Lord Sheo had encountered just a couple of days ago. The poor $child Lord Sheo had brought in and was still asleep. That broken little form she had seen the Ancient cradle in the healing baths had kept Lexia from sleep for nearly two nights now. She had not told anyone. How could she? She was a Silver Protector! Yet she kept seeing the cuts, the bruises and the ruined flesh. Her movements turned jerky, and she had to stop training. She sat down on a nearby bench under the shade of a tree, and let out a sigh. Would she be this useless when she was needed? No, Lexia would not waver when the time came. This she swore to herself. Her hand tightened around her blade, knuckles turning white. She did not wear her gauntlets inside the orphanage unless on guard duty. When the time came, she would be ready. Her blade would do what must be done to do her duty. She was just about to keep training, when she saw a sight that made her smile. She waved and beamed as two little forms dashed towards her, followed by a figure in silver armor matching hers. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The twins had arrived.|Lexia Interlude 2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h3>Your POV</h3>\ The odd man keeps staring at you. That gaze makes you feel odd. His eyes are hazel, and terribly kind. They remind you of times before the void. Before the pain and the cycle. Back when there was light and soothing touches. Parents... The fragment of a memory fades. What was all that about? Why is this man so sad when he looks at you? Why do you know he is sad? <<if $injured > 0>>\ <<if $brokenhands is true>>\ <<addHavard -20>>\ The man’s gaze snaps to your broken hand. His eyes widen. "Your hand!" <<else>>\ <<addHavard -10>>\ Then his gaze snaps to the dark muck you think is blood on your hands. His eyes widen. "You are hurt!" <</if>>\ He rushes forward, startling you. You try to back up, but the man is quick, and you are in a bed. Your mind conjured up images of grasping and probing hands. You begin to panic. It must show on your face because the man immediately stops in his tracks. "I will not hurt you. I will promise as many times as is needed." His voice is quiet but firm. Somehow it soothes your wounded soul. You stare back at the man, now kneeling in the room. "I will make any oath you wish, but please let me tend to your injuries." Your injuries are not really a worry for you. Your life is pain and suffering. Why should you care? Still, that gaze makes you feel odd. His eyes are hazel, and terribly kind. You stare at the man. Could it really be? Does he actually want to help you? Or just trick you? You could let him help you... assuming he actually wants to help. You doubt you can run away or grab a weapon anymore. Definitely not hide. You sort of tried that. You doubt it would work now. Can you even walk? <<set $hide_coping to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You only nod. What else is there to do?|Chapter1_injury_treating][$hide_coping to $hide_coping+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You close your eyes and pretend he is not here.|Chapter1_injury_treating][$hide_coping to $hide_coping+2]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ The man smiles at you. “Could I come a bit closer. Perhaps sit down.” He gestures to a chair by the table. “I already promised not to hurt you. We could talk about what has happened and why you are here.” You eye the man warily. True. You do have questions. You give a miniscule nod. You don’t see a way out. The man drags a wooden chair from the nearby table next to your bed and sits down in it. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He looks at you with those kind eyes.|Explanations]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>

“Lexia! Lexia!” Azha shouted as she stopped in front of Lexia, sliding a little on the grass. “Why is everyone acting weird?” The little girl asked, demanded really, staring up at her with wide excited eyes. Azha’s twin brother, Atru said nothing but stared at Lexia with equal intensity as his sister but a completely blank face. Lexia put away her blade, sheathing it at her hip. Atru was probably fine, the boy was curious but not prone to recklessness, at least as far as Lexia knew. Azha on the other hand was unpredictable at times. She might try to touch the blade and cut herself. Lexia chuckled. “Hello to you Azha. And to you too Atru.” Lexia looked at each twin in turn and beamed at the two adorable children. “And hello to you as well, Sandor.” she called out to the figure clad in silver armor. Sandor waved back before settling to stand nearby, not taking part in the conversation. Right, he was on duty. That did not mean that Sandor could not talk, it just seemed he was focusing on keeping an eye out, and it seemed the twins were up to something. An investigation? Well, it was not hard to figure out why “everyone was acting weird” as Azha had put it. It was because they had a new child in the orphanage who they could not tell the twins about yet. Mainly since the new $child was asleep, and no one knew what kind of mental and physical state $heshe would have once $heshe woke up. “Hello!” Azha said happily and reiterated. “Why is everyone weird today? They all keep glancing that way!” She pointed while her twin just stared at Lexia intently. Lexia of course knew that was the direction of the room that the new child had been put in. People must be worried about the $child. Everyone had after all seen Lord Sheo carry the cloaked figure, even if only Lexia and Havard had entered the healing baths to see the full extent of the horror. Lexia could of course, not tell the twins any of this yet. The two would sneak into the new room in a heartbeat. Azha would want a new friend and Atru would go with Azha as he always did. So, Lexia smiled. “Weird, Azha? All glancing that way?” Lexia tilted her head. “Are you sure they all did not sleep on bad pillows and have crooked necks? Maybe they all have neck pain.” The way Azha’s lips scrunched up adorably as she considered this potential scenario almost made Lexia coo. Atru tilted his own head, as if testing if a neck could be crooked. The boy’s face kept blank, but he tilted his head multiple times, trying to figure out how one would need to keep glancing a certain way with a crooked neck. Lexia was very proud for not breaking down at the sheer adorableness of it. “Nuh-uh. The pillows here are awesome!” Azha declared with the confidence of a child. “You are hiding something!” She was right of course. A coy smile graced Lexia’s lip. “Am I? Azha, are you accusing me of lying? Are you sure the rest of us are not simply too old to stave off stiffness even with awesome pillows?” Azha narrowed her eyes. “Alessa and Sandor aren’t that old. Not nearly as old as Ethel!” Azha seemed convinced now she was right. “You are hiding something!” The little girl declared with all the certainty of a child and folded her arms. “Tell us! We want to know the mystery!” Lexia pressed a hand to her chest theatrically. “Oh, I think I can feel my heart break. How cruel the world is, so that children so young have such jaded minds!” She lamented. “Aah, I must lie down, before I faint. Such a shocking discovery!” She lay across the grass, spread out arms and legs wide, tongue lolling out. Azha burst out giggling. Atru carefully came over to Azha and knelt next to her and stared at her intently. It was a sign of how comfortable the twins were here that Atru was not holding Azha’s hand. At the beginning of their stay at the orphanage, the twins had always been holding hands and never more apart than that would allow. Now? They were only together all the time but no longer clung to each other as if one of them might disappear at any time. “Atru, she is being silly! Don’t worry.” Azha said to her twin. Ah, Atru was worried about Lexia? So adorable. Such a sweet boy. Most of the time, only Azha could actually tell what Atru was thinking at a given time, so it was a bit lost on people how sweet Atru actually was. “Yes Atru, I am just being silly. I am sorry for worrying you.” Lexia said as she sat up and slowly reached out to ruffle Atru’s hair, giving the boy an opportunity to back away if the touch was not welcome. The boy did not seem to mind. His face may have been blank, but Lexia swore he leaned into the touch slightly as she ruffled Atru’s blond hair. “No fair!” Azha dashes over, offering her own head for ruffling. Lexia obliges and ruffles her hair as well. Azha hums happily. How did Protector Sandor and Custodian Alessa not die of the sheer cuteness power of the two, being around them all the time? Lexia had been interacting with the two for just a bit today and was ready to lay down with a cool wrap around her forehead. She glanced at Sandor and raised an eyebrow, silently asking how he dealt with this. He shrugged very helpfully. Lexia rolled her eyes. “Ah wait!” Azha took a step back to glare up at Lexia. “You didn’t answer our question!” Lexia chuckles. “Realized that did you?” Lexia said and patted her head. “What a smart girl you are.” Azha beamed at the praise. Then scowled again as Atru leaned in and seemed to whisper something to her ear that Lexia could not hear. Azha nodded to her twin and turned to Lexia again. “You are trying to distract us!” Azha accused. “Damn, you are both too smart to fool.” Lexia said, smiling brightly. Atru gave her a very unimpressed look. It was rather impressive how unimpressed he managed to look since he always had such a blank expression. Clearly trying the praise trick twice, did not work out well. Damn, was she this determined as a kid? “Aah shucks. Atru don’t look at me like that. It will make me feel self-conscious.” Lexia said but smiled and winked to make sure Atru got that she was joking as she stood up. The boy slowly blinked at her. Well… Lexia had no idea what that meant. Time to move on. “All right. Wanna hear what is happening?” Lexia asked the twins with a wide smile. Sandor gave her a warning look, but she waved to him to indicate it’s all right. She had a plan! “Yes!” Azha bounced up and down excitedly while Atru just stared at her. The twins really were adorable. Lexia almost felt bad for what she was about to do. Just one of those hard decisions that adults had to make in life. “All right, gather around then.” Lexia said and kneels. The twins huddle closer. “Well, you see the thing is… Look is that the Head Custodian?” Lexia pointed behind them. The twins turned to look. Hah, so easy. Lexia ran away laughing while the twins were looking the other way. Sandor facepalmed, and gave her a look of pure frustration. Azha made an outraged sound at being tricked and chased after Lexia. Atru ran after his twin. Sandor sighed, and jogged after Atru. It was a good day. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Lexia's laughter echoed through the hallways.|Lexia Interlude 3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h3> Afternoon</h3>\ Lexia had led the twins on a merry chase. Azha was far too stubborn to give up and Lexia had been having far too much fun to lose them. Of course she could have, but it had turned into a game of tag, the twins chasing her. It had been a good time; Sandor was laughing too even if he had not asked to run about after his charges. Of course, Azha had gotten tired and asked Sandor to carry her, and then asked the Protector to run in order to catch Lexia. If one twin was being carried, then both twins should be carried. So, Sandor had chased after Lexia, both twins clinging to him. It looked ridiculous, two tiny forms clinging to a figure in silver running after her. Lexia smiled at the memory already. This had led to a bit of an incident. Nothing too serious. They all were however banned from the kitchen for the rest of the day. And had to help cleaning. Havard’s orders. It wasn’t too bad. Lots of flour everywhere. Right now, Lexia was having her lunch. She had decided to eat outside as it was a nice day. She was sitting on a bench in one of the gardens inside the orphanage grounds. One of the more secluded ones. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "escape">>\ <<if $gardenespace is true>>\ Lexia thought she could hear a commotion. But it might have just been in her imagination. It was over so soon and there was no alarm. She was not on duty so she would not get any communication spells at the moment unless they were specifically addressed to her. She did not go to investigate; the orphanage was full of Protectors and custodians that had no charges to look after yet. The twins were always with Sandor when they were running about and as good-natured Sandor was, he was a Silver Protector. Not quite as good with a blade as she was, but close enough that they had more draws in training than victories either way. More defensive than she was, less likely to go on the attack. He would not leave the twins defenseless even if something was going on. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ Lexia was just finishing her lunch when her communicator pin indicated that Head Custodian Havard wished to talk with her. Well, she was his partner, together they would eventually oversee certain children. As the Head Custodian, Havard was of course involved with taking care of all the children to some degree, or will be, but he had wanted to also act as a normal Custodian. There was some worry about favoritism, or inequality, so it had been agreed that Custodian Ethel would step in if needed, in whatever capacity she deemed appropriate. If Havard was too occupied either with his duties as Head Custodian or normal duties as a Custodian, Ethel would decide what to do. Rumor said, the older woman was technically the most qualified to be Head Custodian in the first place but had soundly refused saying she was too old to run about taking care of things. No one had been brave enough to ask Custodian Ethel if she had actually said no to the Ancients faces. Lexia grabbed her communication pin, clasped it in her hand and focused a bit. You could talk into the pin, and it was easier but if you had the focus to spare then just thinking into the thing was enough. “Head Custodian! How goes it? Have the twins suffered greatly after our shared cleaning duty?” “Protector Lexia.” Havard said inside her head. “The twins are fine. Custodian Alessa took them to the baths. They were covered in flour.” Oh yes, they had been. The twins got covered good. Two little ghosts. Adorable really. There had been no crying so Lexia figured it was all fine. Lexia smiled. “You know, I was surprised to see the twins without Alessa earlier in the day to be honest.” “She was taking some things inside. Apparently, there had been a picnic in the garden. She promised the twins honey cakes as a part of a deal to make them eat something other than fresh bread with butter at breakfast.” Havard sounded like he was not sure if custodian Alessa should be commended or scolded for such a tactic. “She had not caught back up to them when you lead them on a merry chase.” Lexia had a feeling Havard directs this at her just a tad scoldingly. Lexia laughed at his reaction. “Well, from the sounds of it, Alessa succeeded in getting the twins try more variety of food. Let her be.” She tried to make her mental voice sound placating. “And don’t blame me, I was just trying to avoid giving away that we had a new resident.” “By running away from them?” Havard sounded fondly annoyed. Lexia could almost see the raised eyebrow in her head. “You knew Azha would chase you, and you did not even run away properly.” “They were too smart to trick! And too adorable to leave behind entirely! I am sure you can see my dilemma and playing tag with the kids is a great pastime.” Lexia pouted at the Head Custodian, both in reality and inside her head, who sighed on the other end of the communication. There was a moment of silence, followed by a deep sigh. “I sometimes cannot tell if I should be more worried about the twins getting into trouble, or you getting into trouble.” Lexia beamed. “I am a fully grown adult. A Silver Protector. An Elite warrior. I can deal with trouble. You are just a worrywart.” She realized what she had said immediately after saying it. To the Head Custodian, who was in many ways her boss despite also being her partner. Who Lexia did not really know. “Head custodian.” She hurriedly added for a bit of respect. The worrywart part was true, she was not taking that back, and the First Protector was technically her boss but she only dealt with security of the orphanage at the moment. If Lexia had been within sight of Havard right now, he would have looked at her. Hard. Strictly. But right now, Lexia detected a hint of a smile in the voice. “Just Havard, Protector Lexia. Havard is fine.” Lexia relaxed. “Then I am just Lexia.” She said beaming. “Lexia then.” Havard said softly before sobering. “Our newest resident is awake.” He sounded… troubled for the lack of a better word. Lexia could feel her heart beating faster. In an earlier meeting, Havard had indicated that he would like to be the Custodian in charge of their newest charge due to the… unique circumstances of their arrival. The Custodians would vote, and Custodian Ethel had to agree to make it official, since Havard was the Head Custodian. If Havard was the custodian in charge of the new resident, it would mean that Lexia would be their protector. “And how did it go?” Lexia asks, now tense. “The first meeting could have gone better. I was out to deal with the twins kitchen emergency and…” Havard’s voice petered out. "Lexia, we need to be careful. That $child needs help. I am not sure about everything that is wrong, but it is clear things are wrong." Lexia’s heart sank, worry gnawing at her insides. “But we knew that already with what Lord Sheo said about how he found our newest resident.” Lexia said. “Yes, but actually seeing the $child awake…” Havard seemed lost. Helpless. Lexia felt the need to reach out to him, but they are nowhere close to each other right now, communicating with the pins. And they did not know each other all that well. Havard cleared his throat a bit. <<if $MC_name_random is not true>>\ <<addLexia 2>>\ “Well, the name of our newest resident is $MCname.” “$MCname, huh?” Lexia smiles widely to herself. “A nice name.” “It is.” Havard sounded glad. <<if $named_by_Havard is true>>\ <<addLexia -5>>\ “A name I gave $himher by the way.” The normally humble Head Custodian sounded just a bit smug at that. Lexia had the urge to tease him but that would be best to do in person. Maybe once they knew each other better. Lexia raised an eyebrow. Havard of course could not see it, but she hoped her mental voice will convey the raised eyebrow. “Our newest resident let you name $himher, Head Custodian. Just like that? Why? I mean, don’t get me wrong, it is a good name, but still.” The hint of smugness disappeared. “Because $heshe could not remember $hisher own name.” How could a man sound so sad? Oh. Well… fuck. Lexia closed her eyes just for a moment. The implications of that statement were not good. Havard sounded worried. Sad. A bit angry. Probably angry at the world. Lexia should focus. She should be calm and steadfast right now. There was nothing else she could do but try and help. Anger helped no one. Fuck… all her good mood from seeing the twins was going to disappear at this rate. <</if>>\ “So, we have a name. Tell me how the first meeting itself went.” Lexia thought into her communication pin. <<else>>\ <<addLexia -10>>\ “$capitalheshe could not remember $hisher own name Lexia. Neither did $heshe want a new name.” Havard’s voice whispered in her mind. How could a man sound so sad. Oh. Well… fuck. Lexia closed her eyes just for a moment. The implications of that statement were not good. Havard sounded worried. Sad. A bit angry. Probably angry at the world. Lexia should focus. She should be calm and steadfast right now. There was nothing else she could do but try and help. Anger helped no one. Fuck… all her good mood from seeing the twins was going to disappear at this rate. “The $child needs a name Havard. We cannot just keep referring to $himher as the “$child”.” Lexia said gently. “I know, but it cannot be forced.” Havard’s voice was just as gentle as hers. “We will return to it in time. Or find some compromise. Respect $hisher agency but find some way to refer to $himher that is a bit more personal.” Lexia sighed. “I suppose you are right, as usual. We have no name for now but tell me how the first meeting itself went.” <</if>>\ <<switch $HavardMeetingReaction>>\ <<case "weapon">>\ <<addLexia -10>>\ "Well, $MCname tried to grab a flower vase, probably as a weapon for self-defense. Ended up with a shard in $hisher leg because those damaged hands cannot actually hold anything." Havard’s thoughts sounded troubled again. How badly were those hands damaged to not be able to hold a flower vase? "Oh no! Is $MCname alright?" “Yes. I took care of it. I managed to coax $himher into letting me help $himher. The wound has been taken care of.” Lexia exhaled, relaxing. That was good. <<case "hide">>\ <<addLexia -2>>\ "Well, $MCname tried to hide in the bed. I had to coax $himher to come out of hiding. It would have been rather adorable, if it was not so sad. That $MCname’s first instinct upon seeing a stranger was to hide.” Havard sounded rather sad inside Lexia’s head. “True, but it could have been worse. Children hide, Atru used to hide every time someone walked by, yet now he is practically social. Almost social. But as far as reactions to strangers go, this one is not the worst. $capitalheshe could have jumped out the window.” Lexia smiled a bit at talking about Atru’s progress. “I suppose.” Havard admitted. “But I still don’t like it.” <<case "escape">>\ <<addLexia -10>>\ "Well, $MCname jumped out the window. Nearly had a heart attack. I had to go after $himher." Havard said. “A rather sad situation is it not? That $MCname’s first instinct upon seeing a stranger was to jump out a window.” “Is $MCname fine?” It was the first floor, but still Lexia felt a tinge of worry. What a catastrophe that would have been had they used a room on one of the higher floors. Maybe Havard would have caught the $child? Though it sounds like he was too stunned to do anything in the moment. Something to consider in the future. Hopefully there would not be such cases in the future but the world was not fair, and this was an orphanage. “Yes, it was not a long way to the ground and the grass is quite plush.” <<if $gardenespace is true>>\ “I did have to chase after $himher…” Havard admits. “But I did catch up eventually. Can’t imagine the panic that $MCname must have felt to be able to run in that state, when $heshe should be resting.” “If it was not sad that $MCname felt the need to run away, it would be pretty funny. The Head Custodian chasing after a runaway child.” Lexia said with only a hint of sadness. "True" Havard was clearly lost in thought. <<else>>\ “And $MCname stayed in the garden, just looking about in a sort of daze. I think, $heshe <<is>> not used to many colors or plants. At least $heshe seemed to like it there.” “Good. At least we know a good place to let $MCname play in.” <</if>>\ <<case "naked">>\ <<addLexia -2>>\ "Well, $MCname tried to hide in the bed because $heshe <<was>> naked, Lord Sheo’s cloak had come of while $heshe slept. I had to coax $himher to put on the cloak and come out of hiding. It was a surprisingly innocent interaction but…." Havard said with a frown. “$capitalhisher eyes are… eerie. Empty. Dull.” Lexia wished that they were face to face. She would have liked to have seen Havard’s face in this moment. “Like the eyes of an old Grey Protector who has seen far too much.” Lexia frowns. “Not the eyes a child should have. But we knew it was bad….” Her mental voice peters out. She doesn’t really want to say anything more. “I suppose.” Havard admits reluctantly. <<case "injured">>\ <<addLexia -10>>\ " Well, $MCname tried to the fact that they had injured themselves, one of their hands. I had to coax $himher into letting me treat it." Havard said sadly. “But it’s all right now?” Lexia asked, worried. “Yes. I took care of it.” Havard does not sound happy at all. But kids get hurt all the time? Though how their newest resident had managed it so quickly was a bit worrying. Lexia would ask for details later. <<case "frozen">>\ <<addLexia -10>>\ “Well, $MCname just froze in place.” Havard said gently. “I had no idea how to reassure $himher at first.” “Oh…” Lexia closes her eyes. Havard had no idea what to do? What chance did the rest of them have then? “Is it OK now?” She asks gently. “We got past it.” Not a terribly encouraging answer but it was all Havard said. <</switch>>\ Ok, all that sounded… not great. It could have been worse. Could have been better. Time to move on. Lexia took a moment to take a few deep breaths. Focus. She was not like Havard; she could probably not provide comfort or reassurance the same way he did. She was meant to fight and protect. Havard was meant to guide. A difference in their roles; but with a case like $MCname would that be a problem? She could not worry about it right now. She should focus on what she can do right now. “Anything else?” Lexia asks. <<if not $HavardMeetingReaction.includes("injured") and not $HavardMeetingReaction.includes("weapon")>>\ <<if $got_injured_c1>>\ <<addLexia -10>>\ “There was an injury but not to worry. All injuries have been tended to.” Havard said. He did not sound happy at all. But kids get hurt all the time? Though how their newest resident had managed it so quickly was a bit worrying. Lexia would ask for details later. “Thank you. For taking care of it.” Lexia said softly. Havard did not answer. <<else>>\ “No. The rest we can go over later.” Havard’s voice was calm. <</if>><</if>>\ “What about right now? I assume there is a reason you are contacting me?” Lexia asked, getting up. She hoped Havard had something for her to do. “Yes, $MCname fell back asleep after our talk. However, I fear that $heshe will not be able to get around on $hisher own right now. Could you ask about for one of those wheeled chairs? I wish to at least offer the option when the time comes.” <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "escape">>\ “Didn’t you say $MCname ran away from you?” <<if $gardenespace is true>>\ “True but panic can make us do things we are not normally able to do. I doubt without that visceral reaction, $MCname will be able to do much walking or running. And I would rather avoid it to be honest. That $child needs rest.” <<else >>\ “True but panic can make us do things we are not normally able to do. It was however only to the garden, and I doubt without that visceral panic reaction, $MCname will be able to do much walking or running. And I would rather avoid it to be honest. That $child needs rest.” <</if>>\ “All right. I will head out soon.” Lexia stretches her neck and did a little jump in place. <<else>>\ “Of course. It is probably best to have one of those things around just in case anyway even if $MCname does not need or want it.” Lexia stretched her neck and did a little jump in place. <</if>>\ <<if $angry_at_being_carried_about is true>>\ <<addLexia -1>>\ “Good. $MCname was somewhat angry at being carried by me so I did promise $himher an option in any case.” Havard adds. <<else>>\ “Good. It is good to have one even if it is not needed depending on what $MCname wants.” <</if>>\ “It is agreed then, I will see about getting us one of those chairs with wheels. We should not keep $MCname cooped up inside. There is plenty to see inside the orphanage, and atop the walls.” Lexia agreed. It had sounded like $MCname had been locked away from what Lord Sheo had said. “Bet I can build a ramp so we can slide down it with the wheeled chair. I wonder if those things can be enchanted…” “Lexia.” Havard warned. She smiled wide. “Oh, don’t be a spoilsport. Just imagine it. One of the walls, some plans and a few nails and we could have an epic event!” Lexia’s smile was full of mischief, she was just pushing Havard’s buttons but since the Head Custodian is not face to face with her, it could be hard to tell. “Oh, come on. It will be fun. Imagine one of those wheeled chairs flying thought the air. I bet the twins would want to get in on this. How many kids can one of those chairs hold?” She went on, smiling all the while. “Lexia enough. You have had your fun.” Havard said. Lexia got the feeling there is a fond exasperation in his tone. He might even be smiling a bit. Damn, these communication pins were nice but it was hard to tell when to push a joke further. Lexia was very tempted to go on. She was pretty sure that Havard was enjoying this. It was hard to tell via the communication pin. Should she take the risk? Maybe she would quit while she is ahead… The choice is not hers, it was too late. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ <<addLexia -2>>\ "Lexia, before you go. I have another task for you. $MCname cannot or will not speak. Communication is difficult at the moment. Could you visit the Spire. Talk to someone about a magical communicator?" Lexia tilted her head. "Won't talk? Why? Injury? Trauma?" "The why hardly matters. $capitalheshe won't talk." "OK, I will visit the Spire! One chair with wheels and a magical communicator coming up!” Lexia said cheerfully. "I am sure someone has something to help." She was also excited to just visit the Spire! She could see one of the Ancients! Maybe even ask them directly about something to help $MCname. “Oh… should we get a communicator for Atru too?” Lexia asked. Not quite the same thing though. Atru spoke to his sister. He just did not speak to other people. Would he use a communicator at all? “You can though I am not sure if Atru would agree to use one. Still, it does not hurt to offer.” “Got it!” “Thank you. You should get going Lexia.” Havard said. “I will see you later. Do not go introduce yourself to $MCname alone. I want to be present when you do. I will be staying in $hisher room until $heshe <<wakes>> up again.” <<else>>\ “You should get going Lexia.” Havard said. “I will see you later. Do not go introduce yourself to $MCname alone. I want to be present when you do. I will be staying in $hisher room until $heshe <<wakes>> up again.” <</if>>\ “Ok. See you later Havard!” Lexia dashed off to take care of everything. Today she would introduce herself to a new child! She hoped it would go well. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End Of Lexia POV|Chapter 2 fadein]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''Interlude -- A Day of mystery'' </font> \ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 200%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''Lexia -- A Silver Protector'' </font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'Lexia Interlude 1'>><</cont>>

You are standing by a window at the edge of the world, staring at a vast expanse of shimmering crystal-clear bay of water. Water directly in front of you as far as the eye can see, merging with the sky at the horizon. Water so pure you can see the bottom, sand, corralled reefs with lots of colors. So many colors! Animals of some sort under the water. Fish? Turtles? Everywhere you look, you see something amazing. Gentle waves creating shadows on the rippled surface. Sunlight shining down on the water, creating a mosaic of blue and green, each shade more vibrant than the last. Colors and shades you have never seen before. It is overwhelming. All you know is the void. This paradise is too much. Too vibrant. Too colorful. Too beautiful for you. This must be the ocean. Something inside you tells you this, even if you have never seen the ocean. A soft breeze carries the scent of the ocean to you. A fresh and invigorating scent filling your lungs with a sense of freedom and endless possibility. For one tiny moment, you forget the void and the cycle. Your hands. For one glorious moment, you feel free. Could this really be reality? Could your tortured mind even create something like the sight before you in the void? “It is beautiful, is it not?” A voice says and reality comes crashing down around you. You spin around. Stumble more like. The man who you saw earlier, the man who entered the room you woke up in, is standing in front of you, looking at you. That gaze makes you feel odd. His eyes are hazel, and terribly kind. They remind you of times before the void. Before the pain and the cycle. Back when there was light and soothing touches. Parents... The fragment of a memory fades. What was all that about? Why is this man so sad when he looks at you? Why do you know he is sad? You try to back up, but you are right next to the window. Should you jump out? But there is nothing but the water below. Your mind is conjuring up images of grasping and probing hands. Of knives carving into you. You begin to panic. It must show on your face and in your body because the man immediately reassures you. "I will not hurt you. I swear it." His voice is quiet but firm. Somehow it soothes your wounded soul. You stare back at the man. You stare at the man. Could it really be? Does he actually not want to hurt you? Or just trick you? The man smiles at you. “Do you like the view of the ocean?” he asks. You glance out from the window at the incredible vista spreading out. You nod. You don’t know why. No one in your memory ever asked you anything, they just did bad things to you. Of course you like this view. It is not the void after all. It is so full of color and life. The man smiles at your answer. “Would you like to stay in this room? Perhaps sit down?” He gestures to the bed. “I already promised not to hurt you. There is much to discuss. I am sure you have questions.” You eye the man warily. True. You do have questions. You give a miniscule nod. You don’t see a way out. This room is nice as well. Has a nice view, even better than the garden you saw earlier. <<if $selfharmoptions is true>> If needed, you can also throw yourself out of the window and hope for the best. Assuming your legs are capable of such a thing. <</if>>\ <<if $naked is true>>\ “First, here.” The man holds out a cloak to you. “I grabbed this from the bed you woke up in. You are a bit underdressed child." You look down and realize you are still naked. <<if $chapter1_2 is 1>>\ Earlier you were comfortable naked. You still figure you should put on the cloak and wrap it around you. It seems something the man would prefer. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 2>>\ Earlier you were a bit cold and wanted something to wear anyway. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 3>>\ You are embarrassed about someone seeing you naked. You quickly grab the cloak and cover yourself. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 4>>\ You are really embarrassed about being naked and your face feels really hot. You quickly grab the cloak and cover yourself. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 5>>\ You didn't mind being naked earlier! It was sort of freeing! You figure you should still put on the cloak. It seems something the man would prefer. <<elseif $chapter1_2 is 6>>\ Well this is new... He wants you to put on a cloak? That is not the way it usually goes. No one cares if you are naked. But if that is what the man wants, you suppose you should oblige him in case he gets violent if you disobey. <</if>>\ You wrap the cloak around yourself as best you can with your mangled bandaged hands. You then move to the bed and sit down. Really you fall down on the bed. Good thing it is so soft. Your legs are done. Shaking and numb. <<else>>\ You check the cloak wrapped around your body as you move to the bed. Really you fall down on the bed. Good thing it is so soft. Your legs are done. Shaking and numb. <</if>>\ The man makes no comment about your ungraceful landing, and instead drags a wooden chair from the nearby table next to your bed and sits down in it. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He looks at you with those kind eyes.|Explanations]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Another day in Firgrat -- Part 1 A spindly giant coming out of the sea, in Firgrat bay. Lots of panic, lots of running about in a panic. One of the Ancients floats down from the Spire to talk with the giant, whose voice is ridiculously loud. The giant want to shop, which the whole city can hear since their voice booms so much. Does the giant have money? Does he have goods worth money? He does. He is a giant who can walk across the sea bottom. He has plenty of stuff from underwater. Shipwrecks, pearls etc. And can get tons and tons of fish. Of course it all depends on what he wants to buy. Of course, his target is the Equanox. ----------------------------------- "I am going fix this world" the scariest words a villain can say.

<<set $MCname to 'the $child'>>\ <<set $lastname to 'Unknown'>>\ <<addHavard -5>>\ Names are for people, aren’t they? Are you really a person anymore? It seems dubious to you. You were certainly not treated like a person by the people who took you. They just carved into you, tore and broke your body before dumping you in the void. "It's all right child." Havard says gently. "If you do not remember and wish for more time, it can wait." His words are soothing. "Do not worry for such things. There is time yet to remember or to decide." It seems that Havard has mistaken your silent pondering for the fact that you are unsure of your name, and do not wish to commit yet. That is fine. It makes no real difference. Still you stare at Havard for a moment. He is being so odd. Nice. You think the word is nice. It's hard to get used to someone being nice to you. You think there were people who were nice to you in the past, but your memories are too damaged to remember. You have a feeling you remembered in the void but everything is so blurry and fragmented. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You decide you would like Havard to name you.|Havard_names_you]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are happy with letting it be, so you nod.|Chapter 1_7][$MC_name_random to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Shake your head. No I want to choose my own name instead.|Choose name]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[No wait, I remember now! (go back to the lists)|Names]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $q6 to true>>\ “The Orphanage of Firgrat or Firgrat Orphanage is an institution founded by the Ancients fairly recently. We are not yet officially open, instead we are preparing for our official opening in some months. You see, this orphanage is meant to be able to house a lot of people. The city of Firgrat is huge, and I fear there are many children in need of care.” Havard explains. You follow along silently. “You see, this place is meant to be a safe place for a place for children who have no other place to go. A place of care and learning.” Havard take a moment to consider what more to say. “There are other orphanages in Firgrat but they are all run by kind souls who have had no official support. They are at the mercy of the city, and the city can be cruel. This place however.” Havard gestures around. “Is officially founded and backed by the Ancients. We have a massive budget, compound and plenty of people to look after children.” Havard smiles. “The custodians like me will each get assigned to specific children at least in the beginning. They will be the ones to take care of those children under their care, waking them up, taking them to meals and lessons, helping them settle in. Things like that. Of course, other custodians will help. And then we have a special privilege no one else in all of Wocdes has.” This sounds important so you pay extra attention. If you are going to be staying here, it seems important to know all of this. If this is just a delusion of your mind though, it might be a wasted effort. Still, best to try and pay attention for now. “The Ancients did not only create the orphanage, and the custodians. They also created the Silver Protectors. Elite warriors whose duty is to guard the children inside this Orphanage so that no harm will befall them no matter what.” Havard smiles softly. “There are a few varieties of Silver Protectors. Many get a partner from the Custodians upon their assignment and accompany the children they are assigned to during the day. Together the pair of Protector and Custodian will be responsible for the safety, education and wellbeing of their charge or charges with support from all other Custodians and Protectors.” You try to wrap your head around the concept. A Protector to guard the children? Will you get one? It sounds nice… but can they be trusted? You know people like guards often carry weapons. Weapons are used to hurt people? To cut and stab. Just like the people who took you did… You are not sure you like the idea… but Havard has not stopped talking. “The orphanage has walls, and only one gate to enter through. The Silver Protectors keep a rotation of people on guard around the orphanage on the walls and the gate. A sort of general assignment to keep everyone safe, though there may not be enough Silver Protectors for this in the long term. The third role a Silver Protector could have is going out into the world to find children who need our care and bringing them back. Much like Lord Sheo did to you.” This is a lot to process, and you think you are getting tired. Your eyes feel heavy. Havard has been talking so much. You need time to process. Havard smiles at you softly. “Apologies for the long explanation, but one more thing. You are the third child we have here in our care currently. In time you will meet the other two. They are twins about your age.” Twins? As in they look the same? Another thing you know but have no idea how. Have you ever met anyone your age? How old are you? Are people your own age different from people like Havard? Havard is definitely different from the people who took you to be carved up and threw you into the void. Your eyes feel quite heavy. “I see you are getting tired.” Havard says. “Perhaps it is time to put an end to this question session. Or did you have anything else in mind?” <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You are done.|Chapter 1_9]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Back to questions.|Chapter 1_8]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $codex to true>><<notify 3s>>The codex has been unlocked.<</notify>>\ That was a lot of questions. It has been a long day. You think you feel calmer after hearing all of that. This could still all be a delusion, but could your mind even invent all of this? All the things Havard has told you; it eases something inside you. A knot unwinds somewhere inside you and causes you to come undone. An odd feeling you cannot remember. Relaxation. Your eyes are heavy. They are closing all on their own. Are you sleepy? Tired? It seems so. Your whole body feels heavy. Such an odd feeling. So hard to control your body. Slowly you start nodding off. “I think it is time for you to sleep some more.” Havard says gently. “I am sorry for talking for so long.” <<if $stay_in_gardenc1 is true>> You slump down into the grass below, curling up a bit. It is so hard to stay awake. “Apologies but I cannot let you sleep out here.” Havard says and very gently pick you up from the grass. “To the bed you go. I promise it will all be fine. I will be here when you wake up again. With food and drink.” Even if you wanted to resist, your body just refuses. Havard carries you back to the bed you woke up from. You can vaguely tell you are gently tucked into bed. <<else>>\ You slump down into the bed. It is so soft and nice. So inviting. It is so hard to stay awake. “Please sleep.” Havard says gently. “I promise it will all be fine. I will be here when you wake up again. With food and drink.” Even if you wanted to resist, your body just refuses. You can vaguely tell you are gently tucked into bed. <</if>>\ Warmth envelops you. The darkness presses in. “Sleep well.” Havard says somewhere close by. The darkness takes you. The last thing you know is the warmth and softness of the bed. The gentle sound of the wind and birds outside. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The end of Chapter 1.|Interlude_twins_0]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $hug_reaction is 1>>\ <<addinnocence 5>><<addtrust 5>><<addfriendly 3>><<addHavard 10>>\ Your hands can not reach around him, but you hold onto his as best you can in your current state. Your clumsy fingers wrinkle his robes, your face nuzzles against his chest. It feels natural. Good. You feel warm on the inside. What does it mean? You don’t know but you think you like this. A hug. It soothes something inside you even if you cannot understand why. Such a simple thing. A hug. You thought that living without the void and the cycle would make life worth living. Now you don’t think you can go back to a time that hugs are not a part of your life. How tragic it is. The more you experience, the more you hope this is not a delusion of your mind. Going back to the void after knowing the warmth that comes from a hug. Those gentle rubbing motions Havard is doing against your back through the cloak. You thought that Havard could do nothing to break you more, you were already too broken, yet if you now must go back to the void, it would be… unbearable. How could you ever go back after knowing this warmth and not break more? Havard keeps holding you, and you keep holding him. He makes soothing noises that calm your mind. You do not know how much time passes. Eventually the hug comes to an end. But the warmth lingers. <<elseif $hug_reaction is 2>>\ <<addstoic 5>><<addnumbness 1>>\ <<addinnocence 3>><<addtrust 3>><<addHavard 5>>\ The hug feels natural. Good. You feel warm on the inside. What does it mean? You don’t know but you think you like this. A hug. It soothes something inside you even if you cannot understand why. Such a simple thing. A hug. You dare not move. If you keep very still, maybe this will keep going. You thought that living without the void and the cycle would make life worth living. Now you don’t think you can go back to a time that hugs are not a part of your life. How tragic it is. The more you experience, the more you hope this is not a delusion of your mind. Going back to the void after knowing the warmth that comes from a hug. Those gentle rubbing motions Havard is doing against your back through the cloak. You thought that Havard could do nothing to break you more, you were already too broken, yet if you now must go back to the void, it would be… unbearable. How could you ever go back after knowing this warmth and not break more? Havard keeps holding you, and you keep still out of fear that he might stop if you move. Should you do something with your hands? You dare not move them. He makes soothing noises that calm your mind. You do not know how much time passes. Eventually the hug comes to an end. But the warmth lingers. <<elseif $hug_reaction is 3>>\ <<addstoic 5>><<addnumbness 5>>\ <<addinnocence 1>><<addoblivious 3>><<addHavard 5>>\ The hug is odd. If feels warm to be held. You think it feels good, or does it? It is hard to say. It is warm. That is all you can say for sure. What does it mean? You don’t know but it is not horrible. A hug. It feels soothing even if you cannot understand why. Such a simple thing. A hug. You do not move. You keep very still. You can do nothing else, as you have no idea what to do. Another experience for you. Is it good or bad? You are not sure. It is better than the void for sure. Better than pain. You hope this is not a delusion of your mind. Going back to the void after knowing the warmth that comes from a hug seems bad. Havard is doing gentle rubbing motions against your back through the cloak. Havard keeps holding you, and you stay still. He makes noises that you try to figure out the purpose for. Is he trying to soothe you? Comfort you? Your mind supplies these possibilities, but you can only blankly stare at his chest, covered by his robe. Should you do something with your hands? You do not know so you do not move them. Eventually the hug comes to an end. But the warmth lingers. <<elseif $hug_reaction is 4>>\ <<addanger 3>><<addstoic -3>><<addfriendly -3>><<addtrust -2>><<addHavard -5>>\ You push with what feeble strength you have. You cannot trust this. It feels warm to be hugged. You cannot allow it. You don’t know Havard. You cannot trust a hug. It will only lead to more pain. Being touched like this feels odd. Havard is gentle and firm. He is not carving or tearing at your flesh. The hug comes to an end. Havard lets go immediately at your resistance. But the warmth lingers. “My apologies.” Havard says. “I felt I had to do something to ease your panic. A hug seems like a good option. Clearly, I was wrong. Again, I apologize.” He seems sincere and sorry. Also worried. You stare at him. You do nothing for now. You need time to process. Was being hugged that bad? Do you not like being touched? <<if $trustHavardC1 is true>> You decided to trust Havard earlier. So why do you not want to be hugged by Havard? <<else>> You decided to not trust Havard earlier. Perhaps it is simply that Havard is hugging you. <</if>>\ You will need to consider this more. Your mind is so blurry and muddled. You hardly understand yourself let alone others, even if you seem to be able to read other somehow at times. Or at least Havard. Why is understanding yourself harder than the faces Havard makes? <</if>>\ “Perhaps we should return to your questions?” <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Back to questions|Chapter 1_8]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Choose your own skin color? <<textbox "$SkinColor" $SkinColor>> //Write it as you wish it to appear in text.// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Proceed|Chapter 1_2_2]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[[Go back to choose from the provided options|Skin color chapter 1]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

The orphanage was a frustrating place sometimes. It was so huge! There were so many rooms and courtyards. Which would be great when all those rooms were full, at least in Azha’s mind. Atru was not quite so enthusiastic about that future. He was worried about so many people. Azha thought it would be fine! More people, more fun! Azha would not let anyone bully Atru or call him weird anymore! Or Sandor would not, if Azha couldn’t! Still, right now the number of rooms was a problem. The twins had checked every window around the garden and found nothing! That was a lot of rooms! Like eight. Maybe. Alessa was teaching them how to count, Azha could have gotten that wrong. Math was hard, but it was a lot of window peeking! Right now, the twins were sitting in the grass of the garden. Azha glanced at Sandor who was always nearby. He had done nothing to stop them. Maybe that meant they were in the wrong place to solve the mystery? Or would Sandor not interfere with the twins, no matter what? Well, he would if they were in danger of getting hurt, that much Azha knew. She had once tried to climb a tree to get a better view of the orphanage. Not for the icky fruit! Of course, she had fallen about half-way up there. Stupid weak branches. Sandor was there faster than she could process, catching her from the air. Azha had not even bumped into his armor when he caught her! She had been surprised that she did not get scolded or shouted at. Instead, she had just been asked to be careful and checked for injuries. Atru had been very happy at that. He did not like shouting. Azha did not like shouting either but Atru //really// did not like it. It reminded him of the past too much. Sandor might be easier to trick into revealing something about the secret than Alessa would be. Besides, Alessa was still not back with their honey cakes! So it’s not like the twins had too many options to choose from right now. “Sandor! Give us a clue! We checked like… a hundred rooms!” Azha called out, and Atru turned his gaze onto their Protector as well. Together the united front of the twins would make the Silver Protector break and spill all the secrets! “Twelve Azha. You checked twelve windows.” Sandor says. “Not a hundred but still impressive.” He smiles at the twins, an innocent clueless smile. “But I fear I have no idea what you want a hint about.” “Yes, you do!” Azha narrowed her eyes, which just made Sandor smile wider. Stupid Sandor… ok she really liked him. He was not at all stupid and among her favorite people. Right after Atru and Custodian Alessa. He was just doing his duty. Alessa had explained that duty was important and that everyone here had been chosen by the Ancients, the really old people who everyone was crazy about. Or afraid of? It was hard to tell. Irosia, the Ancient who saved her and Atru, had been cool! All stern and regal but kind! She had not looked that old though. How could you be old and not look old? Magic? Azha really wanted to see magic! The Ancients must be so good at magic! Maybe the mystery they were trying to solve was magical! That would be so cool! Azha decided that a different approach was required and leaned into Atru to whisper. “We should find someone else to bully into telling us a hint!” Atru looked at her, then gave one of his miniscule nods. Azha wasn’t sure if they could get any hints from anyone. “Come on!” Azha grabbed Atru’s hand. “Let’s see who we can find!” The twins dash off. Protector Sandor takes off after them with a fond smile on his face. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Soon the twins found a clue worth investigating.|Interlude_twins_8]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1>Chapter 2 -- Sense of Self</h1>\ <h2> Your POV</h2>\ <h3> Afternoon</h3>\ <<set $chapter = 'Chapter 2'>>\ <<if $codex is not true>>\ <<set $codex to true>><<notify 3s>>The codex has been unlocked.<</notify>>\ <</if>>\ When you wake up again, you are lying in the super comfy bed. You don’t think you remember your dreams. It takes you a moment to realize where you are. That you are not in the void but in the orphanage. Perhaps this is not a delusion? Can you wake up twice in the same delusion? Does it even matter at this point? <<if $q1 is true>> Havard did say that this is true when you asked him. Said that if you live as best you can here, you will realize that everything here is real. It is not like you have any other options. <</if>> You look around. Yes. This is the same room you went to sleep in after your talk with Havard. You move a tiny fraction in the bed. Just a small shift. You feel your cloak in bed with you, right there by your side. It seems to to have come off again as you slept. Why does it keep doing that? Oh well, you are covered by the nice warm fluffy thing you slept under. A quilt? A duvet? Your mind offers a few options. You reach for the cloak, and someone moves in the room you are in. You freeze for a moment, then look over. Havard is sitting by the desk, writing something. You think he is writing; he has a piece of paper on the table at least. You grab your cloak and put it on, doing so feels right somehow. Safe. Maybe it's because it is a cloak //something//, the Ancient called Sheo, left for you. It's not hard to put it on, even with your bandaged hands. The cloak is very easy to maneuver for some reason. “Welcome back.” Havard smiles at you. “It has not been terribly long. A few hours only. It is still the same day.” He gets up and grabs a tray with legs. Why does a tray have legs? “I promised you food and drink did I not.” He says softly as he comes closer to you. Your nose is the first thing that tells you that that tray is wonderful… It smells warm, comforting and earthy. A bowl of something. A glass filled with a white liquid. Milk, your mind supplies. Food. There even is something that looks fluffy and glistening with something melted on it. Bread and butter, a vague thought tells you. Your stomach makes a sound, and you forget your cloak for now. A growling sound so loud it echoes a bit in the room, and feels like your insides are twisting into a knot. For a moment you fear the cycle of pain is back with a new flavor, and this is all a delusion before you realize what is happening. Somehow you know that this feeling is hunger. Your mind is telling you that this happens to everyone. You are not sure everyone gets this //hungry,// you are shaking. It is hard but you do your best to pull yourself up into a sitting position. For some reason it is oddly difficult to do so, but the smell from the tray is making your salivate and you don’t care about anything else right now. Havard sets the tray down over you, so it stands on the bed with those legs, like a table over your legs. So that’s why it has legs… You immediately reach out for a metal thing, like a small bowl at the end of stick. A spoon you vaguely think, somehow knowing that this is what you can use to eat from the bowl. Your bandaged fingers wrap around the spoon, and you grip it and move your hand towards the bowl. <<if $sawHealingBaths is true>> The splint is not making things any easier either. There is very little pain, at least by your reckoning but that hand is even clumsier than the other one. <</if>> The spoon drops from your fingers without you even realizing it. You try again immediately. Then again. You keep failing miserably, getting frustrated. Your grip, your hands are so… useless. “Here, let me help you.” Havard says softly and takes the spoon. He scoops up something from the bowl, a thick, warm type of food not familiar to you. “It’s called porridge. This one is made with rice and milk, with a bit of sugar and cinnamon on top.” Havard says and brings the food closer to your mouth. “It’s hot and tasty.” He smiles. “Have a taste. Please.” <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You eagerly go for the spoonful of porridge, trusting Havard.|Chapter 2_1][$trustHavardC2 to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[ You tentatively go for the spoonful of porridge, not trusting Havard but you need food.|Chapter 2_1][$trustHavardC2 to false]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $trustHavardC1 is true and $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ <<addcareful -3>><<addinnocence 5>><<addtrust 5>><<addHavard 5>>\ You remember you decided to trust in Havard before, and you do so again. It is not a hard choice; he has done nothing to make you distrust him. He has been nice to you, answering your questions. <<if $nonverbal is true>> Even coming up with the questions first in fact. <</if>> The food smells so good and your stomach twists and rumbles in anticipation. <<elseif $trustHavardC1 is false and $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ <<addcareful -3>><<addinnocence 3>><<addtrust 5>>\ Even if you didn’t trust Havard before, you find that he has won you over. He has been quite nice to you, answering your questions. <<if $nonverbal is true>> Even coming up with the questions first in fact. <</if>> Besides you must eat. The smell is just too much, too good and the twisting and rumbling of your stomach in anticipation forces you forward. <<elseif $trustHavardC1 is true and $trustHavardC2 is false>>\ <<addcareful 3>><<addinnocence -3>><<addtrust -5>><<addHavard 5>>\ Even if you trusted Havard before, you find that you no longer do. He did answer your questions. <<if $nonverbal is true>> Even coming up with the questions first in fact. <</if>> Still, he could have been lying. Is the food actually good? Why would he go through the trouble of feeding you bad food? He could just lock you up and carve into you? You however must eat. The smell is just too much, too good and the twisting and rumbling of your stomach in anticipation forces you forward. <<else>>\ <<addcareful 5>><<addinnocence -5>><<addtrust -5>><<addHavard 5>>\ Even if you don’t trust Havard, you must eat. But is the food actually good? Why would he go through the trouble of feeding you bad food? He could just lock you up and carve into you? Well there is only one way to find out. The smell is just too much, the twisting and rumbling of your stomach in anticipation forces you forward. <</if>>\ The spoonful of porridge is warm, rich and creamy. It is the best thing you ever remember eating… If you remembered eating at all before the void, but no memories are strong enough to draw you out of this moment. You almost wish to hurry Havard as he spoons porridge into your mouth, and you eat with ravenous hunger. He helps you drink the milk, cool and refreshing. The bread and butter you can eat yourself, even if clumsily and messily using both hands. <<if $sawHealingBaths is true>> The splint is not enough to deter you. You are very determined to eat all the food Havard brought you. <</if>> Your bandages will need changing after, the butter making them all messy. Havard does not seem to mind; he lets you taste the bread and observes something on your face that makes him smile. You really need to observe if you make expressions eventually… You must do something since Havard seems to see things but for now, the bread is fluffy and tasty, and you can eat it yourself. A precious bit of self sufficiency that Havard seems excited that you take, even if you also make a bit of a mess of the bed as you do. “You could dip the bread in the porridge.” Havard suggests. It really doesn’t matter if you trust Havard or not in this moment. You are far too focused on food and try his suggestion. Your clumsy weak hands drop the bread into the bowl. Not quite what you were after, but your hands are not co-operative. Havard just smiles and uses the spoon to lift the bread up and bringing it to your lips. You nibble on it and discover a new bliss… Bread dipped into things is so good! The bread itself is already so good! So is the porridge! It takes a long time, but you eat everything Havard brought, through a combination of Havard spooning stuff into your mouth, using your own bandaged hands for the bread, and Havard helping you drink milk. A long process but you are content. More content than anywhere in your shattered memory. You got a meal! Real food! Warm and everything. Even if Havard needed to spoon it into your mouth. You consider if you could just have Havard place the meal near you and you could sink your face into the bowl…. Maybe next time. <<if $nonverbal is true>> You need to figure out some way to talk or communicate anyway. <</if>> Would sinking your face into the bowl be hot? Wouldn’t that burn you? Probably not a problem for you, you doubt it will hurt much even if it burns so it should be fine. You sit in the bed, content and full for the first time in who knows how long. Are your eyes drooping? It feels so odd. Havard clears away the meal and sets the tray with legs back on the table in your room but you barely pay attention. You dazedly look around as you just... exist in this state of contentment. //Your room.// How odd it is, from the void to having your room. A nice room. It could still be a delusion but… your wonder if your mind could make all this up. It seems far too elaborate for your damaged mind to dream up all this. The bed, Havard and the food… Maybe it’s some trick by the people who kidnapped you. A new kind of torture. <<if $q1 is true>> Havard said it was real, but he didn't say it wasn't a trick? <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>> But you trust him so you assume he would tell you if he knew this was some trick. <</if>><</if>> //"Do you wish to live?"// The voice rings in your head, just like it did in the void. //Something//, an Ancient Havard called Lord Sheo, had come for you. The voice cuts through the haze in your mind for a moment, the words that gave you hope. It feels impossible that your mind could make up your savior, the words feel too real and too clear in your mind right now. Yet… could it still be a delusion? Some cruel trick? You cannot know, but the longer you stay here, the more unlikely it seems. For now you draw in a deep breath and enjoy the aftermath of the first meal you can remember. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "escape">>\ <<if $SawTheSeaC1 is true>>\ You think you can smell the sea. That was a real pretty sight! Such an interesting scent. You wonder could you see it again? The window is right there. You don't however have the time to investigate if you could get up and take a look outside again. <<else>>\ You can smell the garden right outside through the open window. Such a vibrant fresh smell. You wonder if you could see it again? You don't however have the time to investigate if you could get up and take a look outside again. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ You smell something odd through the window, a vibrant fresh smell. You wonder what exactly is outside of the window. You don't however have the time to investigate if you could get up and take a look outside. <</if>>\ “All right, I will redo those bandages. They are a bit buttery.” Havard smiles as he walks back to your bedside. He is holding fresh bandages and sits down. You are pretty sure there is no getting out of this no matter what. You don’t really get it? Why does it matter? Still, it seems clear to you that Havard won’t let you just wear buttered bandages. <<if $got_injured_c1 is true>>\ Well, you did get hurt earlier and he took care of it. That went fine. This should be fine too. <</if>>\ “Now then, I suggest you look away. Your hands are quite a sight, and I fear they might distress you.” Havard says softly as he takes one hand. “But I won’t force you of course. You may do with my advice as you wish.” <<set $sawhands_1 to false>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You trust Havard. You should probably do as he says and look away.|Chapter 2_3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[ You decide to do as he says and look away. It has nothing to do with trusting him or not, you just don’t want to see.|Chapter 2_3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to see the damage.|Chapter 2_3][$sawhands_1 to true]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''Chapter 2 -- Sense of Self'' </font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'Chapter 2_0'>><</cont>>

<<if $sawhands_1 is true>>\ Havard sighs but does not make you turn away. Instead, he gently undoes the bandages and for the first time you see the full damage. <<if $sawHealingBaths is true>> The splint drops to the floor but you have no time to think about that. Instead you focus on your arms. <</if>> Starting just below the elbow, your $SkinColor skin turns into a twisted dark mess of flesh. Grooves and odd lumps, possibly from mutated muscles and flesh, run through your forearms. Your wrists are barely bone with just a bit of ruined flesh covering them where the chains dug into flesh so deeply to leave indentations. Your palms are just as twisted and contorted as your forearms. Your fingers are odd, some seem withered, others seem swollen. All twisted and corrupted. No wonder your grip is horrible. No wonder Havard did not wish you to see. It is hard to connect these ruined remnants to hands. Hard to realize that they are connected to you somehow. You move your fingers, and they move. Sluggishly, slowly, weakly. These are your hands. The twisted ruined mess before you is your hands. A dull sensation fills you. You realize that there is pain. Your ruined arms and hands hurt. A slowly increasing sensation of pain. Why did you not feel it before? Were you just too panicked? Still this pain is nothing. Nothing compared to what was before during the cycle. Even if it increases and increases into agony, it is still nothing. The pain is irrelevant anyway. Your arms and hands are ruined. Can they even be called hands again? Even you know hands are good to have. For picking stuff up. For holding things. Eating. Opening things. Hands are useful, even to someone as broken as you. Yet seeing yours, you are pretty sure they are never going to work properly. <<set $handsreaction to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[What else can you do but laugh.|Chapter 2_4_1][$handsreaction to $handsreaction+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You feel nothing. You stare blankly.|Chapter 2_4_1][$handsreaction to $handsreaction+2]]</div> <<if $selfharmoptions is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[Your hands are disgusting and wrong. You should try to get rid of them.|Chapter 2_4_1][ $handsreaction to $handsreaction+3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You close your eyes. You did not look. You saw nothing. Everything is fine. |Chapter 2_4_1][$handsreaction to $handsreaction+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Your hands start shaking slightly in anger!|Chapter 2_4_1][$handsreaction to $handsreaction+5]]</div> <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You need to focus on something else. Havard. You trust Havard. He is safe.|Chapter 2_4_1][$handsreaction to $handsreaction+6]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ <<addHavard 10>>\ You turn your head away from your hands. You stare at the window instead even if you cannot see what is outside from this angle. You don’t feel much as Havard works. <<if $sawHealingBaths is true>> You think her removed the splint as well. That makes sense, it would probably get in his way. <</if>> Though you think you start to feel a slow throbbing pain while Havard gently wipes your hands with something you think is slightly wet, then with something dry. A dull sensation fills you. You realize that there is in fact pain. Your ruined arms and hands hurt. A slowly increasing sensation. Why did you not feel it before? Were you just too panicked? Still this pain is nothing. Nothing compared to what was during the cycle. Even if it increases and increases into agony, it is still nothing. As Havard starts wrapping your hands into fresh bandages, the pain disappears. Just like that? Why? You are tempted to glance at your hands but already decided that would be a bad idea. Maybe it has to do with the bandages? It takes a while, Havard wrapping each finger individualy. Havard says nothing about the state of your hands and arms. “There we are. All clean and wrapped up. You can look now.” Havard says. You turn to see. Indeed, your hands have been re-bandaged just as neatly as the first time you woke up in the orphanage. You wonder about the pain, why did it appear and disappear with the bandages? You look intently at the bandages and even sniff then. There seems to be nothing odd about them, but what do you know about bandages? Nothing. It is a wonder you even know the word. Just one of those things you know but you are not sure how. Still, you don’t think that bandages should stop pain. Or maybe they do? You turn to eyeing Havard who is putting more bandages into the drawers of the desk in your room. “Now would be a good time to ask you. Do your hands hurt?” Havard says, startling you a bit. You were just thinking about this! Can he read your mind? Havard turns to look at you expectantly. Maybe he can read your mind. <<if $nonverbal is true>> \ Considering you decided to not try speaking, that would be handy. Still, this seems like a good time to ask about the pain and bandages, assuming you can somehow manage it. <<else>>\ This seems like a good time to ask about the pain and the bandages. <</if>>\ <<set $bandages_ask to false>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You just nod to indicate you have some pain.|Chapter 2_4][$bandages_ask to true]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[“When you undid the bandages, I had some pain.” you say.|Chapter 2_4][$bandages_ask to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“No.” you say simply, deeming no need to elaborate.|Chapter 2_4]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You don’t want to try and explain so you just shake your head.|Chapter 2_4]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

<<if $handsreaction is 1>>\ <<addmadness 5>><<addHavard -10>>\ Laughter bubbles up from your mouth, startling Havard who is wiping your ruined flesh with a damp cloth. Your hands and arms are ruined. How funny it is. Your grip is probably ruined forever. What a joke your life is. The laughter billowing out from you, like a poison spreading through the room, is hollow and hilarious. A mockery of everything because it is all just so funny. Everything about this is so funny. The void wins even if this is not a delusion because it’s clear as day. The void is in // you//, seeped into your very flesh and blood. A grand joke. Even if this is not a delusion, then the void still thrives in your very flesh. <<elseif $handsreaction is 2>>\ <<addnumbness 5>><<addHavard -10>>\ A familiar numbness envelops you, welcoming you home. You don’t even notice Havard whose brow furrows in concern as he notices how blank your face is when he glances up from wiping your hands with a damp cloth. You feel nothing like this. Your hands are a disgusting mockery of flesh, and it does not matter. In the blankness of your mind, nothing matters. <<elseif $handsreaction is 3>>\ <<addselfharm 5>><<addHavard -10>>\ The twisted flesh of your arms and hands is //wrong//. Something so wrong should not exist. You should get rid of them. Tear them off and burn them until not a trace remains. You can almost feel the relief at the thought of it. The dark mucky blood leaking out and life leaving you. No worries. No void. No more pain. Havard is wiping your ruined flesh with a damp cloth, but he glances up as if sensing something wrong. He says nothing, but his gaze is full of worry. <<elseif $handsreaction is 4>>\ <<addescape 5>><<addHavard -5>>\ You close your eyes. You saw nothing. Havard is cleaning your hands because there is butter staining them. He is using a damp cloth to first wipe away stains. The food was so good. Your hands are fine. Perfectly normal hands. Nothing is wrong. Everything is fine. Everything is always fine, and nothing is ever wrong. The milk was so refreshing too. Dipping bread in porridge is so nice! Nothing is wrong. <<elseif $handsreaction is 5>>\ <<addanger 5>><<addHavard -10>>\ The twisted flesh of your arms and hands seems to be mocking you. Why you? What made you so special you must go through all of this? How dare those people who took you? Your hands twitch a bit, fingers clenching slowly, and Havard looks up from wiping your hands with a damp cloth. Your jaw clenches. Your mangled hands are shaking a bit in anger at the people who did this to you. Anger at the void. Anger at the world. <<elseif $handsreaction is 6>>\ <<addtrust 5>><<addHavard 5>>\ You focus on Havard. Yes. Focus on Havard instead of the disgusting mess that is your hands. How his hazel eyes are sad but so kind when he wipes at your hands. A person you trust… An impossible thing, or so it seemed. Yet here you are. You know nothing about him, aside from the fact that he is a custodian, or so he says. A person who guides orphaned children… He plans to guide you, that much you can understand. Yet somehow you trust this man gently wiping your hands with a damp cloth. Is it his actions? His demeanor? Instinct? It hardly matters. You decided to trust him. You made a decision to trust him. That makes it important, or so your ruined mind whispers. Havard looks up at you, and meets your eyes. He smiles at you. You are still uncertain why he smiles at you like that. Like you matter to the world. Like you matter to him. <</if>>\ Havard’s grip on your ruined hands is gentle yet it becomes firmer. Not to hurt you, somehow you know it is a comforting gesture. A lifeline offered to you that could save you from your own thoughts. If you let it. Havard however does not seem content to leave this choice up to chance. “It’s all right. Everything will be all right.” Havard says softly. There is something terrifying in his eyes. A certainty that you have never known. A resolve that forces you into the moment and makes everything else fade. <<if $trustHavardC2 is not true>> Even if you don’t trust him, his resolve seems genuine. <</if>> How can he be so sure? How does he know that? Yet Havard’s gaze is unwavering. He holds yours until returning to caring for your hands once he seems satisfied with whatever he sees in you… It is very confusing. He wipes at your hands with a dry cloth and starts wrapping them back in fresh bandages. Each finger is wrapped carefully back into fresh bandages. Yet as Havard starts wrapping your hands into fresh bandages, the dull pain from your hands just disappears. Just like that? Why? Maybe it has to do with the bandages? It distracts you from everything else. “There we are. All clean and wrapped up. You can look now.” Havard says. Indeed, your hands have been re-bandaged just as neatly as the first time you woke up in the orphanage. You wonder about the pain, why did it appear and disappear with the bandages? You look intently at the bandages and even sniff then. There seems to be nothing odd about them, but what do you know about bandages? Nothing. It is a wonder you even know the word. Just once of those things you know but you are not sure how. Still, you don’t think that bandages should stop pain. Or maybe they do? You turn to eyeing Havard who is putting more bandages into the drawers of the desk in your room. “Now would be a good time to ask you. Do your hands hurt?” Havard says, startling you a bit. You were just thinking about this! Can he read your mind? Is there some way to shield your mind from being read? Havard turns to look at you expectantly. Maybe he can read your mind. <<if $nonverbal is true>> \ Considering you decided to not try speaking, that would be handy. Still, this seems like a good time to ask about the pain and bandages, assuming you can somehow manage it. <<else>>\ Still, this seems like a good time to ask about the pain and the bandages. <</if>>\ <<set $bandages_ask to false>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You just nod to indicate you have some pain.|Chapter 2_4][$bandages_ask to true]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[“When you undid the bandages, I had some pain.” you say.|Chapter 2_4][$bandages_ask to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“No.” you say simply, deeming no need to elaborate.|Chapter 2_4]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You don’t want to try and explain so you just shake your head.|Chapter 2_4]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $bandages_ask is true>> \ Havard’s brow furrows. “Is the pain gone now?” You think he is concerned about you. He even comes closer to inspect the bandages. To see that he wrapped them correctly? You nod. “Good. That means the bandages are working. You see, the bandages should suppress any pain from your hands.” He says, forcing you to focus on him. “Lord Sheo had them made for you. Lots of them. He also mentioned special enchanted gloves he would have made. Though those have not arrived yet.” <<else>>\ “Good. Still, the bandages should suppress any pain if you have it.” He says, forcing you to focus on him. “Lord Sheo had them made for you. Lots of them. He also mentioned special enchanted gloves he would have made. Though those have not arrived yet.” <</if>>\ Enchanted bandages? You inspect the bandages again, but you really cannot tell anything special about them. They do not look odd you, though you don’t know what normal bandages look like either. No glimmer or odd smells. <<if $drawer is true>>Didn’t you tear some by trying to open a drawer? Seems to you that enchanted bandages should be able to take that, but you guess not. Maybe the enchantment only eases pain? <</if>> What was that second part. Gloves? Would gloves help? But if the bandages get rid of pain, then who knows what special gloves could do? Could your grip work again… Your life, what little you can remember, does not encourage you to hope for much, but //something//, the weird ancient grandpa Havard calls Lord Sheo, saved you. If anyone could do something like making your hands better, it has to be some kind of ancient creature – who is possibly a grandpa? Because if not him, then who? <<set $hope_for_hands to 0>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[It might not be so bad to hope.|Chapter 2_5][$hope_for_hands to $hope_for_hands + 1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[It is best to not hope for too much though.|Chapter 2_5][$hope_for_hands to $hope_for_hands + 2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $charactercreatoroptions to $charactercreatoroptions + 1>> Set bodytype: [[Skinny|character][$BodyType to "Skinny"]] [[Lithe|character][$BodyType to "Lithe"]] [[Athletic|character][$BodyType to "Athletic"]] [[Average|character][$BodyType to "Average"]] [[Curvy|character][$BodyType to "Cyrvy"]] [[Chubby|character][$BodyType to "Chubby"]] [[Heavyset|character][$BodyType to "Heavyset"]] [[Muscular|character][$BodyType to "Muscular"]] [[Mountain of muscle|character][$BodyType to "Mountain of muscle"]]

<<set $charactercreatoroptions to $charactercreatoroptions + 1>> Please select a height: [[Very tall|character][$Height to "Very tall"]] [[Tall|character][$Height to "Tall"]] [[Average|character][$Height to "Average"]] [[Short|character][$Height to "Short"]] [[Very short|character][$Height to "Very short"]]

<<set $skipped_haircut to false>>\ Havard sits you into a chair in the middle of the room and starts working on your hair. <<if $blades_trauma is true>>\ The careful and rhythmic snips of the scissors starts and you do everything not to focus on it. You close your eyes, and just wait. It's no good, you can hear each snip better this way. So instead you look at the floor. There is a rug and white stone slabs. Floors are not all that interesting. <<else>>\ The careful and rhythmic snips of the scissors are oddly calming. <</if>>\ Havard gently sections your hair, and you feel a bit of tension on your scalp as he works. He goes around you, snipping here and there, occasionally stepping back to assess his work, and making slight adjustments as needed. <<if $blades_trauma is true>>\ He is being very careful and there are no nicks, not even the feel of metal on your skin. <</if>>\ On the floor you can spot your hair or what used to be your hair. Wild frayed bits of your mane start scattering the area around the chair as Havard works. Huh, you guess your hair is... <<set $charactercreatoroptions to $charactercreatoroptions + 1>>\ //Please select a hair color:// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Snow white|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "snow white"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Bone white|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "bone white"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[White|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "white"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light blond|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "light blond"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark blond|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "dark blond"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Blond|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "blond"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Platinum blond|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "platinum blond"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Ashen blond|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "ashen blond"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Grey|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "grey"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light brown|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "light brown"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Brown|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "brown"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark brown|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "dark brown"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Auburn|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "auburn"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light blue|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "light blue"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Blue|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "blue"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark blue|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "dark blue"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light green|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "light green"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Green|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "green"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark green|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "dark green"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light golden|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "light golden"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Golden|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "golden"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark gold|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "dark gold"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light red|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "light red"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Red|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "red"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark red|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "dark red"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Black|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "black"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Raven black|Hair_type_c2][$HairColor to "raven black"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Something else (set the color yourself).|Choose_haircolor]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $hope_for_hands is 1>>\ <<addinnocence 5>>\ You don't see why having hope would be so bad. In the end, it was hope that got you out of the void. Maybe. It might have been hope taken away but still hope anyway. It was hope that made you remember enough to ask for help. <<elseif $hope_for_hands is 2>>\ <<addinnocence -5>>\ Having hope could be bad. In the end, it was despair that got you out of the void. Maybe. It was hope taken away lead to despair, that made you deem there was nothing to lose. <</if>>\ <<if $sawHealingBaths is true>>You glance at your newly bandaged arms again. Havard seems to also have put the splint back on the arm you tried to get rid of... or maybe a new one? You can't tell. Still, it does not really bother you. Your hands are already pretty bad, so a little extra stiffness does nothing. <</if>>\ Havard was rummaging through a dresser while you were in thought. “I have been meaning to give you these.” He carries a pile of cloth to you. What is that? You already have a very nice bed and your cloak? What do you need more random cloth for? When Havard unfolds the pile of cloth, and presents three bundles of neatly folded clothes to you. You know they are clothes. Your internal vague sense of things, as you have decided to call your weird knowledge of things you don't remember anything about, tells you so. <<if $q5 is true>> Havard said he did not think it odd for you to know things. Still, this feels different. As if there is something else telling you information. You can't be sure, but it feels like there is a difference between your fragmented memory mostly gone, and this vague sense of things.<</if>> “Your cloak is good, but having normal clothes would be beneficial.” He looks hopeful that you might agree to wear some additional clothes. Why? Does what you wear matter? You already have your cloak, right there in the bed with you. You glance at the cloak wrapped around you. Your cloak, the only possession that you have. The cloak the Ancient called Sheo left you. You don’t know anything about cloaks either, but you think this one is nice. More than nice now that you have had a better look at it. It is downright beautiful. It has intricate tree root-like patterns along the surface and edges. At the front around the chest, a large circular patch looking like a tree where branches or maybe roots from both sides seamlessly come together, weaving into a clasp made entierly of fabric that seems to come together and apart as if by magic. The design probably is magic, the cloak has a mystical and elegant look with the organic lines that flow through the <<listbox '$cloak_color'>> <<option 'black'>> <<option 'white'>> <<option 'blue'>> <<option 'red'>> <<option 'green'>> <<option 'grey'>> <<option 'violet'>> <<option 'gold'>> <<option 'silver'>> <<option 'light green'>> <<option 'dark green'>> <<option 'light blue'>> <<option 'lavender'>> <</listbox>> fabric. However, it is not quite proper clothes, not like the robes Havard wears. The cloak wraps around you almost as if to cover you automatically, the large circular clasp ensuring that it closes nicely, but somewhere in the back of your head you know that people usually wear more things than just a cloak. Even a nice probably magical cloak. Of course, how you know this and if you can really be considered a person is up for debate. Another odd thing. You know the concept of a debate. This internal sense thing is pretty handy! Havard spreads out three sets of clothes, all a sort of <<listbox '$clothes_color'>> <<option 'green tan'>> <<option 'creamy white'>> <<option 'grey'>> <<option 'reddish brown'>> <<option 'black'>> <<option 'yellow'>> <<option 'beige'>> <<option 'light green'>> <<option 'dark green'>> <<option 'light blue'>> <<option 'lavender'>> <</listbox>> color. “A simple cotton shirt and pants. Nothing fancy but covers everything. Second, a simple cotton dress if that is more to your liking. It would cover you from head to slightly under the knees. And then a robe, a smaller version of the one I am wearing. It is basically very similar to a dress but cut a bit differently and will go all the way down to your ankles.” Havard indicates each set in turn. “These are just some basic clothes for you to choose from. All are comfortable and easy to move around in which is the criteria for now.” He smiles at you. “So, anything you like?” You look at the clothes and consider. <<set $clothes to ''>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You choose the shirt and pants.|Clothes][$clothes to 'shirt and pants']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You choose the dress.|Clothes][$clothes to 'dress']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You choose the robes.|Clothes][$clothes to 'robes']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don’t really get why you need clothes. You have your cloak.|Clothes][$clothes to 'cloak']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[It's too much. Too suspicious. The world does not just give you things.|Clothes][$clothes to 'cloak2']]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $clothes is 'cloak'>>\ <<set $likes_cloak to true>>\ <<addoblivious 2>><<addinnocence 5>>\ You decide that the cloak is fine! You don’t feel like you really need clothes, but the cloak will cover you if you do. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ You clutch your cloak in your ruined hands and lift a bit up for Havard to indicate it is good for you! <<else>>\ "My cloak is enough!" <</if>>\ Havard chuckles. “It is a very nice cloak. I have a feeling there is much more to it than meets the eye.” For some reason you feel pretty good about that. You turn your gaze back to your cloak. The intricate symbols embroidered on the hem and on the back. Patterns like tree-roots twisting and advancing cover every surface and edge. On the back there is a symbol that you do not know. A circle with several more circles inside it, intersecting in a confusing manner. In the center, it forms almost a square, but with slightly bendy lines. Because everything is intersecting circles? You try to trace and make sense of it. “That is the symbol of the Ancients.” Havard says. “I doubt anyone outside of their council has worn one before. So do keep the cloak safe, and always close to you. Who knows what it can do?” Havard closes one of his eyes at you. A wink, your mind supplies. You are not quite sure what it means…. "Did you notice the clasp at the front?" Havard asks. You did notice that! "Try pulling it apart." You do so. The circular clasp where the roots or branches from both sides intertwine comes apart, the pattern unwinding as you pull, the cloak opening. Your eyes widen. Magic! It must be! You put the edges of the clasp close by to each other and the tree roots intertwine again, keeping the cloak closed. You test this several more times, before looking up at Havard with wide eyes. He is smiling at down at you fondly. “Yes, enchanted to open and close just like that. I have never seen a cloak do that either you know." He hasn't? Your cloak is really cool! "Still, even with that very nice cloak, you should choose some clothes. It is something people prefer in public even if you don’t quite understand it yet.” People are so odd, but if Havard insists you may not really have an option. You don't really get it, but you suppose you must choose clothes. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You choose the shirt and pants.|Clothes][$clothes to 'shirt and pants']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You choose the dress.|Clothes][$clothes to 'dress']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You choose the robes.|Clothes][$clothes to 'robes']]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<elseif $clothes is 'cloak2'>>\ <<addinnocence -5>>\ <<set $not_deserving_clothes to true>>\ New clothes for you... it too much... just too much. The world is cruel. People are cruel, if such beings capable of such cruelty can be called people -- you know this. You have felt it in your flesh and soul. Yet here is Havard, offering you clothes. You already have a cloak. A cloak far nicer than anything Havard is wearing, or so your sense of things tells you. Probably a magical cloak that some ancient being just left for you. Who does that? Why? What is wrong with this Sheo? With Havard? The cloak you do not waste too much thought on. It is here, and it is yours until this Sheo shows up to demand it back. If he ever does. It is more than enough. <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ Havard is nice so these clothes are probably comfy and good. He means well... but it is too much. The world does not give you too many good things before taking something away. <<else>>\ Are these clothes even safe? What if this is some trap? To trap you? Admitedly Havard has not done much to indicate he wants to do bad things to you, but you still don't trust him. The world does not give you too many good things before taking something away. <</if>>\ <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ You clutch your cloak in your ruined hands and lift a bit up for Havard to indicate it is more than enough. You can't ask for more. Won't trust the world to not punish you for too much good fortune. <<else>>\ "My cloak is more than enough." You can't ask for more. Won't trust the world to not punish you for too much good fortune. <</if>>\ Havard smiles a sad smile that is all too familiar by now. “Even with that very nice cloak, you should choose some clothes. It is something people prefer in public even if you don’t think it is needed. I promise, these clothes are for you and nothing bad will happen for choosing to wear them.” You are not so certain but if Havard insists you may not really have an option. You are wary of the consequences, but you suppose you must choose some clothes. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You choose the shirt and pants.|Clothes][$clothes to 'shirt and pants']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You choose the dress.|Clothes][$clothes to 'dress']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You choose the robes.|Clothes][$clothes to 'robes']]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ You choose the $clothes. Havard helps you with your clothing since your hands have proven unreliable. The cotton $clothes_color $clothes <<if $clothes is 'shirt and pants' or $clothes is 'robes'>> are <<else>> is <</if>> very comfy. <<if $clothes is 'shirt and pants' or $clothes is 'robes'>> They feel<<else>> It feels <</if>> soft and unpretentious, like a second skin that offers comfort, light and breathable while gently grazing your skin. The loose fit allows for easy movement, not that you are are doing much movement right now but you imagine these clothes will not hinder you. Wearing your new $clothes brings a very snug feeling that you faintly remember from a distant past. You now have proper clothes! Your new clothes are nice! Novel. You think you used to wear things like this once upon a time, though the memory is far too fragmented. “There we are.” Havard says as he looks me over. “Looks good on you. Later we can think about expanding your clothing options, but this is just a baseline.” Havard’s gaze settles on your head. “Now, let’s deal with that head of yours.” What does that mean? Is he planning on cutting off your head? Why did he wait so long? Feed you and let you have clothes? Wait… that does not make much sense. But then again, not much made sense about the void. “Your hair.” Havard says softly. “I meant your hair.” Was your face doing things? He is smiling but it looks so sad again. Wait… you have hair? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[It does make some sense.|Hair Length c2]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

<<set $charactercreatoroptions to $charactercreatoroptions + 1>>\ You reach out to atop your head. And indeed, there is lots of hair up there. How did you never notice? It feels... well like nothing since your fingers are covered in bandages and are ruined, but there is something off about your hair. You pull a bit of it in front of your eyes. It seems matted and messy. Not dirty for some reason. Just tangly and messy. There is also tons of it. Sort of odd how you missed it, but it was not really important in the grand scheme of things. Waking up in an odd place, meeting a stranger. Hair seems inconsequential after the void. "I was planning on cleaning up your hair, since it is in quite a state, but don't worry. Being left alone to grow means there is enough hair to cut it to whatever length you want. Or at least tidy it up if you want it around waist-long still." Havard says. "Now I ask you to be calm. To clean up your hair, I need to cut it, I need to use these." He shows you some kind of cutting thing, like two knives strapped together. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ "Just indicate a length you are happy with using your hands." He smiles at you reassuringly. <<else>>\ "Just tell me a length you are happy with." He smiles at you reassuringly. <</if>>\ //Please select a hair length:// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You stopped listening a while back. He has some kind of cutting thing!|trauma_hair_cutting][$HairLength to "Waist-long"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Short|HairColor c2][$HairLength to "short"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Ear-long|HairColor c2][$HairLength to "ear-long"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Shoulder-long|HairColor c2][$HairLength to "shoulder-long"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Mid-back|HairColor c2][$HairLength to "mid-back"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Waist-long|HairColor c2][$HairLength to "waist-long"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Something else (set the length yourself).|Choose_hairlength]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Custodian Ethel had a bouquet of flowers that she was putting into a vase in one of the storage rooms where all sorts of things for the orphanage were kept. Azha was peeking from a window trying to figure out what the flowers were for. Atru was right next to her, also peeking. “Hmm, it is very suspicious.” Atru whispered to her. They were so close that no one else would hear so he was fine whispering. Even if Sandor was just a short way away, he never mentioned how Atru whispered to Azha. “It is. What are the flowers for…. Think she would tell us if we asked?” Atru shook his head. Azha agreed. Ethel was a tough nut to crack. Just before breakfast, the old woman had made both Alessa and Sandor all red and run away with words! That was the sort of power Azha wished she would one day wield, for the good of everyone of course. She would be a responsible benevolent meddler in all interesting things! Like what was going on with Alessa and Sandor. That was very interesting. Why did people turn red like that? What had Ethel meant about being bold? Azha tried to remember the whole interaction, but breakfast was between them and her thoughts were mostly filled with fluffy delicious bread… “And what are you two up to?” Alessa’s voice made Azha squeak a bit in surprise and she whirled around. Atru did the same but much calmer and no squeak. Alessa had snuck up on them! How? Why? No fair! The twins were supposed to do the sneaking! If Alessa started doing it, she would be too dangerous! She could just come in while they were hiding cookies in their room! “Well?” Alessa tilted her head. “Solving the mystery!” Azha declared. “Ethel is suspicious!” Alessa raised an eyebrow. “I see. I suppose that you are so busy with the mystery and spying on Ethel that you don’t want your reward for eating fruit at breakfast.” She asks smiling with a glint in her eye. Two pairs of eyes snap to a bundle Alessa is carrying. “Honey cakes!” Azha dives for the bundle. Alessa deftly catches her between her hands and torso, the bundle ending up behind Azha’s back. The Custodian chuckles. “Not like that, Azha. We do not dive for tasty treats. We ask nicely. Because if we don’t ask nicely, the tickle monster might make us regret it.” The fingers of Alessa free hands tickled Azha under her arms. The yard filled with loud laughter, and pleading as the young girl learned regret, laughing so much her stomach hurt a bit. “No!” Azha’s shoulders shook as she tried to get free, gasping for breath. “Atru! The tickle monster has me!” She manages to gasp out. “Save me!” Atru, her courageous twin, looked at the scene with his usual blank face and dashed forwards to bravely free Azha like a hero from a fairy tale. Atru went for the bundle of honey cakes! A brilliant strategy in Azha’s tickle addled mind! Surely the tickle monster would have to release Azha to protect the precious bundle. Once Azha was free, the twins could counterattack. Together they could claim the treasure and defeat the foul tickle monster. Fate intervened. Their knight, their hero, the Silver Protector Sandor, sworn to guard the twins from all harm, betrayed them in a manner most foul and devious. Their traitorous Protector interfered by seizing the bundle of treasured treats from the monster before Atru could wrestle it from her grasp, allowing the tickle monster to use both of her hands freely. The twins, horrified by this betrayal, had no chance against the monster. Atru ended up trapped too. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The tickle monster feasted on them both that day.|Interlude_twins_9]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $EthelProfile to true>><<notify 3s>>New character profile: Ethel<</notify>>\ Azha was lying in the grass trying to catch her breath. Atru was right next to her, doing the same. The monster and traitor were talking about something, before the traitor ran off. The twins just focused on breathing. Breathing was so hard sometimes. Azha’s stomach hurt a bit. What a monster they had faced! Bravely and fiercely! Too bad they had lost. Because of the traitor! Yet Azha’s mind already whirled with plans on how to gain the treasure! That bundle the monster still had. She took another deep breath and turned to Atru and tugged on his arm. “Atru, how do we get the treasure, and vengeance?” She whispered. Atru gasped a few more times. He was not used to making so much sound, but the tickle monster got him bad. He had laughed as hard as Azha had. Yet Azha could tell, it did not bother him. Had he talked so much, he would have probably been shy about it, but it was not like laughing was voluntary when under attack! “We need a distraction.” Atru whispered back to her. “Wait and watch.” His face remained as blank as ever but his eyes, the same green as hers, had an excited glint in them. He was enjoying this as well. Azha nodded at her twin and together they discretely looked at the monster smiling faintly at them. “Do you regret not asking nicely Azha?” Alessa was smiling her small smile, mocking them! Azha stuck her tongue out at Alessa. The Custodian chuckled at her. The audacity! “Young lady, your tongue will get you into trouble.” Custodian Ethel came out of the storage room holding a vase with flowers. Her gaze took in the twins, Alessa and the bundle with an inscrutable face. “What was all that racket about?” She asked. “Alessa is mean!” Azha declared. Ethel raised an eyebrow and turned to Alessa who smiled. “At breakfast, we agreed they would get honey cakes as a reward for eating fruit.” Alessa lifted the bundle. “Azha tried to grab the bundle from my hands upon seeing it. I was simply demonstrating why not asking nicely can backfire.” Ethel turned back to Azha and raised a single eyebrow that made her squirm a bit. Ok, maybe she knew better but she had been excited. “But we were promised honey cakes.” She mumbled. “You were. Does that mean you should just grab them out from someone’s hands?” Ethel asked and Alessa nodded. Though Azha did not think she was mad. Ethel was just being… well Ethel. It was one of those lessons about manners. Azha squirmed in place under the old woman’s gaze. “No.” She mumbled. She would not like if people grabbed sweets out of her hands or if someone did that to Atru. That would suck. “Sorry.” She mumbled. Alessa noded. Ethel seemed to want to say more but stayed quiet as Alessa spoke. “You are of course forgiven. Not that I was mad in the first place, but manners are good. Now up you two.” Atru stood up and Azha followed. His gaze indicated that the moment of vengeance may come soon! Even if she apologized, the tickle monster needs to be taken down! Their opportunity arrived as the traitor jogged back to them, holding a jug, glasses and a blanket. The time is now! Alessa turns to look at Sandor. “I got what you asked for. Milk to drink with the honey cakes.” Sandor tells Alessa. The twins already halfway ready to dash for the bundle froze. What was that? Milk with the honey cakes? But that would be so good! Milk with warm baked things was the best! The indignity of being tickled leaked out of them. Azha looked at Atru and nodded. They would consider if retribution is needed later. This new revelation of milk and honey cakes needed further consideration. Ethel raised an eyebrow as the twins relaxed out their tense postures but did not comment on it. “Come along now Azha and Atru. We are sitting down in the garden to enjoy the honey cakes.” Alessa said. The twins eyed the traitor Sandor for a bit, but he just smiled at them. The gall! Though he did arrive with milk. Azha huffed at him and stuck her tongue out, before taking Atru by the hand and dashing after Alessa who was laying out a blanket on the grass. “Would you like to join us Custodian Ethel?” Sandor asked the older woman. Azha turned to glance back. “No. Thank you for the offer, but I have somewhere to visit.” Ethel winks at Sandor, which is odd since her face is so impassive. “And I would not want to impose on such a lovely day.” Sandor turns red again. Why? He didn’t even talk much. Ethel said she is going somewhere? Where? The mystery! Ethel cackled as she briskly walked away. Azha was about to run after her, to solve the mystery but Alessa unwrapped the bundle and revealed the honey cakes. The twins had priorities, and the first one was almost always snacks. Alessa poured some milk into glasses and handed the twins both a honey cake. They are tasty and sweet, with honey glazing on top. Azha devoured hers in an instant, before Sandor even sat down. Luckily Alessa brought more than just one per person. Milk and fresh sweets were the best! All four of them had at least two honey cakes with milk. Soon Azha and Atru were laying down on the blanket, satisfied and happy. Azha’s head was already filled with plans, even as she rolled to her side and let out a small burp. The twins would need to find someone else to trick into revealing something about the mystery! She had not forgotten! In a secluded garden away from prying eyes and unknown to the twins, the perfect target waited. Protector Lexia, partner to the Head Custodian, was training. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Azha POV|Lexia interlude fadein]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $blades_trauma to true>><<notify 3s>>You are afraid of blades due to past trauma.<</notify>>\ <<addHavard -20>>\ You recoil away from the cutting thing! They are going to carve you up! Cut into your flesh, and rend it from your bones. Your mind fills with images of grasping hands holding you down, of blades cutting into your flesh, and slicing. So much cutting and slicing. Flesh parting. Your blood gushing out, red. So red. Are you screaming again? So much screaming. Too much. The panic is overwhelming, you try to crawl away get away. They are going to hold you down again. Carve into you, again and again. The faceless people in the hoods, taking pieces of you with blades and tongs. No. You don't want this. No. No. You can't breathe. You can't breathe! Are you screaming? You don't want to be carved up again. There is so little of you left… You can’t lose anymore! The room spins as you try to scramble back in your table you are strapped to. You don't want to be helpless anymore... A firm voice. "Look at me." No groping hands are on you. You look around. The screaming stops. You are in a bed. Hazel eyes stare at you, no blades in sight. But you can’t breathe! You need to breathe! "Breathe. Just that. Breathe." You know those eyes, don't you. Havard. They are Havard's eyes. His voice is firm. Commanding. Not unkind. There is no smile, just intense focus. He isn't even touching you. <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ You decided to trust him; so you do so now and latch onto his words. <<else>>\ You don't trust him, yet he is all you have. <</if>>\ Breathe. You need to breathe... It so hard! You can't breathe! The panic floods back, yet Havard does not let you spiral back into it. "Look at me." Havard demonstrates, breaths in through his nose, and out through his mouth. Again and again, in a steady rhythm. You copy him. A breath in. A breath out. Slowly. You twitch, your breath isn't coming back fast enough! You are suffocating! "Focus. Breathe in and out." Calm and firm. In... and out. Again and again. Small tiny breaths, far too little to be normal, but at least they are something. "It is just a memory. It can't hurt you now. You are safe." A much softer voice. Reassuring. But is it? Just a memory? A breath in. You can always be hurt, can't you. A breath out. Is there such thing as safety? <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ Havard says there is... could it be true? You don't think he has lied to you so far. <<else>>\ Havard says there is, and he seems so sure. So certain... it can't be true, can it? <</if>>\ "One breath at a time. In and out." More breathing. In and out. In and out. The words repeat inside your head. In and out. Slowly, your breathing becomes more controlled. More air enters your lungs. The world stops being so dark. You can think again and look at Havard. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard POV|trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV][$HairLength to "Waist-long"]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Wow, you did not know your hair was $HairColor! Or maybe you did? At some point that you cannot remember. There are lots of things like that. It takes a while for Havard to snip away the outer layer of matted messy hair. Once he does, much neater strands fall to the floor. You curiously peer at the $HairColor strands. These offer a much better insight into your hair, now you can see the texture not just the color. Your hair seems to be... <<set $charactercreatoroptions to $charactercreatoroptions + 1>>\ //Please select a hair type:// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Wavy|character_customization_hair_done_c2][$HairType to "wavy"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Silky|character_customization_hair_done_c2][$HairType to "silky"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Straight|character_customization_hair_done_c2][$HairType to "straight"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Curly|character_customization_hair_done_c2][$HairType to "curly"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Coiled|character_customization_hair_done_c2][$HairType to "coiled"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Something else (set the type yourself).|Choose_hairtype]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Since you are not tired, you think of something else you could do. This place you have found yourself in, this orphanage, is an odd place. An odd yet interesting place that you do not know very well. Or at all. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "escape">>\ Well, you did see some of it running away from Havard earlier, but it is not like you spend a ton of time exploring. The garden was nice. It does not change the fact, that most of your time has been spent in this room. It is a nice room, much better than the void or getting tortured, yet.... what else is there? You saw a glimpse of the outside, and the outside was glorious. <<else>>\ You have not really seen anything other than this room. It is a nice room, much better than the void or getting tortured, yet.... what else is there? There must be something outside of this room. Who knows what? All you have is… flashes of the time before the void and torture when you were allowed outside. Flashes of lights, and green things… But the fragments come and go. <</if>>\ The past is a mystery to you. The time before the void lost, fragmented into so many pieces that it is impossible to tell what would emerge if everything was to be made whole somehow. But the present is a mystery as well. Havard says there is a city out there. Firgrat he called it. A big city. What does a city look like? Are there people? Are the people nice? Or are they like the people who tortured you, assuming those are considered people. Even if this is all a delusion of a mind too broken to cope with your reality, though that seems more unlikely the more time goes on. Or at least you doubt your mind could keep up with such an elaborate delusion. Of course, the more comfortable you get here, the more it will hurt if the delusion shatters… Nope. Not thinking about that. Focus on something else. The present. The present is a good thing to focus on. You look around. Even inside this room, there is a divider that hides some of the room from you. <<if $drawer is true>> You made it to the drawer earlier, the first time you woke up, but you did not look what is behind there. <<else>> You have not really seen much of the room. Just what you can see from the bed. <</if>> You can't help but wonder what is behind the divider? Havard brought out the mirror from behind there… Could there be other stuff hidden behind the divider? Then there is also the world outside of this room. You know very little about the outside world… Who knows all the things that could be out there. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "escape">>\ <<if $SawTheSeaC1 is true>>\ You do remember the sea. That awe inspiring sight right outside the window after running away from Havard. The window that is right there, a bit away from you. <<else>>\ You do remember the garden. Those vibrant colors, the soft grass right outside the window you jumped out of to escape Havard. The window that is right there, a bit away from you. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ You remember the smell coming from the window. You smell it again now, as the wind ruffles the curtains. Something odd and vibrant. A smell you do not know, a place alien to you just outside of the window. The window that is right there, a bit away from you. <</if>>\ You cannot seem to rest. It is time to get up. The room is nice and all, the bed is the best and most comfortable place you can remember, but you are curious. Havard is busy right now, sitting by the desk doing something with some papers… did he finish focusing on the pin thing? He told you to rest again, but you have slept well at least twice already! That is much more than you ever managed in the void. Or so you think, the cycle made everything hard to keep track of. The point stands! Exploration time! Your look around, but your gaze settles on Havard. Havard will probably make you go back to bed if he sees what you are up to. It's best to take a peek around without him noticing. How good are people’s ears? This could be tricky… But still, time to explore! At least a little. Slowly you push your feet out from underneath the covers in the bed. You learn to be very silent when making noise might bring torture back sooner than planned. You learn to hold in all the noises that might come out of your mouth when in agonizing pain. Within reason… the cycle was too much. While you doubt that Havard would do anything to you, well aside from putting you back to bed, it is best to be careful. You peek to make sure Havard is focused on whatever he is doing by the desk; reading or writing. You will need to be quiet. Your feet touch the white stone floor, and you start pushing yourself up from the bed. <<set $curio_c2 to "">>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to see what is on the other side of that divider in the room. |Chapter 2 Lexia POV][$curio_c2 to "divider"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to look out the window.|Chapter 2 Lexia POV][$curio_c2 to "window"]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1> Your POV </h1>\ <<if $curio_c2 is "divider">>\ You don't remember seeing what is on the other side of that divider. It is made from wood, but you have no idea what it is for either. To hide behind when someone enters the room? The other way around? You only know that Havard got the mirror from the other side. There could be other stuff there. Something interesting. You should investigate. <<elseif $curio_c2 is "window">>\ The window calls to you. It is sunny and nice outside; you can see the light outside through the window. It seems almost alien in the moment. The swaying of large shadows, the breeze that flutters the curtains and the sound of birds. You can smell the outside, all fresh and vibrant. <</if>>\ Your target in mind, you start standing up and taking a step. Trying to get up feels very odd. Your legs are… not in pain, at least not in what you would call pain, but it is not a pleasant feeling. <<if $flowers is true>>They just feel stiff and sort of unwilling to shift like you want them to. <<else>>They just feel numb and weak. <</if>> Yet you persist, and slowly settle your legs onto the floor. You glance at Havard again, and then push up. As soon as you put all your weight onto your legs, something goes wrong. You barely process that the floor is approaching your head at a very fast pace. You are not sure what happened, but you are falling fast. Face first. Oh well, best close your eyes and wait for the inevitable jostle of the impact and what little pain will come of it. You are not upset about the upcoming pain, you are far too used to pain. You are curious about what happened to your legs? <<if $brokne_hands_treating is 1>> Of course, you collapsed at the end of your last walk, to the healing baths. Your legs were unable to support you after just a bit of walking. <<elseif $HavardMeetingReaction is "weapon">>\ Of course, considering that your leg was wounded by stepping on a flower vase shard and all that you have been through, perhaps this should not be such a surprise. <<elseif $gardenespace is true>>\ Of course, considering that you ran around earlier, trying to escape Havard and ended up collapsing with legs that could not support you anyone, this should not be such a surprise. <<elseif $drawer is true>>\ You made it to drawer previously… and had to sit down because you could not stand up properly. Perhaps your legs giving out should not be such a surprise. <</if>>\ It is odd, you can hear the door opening around the same time as you fall. A bit of light filtering into the room. Havard was by the desk, right? So why is the door opening? Did he go to the door in the moment you were not looking? Is someone else entering the room? Someone you don’t know? Why? These are the thoughts that pass through your head as you fall. Thoughts really are incredibly fast when they want to be. There is time for so many thoughts before you hit the floor. Like wondering if your nose will break. “Oh shit!” A voice that is distinctly not Havard calls out, something with a higher pitch than him. A sound like air whooshing which it has to be as a bit of air hits you, ruffling your $clothes a bit. Your fall stops as something wraps around you. Even through your clothes you can feel something cool and firm against your stomach, holding you up. You were going to fall on your face. Now you are not. How? Did the voice do that? “You alright, kid?” That same voice asks but it’s now much closer to you. In fact, it is right next you. A bit to the side. You open your eyes. All you see is the floor, still quite a far away from your face still. You glance down, and see something very shiny wrapped around you, silver gauntlets holding you in place. How do you know what a gauntlet is? Another thing you have no context for, but you know that the silvery metal hand is a type of glove called a gauntlet. A piece of armor. Why you know this, and yet have trouble with things like knowing if your face is doing things or why Havard smiles at you a lot, is a mystery. Stupid void eating your mind and leaving you confused. Stupid internal sense knowing things like gauntlets. A clattering sound draws your attention. “What happened?” Havard is rushing over, the chair he was on knocked over. The Custodian seems to not care about that. You look up and see what you expected. His eyes are focused on you, full of worry. “Lexia?” He says and kneels in front of you. What does that word mean? Lexia? Is that a name? It is a name! “$capitalheshe was falling. I dashed for it.” That other voice says. The one you heard while falling. Right! Gauntlets are a piece of armor, and armor is worn by people. This you know. So, Lexia is probably a person, and this person you don’t know is holding you up. A person you don’t know is wearing armor and holding you up. A person who is right next to you… holding you up. It takes a moment for your mind to catch up. The whole falling down business distracted you, as did the shiny gauntlets. You slowly turn your head to look at the gauntleted hand. The floor and the hand are all you see… slowly your turn your head to the side, tracing the silver hand to it’s source. A woman in gleaming silver armor is holding you up. She is smiling awkwardly at you, yet she seems worried. About you? The woman has an air of almost palpable energy, right now nervous and subdued. She has short red hair, incredibly blue eyes - bright and clear - alive with boundless energy. Loose wild strands of her hair frame her face, softening the intensity of her expression but unable to hide the spark of excitement dancing in her eyes. She is excited? You know it, but you are not sure why? Will she start carving you up? Was Havard only waiting for her to arrive to start the torture? Did she just catch you because you were falling? Those of eyes of hers are intense. Different from Havard, who only gets intense at times, yet is normally gentle and soothing. Havard knows this woman that is holding you. He called her Lexia. Now that you think about it, didn’t he mention <<if $blades_trauma is true>> he would introduce you to a Lexia, who was a Silver Protector <<else>> something about Silver Protectors<</if>>. The woman holding you, Lexia, has silver gauntlets and armor. It is all very shiny too. It is not too far-fetched to think this is one of the Silver Protectors meant to protect the children of the orphanage. Ultimately there is only one thing that matters. She is a stranger, holding you up. Time to panic? <<set $Lexiareaction to 0>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard seems to know this person, and you trust Havard so no reason to panic.|Chapter 2_8][$Lexiareaction to $Lexiareaction +1]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard seems to know this person, and you don’t trust Havard so time to panic.|Chapter 2_8][$Lexiareaction to $Lexiareaction +2]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[There is a stranger touching you! Time to escape! |Chapter 2_8][$Lexiareaction to $Lexiareaction +3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You would like to panic. Instead, you freeze. |Chapter 2_8][$Lexiareaction to $Lexiareaction +4]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[There is a simple solution. “Let go of me!”|Chapter 2_8][$Lexiareaction to $Lexiareaction +5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You could just ask. “Could you let go of me?” |Chapter 2_8][$Lexiareaction to $Lexiareaction +10]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[Make a distressed sound and flail about. |Chapter 2_8][$Lexiareaction to $Lexiareaction +6]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Make a distressed sound. |Chapter 2_8][$Lexiareaction to $Lexiareaction +7]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Flail about. |Chapter 2_8][$Lexiareaction to $Lexiareaction +8]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Play dead? |Chapter 2_8][$Lexiareaction to $Lexiareaction +9]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $Lexiareaction is 1 or $Lexiareaction is 2 >>\ <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ <<addtrust 5>><<addHavard 5>><<addLexia 5>>\ You trust Havard, and therefore this Lexia person is probably fine since he is not freaking out. Havard is in fact fussing over you, telling Lexia to set you on the bed. She is nodding along and gently lifting you to the bed. Why is she being so careful? Right, that shiny metal is hard and you… well you are probably very fragile. Or you seem very fragile with your loose $clothes and legs unable to support your own pitiful weight. <<else>>\ <<addtrust -5>><<addLexia -5>>\ You do not trust Havard, and therefore this Lexia person is also not worth your trust. Havard is fussing over you, telling Lexia to set you on the bed. You are panicking and trying to squirm free, but Lexia’s hold on you is far too firm, even if it is gentle. Your squirming naturally causes her to notice your distress and her face floods with panic too. “Ah, sorry! You were falling and I acted without thought. I didn’t mean anything bad or mean to cause you distress kid.” She sounds so panicked herself. It would be amusing, you panicking over her holding you, while she is panicking about holding you. “Please. Let Lexia put you onto the bed.” Havard says softly. <</if>>\ <<elseif $Lexiareaction is 3 >>\ <<addstoic -5>><<addinnocence -3>><<addLexia -5>>\ You squirm and try to grab onto something to escape. The bed? Too far behind you. The floor? Not much to grab on there. Havard? Havard is an option. He is right there… Not the most stable thing though… or is he? He is bigger than you are. Of course, it occurs to you that your grip is probably not strong enough to do this. <<if $drawer is true>> You couldn’t even open the drawer earlier. <</if>> You doubt you can latch onto to anything with your hands or break this woman’s grip with yours. Are there any other options to escape? You are now wearing clothes… which does exactly nothing to help you since it’s not like you are getting held up by your $clothes. Your cloak? Probably not going to help right now. Unless it can make you fly? It is clearly magical. You wait for a bit, but nothing happens. Disappointing. <<if $HeritageType.length is 0>>\ Nothing to do but squirm as much as you can. Your squirming naturally causes her to notice your distress and her face floods with panic too. “Ah, sorry! You were falling and I acted without thought. I didn’t mean anything bad or mean to cause you distress kid.” She sounds so panicked herself. It would be amusing, you panicking over her holding you, while she is panicking about holding you. <<elseif $HeritageType.includesAny( "wings", "tail")>> \ <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>>Speaking of flying, you do have wings. That could work! You focus, and then flap your wings, spreading them out behind you.<<elseif $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> You do have a tail! Maybe that can help you somehow. You focus on your tail and swing it towards her! <</if>> There is a surprised yelp, but her hold on you is still gentle and firm. Damn, it did not work. “Hey! Kid, could you not do that. I might drop you if you smack me in the face with <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> those <<elseif $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> that <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> wings <<elseif $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> tail <</if>> again. I am sorry! You were falling and I acted without thought. I didn’t mean anything bad or mean to cause you distress kid.” She sounds so panicked herself. It would be amusing, you panicking over her holding you, while she is panicking about holding you. <<else>>\ You don’t thing your <<HeritageFeatureList>> will be of much help here. Nothing to do but squirm as much as you can. Your squirming naturally causes her to notice your distress and her face floods with panic too. “Ah, sorry! You were falling and I acted without thought. I didn’t mean anything bad or mean to cause you distress kid.” She sounds so panicked herself. It would be amusing, you panicking over her holding you, while she is panicking about holding you. <</if>>\ “Please. Let Lexia put you onto the bed.” Havard says softly. <<elseif $Lexiareaction is 4 >>\ <<addstoic 1>><<addinnocence 3>><<addLexia -5>><<addHavard -5>>\ You can’t help it. Your mind flashes with images of the past, hands grasping and holding you, knives carving and cutting, flesh tearing. Every slice, every bit of pain and suffering paralyze you in place. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "frozen">>\ Havard saw this before, when you first woke up, and understanding blooms on his face. The man reacts before you can shake off the frozen state. "I swear no one will hurt you." Hazel eyes stare into your soul and pierce through the memories. That soft and sad tone again. A soothing sound to calm a frightened animal. <<else>>\ Havard takes note of your silent distress, somehow understanding your frozen state. Is it paralyzing terror or just inaction to avoid more pain? Even you have a hard time knowing. "I swear no one will hurt you." Hazel eyes stare into your soul and pierce through the memories. A soft and sad tone. A soothing sound to calm a frightened animal. <</if>>\ “Ah, sorry! You were falling and I acted without thought. I didn’t mean anything bad or mean to cause you distress kid.” The person holding you sounds so panicked. “Set $himher on the bed Lexia.” Havard says softly. <<elseif $Lexiareaction is 5 >>\ <<addfriendly -5>><<addLexia -5>>\ You have a voice, don’t you. You even drank that healing water to be able to use it, so using it seems wise in situations like this. “Let go of me!” you blurt out. The sound of your voice making your displeasure known causes an immediate reaction. “Sorry, sorry! You were falling and I acted without thought. I didn’t mean anything bad or mean to cause you distress kid.” She sounds quite panicked. “Please. Let Lexia put you onto the bed.” Havard says softly. “Fine.” Huh, using your voice seems to have worked. Assuming this Lexia actually sets you down. That was easy. <<elseif $Lexiareaction is 10 >>\ <<addfriendly 5>><<addLexia -2>>\ Isn’t that what people do? Just ask for stuff. Even if you are not sure if you are really a person, asking seems reasonable. . You even drank that healing water to be able to use your voice, so using it seems wise in situations like this. “Could you let go of me?” you ask, voice as close to normal as you can make it. You think you hide your any panic pretty well, and the sound of your voice causes an immediate reaction. “Sorry, sorry. Didn’t mean anything bad by it. You were falling and I acted without thought.” You can sort of get that. You have reflexes too… even if they mostly cause you to screech like you did in the void. “Please. Let Lexia put you onto the bed.” Havard says softly. “Ok.” Huh, using your voice seems to have worked. Assuming this Lexia actually sets you down. That was easy. <<elseif $Lexiareaction is 6 >>\ <<addcareful -5>><<addshy -2>><<addLexia -5>><<addHavard -5>><<addstoic -3>>\ A whining sound leaves your throat, and your weak protesting limbs flail about in the air as you squirm in her grasp, making your distress and displeasure at the situation known. The effect is immediate. Havard’s gaze snaps to you faster than you thought possible, and you think you feel the person holding you wince. “Ah, sorry! You were falling and I acted without thought. I didn’t mean anything bad or mean to cause you distress kid.” The person holding you sounds so panicked and guilty at your clear display of distress. “Set $himher on the bed Lexia.” Havard says softly. “Please. Be calm. You are safe.” He says to you. <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ You do trust him… Best comply for now. You stop making the whining sound and settle down. <<else>>\ You don’t trust him, and keep squirming and making the whining sound. <</if>>\ <<elseif $Lexiareaction is 7 >>\ <<addcareful 2>><<addshy 2>><<addLexia -5>><<addHavard -5>>\ A whining sound leaves your throat, making your distress know to the people present. The effect is immediate. Havard’s gaze snaps to you faster than you thought possible, and you think you feel the person holding you wince. “Ah, sorry! You were falling and I acted without thought. I didn’t mean anything bad or mean to cause you distress kid.” The person holding you sounds so panicked and guilty at your clear display of distress. “Set $himher on the bed Lexia.” Havard says softly. “Please. Be calm. You are safe.” He says to you. <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ You do trust him… Best comply for now. You stop making the whining sound <<else>>\ You don’t trust him and keep making the whining sound. <</if>>\ <<elseif $Lexiareaction is 8 >>\ <<addcareful -5>><<addshy -2>><<addLexia -5>><<addHavard -5>><<addstoic -3>>\ Your weak protesting limbs flail about in the air as you squirm as much as you can. Despite being silent, this makes your distress known to the people present. The effect is immediate. Havard’s gaze snaps to you faster than you thought possible, and you think you feel the person holding you wince. “Ah, sorry! You were falling and I acted without thought. I didn’t mean anything bad or mean to cause you distress kid.” The person holding you sounds so panicked and guilty at your clear display of distress. “Set $himher on the bed Lexia.” Havard says softly. “Please. Be calm. You are safe.” He says to you. <<elseif $Lexiareaction is 9>>\ <<addinnocence 2>><<addoblivious 2>><<addLexia -10>><<addHavard -10>>\ Playing dead seems as good an option as any. Maybe the person will let go if you do. You go limp, dangling in air. Your limp legs and bandaged hands sway slightly. The effect is immediate. “Bed, now!” Havard says, sounding very loud and worried all of a sudden. You have no time to process why, as you are laid on the bed and Havard feels your forehead and then neck. For a pulse? But you are fine, you just wanted the woman to let go. “What happened?” A worried voice asks. Full of panic and guilt. This Lexia person is panicking? Why? “Should I carry $himher to the healing baths? Alert everyone? Ask for someone from the Spire?” What does that mean? You just wanted to be free. You don’t want even more people in here! Yet, as you crack one eye slightly open and see Havard hovering over you, deadly serious and worried. “I don’t know. I can’t tell that anything new is wrong.” He looks to be focused now, hands hovering slightly over you. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["Well something is wrong." Lexia sounds so worried.|Chapter 2_8_playing_dead]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\ <<if $Lexiareaction != 9>>\ There is not much choice to be had right now. You are deposited onto the bed, gently sat down facing a worried Havard and the woman in gleaming silver armor. Lexia, a Silver Protector. Her armor really is shiny. Too shiny, it’s hurting your eyes a bit as the light from the window hits it. She is smiling at you, but clearly worried. Why? Why does she care? And why do the people you have met here at the orphanage always smile at you. All two of them. It is perplexing, your internal sense indicates smiles are supposed to be a good thing. Yet, why does Havard smile at you? Why does this Lexia? They just met you! Though Havard has been dealing with you for a while, but this woman has never seen you before! As far as you know at least. She seems worried as she looks at you. There is a clear excitement you can somehow read in her. Her eyes, posture and body language all tell you so. This is the sort of things that your internal sense does know for some reason, though it feels detached about the reason people feel these things. Her clear enthusiasm is being dampened by the circumstances of meeting you. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["Are you all right?" she asks. |Chapter 2_8_2]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

<h3>Your POV</h3>\ You try your best to sleep again, to rest as both Havard and Lexia asked you to. But you can't. You are just not sleepy! So you are left awake and experience a new sensation. A terrible new sensation that nags at you. It is an odd feeling. An unpleasant one. Not like the cycle, this is more insignificant. Yet it feels much to stretch in similar ways. It takes you a while to figure out what it is, but you eventually name the feeling. Boredom. It is so petty, yet it makes you fidget in place. Boredom. After everything you have been through... Boredom is really bothering you. It really is miserable being you. Well sort of. This is much better than the void was. But how can it be so boring? You are lying in bed. Just that. There are no chains, no blades cutting at you, no void or cycle tearing at your sanity. Your legs have simply decided that you are not going anywhere. It’s not really pain, or maybe it is, and your point of view is just a bit skewed, as your legs will just collapse out from under you. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "escape">>\ <<if $gardenespace is true>>\ You consider this to be complete and utter nonsense. You ran about lots yesterday while escaping from Havard. Which apparently might have made things worse. Panic is apparently a really strong motivator at making your body do things that it normally can’t do. <<if $trustHavardC3 is true>>\ Since you decided earlier to trust Havard for now, you decided that that he is probably telling you the truth, and he has not somehow incapacitated you to stop you from running away again. <<else>>\ Since you decided earlier to trust not Havard for now, you can’t quite decide if he is telling you the truth or if he somehow incapacitated you to stop you from running away again. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<elseif $drawer is true>>\ You consider this to be complete and utter nonsense. You were up earlier! Even if getting to that drawer was hard. Though... you did have to sit down after and you might have been driven by... Well you woke up in an unfamiliar place, alone and nude. You had stuff to think about, and paid no attention to your legs to any significant degree. <</if>>\ It’s not all bad. The bed is soft and the nicest place you know. You got food which was tasty. You think. Hard to estimate tastiness since that was the only food you remember but it was really good. You also have your $clothes_color $clothes, and your $cloak_color cloak! You also have hair, and you know the color of your eyes. Turns out you have $HairType $HairColor hair, and your eyes are $EyeColor. This is a lot of things that you never dreamed of having or knowing. Never knew you needed. Like clothes? You are still not sure you need them, but you have them. Or hair... is hair all that important? Even Havard counts as something, even if he left the room. Pretty sure he does. He is your “Custodian”, whatever that means in practice. You suppose you just have to wait and see. Something like... the person that feeds you? Brings you food and clothes? Something nags at your mind, there is probably a word for people like that. A... special kind of person. The word is not custodian, you feel pretty sure... But you can't remember what it is. It is hard to keep track of things. It might come back to you at some point. Or not. There is one last thing you have. There she is, sitting by your bedside, and staring at your with wide blue eyes. Something tells you she is excited and curious about you. Yet she does not ask. She is vibrating slightly in place. Really, you have no idea what to think of this woman right now. Clad in resplendent silver armor and sworn as your new protector. A Silver Protector. An elite warrior. Warriors fight things, right? You know that warriors fight things. She has all that shining armor so she must be strong to carry all that about. Warriors are strong? <<if $blades_trauma is not true>> And she even has a sword on her hip. That seems reassuring.... as long as it is not used on you. But she must be strong, right?<</if>> It makes sense to you. Yet, she is dangling her legs and tilting her head from side to side as she stares at you with a wide smile. Are warriors supposed to be like this? You suppose warriors are people as well so there are probably differences. Assuming people are different from each other. Your vague sense of things seems a bit confused about that. Differences between people seem to both be very vast and non-existent at the same time. Maybe your odd internal sense of things is broken? You would not be surprised. The rest of you is broken, so it seems plausible. You know that this Protector, Lexia she is called, is a different person from Havard. One is a Custodian and one is a Protector. You are pretty sure Havard is a man, and Lexia is a woman. You could be wrong; you are not sure about the difference. Something to do with how people pee? That seems inconclusive. In the void it was not up to you, it just happened, and you have only the vaguest impressions of the whole affair, but you did spend your stay there kneeling. Pretty sure that is not why you are a $child. The pee categorization is therefore probably incomplete and might be wrong in the first place. You are not even sure what the... normal? Normal categories would be. Standing up? Sitting down? Laying down? Hanging from a pole? Who knows. Wait... Doesn't food and drink have something to do with it? Will you need to do stuff like pee? You did drink a big glass of milk earlier... Ate a good bit of porridge and bread too... And if drinking or eating things makes you pee... How does one know if they need to do it? It all seems inconvenient. You would like to avoid such things, if at all possible. Maybe you will learn more about all such things and need it later. Life outside the void really is far too complicated. Inconvenient too, but at least existence here seems to be more than just suffering. Though, you are a bit worried about if your broken head can hold all the information that is needed to exist out here. Your thoughts are getting sidetracked, you were thinking about people, not peeing and existence. Why was it suddenly so hard to focus? You were bored just lying in bed. Does boredom cause thoughts to wander? Are they escaping your head somehow? Leaking? Thoughts should be yours to control, right? You don't want them to leak out! Leaking things is bad for you... Probably. You should focus on people! People are now important to your existence, and these people are not even carving you up yet, something rather novel to you considering the past. So, Lexia is still staring at you, smiling, and might be similar to Havard in a bunch of ways that make very little sense, and different in a bunch of other ways. That seems like a good summary so far. Still you should do something about her staring at you. <<set $Lexiareaction2 to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The whole thing made you quite grumpy. First you were held, and now you are being stared at. So you glare at her.|Chapter 3_3][$Lexiareaction2 to $Lexiareaction2+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You blankly stare back, unblinking. |Chapter 3_3][$Lexiareaction2 to $Lexiareaction2+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Maybe you can mimic the smile thing. |Chapter 3_3][$Lexiareaction2 to $Lexiareaction2+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You have a vague sense that you could wave at her. |Chapter 3_3][$Lexiareaction2 to $Lexiareaction2+4]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You could say something. Like “Hello!” |Chapter 3_3][$Lexiareaction2 to $Lexiareaction2+5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You could say something. Like “Stop staring!”|Chapter 3_3][$Lexiareaction2 to $Lexiareaction2+6]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[The staring is making you feel odd. You decide to hide under the covers.|Chapter 3_3][$Lexiareaction2 to $Lexiareaction2+7]]</div> </div><</nobr>> /*you are pretty sure both can stand up and sit down while doing it, and there must be other ways too. Not that you know much about peeing either. I*/

<<if $Lexiareaction2 is 1>>\ <<addinnocence -2>><<addfriendly -5>>\ You squint at her, and glare at her. She tilts her head and stares back without any heat. You squint harder and stare back. You think she is amused, and keeps staring back at you. You don't like that spark in her eyes... You try glaring harder. She smiles wide, and slowly her hand comes up, and approaches your face. You tense... what could you do? What is she up to? Is she going to hit you? Do something bad? Poke you in the eyes? She boops your nose gently. "Boop." She says and smiles wide. Oh... What was that? You... you have no idea what to think or do.... So you keep staring indignantly. "Am I really such terrible company?" She beams at you. You keep glaring. "So grumpy." Lexia says. "You know, your face might get stuck that way." Is she for real? You don't want your face to get stuck? You falter a bit... <<elseif $Lexiareaction2 is 2>>\ <<addstoic 5>>\ You stare right at her face, unblinking. She stares back. You keep staring. She keeps staring. You stare back. She makes a face, sticking her tongue out but still staring at you. What is she doing? Why is she doing that? You have no idea, but you keep staring. She makes a sound with her tongue, a soft "pfffft". You have no idea what is happening. Still you keep staring. Lexia is not deterred. She smiles wide and starts making faces at you while staring at you. She puffs up her cheeks as if they were full. You stare. She keeps puffing up her cheeks and then sucks in her lips. You keep staring at her, wondering what is happening. She touches her nose with her tongue. You keep staring. She presses her face between her hands so it all squishes together. It looks ridiculous, but you are not deterred. It feels like you lose something if you give up now. She widens her eyes and raises her eyebrows, as if shocked you are still staring at her. Then her red hair flashes like a bright light. Your gaze snaps to it. "I win!" She explains and beams. Wait... what. What did she win? . It feels like she won... Why does it feel like she won? Your stare turns a bit indignant. This is all stupid! "Sorry. Sorry." She says but laughs. You are not sure she is sorry at all! "You are just so adorable." <<if $MC_headpats is 'like'>>\ She pats your head, ruffling your $HairType hair. You lean into the touch... Headpats are still nice. Even if you still have no idea what just happened. <</if>>\ <<elseif $Lexiareaction2 is 3>>\ <<addfriendly 3>><<addinnocence 2>>\ <<if $skipped_haircut is true>>\ You are sure you can pull it off. <<else>>\ You practiced this in front of the mirror did you not. Sure it looked... off but it's probably fine. How hard can it be? <</if>>\ You lift your lips, letting your teeth show. It feels very wide, and your face hurts a bit But you are smiling! Probably. You can't really tell, but it should be fine, right? Lexia's face goes very blank.... You start to worry a bit. Did you not do it right? Are you not actually smiling? Will she be mean now? What happens when you smile wrong? "Kid... We need to work on your smile." She says and laughs. "But good effort." She smiles at you. A real, bright smile. The kind you can't manage... Not that that stops you from immediately trying to mimic her... But you don't think you are doing it quite right. Lexia laughs. "Good effort." <<if $MC_headpats is 'like'>>\ She pats your head, ruffling your $HairType hair. You lean into the touch... Headpats are still nice. Enough to let the smile drop anyway. You will get it another day. Maybe. <<else>>\ Your face feels odd... You are not used to having to use your face for stuff, so you let the smile drop. <</if>>\ <<elseif $Lexiareaction2 is 4>>\ <<addfriendly 2>><<addinnocence 3>>\ You slowly lift a hand and.... wave at her. Just a little wave. One even your bandaged hands can do. Your fingers don't need to move properly for this. Her smile is very wide and she raises her own hand. She waves back at you. Success! You feel a bit proud of that...But what are you supposed to do now? She waved back... Hesitantly, you wave again. She waves again, beaming. She's so happy. Why? Because you waved at her? Why does that make her happy? Waving is pretty nice though. Mostly because you can actually do it too. Maybe partially because she waved back? You don't think waving at a wall would be this nice. You can try it out later. For now, you should test this thing out more. So, you wave for a third time. She waves back, and leans forwards. Closer to you. What is she on about now? "Hi." She whispers. You almost startle a bit at the sound.... Then wave a fourth time. She laughs, a bright pleasing sound. "You have no idea how adorable you are, do you kid?" She asks. Are you? Adorable? Havard said your eyes are pretty. Now Lexia is calling you adorable.. How are you supposed to know if any of these things are true? Your internal sense does think she is not lying, but also has no opinion of your adorableness. <<elseif $Lexiareaction2 is 5>>\ <<addfriendly 5>>\ “Hello.”you say, trying to sound friendly. Even if you have only the vaguest idea of what friendly is. She smiles brightly. "Hello." She said it back to you! Success! Now.... What are you supposed to do next? You opt for a safe options; staring at her while tilting your head.... You said hello, and she said hello. No idea where to go from here though.... You have no memory of ever actually getting this far... It is all so complicated. Maybe... You have an idea! "Hello." You say again. She lets out a musical sound. A giggle. "Hello." She says again. You are quite perplexed. If you both keep saying hello, what will happen? Not that you mind of course, you have never said hello before. Though... Are you doing it quite right? <<elseif $Lexiareaction2 is 6>>\ <<addfriendly -5>>\ You don't like all this scrutiny. “Stop staring!” You say, as firmly as you can. You even clasp your bandaged arms in front of your chest. It just feels right... Though you are laying down. She tilts her head, and smiles. "Sorry.... just. We swore our oaths to you. I am trying to memorize every detail." You narrow your eyes. She is still staring at you. You scrunch up your face to show her you don't like being stared at. "Aren't you grumpy." She says and smiles. Yet, she moves her gaze to the side with a smile so she is not staring directly at you. You aren't sure if that is any better, and she called you grumpy! You are not grumpy... Are you? At least you are not being stared at anymore. You will consider if are grumpy or not later. When there is not some annoying woman staring at things nearby. <<elseif $Lexiareaction2 is 7>>\ <<addshy 5>><<addinnocence 3>>\ Her constant staring is making you feel odd. Your face feels sort of hot... You don't like it. Best to hide. You dive under the covers, and hide your face... You wait... Will she do something to you? Nothing happens. Slowly you lift the duvet just a bit and peer out. Immediately your gaze fixes onto her face. She is out there smiling brightly and looking... amused. You keep peeking at her until her blue eyes meet your $EyeColor ones. She winks at you. The eye contact was already scary enough! Now she is winking at you. It is all too much for you. Your cheeks burn and you hide under the duvet again. You hear a bright sound. A giggle. "You have no idea how adorable you are, do you?" She asks. Adorable? You? You peek out from below the duvet again, to see her expression. Is she serious? She smiles at you and leans closer. Slowly she reaches out towards you.... You tense. <<if $MC_headpats is 'like'>>\ She pats your head, ruffling your $HairType hair. Well the duvet is in the way. You lean into the touch... Headpats are still nice. <<else>>\ She boops your nose... Well roughly, the duvet is in the way. You have no idea what to do. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ "You know, I introduced myself, but you never did." She says and peers at you expectantly. "Would you like to try introducing yourself?" Introduce yourself? Can you even do that? It could be beyond your abilities. <<if $MC_name_random is true>> You don't even have a name... <<if $nonverbal>> And you don't talk. <</if>><</if>> Is it possible to introduce yourself? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $MC_name_random is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[Well.... you have no name... So you stare at her.|C3 Lexia name]]</div> <<else>> <<if $nonverbal>> <div class="choice-item">[[You give her a look. You don't talk. How are you supposed to to that?|Chapter 3_4]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice-item">[[You can speak and you have a name. Why not?|Chapter 3_4]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

For a moment you both ponder something in a companionable silence. Introductions are done now, so you ponder about your questionable personhood, and this place you find yourself in. About Havard and Lexia. These twins you are supposed to meet at some point. About sneaking out of your room to investigate your surrounding once your legs can carry you again. Maybe some more food at some point. Your $cloak_color cloak, the cloak //something// apparently left for you. "So are you bored? You did not go to sleep." Lexia asks after a bit of silence. You shift your vacant gaze to her, and find her studying your face once again. She does that a lot. But yes, you were bored! You never thought something like boredom could bother you so much considering the past. Yet, here you are. Boredom is enough to make you want to do stuff. It feels a bit wrong, that such a minor thing is enough to make you feel this way... You might have been bored at times before the void, but this is the first experience with boredom you have so far. You don't like it. Besides, who knows. Boredom could be dangerous. For all you know, boredom could kill. So best to do something about it. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod. <<else>>\ "Yes." You say. <</if>>\ You don't want to risk indulging in this boredom thing. Your internal sense agrees. Boredom does not only mean nothing exciting is happening, it means nothing happens considering pretty much anything is new to you. There is also this place. The Orphanage. You know very little about it and should see more of it. Who knows when the bad people will come be back, no matter what Havard and Lexia say. Besides, you want to know how to escape in case this place turns bad. It seems stupid to you to spend time in boredom when you could be doing stuff. Preparing for whatever future there is to be had in this odd place. Though your legs are an obstacle. You eye them rather balefully. There they are, just resting under the duvet thing. Doing nothing. Sort of like you right now. “Ok." Lexia considers this information for a moment. "Oh! I brought something for you! Havard asked me to.” Lexia says and gets up. She is bouncing a bit in place. This has to be the most energetic person you remember... Though you only remember two, and the bad people. The bad people don't count in most circumstances. Not that you remember much about them, and you know none of their faces. More importantly, what did Havard ask her to bring to you? Something nice like the food? Something bad like a branding iron to mark you as a member of the orphanage? Maybe that would not be so bad. Do orphans get branded? Maybe then no one would take you without permission again? Why do you know what being branded means—or why does your vague sense of things know what it means? Something to do with cattle. Your mind is a mess. You think it is good to know this, that your mind is a mess, not what branding means. That bit of knowledge you could do without. It reminds you of the past too much... You ignore the memories of burning, and focus on the Protector. Lexia dashes off through the door to the wide world outside while you are confined to the bed, staring at the door. Luckily, it does not take long for Lexia to come back in, pushing a chair in front of her. A chair with wheels, four of them, reinforced by metal rims or bands. Two smaller wheels at the front, probably to provide balance and some degree of maneuverability, and two larger ones at the back. Handles that Lexia is using to push it. The chair made entirely from wood - carved beams, with visible joints reinforced by iron or steel brackets at times. The seat is broad and slightly curved, looking like it has been shaped from a single piece of wood. Simple armrests extend along the sides, their surface smooth and polished. Beneath the seat there is a footrest of carved wood extending outward. Meant to support the occupant's legs? The chair somehow manages to seem like a handcrafted marvel and a danger to everyone around it. You blink. What was all that! Why does your internal sense seem to know more about armor and wood than useful things—like the races Havard talked about. You are part <<HeritageRaceList>> after all. Would be nice to know something about all of that in more detail! “Oh! A pillow! You need a pillow!” Lexia dashes to your dresser and grabs an extra pillow and throws it onto the wheeled chair. Then she gestures wildly to it. “Tada! A way to get out of bed even with your legs not currently working! Isn’t it cool?” She beams happily. “A wheeled chair I can push you in! So how about it? You are bored, and probably curious. Wanna go have a little tour of the orphanage? I promise that the view atop the walls is really good!” She tilts her head. “Though the wheels and stairs might not work that well together… ” She eyes the chair and tests how heavy it is, then eyes you… “I can probably carry you both…” She mutters. This chair is for you to get around with Lexia pushing you, at least currently. You process this information silently while Lexia is bouncing slightly in place behind the chair, waiting for your reaction. You are bored just lying in bed and your legs are uncooperative. Getting a tour of this room would be good, wouldn’t it? The real question is, do you want to go to a tour? Well... you certainly don't want to be bored laying in bed with nothing to do. A tour could help with that. <<if $trustLexiaC3>>Besides you trust her so it should all work out.<<else>> Even if you don't trust her... being bored is no fun at all. Better than the void... but your standards are rising.<</if>> Maybe this tour could reveal something more about this place, the orphanage. Maybe you could actually see this supposed city... You are sort of curious about what a "city" looks like. Have you ever seen one before? You have no idea. Of course, the tour could be dangerous. Who knows what could happen? You might shatter your new world by seeing too much of it. You could end up back in the void? There could be bad people. Lexia could betray you. <<if $trustLexiaC3>> Even if you trust her, if this is just a dream, it could happen. <<else>> Who knows what that woman is capable of? <</if>> Is it better to not know too much? To be content with this room? Even if it is boring, you know how much worse things could be. That contraption she brought could also be some kind of a trap. Maybe she will use it to torture you? Or someone else will? You have no way of knowing. Assuming you want to go, then you need to consider if getting around with the wheeled chair that might be a danger to everyone, or is there some other way? Wait... didn't Havard say he would be back? Are you allowed to leave the room? Aren't you supposed to be resting? The bed is soft and nice, but there is a whole world out there! A big scary world, but all you have known is the void. Lexia seems to think a tour is a good idea... and you want to see what is out there! It might be overwhelming and scary; it might shatter the delusion and end up with you back in the void, if this even is one and even if nothing so far did. At least then, you will know for sure. <<set $orphanage_tour to ''>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The chair seems like the way to go on this tour thing.|Chapter 3_5_tour][$orphanage_tour to 'wheelchair']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don’t trust that contraption. You would rather be carried by Lexia for this tour.|Chapter 3_5_tour][$orphanage_tour to 'carried']]</div> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have wings! You want to fly!|Chapter 3_5_wings][$orphanage_tour to 'wings']]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You don't want to go on tour. Who knows what is out there?|Chapter 3_5_no_tour][$orphanage_tour to 'no']]</div> </div><</nobr>> /* Note: Not going on the tour will skip most of the new content for this chapter.*/ /*Doing that requires you to trust Lexia enough to give you this tour. */

There is no getting around the fact that knowing the orphanage would be useful no matter what. <<if $trustLexiaC3 is true>> And your trust her to help you. <</if>><<if $trustHavardC3 is true>> Havard clearly trusts her, why would he have left you alone with her otherwise. It helps you believe she will help you with this tour thing. <</if>>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ <<if $angry_at_being_carried_about is true>>\ You were angry earlier with Havard carrying you about. This chair contraption is probably the alternative he promised for you to get around. Even if it needs someone to push you at least you will not be carried. It makes you feel slightly less like a burden, a thing to be carried about. <<else>>\ This chair contraption is probably a good way for you to get around while your legs are useless. Even if it needs someone to push you.... and you have doubts about if that thing is safe for you. <</if>>\ <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ You nod, indicating she can come over with the chair on wheels- <<else>>\ “Ok” you say, indicating she can come over with the chair on wheels. <</if>>\ Lexia comes over with the chair and helps you into it. Lifts you into it really, after untangling you from the duvet. How did it get so twisted around you? It’s also not like your ruined hands can support you enough to breach the small gap between the bed and without the free use of your legs, your chances of not falling to the floor seem nonexistent without help seem. Lexia even gets your cloak to you; she knows you have it for some reason. “There we are. It is a nice cloak.” She says as she wraps it around your shoulders. She is right, it is a nice cloak. A great cloak. <<if $likes_cloak is true>> You even tried to let Havard let you only wear the cloak, instead of the $clothes, but he would have none of that. A shame really, you still are not sure why people are so picky about clothes.<</if>> “Ready to go?” She is smiling rather brightly. Is she excited about the tour thing? There is no point in delaying. You squirm a bit and the chair thing does nothing odd under you. Your useless legs are dangling off the edge, the little extension is too far down for them. But It is comfortable enough. Since the chair thing seems to be fine, you nod, and Lexia starts pushing the chair. The wheels make practically no sound as you slide forwards. It is an odd feeling to you, moving while sitting. Then you are out of the room, and the world explodes with color. <<else>>\ <<if $angry_at_being_carried_about is true>>\ You were angry earlier with Havard carrying you about, but being carried is better than that chair contraption. You don't trust it. It will probably do something horrible to you if you sit in it. <<else>>\ You do not trust that chair contraption. Who knows what it could do to you. It will probably do something horrible to you if you sit in it. <</if>>\ What if there is a hill? Your vague sense of things tells you hills are a thing. Do you have any way of stopping the thing? Anyone could push you about in that. At least if someone must carry you, it would be harder for anyone to kidnap you again. Unless the person carrying you is kidnapping you. That chair is basically offering you up to be taken to the void again. Like the tray Havard used to bring you food. Assuming of course that Lexia can be trusted, but you want to ask her to carry her, so you have to just bear it at this point.. <<if $trustLexiaC3 is true>> She promised to protect you though. And you trust her. <<else>> Even if you don't trust her... Though why do you want to ask her to carry you then? Because you trust that chair thing even less! It looks evil. <</if>> <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ You look at the wheelchair and shake your head, then make some vague motions with your hands, trying to indicate that she should carry you. You hope she gets it, you have no idea what else to do. “You want me to carry you?” You nod, relived. That was quite easy. <<else>>\ “Could you carry me?” You ask. <</if>>\ Lexia smiles. “Of course, I can carry you easily enough.” She walks closer to you, smiling. “Now let’s get your cloak!” She knows about your cloak! It is in the bed with you, even still. For some reason it is nice to have it close by, even if you now also have the $clothes. Lexia wraps the cloak around your shoulders “There we are. It is a nice cloak.” She is right, it is a nice cloak. A great cloak in fact. <<if $likes_cloak is true>> You even tried to let Havard let you only wear the cloak, instead of the $clothes, but he would have none of that. A shame really, you still are not sure why people are so picky about clothes.<</if>> “Ready to go?” There is no point in delaying. You brace yourself, and nod. Lexia gently pick you up. She is wearing her shiny armor that is cool and hard, but it seems she knows what she is doing. There are no sharp angles poking at you even as she settles you against her, and she is somehow strong enough to carry you with one arm. You are basically sitting on her arm, one ruined arm over her shoulder. Not that your poor fingers can really hold on. <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>>\ Your tail wraps around her arm to help steady you. It makes it feel safer. <</if>>\ “Comfy? It’s not too cold or uncomfortable?” Lexia asks. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ You indicate your approval with a nod and then a shake. <<else>>\ “It’s fine.” <</if>>\ “Good! Then let’s go!” Lexia starts walking towards the door. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> It is an odd feeling to you, moving while basically sitting.<<else>> Being carried feels a bit odd... Maybe it is the armor. It's cool, but sort of nice. <</if>> Then you are out of the room, and the world explodes with color. <</if>>\ <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "escape">>\ <<if $SawTheSeaC1 is true>>\ You can hear the sea and smell the breeze. Yet here you cannot see the wonderful sight of the sea. This is another garden though, one you passed through briefly earlier. This one is similar to the one you saw when escaping from Havard. So green and luscious with towering trees full of fruit, bushes and rows of blooming flowers with colorful blossoms. The gentle breeze feels nice, your $clothes ruffling softly and the sunlight through the canopy is warm on your lap. The sweet fragrance of flowers and greenery, the song of birds fliting in and out of the branches of the trees. It is all just as wonderful as earlier. Overwhelming to your poor senses but still but worth every moment. The lurking fear and dread you barely knew existed retreats under such a barrage of pleasant sensations. <<else>>\ The garden is still so green and luscious as before, with towering trees full of fruit, bushes and rows of blooming flowers with colorful blossoms. The gentle breeze feels nice, your $clothes ruffling softly and the sunlight through the canopy warm on your lap. The sweet fragrance of flowers and greenery, the song of birds fliting in and out of the branches of the trees. It is all just as wonderful as earlier. Overwhelming to your poor senses but still but worth every moment. The lurking fear and dread you barely knew existed retreats under such a barrage of pleasant sensations. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ You suck in a breath in shock. Everything is so green! It's grass! You glance around and find yourself in a.... garden, or what you think is a garden. Have you ever seen a garden? All you remember is the pain and the void... For a moment you falter but manage to shake off the memories and look around in wonder. This place makes it easier. So much easier to forget. The garden is full of luscious green grass, towering trees full of fruit, bushes and rows of blooming flowers. You see colorful blossoms fill the space--pinks, purples, and whites. The canopy of the trees spreads out, the dense leaves a vibrant green and swaying in the breeze; filtering the sunlight into soft golden beams. This is not at all like a place full of pain and death and knives and tearing flesh. Long forgotten scents assault your senses--the fresh scent of earth and greenery, the sweet fragrance of the flowers. Birds flit in and out of the branches of the trees and peck at fruit and berries. The gentle breeze feels nice, your $clothes ruffling softly and the sunlight through the canopy warm on your lap. <</if>>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ Lexia appears from behind the chair you are in and beams at you. <<else>>\ Lexia's face is almost splitting in a grin when you look the side. <</if>>\ “The gardens are nice, aren’t they! The orphanage has like a dozen of them.” Your gaze snaps to Lexia. A dozen! That is a lot! You think... can you actually count? You are not sure... It's all fuzzy. So probably not, or maybe your internal sense can make sense of it and is telling you that is a lot of gardens... Hard to tell what you actually know. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ You stare at Lexia and tilt your head. Your silent way of asking why there are so many gardens. <<else>>\ “Why so many?” <</if>>\ “Well, Firgrat is huge! You will see once we get to the walls. And this place.” She spins her finger around. “Is supposed to become the place where all the orphans in the city and beyond go... Eventually. Hopefully. We are far away from even opening yet, but the compound is massive in preparation for the future. Of course, the city is far too big that this place alone will work for a long time, especially since the Custodians and Protectors both are also housed inside the compound, but it is a start." She smiles as she gestures around. "Hence so many gardens, since kids and adults of all ages can enjoy them!” She considers something. “The Ancients also paid for it so why not.” That makes sense, you suppose. As much as anything makes sense to you. Preparing for the future is not something you have ever considered but if anyone would, you imagine it would be really old people like these Ancients. “But anyway, why don’t we start the tour! You know there are gardens with water fountains.” Lexia is smiling so widely at you once again. You wonder how her face does not split in two as she explains that the garden right next to this one has one of these fountain things. Whatever they are, you have no idea. Perhaps you soon will. She chatters as you set off. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Some time ago...|AzhaC3POV]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

No, you are having none of this tour business. You have no idea what is out there, and no desire to find out. Boredom is better than whatever bad things could happen if you leave this room. <<if $nonverbal >>\ You shake your head profusely at Lexia. <<else>>\ "No." You say. <</if>>\ Lexia tilts her head. "No? To the chair?" She glances at the contraption. "Or to the tour." <<if $nonverbal >>\ You tilt your head. "Ok, nod when I have it. " "No to the chair?" You do nothing. The contraption.... you are not sure about it yet. That can wait. "No to the tour?" You nod. <<else>>\ "The tour." <</if>>\ "Oh..." Her smile falters a bit.... You almost feel like you did something bad. Then she beams at you. "Ok. That is fine! We can hang out here instead." She settles the chair contraption by the window and sits back down in the chair next to your bed. Then stares at you intently. Just... stares. You have a feeling this is going to be a long day... Still beats the void, you think as you settle to lie in the bed. It is still boring... but it is soft. You strain your hearing, and focus on the open window. <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>>\ <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<FeatureIndex "pointy ears">><<else>><<FeatureIndex "animal ears">><</if>>\ Your $Feature twitch as you focus. Sounds from what you think is birds, the wind and perhaps water, you hear it all. Even with all these sounds, you soon start to relax. <<else>>\ Faint sounds of birds and the wind make you relax. <</if>>\ It is peaceful, and nothing bad is happening. You start drifting off in the soft bed before even realizing it. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Some time ago...|AzhaC3POV]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h2>Your POV</h2>\ In the heart of the garden right next to the one your room is located, just as lush and green as the one you saw earlier, stands a beautiful fountain made of the same white stone as the hallways and walls. Lexia tells you it is called marble. The fountain is in the form of an intricate statue of a tree, smooth marble branches stretching upward towards the sky. From the tips of the branches, clear water springs forth, and cascades down in delicate arcs. You hear a gentle splashing sound as the water hits the wide basin below, filled with that same clear water. “It is really pretty.” Lexia says smiling wide. “We have a couple of these. The pool at the base is surprisingly deep, you know.” She waggles her eyebrows. "In case you ever need to cool down." You nod idly, gaze drawn to the marble fountain gleaming in the sunlight. You feel... odd. Enchanted. You can only watch as water trickles continuously, the branches of the marble tree seemingly alive as they spill the crystal-clear liquid. It feels odd to you, a scene like this, a hidden oasis, is not meant for your eyes. A place of tranquility and reflection so unlike the void that you are used to. The contrast is jarring. This place is pure and beautiful. Too beautiful. Too bright. It is too much... The sunlight is warm on your lap, and blinding to your eyes, so used to the darkness. This place smells so nice, earthy and clean. The scents from the grass and blooming flowers are unfamiliar and overwhelming. Nothing like blood, gore and unwashed filth. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "escape">>\ <<if $SawTheSeaC1 is true>>\ You ran through some gardens earlier, but full of panic you did not consider these things. You even saw the sea earlier from the window, but that was far away. This is right next to you. Right here, close enough to touch. <<else>>\ The garden you escaped out into earlier was wonderful and bright too, but Havard was right there, far more pressing than your surroundings at the time. Now... Now there is nothing pressing, nothing but the beaty and peace of the scene in front of you. <</if>><</if>>\ Can such a place, so full of beaty and nature, be meant for something like you? Are you are not a filthy crippled creature? Does your existence diminish this place? Stain it with your mere presence? It feels like you don't belong. Not here, under the sun where the birds sing, and water makes such joyous sounds. Your gaze falls to the bandages covering your hands. <<if $sawhands_1>> You remember the twisted, ruined flesh you saw when Havard changed your bandages. The grooves and odd lumps. Disgusting and wrong. Your hands, forever beyond repair. Will they stain this place? Turn it twisted, like you? <<else>> <<if $drawer>> You remember how dark your blood was from trying to open the drawer after waking up. So dark and disgusting. It would stain the scene before you, and twist it. Can such a thing ever even be undone? <<else>> You don't know what the bandages cover, and perhaps that is for the better. You have no doubt whatever is under the bandages is twisted and wrong. If you knew how wrong you are, could you really still pretend that you might be a person?<</if>><</if>> Lexia is chattering something about the fountain, something about how the water is drawn from Firgrat bay. You are not really listening. Your thoughts have turned dark and you are alone with your thoughts, even as she is nearby. She may have promised to protect you, but her promises matter little when your thoughts turn on you. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ Your grip on the chair tightens, as much as it can with your ruined fingers. <<else>>\ Your grip on the Lexia’s armor tightens, as much as it can with your ruined fingers. <</if>>\ Your world focuses on a single point that is the jarring difference between this haven in front of you, and the void that consumed you. Did you really get out? Is this not just a dream? Havard says it is not...but how can you know? What if this is a trick? What if you ruin this place by your tainted existence? Havard and Lexia swore to keep you safe, but can they? Promised you a home... but what really is a home? A place to belong? Does a broken thing like you belong anywhere but the void? Would it not be best for you to be thrown and locked away, like the disgusting thing you are? Ruined by the life you have led. This orphanage with the sun shining far above, and a smiling Protector in silver. The void, with it's all consuming darkness and the cycle that brings you nothing but pain. Which is real? Were you really saved? You never saw //something// again. You heard a vague voice, but how do you know that was real? Havard said he is an Ancient, Lord Sheo, but how do you know that? He could have been a fidget of your imagination, something you imagine because you foolishly thought you could be saved? Deserved to be saved? Is this not just a trick of the mind. The void probably was angry that you dared to have hope. Is this real? You can’t tell. Are you still in the void? Is all of this, this paradise, these people, just a delusion of your mind. It's too beautiful, too clean. Too... overwhelming. <<set $fountainreaction to 0>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You can’t stop the wicked smile, nor the deranged laughter.|Chapter 3_5_tour3][$fountainreaction to $fountainreaction+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You go still and numb. The vibrant colors of the garden fade as the void welcomes you home.|Chapter 3_5_tour3][$fountainreaction to $fountainreaction+2]]</div> <<if $selfharmoptions is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[The dark thought fester. You are impure. Unworthy. You should not be. |Chapter 3_5_tour3][$fountainreaction to $fountainreaction+3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You focus on the fountain. The fountain is so pretty. Everything is fine. That is everything that is important here.|Chapter 3_5_tour3][$fountainreaction to $fountainreaction+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Your ruined fingers curl and your teeth clench.|Chapter 3_5_tour3][$fountainreaction to $fountainreaction+5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[No! You refuse! Focus on Lexia. Listen to her. |Chapter 3_5_tour3_Lexia][$fountainreaction to $fountainreaction+6]]</div> </div><</nobr>> /*Lexia was not wrong about the gardens. There are so many. You pass half a dozen. */

Lexia turns her gaze to you just in time to see you succumb to your mind. <<if $fountainreaction is 1>>\ <<addmadness 5>><<addLexia -5>>\ Your smile, a hollow terrible thing startles Lexia when she looks at you, the terrible laughter escaping your lips makes the Sun feel cold, and the garden lose it's vibrancy. It would be hilarious if this was a delusion. If you were still in the void. If the haven around you was just something your broken mind conjured up. How hilarious would that be? What if the water was blood? Wouldn't that be fun? What if Havard and Lexia were just victims of the void too? Or maybe they are just corpses? Puppets? That might be even more hilarious than if they were just a delusion? Perhaps the void has created new ways to torment you? The cycle was getting rather boring, wasn't it. There is only so much pain one tiny body can take. New ways must be found to properly break you down. Your laughter drowns out Lexia's worried questions, you don't even hear them as you drown in the hilarity of it all. The gentle touch on your shoulder does not register. Who knows if it is even real? It feels real... but so does everything else. The funniest option would be if none of it was real. If it was a deception. <<elseif $fountainreaction is 2>>\ <<addnumbness 5>>\ The color fades away from the world. You no longer see the green or hear the gentle splashing sounds from the water. The void is around you again. Welcoming you home. Here nothing hurts, nothing matters. Maybe this haven is a delusion. It does not matter. The light may be a lie but what does it matter enveloped in this blessed numbness. Ah, such peace. Such bliss. A perfect silence, a nothingness swallowing you up. Lexia’s brow furrows as she sees your blank face. Her worried questions do not register to your numb mind. The gentle touch on your shoulder does not register. Here you are safe. Here nothing matters. <<elseif $fountainreaction is 3>>\ <<addselfharm 5>><<addLexia -10>>\ The dark thoughts drown your mind. Your life is worthless and pointless. This haven is not for you. You are wrong. A filthy broken thing trying desperately to be a person. How could you be a person, you are a thing for people to carve up and ignore. This maybe a delusion and even that is too good for you. A pleasant dream is more than a wretch like you deserves. Life is nothing but pain and lies. There is only one solution, A permanent one. The only way to stop you from tainting the world. All you need is an end. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ Perhaps this wheeled chair would be useful to find a suitable method to end the miserable thing that is your existence. You can almost imagine the broken mess your body could leave behind, if only there was a large enough crash. At the very least you could stick your ruined hands between the wheels. Would that break them? You don't think the chair is enough here in the garden... <<else>>\ Lexia is wearing armor is she not? Could you find a sharp angle to slice your wrist? To pierce an eye? To crack your skull? Could you do it fast enough for the Protector to not notice. The armor feels odd.... You have not felt any sharp angles poking at you. Is that just you not noticing? Or is the armor not sharp? You need to pay attention... <</if>>\ Lexia’s brow furrows as she sees your face, lost in fantasies of what you could do to yourself. You almost make a move to bring about a blessed end to your wretched existence... but your gaze lingers on the woman in silver. She is fast, she caught you before when you were falling. If she has even an inkling of your intentions, she could stop you. Besides, you are not sure you can end yourself so easily right now... Is the attempt worth it? Maybe you could break a hand? A leg? Her worried questions do not register; you are too lost in gory fantasies. The gentle touch on your shoulder does not register, you are too busy lost in plans of a blessed death. <<if ndef $fountainreaction2_s>>\ <<set $fountainreaction2_s to 0>>\ <<else>> <<set $fountainreaction2_s to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You can't let her stop you... You have to wait for now. |Chapter 3_5_selfharm][$fountainreaction2_s to $fountainreaction2_s+1]]</div> <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> <div class="choice-item">[[Try sticking your hand into the wheel of the chair. Hopefully it will tear the thing off. |Chapter 3_5_selfharm][$fountainreaction2_s to $fountainreaction2_s+2]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice-item">[[Try to slide off her hand, ideally falling head first. |Chapter 3_5_selfharm][$fountainreaction2_s to $fountainreaction2_s+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Try to smash your head against her armor.|Chapter 3_5_selfharm][$fountainreaction2_s to $fountainreaction2_s+4]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>> <<elseif $fountainreaction is 4>>\ <<addescape 5>><<addLexia -5>>\ You focus on the marble fountain. The sound of the water. The smell of flowers. In this haven, everything is fine. Just like always. Nothing is wrong. Nothing is ever wrong. The garden is really pretty. The fountain is so interesting. The water is so pretty. Your life is perfect. Your hands are not a ruin. Everything is fine. Everything is fine. Lexia’s brow furrows as she sees your face, as you force yourself to focus on your surroundings with desperate need. Her questions do not register. The world is so pretty and perfect. Everything is fine. Always fine. <<elseif $fountainreaction is 5>>\ <<addanger 5>><<addLexia -5>>\ Why? Why does such a good place exist when you were locked in the void? Alone and abandoned. Your teeth grind together. Your ruined hands shake. It’s not fair. It is not fair. Life is not fair. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ You grip the wheeled chair as hard as you can, ruined fingers bending against the wood. <<else>>\ You grip Lexia's arm as hard as you can, ruined fingers bending against the silver metal. <</if>>\ This place is so beautiful. So peaceful! No pain, no void, no cycle. Why were you locked away in the void? It’s not fair! Not fair! Why were you in the void? Why were you carved up? Why does such peace exist? The world is turning red, your wrath blinds you. Lexia’s brow furrows as she sees your face. You think she asks you something, but you don't hear anything. All you see is red. You need to lash out at something before you explode. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ You punch the handle of the chair as hard as you can. <<else>>\ You punch Lexia's shoulder as hard as you can. <</if>>\ Why? Why is life unfair? Why? You pull back for another punch, but something wraps around your wrist. Gentle but irresistible. Lexia has a hold of you. <</if>>\ <<if $fountainreaction<3 or $fountainreaction>3 >>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Lexia keeps trying to get through to you.|Chapter 3_5_tour32]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>

<<if $fountainreaction is 6>>\ <<addtrust 5>><<addLexia 5>>\ You force back the dark thoughts with the only thing you can. You stare at Lexia. She swore to protect you. Maybe this was not what she hand in mind but you hope it works. That she can protect you from your own thoughts. <<if $trustLexiaC3>>\ You trust her. She swore. It has to work. <<else>>\ You don't even trust her... but she is all you have to cling on to right now. There is nothing else. Or... or maybe you do trust her. Why else would this work. <<set $trustLexiaC3 to true>><<notify 3s>>Despite your earlier thoughts, you find yourself to trust Lexia in a moment of desperation.<</notify>>\ <</if>>\ "They bay has water as clear as mountain air! You can see right through it, and see all sorts of fish and what goes on under the water. So the water fountains are all filled with water from the bay and enchanted to keep the water all clear and pretty. So, if you were to spill something into the fountain, the water would become clear soon again." She turns to you, beaming. "Isn't that cool?" You focus on her chatter, and stare at her intently, desperately focusing on her words and face. Luckily, she takes this for fascination. "You know, I once accidentally dropped a whole bowl of soup into one of them. Even that was cleared up." She whispers to you, leaning in close. "But that is a secret. I get scolded enough already." She puts a finger over her mouth, making a "shush" sound. Your internal sense tells you, it mean that you are not supposed to tell people. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You don't talk anyway so it seems a bit pointless. You doubt even Havard could get something so specific out of you since the fountain is all cleared up. So, you nod resolutely. <<else>>\ You suppose that is fine. Who would you tell anyway? Havard? He is really the only option you have. Still, what would you gain from telling him? Make Lexia angry with you? Would she keep her oath if you made her angry? Testing things like that seems stupid. <<if $trustLexiaC3>> Well, you trust her so you have to believe so, but you are aware that your knowledge of people is rather limited. You have met bad people, or so you hope... You would like to think Lexia is different.<<else>> You don't trust her in the first place.... even if due to recent events you may have to admit that you do actually trust her. Still, making her angry seems like a bad idea in any event. <</if>> "Ok." You say quietly. Your voice sounds surprisingly steady. <</if>>\ She beams brightly at you. Odd, just a moment ago the fountain, greenery and sunlight was too much, the contrast to the void too jarring. Yet her smile, brighter than the sun and a thousand times closer, is not so overwhelming. It feels encompassing. The same contrast is there, but her smile seems to wipe away the darkness with it. "Thanks! I don't want to get scolded by Bruna for wasting soup. She's the head cook you know. Very strict, very scary." She chatters on. "But don't worry! She may seem scary, but she is actually nice! As long as you don't mess with her kitchen..." Your internal sense tells you, she is speaking so much for your benefit. Maybe she's nervous about this whole thing too? She's much bigger than you, but maybe she is not used to you yet. Just like you are not used to her. That's silly. She's so shiny, and has armor. "She's mad at me, you know. There was this whole thing earlier with flour..." You listen to a very chaotic explanation of something called "tag"... You have no idea what it is, but apparently it involves being chased. You are not sure you like it. Huh, when did you stop having dark thoughts? You were listening to Lexia, and now you are thinking about tag... How does that work? <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Meanwhile elsewhere in the orphanage.|HavardPOV2 C3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Choose your own hair length? <<textbox "$HairLength" $HairLength>> //Write it as you wish it to appear in text.// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Proceed|HairColor c2]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[[Go back to choose from the provided options|Hair Length c2]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

Choose your own hair color? <<textbox "$HairColor" $HairColor>> //Write it as you wish it to appear in text.// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Proceed|Hair_type_c2]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[[Go back to choose from the provided options|HairColor c2]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

Choose your own hair type? <<textbox "$HairType" $HairType>> //Write it as you wish it to appear in text.// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Proceed|character_customization_hair_done_c2]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[[Go back to choose from the provided options|Hair_type_c2]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

Hmm, was your hair always $HairType? Your memory really is damaged. You can't remember. The void must have eaten that bit of you. Nothing to do about it now though. Assuming this is all real at least. It takes what feels like forever, but sitting like this with Havard paying so much attention to your hair is a novel experience. He is so focused and gentle as he works. <<if $blades_trauma>> The terrifying cutting thing, the scissors, never nicks you.<</if>> Havard is precise and careful as he cuts your hair. <<if $HairLength is "waist-long">>\ "Since you wanted it waist-long, I have only cut away the matted messy bits and trimmed the ends." Havard says as he steps back. "So it is just a much neater version of what was there already." <<else>>\ "Since you wanted it $HairLength, I have cut away the matted messy bits, cut it to the desired length, and trimmed it just a tad." Havard says as he steps back. <</if>>\ He observes you intently. Honestly, this is a lot of attention for you. Well a different kind of attention than the one you received before the void. He seems to be inspecting his work on your hair, not where to start carving you up, or where to pinch with pliers. You prefer this kind of attention to be honest. Still, being so intently studied, even if it is just your hair, is new for you. <<set $Havard_hair_inspection to 0>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Not that it makes a difference to you. You are not shy.|character_customization_c2][$Havard_hair_inspection to $Havard_hair_inspection+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You would prefer not to be observed like this, you don't really trust it, but you endure it with a calm facade.|character_customization_c2][$Havard_hair_inspection to $Havard_hair_inspection+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You really do not care, and just wait.|character_customization_c2][$Havard_hair_inspection to $Havard_hair_inspection+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You squirm a bit in place. Is your face hot?|character_customization_c2][$Havard_hair_inspection to $Havard_hair_inspection+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don’t really pay attention while you happily dangle your legs off the chair, and watch them. They feel very heavy for some reason.|character_customization_c2][$Havard_hair_inspection to $Havard_hair_inspection+5]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare back at him. "How does it look?" Your voice is what you assume passes for friendly.|character_customization_c2][$Havard_hair_inspection to $Havard_hair_inspection+6]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare back at him. "Are you done?" You ask bluntly. All this sitting is making your butt sore.|character_customization_c2][$Havard_hair_inspection to $Havard_hair_inspection+7]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

You would like to see. Even if you could see the void staring back at you. What if seeing yourself causes the void to take you again? What if this is a delusion of your broken mind and it shatters when you see yourself. You don't want to go back to the void, but it is worth the risk. You know you have $SkinColor skin. Now you also know your hair is $HairLength, $HairColor and $HairType. You might have only limited memory. Who knows what you could see in the mirror. But you want to see. Know what you look like. So you nod at Havard. He smiles at you and turns the mirror around. It is so big you can see yourself sitting on a chair. You look.... like a person? Sure your $clothes hang somewhat awkwardly and loosely on an emancipated frame. Even these clothes Havard picked out for you are too large for a frame that has been so starved for so long. Bones are prominent beneath your $SkinColor skin, and the fabric sways with each breath, slipping slightly off the shoulders and unable to hide the reality of your time in the void beneath. Your cheeks are hollow, and your arms bandaged. However, you were in the void who knows for long. This you can deal with. In this moment, you do not consider whether you like the way you look. Why? Because you look like a person. Sure, there are thin scars covering most of the visible skin but those too are much less than you expected. You did not really pay attention the first time you woke up, too occupied with your strange surroundings. You know that your body, even just the bits visible under your $clothes, should be scarred, bruised and abused. Yet, you look like a //person//. It is a relief. It does not mean you are a person, but at least you look like one, not a slab of meat meant for carving or some monster from the void. You know better than most that a thing looking like a person can be a monster still. That's what the people who took you were, or so you think. People who were monsters. Yet, you are relieved, because at least you look like a person, even if you do not necessarily feel like one. <<set $checked_face to false>>\ <<set $checked_scars to false>>\ <<set $checked_heritage to false>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature to []>>\ <<set $HeritageType to []>>\ <<set $HeritageRace to []>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You should investigate this lack of scars and bruises more. |Chapter 2_mirror2_scars]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You should focus on your face. |Chapter 2_mirror2_face]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[What the hell is that?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $EyeColor to "grey">>\ <<set $HeritageFeature to "none">>\ <<if ndef $CurrentRaces >>\ <<set $CurrentRaces to []>>\ <</if>>\ It is best to not know such things. Who knows what you look like, you could see the void staring back at you. What if seeing yourself causes the void to take you again? What if this is a delusion of your broken mind and it shatters when you see yourself. You don't want to go back to the void. You are afraid that seeing yourself will cause this new reality to shatter. You know you have $SkinColor skin. Now you also know your hair is $HairLength, $HairColor and $HairType. Isn't that enough? You have only limited memory. Who knows what you could see in the mirror. You shake your head at Havard. His smile is very soft. "You sure?" His voice is gentle. Soothing. "You don't have to, if you do not wish to." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You changed your mind, you want to see. |Chapter 2_mirror]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are sure. You don't want to see in the mirror.|Chapter 2_no_Mirror2]]</div> </div><</nobr>> //Note: Skipping looking into the mirror means missing out on some character customization. No special features and grey eyes will be assumed.//

<<if $Havard_hair_inspection is 1>>\ <<addshy -5>>\ You puff out a bit and let Havard look you over. You have nothing to hide and you are not shy about what you look like! No matter what that may be. The void and the cycle may have been horrible but you don't need to actually look good to be confident. "Hmm, I think it looks good." Havard says and smiles. Good, not you expected much else. <<elseif $Havard_hair_inspection is 2>>\ <<addinnocence -5>><<addstoic 3>>\ You calmly sit and endure. You do not like this inspection; it feels too much like the past. Just before the first cut of the day after they strapped you to the table. Still Havard already had the chance to cut you enough while cutting your hair. <<if $blades_trauma is true>> He promised you would not be hurt, and did comfort you earlier. <</if>>You allow him to inspect his work in peace. "Hmm, I think it looks good." Havard says and smiles. Good. That means this inspection is ending. <<elseif $Havard_hair_inspection is 3>>\ <<addstoic 5>>\ You have no strong opinions on his inspection, so you just wait for it to end, sitting still in place. "Hmm, I think it looks good." Havard says and smiles. It makes no real difference to you. <<elseif $Havard_hair_inspection is 4>>\ <<addshy 5>>\ It feels odd to be inspected like this. You face feels a bit hot? Why does your face feel hot? Your ruined hands fidget a bit. You shift on the chair. Havard smiles softly, but you have to look at the floor. "Apologies, I am simply inspecting my work." You know that, but it is still hard for some reason. "Hmm, I think it looks good." Havard says and smiles. You fidget a bit more, feeling odd. Like you want to hide so he can't see you right now. Not out of fear, it just feels like you should. <<elseif $Havard_hair_inspection is 5>>\ <<addinnocence 5>><<addstoic -3>><<addoblivious 1>>\ You watch your legs dangle off the chair. Right leg forward, left leg forward, right leg forward... Oh, you can wiggle your toes! Look at them move! You can see them since you only got a $clothes on, not something like socks to cover your feet. Oh, you know what socks are! Maybe there are socks in that dresser thing. You don't notice how Havard smiles as he observes you. "Hmm, I think it looks good." he says. Hmm, what looks good? You look up from your feet. Right, hair. <<elseif $Havard_hair_inspection is 6>>\ <<addfriendly 5>>\ "How is it looking?" You tilt your head a bit. "Hmm, I think it looks good." Havard says and smiles. "That's... nice?" This talking and being what the vague sense tells you is "friendly" is new to you. Havard's smile gets wider. "It is nice. Perhaps even good." Is good better than nice? You don't really know. Your internal sense of things does not indicate anything. <<elseif $Havard_hair_inspection is 7>>\ <<addfriendly -5>>\ "Are you done?" You are getting tired of siting here. "Hmm, I think it looks good." Havard says and smiles. "So yes, I would say I am done." "Good. My butt is getting sore." You declare. Havard chuckles. "I imagine it is. Sitting will do that, especially on a chair without padding. Sorry about that. We should get you a better chair for your room." A padded chair sounds nice. Even if sitting is boring. <</if>>\ Havard walks to the table and puts away the scissors. “All right.” Havard says. “That is your hair sorted out.” He turns back to you, and smiles. “Would you like a mirror?” A mirror? That thing you can see yourself in. It could be good to get a look at yourself, wouldn’t it? Maybe you could finally see your face doing stuff, expressions you think they are. See if you look like a person and not a slab of meat to carve up as the people before the void seemed to think. Are there visible signs of the void on you? What about all the cutting and tearing and burning before the void? You did not notice anything overt before Havard helped you dress? That seems odd now that you think about it. You should be a mess of scars, torn flesh and burns, should you not? Or was that all a dream? A delusion? The void could have made you see all those things. Havard disappears behind the divider in the room, and you can hear something being moved. He soon appears carrying a large frame with glass? No, it’s the mirror thing! He does not point it at you. Instead, he stops and sets the frame down pointing away from you. “How about it? I promise, you look quite nice now with your clothes and hair sorted out.” He smiles in a reassuring manner. Or what you think is a reassuring manner. It could be good to see yourself at this point. Unless… do you really want to know what you look like? What if you are a thing from the void? Or a thing to carve and cut? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Yes|Chapter 2_mirror]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[No|Chapter 2_no_Mirror]]</div> </div><</nobr>> //Note: Skipping looking into the mirror means missing out on some character customization. No special features and grey eyes will be assumed.//

"That's fine. You don't have to see if you don't want to." You let out a sigh. "Your eyes are $EyeColor by the way. Like a stormy sky." He says, as he carries the mirror back behind the divider. For a moment, you prepare for the void to swallow you whole.... but nothing happens. Maybe knowing your eye color is not too much information. Maybe you already knew it and have just forgotten. Your eyes are $EyeColor? That's... good? Is it? No idea. Have you ever seen a stormy sky? If you have, you don't remember. Havard appears back into your field of vision. "Don't worry about it." Your face must have been doing things. "They are very pretty eyes." Your $EyeColor eyes are pretty? You are not sure what to do with that information. Havard helps you back into the bed. Your legs feel very heavy for some reason, so you suppose it's fine. He just cut your hair. No point making a fuss now, or so you figure. <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>> Besides, you trust him. <<else>> Even if you don't trust him, you are not exactly in a position to complain. Or you could, but you doubt it would do anything.<</if>> It's not like he is going to stop helping you even if you tell him to. The vague sense you have is certain of this. Soon you are back in bed. Havard tucks you in and smiles. "There we are. Try to get some more rest." Havard retreats to the table in your room and sits down to work on some papers. Writing, that mystical art of making squiggly lines that people somehow understand. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The thing is, you are not tired right now.|Chapter 2_6]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $HairCustomization to true>>\ <<set $HeritageCustomization to true>>\ <<set $EyeCustomization to true>>\ <<notify 3s>>Your profile has been updated.<</notify>>\ "All done? Let’s get you back to bed then." Havard walks over to the chair he sat you down in for the haircut and mirror inspections. He helps you back into the bed. Well carries you back into bed really.<<if $angry_at_being_carried_about is true>> You are not exactly happy about getting carried about so much. However, your legs feel very heavy and.. odd for some reason, so you suppose it's not like you have an option. <<else>>Your legs feel very heavy for some reason, so you suppose it's fine. It’s not so bad to have someone help you to places. <</if>> He just cut your hair. No point making a fuss now, or so you figure. <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>> Besides, you trust him so him helping you is fine. <<else>> Even if you don't trust him, you are not exactly in a position to complain. Or you could make your displeasure known, but you doubt it would do anything. <</if>> It's not like he is going to stop helping you even if you tell him to. The vague sense you have is certain of this. You are not sure if you can trust it, it seems to be a mixed bag Soon you are back in bed. Havard lifts the duvet and tucks you in with a smile. He smiles at you so much. Why? Is there something about you that makes him smile? Doesn’t his face get stuck like that? Maybe his face is already stuck like that! That would explain it. <<if $checked_face is true>>\ Your own smiles were so unnerving, yet his smiles are odd. They feel…warm. How is your face doing stuff warm? Can it be cold? Neutral? You tried so many expressions and yet, you don’t think they were anything like warm… You were quite gifted at looking confused. <</if>>\ "There we are. Try to get some more rest. You are still recovering." More rest? Well, you suppose that might be nice. Resting is certainly much better than what you are used to. Havard retreats to the table in your room and sits down to work on some papers. Writing, that mystical art of making squiggly lines that people somehow understand. It is incomprehensible to you. How can anyone make any sense of those squiggles? You try to find a good position, shifting under the soft duvet thing. As you do, you vaguely note Havard spends a moment holding a little metal thing, it might be called a pin, in his hand with a focused look. Even your internal sense of things is confused about why he is doing that let alone what about holding a thing like that requires concentration, but you suppose people sometimes just do things. You try to relax and fall asleep again. What a novel thing it is! Lying in bed and trying to sleep. To rest. Who would have imagined something so nice and fluffy as this bed could exist. You shift into a comfy position. So soft and nice… You nuzzle into a pillow and wait for sleep to come. And wait…. some more waiting… Huh, that’s odd. It does not take you long to come to a conclusion. The bed is still soft and comfy. You have been fed, and you have clothes, a $clothes. You have $HairType $HairColor hair. <<if $HeritageFeature.length > 0>> You have <<HeritageFeatureList>>. You have also learned a lot about people in this city called Firgrat.<</if>> Life right now, or possibly a delusion of your mind but still, is better than anywhere in your memory. Yet... <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You are not tired right now.|Chapter 2_6]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $checked_scars to true>>\ You look over at your shoulders, what you can see from the loose clothing and your feet dangling off the chair. You peer inside your $clothes, though you don't see much this way. There is not enough light. Still what bare skin you can see in the mirror, is confusing. You lean closer to the mirror, studying the areas that were once marked by jagged lines and uneven textures. You expect to find the rough patches, and the messy scars that have been part of you for so long. Yet all you find is smooth, much neater scars than what you expected. The burns, once angry and twisted, are healed near completely, leaving no trace of their former constant pain. You did not pay attention to that before; the cycle was much more painful than your injuries but still. This all leads you to a conclusion. An odd conclusion. The scars that should cover your body, the cuts, bruises and burns, they’re much more faded than should be, but still there. What happened? How long have you been at the orphanage? You turn to Havard. He would know, wouldn't he. He saw when //something//, you mean this Lord Sheo, brought you here. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ You gesture vaguely to your exposed skin and faded scars. <<else>>\ "What happened to all the scars?" You ask. <</if>>\ Havard's look is hard to read in that moment. Sad and worried? Concerned? Afraid? So many emotions briefly flicker across his face, before a gentle smile creases his lips. A smile you are already used to seeing since you see it so often. That is the smile he gives you most of the time. "When you arrived, Lord Sheo held you in the healing baths for a good while. The healing waters did wonders for your injuries, even as old as some of them were. Aside from..." He glances at your hands. The bandages covering them. <<if $got_injured_c1 is true>>\ <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "weapon" and $sawHealingBaths is not true>>>\ Healing baths? Healing water? That stuff Havard used to heal you when you got injured? He used it on your leg. <<if $drawer is true>> And your fingers when they got injured because of the drawer.<</if>> <<elseif $sawHealingBaths is true>>\ Oh right. You had been there briefly with Havard to fix the hand your tried getting rid of. That it had healed you right up, though that wound was fresh. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "weapon">> Havard also used that stuff on your leg.<</if>> <<elseif $trustHavardC1 is true and $nonverbal is not true>>\ The stuff Havard asked you to drink that helped you speak. He said back then there was an entire bath of the stuff. <<else>>\ Healing baths? Healing water? The stuff Havard used on your fingers when they were injured. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ Healing water? Is that different from normal water? You think it is. They have an entire bath of the stuff? <</if>>\ Your bandaged fingers touch where the bruises used to bloom in dark purples and blues, feeling nothing but healthy skin, a tiny bit sore but basically nothing. Even the countless nicks and cuts, things you had long ago stopped thinking about, have been healed to thin lines. Neat and clean. You run your bandaged hands over your torso atop your $clothes, then slide your hands to feel inside, searching for remnants of what was. But all you find is a body that feels almost new, as if the torture, void and cycle had not happened. Well, it's not all gone, and your bandaged hands are a glaring reminder that the past does exist. It this a good thing? Is this not too convenient? To have your injuries healed like so? Yet, your mind remains damaged and scattered. You know this, even when you are not actively having your... episodes. Yet aside from your ruined hands, your body barely reflects the past. Only vague scars remain, but someone would have to be very close to you to see. Unless they like... glow in the dark? Can scars do that? They never did that before, but who knows what those healing waters could do... You twist and turn in the chair, examining every angle, expecting to find something, anything, left behind as it was. But no matter how closely you look, the horrors of past are almost so diminished you could consider them mostly gone. You stare at your reflection. It’s you, but the person looking back at you is healed in a way you never thought possible, and it leaves you feeling both lighter and lost all at once. But how did this happen? Why did this happen? And if the rest of you could be healed, then what about your ruined arms? Havard said that Sheo tried but could not heal them. He told you earlier about special gloves. There is not much you can do before that. Nothing to do but move on. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $checked_heritage is false>> <div class="choice-item">[[What the hell is that?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]</div> <</if>> <<if $checked_face is false>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should focus on your face.|Chapter 2_mirror2_face]]</div> <</if>> <<if $checked_face is true and $checked_scars is true and $checked_heritage is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You are done with the mirror for now.|Chapter 2_mirror2]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

Your face is blank, frozen in an expressionless mask. There is no emotion, no joy or sorrow. It simply is, existing without feeling. The mirror shows a stranger you cannot remember—an echo of someone who used to be there but is now faded. You look like a person still. You have a mouth, a nose and ears. Your hair is $HairType and $HairColor. Havard did good work, cutting it to $HairLength. <<if $HeritageType.length > 0>>\ <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears", "animal ears")>>\ <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("pointy ears")>><<else>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("animal ears")>><</if>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ Your $Feature do stand out as far as ears go. <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("animal ears")>> So soft and fluffy. <<else>> They are very pointy, aren't they. <</if>> <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageType.includes("horns")>>\ <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("horns")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ You do have your $Feature sticking out from your head, amongst your $HairType and $HairColor hair. <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageType.includes("elemental")>>\ <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("elemental")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ Your $Feature certainly makes you look quite... glowy? Good? Shiny? It is hard to say. <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers", "nature features")>>\ <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("feathers")>><<else>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("nature features")>><</if>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ Your $Feature certainly is nothing like you ever remember seeing. Your $HairType and $HairColor hair is quite a thing to look at like this. Is it good or bad? You don't know. It is just you. <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageType.includes("scales")>>\ <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("scales")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ The $Feature on your face are nothing like you ever remember seeing. They are right under your eyes. Right there, fully visible, yet you never knew. You can't see there. Is it good or bad? You don't know. <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageType.includes("sea")>>\ <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("sea")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ The $Feature on your face are very eye-catching. Translucent and... wavy? They spread out on both sides of your face. Very noticeable, yet you never knew they were there. You can in fact see them on the edges of your vision, but they have always been there. You never paid enough attention. <</if>>\ You are not used to seeing yourself, let alone <<if $HeritageFeature.length == 1>> this new feature<<else>> these new features<</if>>. Yet, you do not think it is such a bad thing. It is a look that is distinctly you. It is all just you. <</if>>\ Your gaze goes to your eyes. They are... <<set $charactercreatoroptions to $charactercreatoroptions + 1>>\ //Please select an eye color:// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[White|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "white"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Grey|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "grey"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light brown|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "light brown"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Brown|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "brown"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark brown|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "dark brown"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light blue|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "light blue"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Blue|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "blue"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark blue|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "dark blue"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light green|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "light green"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Green|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "green"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark green|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "dark green"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light golden|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "light golden"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Golden|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "golden"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark gold|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "dark gold"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Light red|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "light red"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Red|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "red"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Dark red|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "dark red"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Black|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "black"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Violet|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "violet"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Silver|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "silver"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Hazel|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "hazel"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Amber|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2][$EyeColor to "amber"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Something else (set the color yourself).|Choose eyecolor]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Choose your own eye color? <<textbox "$EyeColor" $EyeColor>> //Write it as you wish it to appear in text.// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Proceed|Chapter 2_mirror2_face2]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[[Go back to choose from the provided options|Chapter 2_mirror2_face]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $checked_face to true>>\ Your eyes are $EyeColor. Perhaps they were were once brilliant and vibrant. Now they are now dull and lifeless, hollow and sunken—devoid of spark or emotion. Tired and distant they may be but staring into your own eyes you find that you are not lost in a void too deep to escape. Reality does not shatter, and the void does not return to take you back. As dead and dull as your eyes are, they are still eyes. Just eyes. People have eyes. They are eyes a person could have, even if that person is broken. A broken person is still a person, not a slab of meat to carve up. Not a thing to chain up in the void and abandon. "Those $EyeColor eyes are rather beautiful." Havard says softly and smiles at you. "It <<if $EyeColor is "white">> is a rare and mystical color for eyes to have, or so I would say. Lord Sheo himself has eyes like that." Wait.. //something//, the Ancient that saved you from the void, has the same eye color as you do? You watch the mirror with interest. Your $EyeColor eyes are basically all one color, aside from the pupil, and the thin line around the iris. Otherwise it is all white. A rather unsettling look now that you see it and give it some thought. But if //something//, Sheo the super old grandpa, has the same color, you suppose that counts for something. Not sure what, it is certainly not a validation of your personhood. You feel quite sure about that, but it is something. <<elseif $EyeColor is "grey">> is like a stormy sky. They say grey eyes reflect wisdom and calm." Really? You don't think you are very wise or calm. Just confused and doubtful about things. <<elseif $EyeColor is "light brown">> is a warm and approachable color for eyes to have, or so I would say." He thinks for a bit. "I have heard it said that Lord Vismay, one of the Ancients has the most warm brown eyes. Yet I have never met him." Who's that? You know //something//, Sheo the potential super old grandpa who saved you. You don't know this one. Still, you don't have time to dwell in it. <<elseif $EyeColor is "brown">> is a deep and expressive color for eyes to have, or so I would say." He thinks for a bit. "I have heard it said that Lord Vismay, one of the Ancients has the most warm brown eyes. Yet I have never met him." Who's that? You know //something//, Sheo the potential super old grandpa who saved you. You don't know this one. Still, you don't have time to dwell in it. <<elseif $EyeColor is "dark brown">> is a rich and intense color for eyes to have, or so I would say." He thinks for a bit. "I have heard it said that Lord Vismay, one of the Ancients has the most warm brown eyes. Yet I have never met him." Who's that? You know //something//, Sheo the potential super old grandpa who saved you. You don't know this one. Still, you don't have time to dwell in it. <<elseif $EyeColor is "light blue">> is a bright and clear color for eyes to have, or so I would say. Like the sky on a clear day. Or Firgrat bay." The sky? Your eyes are like the sky? That is pretty cool. <<if $SawTheSeaC1>> You did see the sea, and that was a really pretty color. You stare at your eyes. You are Having a hard time seeing it, but Havard insists.<</if>> <<elseif $EyeColor is "blue">> is a vivid and striking color for eyes to have, or so I would say. Like the sea." <<if $SawTheSeaC1>> You did see the sea, and that was a really pretty color. You stare at your eyes. You are Having a hard time seeing it, but Havard insists. Though your eyes seems a bit darker than the bit of sea you saw. <<else>> The sea? You know that is a really big body of water, but you can't imagine it.<</if>> <<elseif $EyeColor is "dark blue">> is a mysterious and captivating color for eyes to have, or so I would say. Like the deep sea." <<if $SawTheSeaC1>> You did see the sea, and that was a really pretty color. You stare at your eyes. You are Having a hard time seeing it, but Havard insists. Though your eyes seems a lot darker than the bit of sea you saw. <<else>> The sea? You know that is a really big body of water, but you can't imagine it.<</if>> <<elseif $EyeColor is "light green">> is a fresh and vibrant color, like grass. The twins have green eyes too you know, though darker in color than yours." He smiles. "Still, I am sure you will bond over it." The twins have green eyes? You suppose you will see eventually. Havard seems sure you will meet them eventually. It makes you seem like more of a persont that your eyes match other peoples in some way. Assuming the twins are people. <<elseif $EyeColor is "green">> is a rare and alluring color for eyes to have, or so I would say. Like a forest, or the garden outside. The twins have green eyes too you know." He smiles. "I am sure you will bond over it." The twins have green eyes? You suppose you will see eventually. Havard seems sure you will meet them eventually. It makes you seem like more of a persont that your eyes match other peoples in some way. Assuming the twins are people. <<elseif $EyeColor is "dark green">> is a deep and enchanting color. Some forests are like that you know. Enchanted. The twins have green eyes too you know, though lighter in color than yours." He smiles. "Still, I am sure you will bond over it." The twins have green eyes? You suppose you will see eventually. Havard seems sure you will meet them eventually. It makes you seem like more of a persont that your eyes match other peoples in some way. Assuming the twins are people. <<elseif $EyeColor is "light golden">> is a rare color yet glowing with warmth. Lord Nuaran, one of the ancients has golden eyes, though darker than yours." Who's that? You know //something//, Sheo the potential super old grandpa who saved you. You don't know this one. Still, you don't have time to dwell in it. He pauses for a bit. "Someone very important to me also had golden eyes." He smiles sadly. You are not sure what to make of that. You peer at him... and have no idea what to do so you let it go. Havard gives his head a little shake and smiles at you. "Sorry. I am getting lost in thoughts." You nod understandingly. You get lost in your head all the time. <<elseif $EyeColor is "golden">> is a bright and mesmerizing color for eyes to have, or so I would say. Lord Nuaran, one of the ancients has golden eyes too." Who's that? You know //something//, Sheo the potential super old grandpa who saved you. You don't know this one. Still, you don't have time to dwell in it. He pauses for a bit. "Someone very important to me also had golden eyes." He smiles sadly. You are not sure what to make of that. You peer at him... and have no idea what to do so you let it go. Havard gives his head a little shake and smiles at you. "Sorry. I am getting lost in thoughts." You nod understandingly. You get lost in your head all the time. <<elseif $EyeColor is "dark gold">> is a luxurious and rare color for eyes to have, or so I would say." Lord Nuaran, one of the ancients has golden eyes, though lighter than yours." Who's that? You know //something//, Sheo the potential super old grandpa who saved you. You don't know this one. Still, you don't have time to dwell in it. He pauses for a bit. "Someone very important to me also had golden eyes." He smiles sadly. You are not sure what to make of that. You peer at him... and have no idea what to do so you let it go. Havard gives his head a little shake and smiles at you. "Sorry. I am getting lost in thoughts." You nod understandingly. You get lost in your head all the time. <<elseif $EyeColor is "light red">> is an unusual and fiery color for eyes to have, or so I would say." He smiles. "I have heard that Lady Elri, one of the Ancients, has the most striking red eyes, though I have never had the pleasure to see them myself." Who's that? You know //something//, Sheo the potential super old grandpa who saved you. You don't know this one. Still, you don't have time to dwell in it. <<elseif $EyeColor is "red">> is an intense and striking color." He smiles. "I have heard that Lady Elri, one of the Ancients, has the most striking red eyes, though I have never had the pleasure to see them myself." Who's that? You know //something//, Sheo the potential super old grandpa who saved you. You don't know this one. Still, you don't have time to dwell in it. <<elseif $EyeColor is "dark red">> is a bold and powerful color, I would say." He smiles. "I have heard that Lady Elri, one of the Ancients, has the most striking red eyes, though I have never had the pleasure to see them myself." Who's that? You know //something//, Sheo the potential super old grandpa who saved you. You don't know this one. Still, you don't have time to dwell in it. <<elseif $EyeColor is "black">> is a mysterious and deep color for eyes to have, or so I would say." Is it? You eye your own eyes a bit warily. Black is the color of the void... yet you look like a person still. At least Havard likes them. You will have to be careful that your own eyes do not swallow you up. <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("fully black eyes")>> Of course, you also have your fully black eyes, that seem much more likely to swallow you whole.<</if>> <<elseif $EyeColor is "violet">> is a magical and unique color, I would say." He smiles. "I know that Lady Irosia, the Ancient that brought the twins here, has the most striking violet eyes." Who's that? You know //something//, Sheo the potential super old grandpa who saved you. You don't know this one. Still, you don't have time to dwell in it. <<elseif $EyeColor is "silver">> is a bright and shining color for eyes to have, or so I would say." <<elseif $EyeColor is "hazel">> is a a rich mix of green and brown." He smiles. "I think we match." He says softly. You do? Actually, you do! Yours are a lot duller but maybe that will change in time. It feels sort of... nice?... Warm? It makes you seem like more of a person that your eyes match Havard's, who is clearly a person. Even if he smiles a lot. <<elseif $EyeColor is "amber">> is a color glowing with warmth and mystery, I would say." <<else>> is a distinct color that suits you very well." <</if>>\ You are a bit lost in thought, thinking about what Havard said. "Don't worry about the details." Havard says and looks at your eyes again. "The point is that your eyes are pretty." Are they? You are not sure. They are eyes, that is all you can say. Your eyes being beautiful, that's... good? Is it? You have no idea. You would like to say that he is lying to you, yet your internal sense seems to think he is telling you the truth. Isn't beautiful a positive thing? Can ruined broken things be beautiful? Still, they are eyes for a person, even a broken one, so you are content. Perhaps later you may feel something more towards your eyes, but after so long in the void, you are pretty content with the fact that you have eyes in the first place. "One day, I hope they will be filled with life once again." Havard might not have meant for you to hear that. It is said in a soft whisper. He looks sad again. Does he not realize how much better dull eyes are than the void? He probably doesn't does he? It's not like you told him about it... You don't acknowledge that you heard him, you are not sure what to think about that so it is best not to think about it. Instead, you focus back on your image in the mirror. Time to see about something that has been on your mind. An important question. Based on Havard's reaction to your face at times, it must happen, but you have to see yourself. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You are going to test if your face does stuff! |Chapter 2_mirror2_face3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $checked_heritage to true>>\ There is something off with your reflection. You peer closer. <<if ndef $HeritageFeature>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature to []>>\ <</if>>\ <<if ndef $HeritageType >>\ <<set $HeritageType to []>>\ <</if>>\ <<if ndef $HeritageRace>>\ <<set $HeritageRace to []>>\ <</if>>\ <<if ndef $HeritageFeatureCounter>>\ <<set $HeritageFeatureCounter to 1>>\ <</if>>\ <<if ndef $beastkin_tribe>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe to []>>\ <</if>>\ <<if ndef $HeritageRace2>>\ <<set $HeritageRace2 to []>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Your ears seem to be pointed?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_ears][$HeritageType.push("pointy ears")]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There, extending from your head are horns.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_horn][$HeritageType.push("horns")]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There on top of your head are animal ears.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_animal_ears][$HeritageType.push("animal ears")]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is a tail swishing back and forth behind you.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_tail][$HeritageType.push("tail")]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Your face has an odd texture in places... Are those scales?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_scales][$HeritageType.push("scales")]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[What is up with your hair, it has nature-like features mixed between normal hair?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_nature][$HeritageType.push("nature features")]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Why are there feathers?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_feathers][$HeritageType.push("feathers")]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Your clothes are straining to contain something on your back?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_wings][$HeritageType.push("wings")]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Glowy bits. Why do you have glowy bits?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_elemental][$HeritageType.push("elemental")]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[What is up with your eyes?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_eyes][$HeritageType.push("eyes")]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[What is up with your face? It looks so odd with...fins?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_sea][$HeritageType.push("sea")]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Oh, it's just you (no special features).|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_none][$HeritageType.push("none")]]</div> </div><</nobr>> /*https://twinery.org/forum/discussion/2433/checkboxes-sugarcube*/ /*https://twinery.org/questions/4346/checking-a-variable-against-multiple-values*/ /* <div class="choice-item">[[Your ears seem to be pointed?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_ears][$HeritageType to "pointy ears"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There, extending from your head are horns.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_horn][$HeritageType to "horns"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There on top of your head are animal ears.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_animal_ears][$HeritageType to "animal ears"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is a tail swishing back and forth behind you.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_tail][$HeritageType to "tail"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Your face has an odd texture in places... Are those scales?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_scales][$HeritageType to "scales"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[What is up with your hair, it has nature-like features mixed between normal hair?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_nature][$HeritageType to "nature features"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Why are there feathers?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_feathers][$HeritageType to "feathers"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Your clothes are straining to contain something on your back?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_wings][$HeritageType to "wings"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Glowy bits. Why do you have glowy bits?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_elemental][$HeritageType to "elemental"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[What is up with your eyes?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_eyes][$HeritageType to "eyes"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[What is up with your face? It looks so odd with...fins?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_sea][$HeritageType to "sea"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Oh, it's just you (no special features).|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2_none][$HeritageType to "none"]]</div> */

<<if $fountainreaction2 is 1>>\ <<addshy 5>>\ You reach out to touch her shoulder. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ You have to reach up from the wheeled chair. <<else>>\ It's not far, she is carrying you after all. <</if>>\ The bigger problem is that your bandaged fingers and her armor ensure that your touch does nothing. Not like you have the strength to knock hard enough for her to really notice. How do you make her notice? Nothing for it, you suppose. You have to make some kind of sounds to make her pay attention to you again. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You don't speak but you can make sounds... you hope. So you just make whatever sounds you can. It is a sort of gurgle, but it does the job. Her gaze snaps to you immediately. <<else>>\ "Lexia" you say, and her gaze snaps to you immediately. <</if>>\ <<elseif $fountainreaction2 is 2>>\ <<addshy -5>>\ You reach out, hesitate a moment and decide that this is a good idea. Your grip is weak, it will be fine. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ You have to reach up from the wheeled chair so it is hard to reach her hair. Havard's hair is longer than hers. <<else>>\ It's not far, she is carrying you after all. Even if Havard's hair is longer, you can reach hers easily enough. <</if>>\ Your bandaged fingers wrap into her hair and you tug gently. It works, her gaze snaps to you immediately. Well, that was easy! It worked so well. <<elseif $fountainreaction2 is 3>>\ <<addfriendly 5>>\ “I am ok”. Your voice sounds calm, even if you are not sure if you feel calm at all. Still, you have a voice, and you should use it. Besides, it makes Lexia's gaze to snap to you immediately. <<elseif $fountainreaction2 is 4>>\ <<addfriendly -5>>\ “I am fine!”. You snap at her, annoyed at her panic. It happens all the time, and she panics seeing it just once. She can't do that! If she panics so easily, can she really protect you? That works! It makes Lexia's gaze to snap towards you immediately. <<elseif $fountainreaction2 is 5>>\ <<addstoic -5>>\ You make a vague annoyed sound somewhere in your throat to indicate everything is well and even wave a hand at her. For now. You are over it, and ready to keep the tour going. For a moment, you think Lexia did not hear you, but her gaze snaps to you immediately. <<elseif $fountainreaction2 is 6>>\ You stare at Lexia. What are you supposed to do in this situation? You have no idea, you got over it. For now at least. You could keep going on the tour. How are you supposed to tell her anything? How do people just... do stuff. Luckily, she glances at you while talking to the pin. She almost turns away, but then her gaze snaps to you. Now... how did you do that? Was it a coincidence? It probably was, wasn't it. <<elseif $fountainreaction2 is 7>>\ Your wings unfurl a bit. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ You have to lean forwards in the wheeled chair so you can properly spread them out, but it is easy enough. <<else>>\ You turn a bit in her grasp so you can properly spread them out behind you, but it is easy enough. <</if>>\ Then you focus on your left wing since she is closer to that side... and swing. Your wing smacks her in the back of the head with a soft thump. That definitely works, she turns to look at you. You spend a moment trying to feel your wings... You don't think you broke anything, or if you did, you can't feel it. <<elseif $fountainreaction2 is 8>>\ Your tail twitches a bit. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ You have to lean forwards in the wheeled chair so you can properly use it, but it is easy enough. <<else>>\ You turn a bit in her grasp so you can aim properly, but it is easy enough. <</if>>\ Then you focus on tail, and swing. You are not sure if you can reach her head, so you aim for the shoulder. Your tail smacks her in the shoulder with a soft thump. Her armor is cold against your tail, but it does not really hurt. Or maybe it does, and you just don't notice. Hard to say. Still, your tail seems fine. That definitely works, she turns to look at you. <</if>>\ She stares at you for a moment, taking in your current much calmer state. The panic seems to flee her and she grasps the pin harder for a moment, then puts it away. What is up with that pin thing? Havard had one too... But right now she just grasped it, earlier she spoke to it. She smiles sheepishly, but her eyes meet yours, blue staring into $EyeColor. "Sorry, kid. I... I panicked." She admits, and looks wretched. Lost. Then she slaps her own cheek in a swift blow, starling you. Yet, she seems to have no intention of hitting you. She just shakes her head and focuses on you with her usual intensity. "Are you doing better now?" She asks, staring at you intently. "Do you need anything?" You are not sure... Do you need anything? It is pretty out here, and she is calm now. Your... situation has passed too. How odd it is that it just... went away. You think perhaps this place helped... It is hard to let dark thoughts fester, when the sun is bright. There is so much light out here. It's nothing like the void. It hurts your eyes a bit if you look up too much. The sounds are so different too, the splashing sound form the fountain. The birds, the faint sounds the city you assume is surrounding you. All of it mixing together into a calm soothing background sound that was not present in the void. In the void there were only the sounds your broken body made unwillingly when the cycle took you. You like this place better. Lexia looks worried about you. Her smile is odd... Your internal sense tells you she feels guilty. About panicking? Why? It's all very complex, this life out under the sun. You should probably do something other than space out and get lost in your own head. <<if ndef $choice>>\ <<set $choice to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You can only stare at her blankly. Eventually you remember to nod to indicate everything is fine. You need nothing.|Chapter 3_5_tour5][$choice to $choice+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Her scrutiny is making you feel odd, and you have the urge to hide.|Chapter 3_5_tour5][$choice to $choice+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Just nod and gesture enthusiastically. You want to get this tour going!|Chapter 3_5_tour5][$choice to $choice+3]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["What is up with the pin?" You ask.|Chapter 3_5_tour5][$choice to $choice+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[["I'm fine." You say and gesture. "Let's go.".|Chapter 3_5_tour5][$choice to $choice+3]]</div> <</if>> </div> <</nobr>>

<<nobr>> You shift in the chair to take a comfortable position. You focus on the reflection of your face. There you are, reflected in the mirror with your $SkinColor skin and $EyeColor eyes. <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("wings")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature spread out slightly behind you. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("tail")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature sways slightly behind your head, as if it wants you to know it is up there. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("horns")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("horns")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature are there, atop your face. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("eyes")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Sure, you can change into your $Feature, but you are content to see your normal eyes for now. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("pointy ears")>><<else>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("animal ears")>><</if>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature twitch a bit hearing the faint birdsong from the window. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("scales")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("scales")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> The $Feature are also there, on your face. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("feathers")>> <<elseif $HeritageType.includesAny("elemental")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("elemental")>> <<else>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("nature features")>> <</if>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature sways a bit in the soft breeze from the window. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("sea")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("sea")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> The $Feature on your face are almost glowing under the light from the window. They make you look so otherworldly. Ethereal might be the word. <</if>>\ <</nobr>> You let out a breath and shake your head a bit. Havard looks curiously at you but does not comment. Now time to practice! You close your eyes and open them. The you in the mirror does the same. You try closing only one eye. The you in the mirror does that as well. It takes a few tries but nothing too hard. You open your mouth and peek inside. You have a tongue! You use that weird appendix to map out that you have teeth. Yes, you can see the teeth in the mirror as well. So odd. You have many teeth... teeth are so weird. They are sort of creeping you out, so you close your mouth. Maybe you will take another look later. The real question is if you can move anything else. An eyebrow rises, well both of them. Well, that is good! But you only meant to lift one, so you try again. And again. And a few times more. It takes a moment before you can only move one. But you did it! Next you relax your facial muscles completely and watch your face go blank. A pretty usual look for you. You try to lift the corners of your lips, resulting in a rather unsettling small smile with your dead dull eyes. That does not look right at all. Best try again. <<nobr>> You bare your teeth and lift your cheeks more. Is that a smile? It looks odd on you and is still very unsettling with how your eyes are. Nothing like the nice smiles Havard has. Or the sad ones. How does he do so many smiles? All your smile is doing is making you vaguely uncomfortable. <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("wings")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your face is framed by your wings, but that is not helping. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("tail")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature is swaying slightly behind your face, yet it is not enough to make your smile appealing. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("horns")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("horns")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature are not really helping either, sort of making you look more off while you smile. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("eyes")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> You change your eyes into your $Feature... Nope. That made it much worse. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("pointy ears")>><<else>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("animal ears")>><</if>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature at least take away some of the effect. <<if $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> Fluffiness is a great deterrent for creepy, at least in your fresh opinion.<</if>> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("scales")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("scales")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> The $Feature on your face are not really helping either. They sort of highlight how unnerving your smile is. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("feathers")>> <<elseif $HeritageType.includesAny("elemental")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("elemental")>> <<else>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("nature features")>> <</if>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> At least your $Feature makes the effect a bit softer somehow. <</if>><</nobr>> It's best to stop trying to do the full smile. At least should put away your teeth, hide them behind your lips. They are clearly making it worse. You let your lips drop. Maybe another kind of smile? You try raising one corner of your mouth for a small, sly smile. You think this is a smirk. It looks cruel and terrifying with how dull your eyes are, and you drop it immediately. Quickly you focus on trying to do other things. This is not going very well so far. Instead, you furrow your brows and bring the corners of your mouth downward -- a frown. There! That looks like a frown a person could have! Except for your eyes that still make it creepy. Fine, let's see... you open your eyes wide, raise your eyebrows, and slightly open your mouth -- a surprised expression? Your eyes don't convey surprise at all, you are basically opening your mouth at the mirror. Half success? What if you go the other way. You narrow your eyes, furrow your brows, and tighten your lips. Pretty sure that is anger! Lots of clenching. You dull eyes could be angry! Not an explosive hot anger but a cold seething rage! You will count this one as a success. Dipping the corners of your mouth and slightly lowering your eyelids, you think you looks sad. Ooh, your eyes work rather well for this! Well, they aren't sad so much as dead, but that can look sad! Another success. Slightly tilting your head, furrowing one brow, and pursing your lips. Confusion. This one comes very naturally to you. Even your eyes can't detract at how natural this looks on your face. The best success so far! Widening your eyes, raising your eyebrows, and tensing your mouth, you go for another look that should be natural for you. Fear, a very familiar feeling. Is that what your face looks like most of the time? True, your eyes make you look more resigned, but it still works. Wrinkling your nose, pulling back your upper lip, and squinting your eyes. Disgust – is this how the people who had you looked at you? Honestly not a look you enjoy. Even if the squinted eyes minimize your eyes so you can actually pull this off. Lifting the corners of your lips with a slight raise of your eyebrows. Amusement! Not really. This one seems like a pipe dream but maybe one day. There is nothing amusing in looking into your dull eyes, and your smile just looks creepy like before. You go for contemplation. You rest your chin in your hand, raise one eyebrow, and purse your lips slightly. It looks all sorts of wrong. Forced and... just weird. Confusion suited you much better. You set your jaw, narrow your eyes, and press your lips together. Determination. It seems quite odd on your face, but Havard does do a good face like this. You wonder how to make it look natural, and less like you were squinting at the mirror because you cannot see. A quick raise of one eyebrow with maybe a small lift of the lips. Playfulness or a mischievousness? It is not a very natural expression, your dull eyes really undermine it, or so your internal sense tells you. Anything that involves smiling in any way also looks really wrong on your face. You widen your eyes slightly and raise one eyebrow. Curiosity. This looks pretty good... maybe. Ok not really, it looks like one eye is cramping and bugging out. And they are so dull that there is no curiosity, just acceptance of whatever horrible thing fate has in store. Maybe this whole mirror thing was a bad idea. You look much less like a person trying to make expression. You decide to give it one more try. Slightly furrowing your brow, squinting, and pursing your lips results in a thoughtful expression. Or a constipated one -- sometimes your internal sense is not all that fun. Havard does not comment on your experimentation. It is undeniable that your face can in fact do things! This is great! Even if this is all a conscious effort on your part right now, and most of the expressions you can do make you uncomfortable. And come out all wrong. But based on how Havard occasionally reacts to your face, it must do stuff on it's own at times! No idea what though. If they look anything like the expressions you made here, Havard must be really good at reading faces... Or just weird. Well, you are done testing if your face does things. Time to focus on something else. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $HairLength is "waist-long" or $HairLength is "mid-back" or $HairLength is "shoulder-long" >> <div class="choice-item">[[Your hair is quite long... Could you maybe have Havard tie it up somehow?|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair]]</div> <</if>> <<if $checked_heritage is false>> <div class="choice-item">[[What the hell is that?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]</div> <</if>> <<if $checked_scars is false>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should investigate this lack of scars and bruises more.|Chapter 2_mirror2_scars]]</div> <</if>> <<if $checked_face is true and $checked_scars is true and $checked_heritage is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You are done with the mirror for now.|Chapter 2_mirror2]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

''Important! Skipping to some point in the story means you skip the disclaimer and content warnings at the start of the story! If this is your first time playing, choose new game! Otherwise, you agree to the content warnings by skipping ahead!'' The censor option can be changed in the "profile" menu at any time (Censor title at the bottom). By default, skipping means the option is false, and censored options are not shown. <<linkreplace "''I understand and have read the disclaimer. Click the text to agree.''">> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Skip to the Havard interlude.|Interlude 1 fadein]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Skip to the Chapter 1.|Chapter 1_1 note]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</linkreplace>>

<<if ndef $asked_why_heritage_now>>\ <<set $asked_why_heritage_now to false>>\ <</if>>\ <<set $RaceCodex to true>><<notify 3s>>New codex entry.<</notify>>\ <<set $HeritageCodex to true>><<notify 3s>>New codex entry.<</notify>>\ <<set $CurrentRaces = $HeritageRace.concatUnique($HeritageRace2)>>\ A lesson? What is a lesson? Something tells you to take a comfortable position and get ready to listen. Which you do. You adjust yourself of the chair, so you are leaning more on the backrest instead of leaning forwards and turn your gaze from the mirror to Havard. Havard clears his throat. "You see, this world, the one called Wocdes and this city and continent in particular contain countless races. Or it used to. Long years of hmm.... very friendly relations between races due to close proximity of living together has led to the fact that most people in the region have mixed blood in their lineage." He glances at your blank expression. "Which means that people of different races had babies together." He adds. Havard takes a moment to look at you, probably to see if you are listening. You stare at him and wonder how people living close by results in babies. How do babies come about? Babies are tiny people right? New people that grow into bigger people? <<if $HeritageRace.concatUnique($HeritageRace2).length == 1>> <<if $HeritageRace.includes("dragon")>> Wait, you have <<HeritageFeatureList>>… Draconic heritage... Your internal sense earlier doubted it. What does it mean?<<elseif $HeritageRace.includesAny("beastkin", "garuda", "elemental", "dryad", "kitsune")>> Wait, you have <<HeritageFeatureList>>…. <<HeritageRaceList>> heritage. What does that mean? How does that happen? Why does that happen? <<elseif $HeritageRace.includes("demon")>> Wait, you have <<HeritageFeatureList>>…. What does that mean? You have a vague idea that demons are bad, but you don’t think it is your internal sense telling you this? <<else>> You have <<HeritageFeatureList>> meaning <<HeritageRaceList>> heritage. How did that come to be?<</if>> Maybe you could ask Havard about babies? <<if $nonverbal is true>> Of course, you are pretty sure you cannot talk, since you chose not to try earlier, and you have no idea how to ask this with gestures. <</if>> <<else>>\ Wait, you have <<HeritageFeatureList>>…. <<HeritageRaceList>> heritage. What does that mean? How does that happen? Why does that happen? Maybe you could ask Havard about babies? <<if $nonverbal is true>> Of course, you are pretty sure you cannot talk, since you chose not to try earlier, and you have no idea how to ask this with gestures. <</if>> <</if>> \ “Of course, there are exceptions, the rare old individuals can be members of a specific race, usually a very long lived one. Like dragons, elves or kitsune, they all live very long lives. The traits of some races seem to be more common than others and some races do technically strongly persist but only due to the nature of their species. Usually due to any child born to a member of such a race is of the said race as regardless of the other parent. Even so some the traits of all parents do exhibit themselves in some ways, even if subtle.” Havard smiles at you encouragingly. This all makes sense… maybe. It is a bit too much for your young broken mind to be honest. But you now know more about the world than you ever thought you would! Or this city called Firgrat at least, that you are supposedly in right now. You haven’t actually seen the city, but you assume it is somewhere out there. And you have <<HeritageFeatureList>>, which apparently means that you are part <<HeritageRaceList>>. "While all races engaged in… close relations resulting in all sorts of combined heritages, humans were among the most prolific. Numerous to begin with, humans have proven to be perhaps the most enthusiastic about the mixed blood that results from unions with more... permanent races. After all, we humans live short lives compared to many elder races. Some would call humans the race of change - always evolving, and always seeking to move forward. No matter the means..." That last bit sounded a bit bitter. "Still, humans with heritage features, like you, are among the most common. Though whatever humans are still considered human since so many of us have clear heritage features is somewhat of an ongoing debate in some parts of the world. Not so much in Firgrat since there are more of us here than anywhere else." That is a lot to take in... Are you human? He said you were a human with <<if $HeritageFeature.length==1>>a heritage feature<<else>> heritage features<</if>>, your <<HeritageFeatureList>>. But it sounds complicated, and what was that bit about humans not being considered human? Your thoughts are interrupted by Havard. “There, lesson over for now” Havard says. “Any questions or do you want to go back to the mirror?” You are not sure if you like this or not. You seemed like a person upon seeing yourself in the mirror. You are not used to your <<HeritageFeatureList>> yet. Havard seems convinced people have plenty of varried features, so you must seem like a person even with this. However, if you are not used to such features, does that mean that wherever you came from before the void, had very little in the way of such features? Or just that you have forgotten? The people who took you always wore masks and hoods, so it was hard to tell... and they were constantly torturing you so it's not like you paid attention. Best to not focus on that. You turn your attention back to the business at hand. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should ask him about babies.|Chapter 2_mirror2_babies]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“What about you?” you ask. Now you are curious about Havard himself.|Chapter 2_mirror2_Havard_race]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[ Now you are curious about Havard himself, so you point at him and tilt your head.|Chapter 2_mirror2_Havard_race]]</div> <<if $investigateHeritageC2 < $HeritageFeatureCounter >> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have wings, you want to fly!|Chapter 2_mirror2_fly]]</div> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_tail_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have a tail, you should test it out.|Chapter 2_mirror2_tail_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_horns_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("horns")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have horns, you want to feel them.|Chapter 2_mirror2_horns_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_animal_ears_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have animal ears, you want to feel them.|Chapter 2_mirror2_animal_ears_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_nature_hair_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have to take a closer look at your hair.|Chapter 2_mirror2_nature_hair_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_scales_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("scales")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have scales on your face. Better investigate a bit more.|Chapter 2_mirror2_scales_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_pointy_ears_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have pointy ears. Better investigate a bit more.|Chapter 2_mirror2_pointy_ears_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_eyes_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should check your eyes in more detail.|Chapter 2_mirror2_eyes_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_sea_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("sea")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should check your face fins in detail.|Chapter 2_mirror2_sea_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_why_now")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("wings","nature features","elemental", "eyes", "feathers") >>/*and $asked_why_heritage_now is false*/ <div class="choice-item">[[You should ask about your heritage only manifesting now.|Chapter 2_mirror2_why_now]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $checked_face is false>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should focus on your face.|Chapter 2_mirror2_face]]</div> <</if>> <<if $checked_scars is false>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should investigate this lack of scars and bruises more.|Chapter 2_mirror2_scars]]</div> <</if>> <<if $checked_face is true and $checked_scars is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You are done with the mirror for now.|Chapter 2_mirror2]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $HeritageRace.push("elf")>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push("pointy ears")>>\ <<if $HairLength is "short">>\ It is pretty easy to see your ears due to your $HairLength hair. <<else>>\ You push your $HairLength hair to the side to peer at your ears. <</if>>\ Your ears are pointed! Are ears normally pointed? Havard's ears are not pointed. You try to remember something about this, yet come up blank. You bring up a hand to touch your ears, but you have no time to properly investigate. "Ah, noticed your ears did you. You must have some elvish heritage. Maybe some kind of fey, it is really hard to tell right now." Havard smiles at you and peers closer at your ears. "Hmm, I think elvish though I am not completely sure. I suppose we will see once you are older." Elvish or maybe fey heritage? What are those? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "The elves are renowned for their eternal youth, and grace. Usually considered close to nature and have an easier time with magic than most other races. The fey... are more complicated." He ponders. "Suffice to say, there are a great many types of fey, but a common characteristic is a penchant for mischief and leave it at that." Eternal youth? Grace? Mischief? You stare at Havard. Do you have anything remotely like any of that? You have pointed ears, assuming this is not some delusion. They did not help you so far... You are rather confused about the whole thing. Are you something that is not a person? <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Your stare must seem like a question. <<else>>\ "What does it mean?" You ask. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]>></div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $option to "">>\ On the top of your head, nestled amidst your $HairColor hair is a pair of <<listbox "$option">>. <<option "fox ears">> <<option "cat ears">> <<option "wolf ears">> <<option "rabbit ears">> <<option "squirrel ears">> <</listbox>>. "Ah, noticed your ears did you. You must have some beastkin blood." Havard smiles at you. <<linkreplace "Havard inspects your ears.">>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push($option)>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("fox ears")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("beastkin")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("fox")>>\ "I would say it seems you have some fox-tribe or maybe kitsune, heritage. Hard to say right now, the ears are so similar. We will only know once you are older, I suppose." He tilts his head. “You see, kitsune are… fox spirits. Shapeshifting, fox-fire, and several tails up to nine depending on age. They are much more… mystical than most other species. It is hard to know what is true and what is not.” He smiles wryly. So you might be part magic fox? But what about the other stuff he said? <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("cat ears")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("beastkin")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("cat")>>\ "I would say it seems you have some cat-tribe heritage." <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("rabbit ears")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("beastkin")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("rabbit")>>\ "I would say it seems you have some rabbit-tribe heritage." <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("squirrel ears")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("beastkin")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("squirrel")>>\ "I would say it seems you have some squirrel-tribe heritage." <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("wolf ears")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("beastkin")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("wolf")>>\ "I would say it seems you have some wolf-tribe heritage." <</if>>\ Beastkin heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "Beastkin is a general term, it does not refer to one specific people but a set of varied tribes. Each tribe takes traits from a specific animal, much like you have just the ears." Are you part animal? What... you are very confused. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Your stare must seem like a question. <<else>>\ "What does it mean?" You ask. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> <</linkreplace>>

<<set $option to "">>\ <<set $option2 to "">>\ You need to shift on the chair and then rise to stand for a better look. You need to use the chair for support, your legs feel... odd. No point in focusing on that now, because there behind your back a <<listbox "$option">> <<option "scaly tail">> <<option "leathery tail">> <<option "fluffy tail">> <</listbox>> is swaying back and forth. "Ah, noticed your tail did you. Must be a gift from one of your ancestors." Havard smiles at you. What? A gift? How does one gift a tail? Still… You have a tail and did not notice? It seems so, since clearly this is not news to Havard. Wait.. how can you even see it? You are wearing $clothes? Did the clothes have a tail hole in them? They must have since your tail is visible. <<linkreplace "Havard inspects your tail.">>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push($option)>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("scaly tail")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("dragon")>>\ "I would say it seems you have some draconic heritage." Draconic heritage? What's that? What does that mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is also confused. It thinks dragons have four legs, are huge and have wings, not children with tails. And more likely to eat anyone approaching them than make babies... How does one make babies? Your internal sense is foggy, almost as if saying it will tell you that it will tell you once you are older. Well, that's dumb. You could ask Havard... Your train of thought is interrupted by Havard. "Dragons are ... well huge, winged, four legged creatures, that are often associated with breathing fire, but there are different types. They are also highly intelligent and magical." Your sense disagrees, seeming to think they will try to eat you or at the very least squish you, unless you give them a good smack. That seems oddly specific. Are you part dragon? What... <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("leathery tail")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("demon")>>\ "I would say it seems you have some devilish or demonic heritage." He tilts his head. "I am not sure but as far as I understand there is not an actual difference, but I do also admit I have never met a pure-blooded demon or devil." Demonic heritage? What is that? What does it mean? You have the vaguest sense, a fragmented memory that demons are bad. Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "Hmmm, how to put this. Demons have a horrible reputation. Are thought of as evil by majority of people." Havard scratches his head. "But I am not sure how true it is. You see, there is a demon Ancient, who is never here in Firgrat, but it is still well known. Therefore, I would guess they cannot be all bad." Are you part demon? You still don't really get what demons are. What... <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("fluffy tail")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("beastkin")>>\ "I would say it seems you have some beastkin heritage." Beastkin heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "Beastkin is a general term, it does not refer to one specific people but a set of varried tribes. Each tribe takes traits from a specific animal, much like you have just the tail." Aren't there many types of animals? You observe your tail. What kind of a tail is it? You stare at it for a while. No, you have no idea. You look at Havard. Then back at your fluffy tail. Havard seems to understand your thoughts. "It seems that your tail a <<listbox "$option2">> \ <<option "fox">> <<option "cat">> <<option "wolf">> <<option "squirrel">> <</listbox>> tail." Havard says. <<linkreplace "You think for a bit about this revelation".>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push($option2)>>\ Oh... that’s cool right? You don't have the context to know. It is a tail... Why though? Are you really part animal? What... <</linkreplace>>\ <</if>>\ You are very confused. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Your stare must seem like a question. <<else>>\ "What does it mean?" You ask. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("fluffy tail")>> //Please remember to click the "You think for a bit about this revelation" after choosing your beastkin tribe. Apologies for the clumsy solution to register your choice.//<</if>> <</linkreplace>>

<<set $option to "">>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("dryad")>>\ On the top of your head, your $HairType $HairColor <<listbox "$option">>. <<option "flowery hair">> <<option "viny hair">> <</listbox>>. You stare at your hair. What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. "What happened there? Your hair was not like that earlier when I was cutting it." Havard asks and takes a worried step forward. He walks over and kneels in front of you. <<linkreplace "Havard inspects your hair.">>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push($option)>>\ "I would say it seems you have some dryad heritage. Sometimes things like this happen." Dryad heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("flowery hair")>>\ You pick at one flower in your hair. It just comes off, like a loose hair would. Naturally. <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("viny hair")>>\ You pick at one green vine in your hair. It just comes off, like a loose hair would. Naturally. <</if>>\ "Dryads are beings or perhaps spirits of nature. Their bodies, while humanoid often look as if made from wood. They might be made from wood. I admit to not knowing." Havard ponders and rubs his chin. "To be honest, I do not know much about them. I have never met one. They like forests and nature, and therefore Firgrat is not an ideal place for them. I also cannot say why your heritage chose to show itself now, but it has." Beings of nature? Made from wood? Then are you made of wood? At least partially? Is that why those people before the void carved you up? For wood? You didn’t catch on fire when they burned you though. It just hurt. Your mind is reeling, and you cannot understand. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Your stare must seem like a question. <<else>>\ "What does it mean?" You ask. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> <</linkreplace>>

<<set $HeritageRace.push("garuda")>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push("feathered hair")>>\ There are feathers in your hair. You have feathered hair. You stare at your hair. What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. "What happened there? Your hair was not like that earlier when I was cutting it." Havard asks and takes a worried step forward. He comes over and kneels in front of you. <<linkreplace "Havard inspects your hair.">>\ "Feathers... you must have some garuda heritage." Garuda heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "The garuda are well, bird-people. They have colored feathers, wings in place of arms with dexterous talons to be used as fingers. Usually also a bird’s face with a usually curved beak. There are a few of them around still." Bird-people? Are you part bird? Is that why the people before the void wanted you? To… you have no idea. Why? What... you are very confused. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Your stare must seem like a question. <<else>>\ "What does it mean?" You ask. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> <</linkreplace>>

<<set $option to "">>\ There is a lump under your $clothes, on your back. Havard also seems surprised. It pushes uncomfortably against the chair, so you need to shift, and decide to rise to stand for a better look. You need to use the chair for support, your legs feel... odd. Still no time to dwell on that now. "What happened there? That was not there earlier when we chose your clothes." Havard asks and takes a worried step forward. You have no idea, but there is clearly something on your back, something distorting your clothes and making them fit badly. You start wiggling to get a look at your back, but it proves too hard. The cloth refuses to yield to you, and your ruined hands are not much use. It’s getting annoying. Who would imagine that getting out of the void, and now you are annoyed at a little inconvenience. As has happened many times in the recent past, Havard comes over to help. He fiddles with your clothes behind your back. "It's no use. As loose as these clothes are, I dare not force it, I don’t want to hurt you, so I'll just cut the cloth." <<if $blades_trauma is true>> He says it gently, looking for a reaction from you. You stiffen a bit, but he has already had every chance to carve away at you. Still, <</if>> Havard is afraid of hurting you? You doubt he could actually hurt you by just forcibly freeing whatever is back there, but he just grabs the pair of scissors from the table and snips at the cloth a bit. <<if $blades_trauma is true>>\ You stiffen for a moment again, but Havard already cut your hair with those scissors. He won't harm you now, and cutting open the back of your $clothes is not so bad. And you are curious. "Apologies for the discomfort." Havard says softly. The scissors never touch you. <</if>>\ Your <<listbox "$option">> <<option "scaly wings">> <<option "leathery wings">> <<option "feathered wings">> <</listbox>> burst out from the hole Havard made, forcing him to dodge. You stare in bewilderment. Havard stares with wide eyes. Wings. You have wings. What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. <<linkreplace "Havard leans closer to inspect your wings.">>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push($option)>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("scaly wings")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("dragon")>>\ "You must have some draconic heritage, to get wings like this. I cannot say why your heritage chose to show itself now, but it has." Draconic heritage? What's that? What does that mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is also confused. It thinks dragons have four legs, are huge and have wings, not children with wings that suddenly appear out of nowhere. And more likely to eat anyone approaching them than make babies... How does one make babies? Your internal sense is foggy, almost as if saying it will tell you that it will tell you once you are older. Well, that's dumb. You could ask Havard... Your train of thought is interrupted by Havard. "Dragons are ... well huge, winged, four legged creatures, that are often associated with breathing fire, but there are different types. They are also highly intelligent and magical." Your internal sense disagrees, seeming to think they will try to eat you or at the very least squish you, unless you give them a good smack. That seems oddly specific. Are you part dragon? What... <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("leathery wings")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("demon")>>\ "You must have some demonic or devil heritage, to get wings like this. I cannot say why your heritage chose to show itself now, but it has." He tilts his head. "I am not sure but as far as I understand there is not an actual difference, but I do also admit I have never met a pure-blooded demon or devil." Demonic heritage? What is that? What does it mean? You have the vaguest sense, a fragmented memory that demons are bad. Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "Hmmm, how to put this. Demons have a horrible reputation. Are thought of as evil by majority of people." Havard scratches his head. "But I am not sure how true it is. You see, there is a demon Ancient, who is never here in Firgrat, but it is still well known. Therefore, I would guess they cannot be all bad." Are you part demon? You still don't really get what demons are. What... <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("feathered wings")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("garuda")>>\ "You must have some garuda heritage, to get wings like this. I cannot say why your heritage chose to show itself now, but it has." Garuda heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "The garuda are well, bird-people. They have colored feathers, wings in place of arms with dexterous talons to be used as fingers. Usually also a bird’s face with a usually curved beak. There are a few of them around still." Bird-people? Are you part bird? What... <</if>>\ Why? How? You are very confused. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Your stare must seem like a question. <<else>>\ "What does it mean?" You ask. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> <</linkreplace>>

<<set $HeritageRace.push("elemental")>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push("glowing hair")>>\ On the top of your head, your $HairType $HairColor is glowing. You stare at your hair. What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. "What happened there? Your hair was not like that earlier when I was cutting it." Havard asks and takes a worried step forward. He comes over and kneels in front of your chair. <<linkreplace "Havard inspects your hair.">>\ "I would say it seems you have some elemental heritage. Sometimes things like this happen." Elemental heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense seems to think you are part rock... It's a bit confused. You pick at a strand of $HeritageFeature. It just feels like hair... as far as your ruined hands can tell. "Elementals are powerful beings made of an element. Generally, the natural elements like fire, water, earth, metal and so forth. I have head tales of more artificial ones as well." Havard ponders and rubs his chin. "To be honest, I do not know much about them. I have only met one under... strained circumstances, though they are quite secular. I cannot say why your heritage chose to show itself now, but it has. It does not however seem strong enough to manifest any specific element." Made from an element? Then are you made of form rock like your internal sense things? At least partially? Is that why those people before the void carved you up? To see what was inside? Your mind is reeling and you cannot understand. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Your stare must seem like a question. <<else>>\ "What does it mean?" You ask. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> <</linkreplace>>

<<set $HeritageFeature to []>>\ <<set $HeritageType to []>>\ <<set $HeritageFeatureCounter to 0>>\ <<if ndef $CurrentRaces >>\ <<set $CurrentRaces to []>>\ <</if>>\ Wait! It was just a smudge on the mirror. There was nothing there. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]>></div> <<if $checked_face is false>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should focus on your face.|Chapter 2_mirror2_face]]</div> <</if>> <<if $checked_scars is false>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should investigate this lack of scars and bruises more.|Chapter 2_mirror2_scars]]</div> <</if>> <<if $checked_face is true and $checked_scars is true and $checked_heritage is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You are done with the mirror for now.|Chapter 2_mirror2]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $option to "">><<set $option2 to "">>\ On the top of your head, nestled amidst your $HairColor hair is a pair of <<listbox '$option'>>. <<option "draconic horns">> <<option "demonic horns">> <<option "animal horns">> <</listbox>>. You stare in bewilderment. Horns. You have horns. What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. "Ah, noticed your horns did you." Havard smiles at you. <<linkreplace"He leans closer to inspect them.">>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push($option)>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("draconic horns")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("dragon")>>\ "You must have some draconic heritage, to get horns like this." Draconic heritage? What's that? What does that mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is also confused. It thinks dragons have four legs, are huge and have wings, not children with tails. And more likely to eat anyone approaching them than make babies... How does one make babies? Your internal sense is foggy, almost as if saying it will tell you that it will tell you once you are older. Well, that's dumb. You could ask Havard... Your train of thought is interrupted by Havard. "Dragons are ... well huge, winged, four legged creatures, that are often associated with breathing fire, but there are different types. They are also highly intelligent and magical." Your sense disagrees, seeming to think they will try to eat you or at the very least squish you, unless you give them a good smack. That seems oddly specific. Are you part dragon? What... <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("demonic horns")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("demon")>>\ "You must have some demonic or devil heritage, to get horns like this." "I would say it seems you have some devilish or demonic heritage." He tilts his head. "I am not sure if there is a difference between the two, as far as I understand there is not an actual difference between a demon and a devil, but I do admit I have never met a pure blooded demon or devil." Demonic heritage? What is that? What does it mean? You have the vaguest sense, a fragmented memory that demons are bad. Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "Hmmm, how to put this. Demons have a horrible reputation. Are thought of as evil by majority of people." Havard scratches his head. "But I am not sure how true it is. You see, there is a demon Ancient, who is never here in Firgrat, but it is still well known. Therefore, I would guess they cannot be all bad." Are you part demon? You still don't really get what demons are. What... <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("animal horns")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("beastkin")>>\ "You must have some beastkin heritage, to get horns like this. Let's see, they seem to be <<listbox '$option2'>> <<option "ram horns">> <<option "deer horns">> <<option "goat horns">> <<option "elk horns">> <</listbox>>". <<set $HeritageFeature.deleteAll($option)>>\ <<linkreplace "You think for a bit about this revelation".>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push($option2)>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("ram horns")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("sheep")>>\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("deer horns")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("deer")>>\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("goat horns")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("goat")>>\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("elk horns")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("elk")>>\ <</if>>\ Beastkin heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "Beastkin is a general term, it does not refer to one specific people but a set of varried tribes. Each tribe takes traits from a specific animal, much like you have just the ears." Are you part animal? What... <</linkreplace>>\ <</if>>\ You are very confused. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Your stare must seem like a question. <<else>>\ "What does it mean?" You ask. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> <<if $HeritageRace.includes("beastkin")>> //Please remember to click the "You think for a bit about this revelation" after choosing your beastkin tribe. Apologies for the clumsy solution to register your choice.//<</if>> <</linkreplace>>

<<set $HeritageFeature.push("scales")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("dragon")>>\ There are scales on your face... maybe somewhere else as well? Why are there scales on your face? What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. "Ah, noticed the scales on your face did you. You must have some draconic heritage." Havard smiles at you and peer closer at your face. "Hmm, draconic or drake, I am not completely sure but it amounts to the same thing as dragons are ancestors to the drakes." Draconic heritage? What's that? What does that mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is also confused. It thinks dragons have four legs, are huge and have wings, not children with tails. And more likely to eat anyone approaching them than make babies... How does one make babies? Your internal sense is foggy, almost as if saying it will tell you that it will tell you once you are older. Well, that's dumb. You could ask Havard... Your train of thought is interrupted by Havard. "Dragons are ... well huge, winged, four legged creatures, that are often associated with breathing fire, but there are different types. They are also highly intelligent and magical." Your sense disagrees, seeming to think they will try to eat you or at the very least squish you, unless you give them a good smack. That seems oddly specific. Are you part dragon? What... You are very confused. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Your stare must seem like a question. <<else>>\ "What does it mean?" You ask. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]>></div> </div><</nobr>>

<h3>Havard POV</h3>\ The first scream made Havard feel like such a fool. He realized his mistake too late. How could he bring out scissors in front of $MCname! He had been there in the healing baths! Had seen the scars! He did not know the details, but it was not hard to guess that someone who had clearly been tortured would be sensitive to something like scissors. But that hair matted and below the waist, it was a mess. It needed to be cut but still. He made a mess. Those scars were still there, now hidden under the $clothes, and much much more managble than when he first saw $MCname in the baths. The healing baths were not perfect, and there had been so many scars, old and new. Old wounds were hard to heal, so some scars remained. He doubted $MCname had noticed yet, $heshe had so many new things to contend with. Havard wished, he could make it easier on the $child, but it seemed he was doomed to make mistakes... He wanted to rage at the world, but no. He was needed, $MCname needed him right now. The scissors he had so foolishly brought out had triggered some kind of a flashback. <<if $q4 is true>> Similar to the one when he had told the $child about $hisher hands? So far there had been no similar reaction but these things were not consistent.<</if>> He left the scissors in a drawer, moving as quickly as he could. He stood on the edge of the bed to observe for just an eyeblink. To assess how to do this. That terrified face, usually so blank. Wide eyes full of fear, and horrible screams that threatened to tear his heart to pieces all over again. The scrambling back on the bed... Tiny form pressed as far from the scissors as possible. Havard should have known better! He was too new to this, too eager to get $MCname settled into life at the orphanage. Was he even qualified to take care of $MCname? If he was not, then who was? Lady Irosia maybe... but the Ancients were busy, as cruel as it sounded. They had a city, a continent to rule and who knew what else. That might have been the whole point of the orphanage; the Ancients did take the time to choose each Protector and Custodian themselves after all. He was first Custodian, chosen for this task, and he would not falter because he made a mistake! "Look at me." Havard uses as firm a voice as he can muster. He hopes it is enough to break the flashback... The $child looks around! $capitalheshe stopped screaming! Good, it seems to have worked! "Breathe. Just that. Breathe." Havard resists the urge to hug $MCname right now, no matter how much he wants to. He can see recognition in the $child's eyes. Good. Still he can't let up yet. After a failed try, $MCname starts to panic again. He needs to demonstrate, to help somehow. "Look at me." Havard takes a deep breath in through the nose, and let's it go through the mouth. Again and again, until $MCname was copying him. It was a struggle at first, $MCname was still panicking, not getting enough breath. "Focus. Breathe in and out." He had to be calm. A small breath in, and out. A better attempt but far from perfect. "It is just a memory. It can't hurt you now. You are safe." He assured softly, hoping that $MCname would be able to relax a bit to breathe easier. If only he knew how to make it better! Havard could not let himself be distracted. He could deal with his defeciencies later. This was about $MCname. Havard hoped he would never be proven a liar. Everything was good right now, the orphanage was safe and $MCname had been saved. Yet, life is unpredictable and cruel. To live a good life is to feel everything life has to offer--including pain. Was there such a thing as too much pain? He hoped with all his heart that $MCname would have a good peaceful childhood here at the orphanage at the very least. $capitalheshe deserved that much at least. "One breath at a time. In and out." It was getting easier, $MCname was breathing easier. Still shuddering and a bit uneven but much better. $capitalheshe was calming down, bit by bit. Still, Havard kept up his firm calm voice as he soothingly told $himher to just breathe in and out. "In and out." Finally, $MCname was calm. Now came the crucial part. What would happen now. Those dull eyes turned to look at him. Havard held his breath. <<set $coping to 0>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[A mad grin and a deranged chuckle come from the child.|trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_madness][$coping to $coping+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[As Havard watches, all life goes out. Dead eyes, an expressionless face.|trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_numb][$coping to $coping+2]]</div> <<if $selfharmoptions is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[The child looks around, searching for something. Then tries to bash their face against marble wall.|trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_selfharm][$coping to $coping+3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[The child indicates the length of hair they want as if nothing happened, avoiding facing the last couple of minutes.|trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_avoidance][$coping to $coping+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[A snarling sound erupts from the child, and Havard braces for anger.|trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_anger][$coping to $coping+5]]</div> <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[The small form hurdles forwards to bury their head into Havard's robes.|trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_trust][$coping to $coping+6]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<addmadness 5>><<addHavard -10>>\ The grin on $MCname's face was chilling, the laughter escaping $hisher mouth deranged. Havard could not stop it. He could not help $MCname right now, not in a moment like this. It would not work. He can only helplessly let it happen, to let this madness run its course to save $MCname's mind from worse harm. Havard could only watch for now over the hunched over form of a child, whose body was shaking with erratic laughter that echoed unnervingly through the room. A mad grin and a broken puppet sat in the bed, laughing at the cruel world. A broken $child mocking everything, including $himselfherself. The laughter rises and falls, from a low, guttural chuckle, to a piercing cackle that scrapes at the walls like claws. The room feels colder with every bout of laughter. Havard'ss heart breaks a bit more at every bout too. The world feels wrong watching this. Tainted. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Laughter. Endless erratic and so painful to listen to. No words, just laughter. High and feverish laughter. Breath came to $MCname in ragged gasps between the maniacal laughter, each bout more disjointed, more chaotic and erratic. <<else>>\ The sound goes high and feverish, before $MCname quiets for a moment, $hisher lips were twitching, and head tilting slightly as if listening to some distant whisper. The $child’s voice cracked into hysterics as $heshe staggered around, ruined bandaged arms flailing. The words were almost unintelligible now. A jumbled mess of "blades", “cutting”, “carving” and "void," punctuated by raw shrieks and unsettling bursts of mirth. <</if>>\ Havard closed his eyes for a moment. How could he just stand here watching this? He had to help. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Was there nothing Havard could do?|trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV3][$HairLength to "Waist-long"]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addnumbness 5>><<addHavard -10>>\ <<if $MCname is not 'the $child'>>$MCname's face was not usually expressive.<<else>> The $child's face was not usually expressive. <</if>> It was a blank face with dull lifeless eyes. How could it not be after what Lord Sheo saved $himher from? It made sense to Havard. Yet, emotions did peak through when they arose. Fear, curiosity, confusion. All are displayed at times, muted they may be. Well very muted, but they were there. Honest emotions. This? This numbness was different. A blank emotionless face. Such dead and empty eyes, as if they no longer saw the world before them. The faint sunlight from the window did little to $MCname’s face, it remained utterly emotionless. Just a mask devoid of any trace of feeling. A sickening blankness on a child's face that was screaming in terror just moments before. It was like some kind of a trance. A complete withdrawal from the cruel world. The room felt still, almost unnaturally so, as if even time hesitates to move forward. The small form on the bed is slumped, and completely motionless. Like a small corpse, or a broken doll awaiting for death. Havard closed his eyes for a moment. How could he just stand here watching this? He had to help. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Was there nothing Havard could do?|trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV3][$HairLength to "Waist-long"]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addselfharm 5>><<addHavard -20>>\ Havard saw the movement, for a moment he was confused. Why was $MCname looking around? What was $MCname doing? Until the $child's gaze settled on the wall, and the head started pulling back. Realization struck, and Havard dashed forward. He had no choice but to catch $child with his hands, as $heshe <<pulls>> $hisher head back. How did he reconcile this, a child wishing to harm on $himselfherself to escape the cruelties the world has inflicted on $himher. It seemed almost a compulsion. The tiny form struggled, and fought, trying to get free from his hold. Thrashing against his hands, $MCname’s movements were erratic and panicked but Havard was steadfast. Not out of cruelty, never out of cruelty, but necessity. The raw sound of the $child’s ragged breathing, the struggling little form and the small whimpers broke something in Havard, but he held on. He could not let $MCname do what $heshe wanted to. An aching helplessness flooded Havard, he held $MCname tighter. Havard tried or perhaps hoped his arms could be a shield against the $child's pain. His voice cracked when he spoke, low and urgent. “Stop… please, I’m here. Just... please stop.” His words hung in the air, fragile until $MCname slumped in place like a puppet with cut strings. Havard slowly loosened his grip and observed for any sudden movements. After some time, Havard finally let fully go and looked the $child over. In that moment, $MCname looked wretched. Lost and alone, and in so much pain. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Was there nothing Havard could do?|trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV3][$HairLength to "Waist-long"]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addescape 5>><<addHavard -5>>\ The room felt oddly still to Havard, as if it was trying to recover from the screams that filled it only moments before. It felt so wrong, the echo of the earlier screams still seemed to linger in his ears. There on the bed, $MCname was idly looking at $hisher hair as though nothing had happened. Bandaged hands felt at the matted mess of hair, as if the whole scene had not happened. As if none of it mattered. A perfectly normal even in a normal day. With a forced nonchalance, $MCname pointed to a random length of hair. Havard was certain that the $child did not really know what length $heshe <<was>> pointing to. The bandaged finger trembled slightly, the $child's body betraying the shattered soul underneath the forced avoidance. Oh this was bad. Yet, Havard could only watch this charade taking place, a bit distubed by $MCname's ability to just pretend to avoid what had just happened. An imaginary line was drawn across long messy hair with a small hand. <<if $nonverbal is true>> No words were spoken, as usual.<<else>> No words were spoken, probably to avoid shattering the illusion with a trembling voice.<</if>> The earlier hysteria; the desperate shrieks, and frantic gestures now already felt like a distant memory. The lingering tension in the room revealed the fascade. Havard stared into $MCname’s dull eyes that betray nothing, a small finger pointing again to the imaginary line trying to draw all attention away from the desperate call for help they had just unleashed. Havard closed his eyes for a moment. How could he just stand here watching this? He had to help. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Was there nothing Havard could do?|trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV3][$HairLength to "Waist-long"]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addanger 5>><<addHavard -10>>\ Screams pierced the air of the room again, raw and filled with fury. Havard braced, as $MCname’s small body trembled with the force of their anger. Tiny, bandaged fists flew, pounding against Havard. Most hit his chest in a flurry of panicked blows. All wild and uncoordinated anger and fear. They did not hurt, yet the desperation and fear for $MCname to lash out like this broke his heart all over again with every little thud. A tiny face flushed with pain and rage, yet no tears. The $child must have been all out of tears at this point. Those eyes may have been dull and unfocused, yet they were so full of rage at the world. Havard felt so fucking helpless, but he didn’t flinch. He would not flinch, and not look away. He stayed right there, his large hands hovering just inches from $MCname's small frame, unsure whether to reach out or give $himher space. But $MCname’s hands… Havard knew what was under those bandages. He had changed them just a while ago. Would the pain not be unbearable? What if $MCname hurt himself worse doing this? But... it hurt. Not being able to help a child in such clear pain. Such a desperate call for help. Yet right now, all Havard can do is watch $MCname as they rage. He understood this fury isn't truly aimed at him but at the ghosts haunting the child’s mind. So much anger, $MCname did not stop until finally the blows slow. Not because $MCname was not still angry, but rather $hisher energy was spent. The bandageed hands fell against $hisher own chest, more a gesture of exhaustion than attack. Such a brokne sight. A child so angry, and now too tired to even rage, gasping for breath. Havard closed his eyes for a moment. How could he just stand here watching this? He had to help. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Was there nothing Havard could do?|trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV3][$HairLength to "Waist-long"]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addtrust 5>><<addHavard 20>>\ In a mess of shallow, panicked breaths and without warning, $MCname flung $himselfherself at the Havard. <<if $hug_reaction is 1>> It had happened before. This wordless plea for comfort. <<else>> A wordless plea for comfort. <</if>> Tiny bandaged hands clutched at Havard’s robes, grasping fistfuls of fabric as though holding on for dear life. Havard needed no thought, instinctively he opened his arms to catch $MCname, who buried $hisher face into Havard’s robe. He wraped his arms around the trembling $child trying to hide from the terror still fresh in both their minds. As Havard wrapped his hands around $MCname, he rubbed $hisher back soothingly, hoping that would provide at least a little comfort. If there was something good about this, Havard was glad at least that $MCname trusted him enough to seek comfort like this. Even if it seemed to be very instinctive. <<if $hug_reaction is 1>> It had happened twice, and he took it as a good sign. <</if>> Hugs and comfort seemed like a better way to cope with trauma than most. Gently, Havard used his robes to wrap around the child, hoping to shield $MCname from the overwhelming world. He just remained still, patiently allowing the $child all the time $heshe <<needs>>, his presence hopefully a calm refuge against terrors of the past. Havard didn’t say a word at first, not daring to shatter this tentative peace, and hoping that right now silence and warmth are all the $MCname needed from him. Only when $MCname‘s grip on his robes loosened slightly, did he dare speak. Asking if $MCname was alright would be foolish. Instead, he offered comfort in words. “I won't say it will be easy. You’ve been through hell, and this will probably keep happening." He could not lie to $MCname. "And you are going out the other side every time,” he continued, his voice unwavering with absolute certainty. “Remember, you are not alone. I’m here with you now. You don’t have to go through this alone. Later I will introduce you to Lexia, the Silver Protector who will keep you safe. Show you the walls surrounding the orphanage. That here you are safe." The $child stared at him, eyes wide and uncertain. Such a lost soul. Dull those eyes may be right now, but Havard could see it. The soul and mind underneath a broken exterior, uncertain if he could be trusted. Uncertain if this place was what it seemed. Even with all that trauma, the mind of a child was unbelievable. If the orphanage, the Custodians and Protectors both, could provide a safe place. A happy childhood. A place where $MCname could live in peace and happiness, who knew what would emerge in time. So, Havard smiled. "I promise. But first we do have something to attend to. You will come to no harm in my care. Do you want to have your hair attended to? You can focus on the floor while I work." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The child nodded. |trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOVtrauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_trust3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[The child shook their head. |trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOVtrauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_trust2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Was there nothing he could do? Havard was shaking slightly. What could he do? He must help! <<if $q4 is true>>\ <<if $hug_reaction is 1 or $hug_reaction is 2 or $hug_reaction is 3>>\ He had hugged $MCname before, when they were talking about $hisher hands! <<if $hug_reaction is 1>>\ The $child had even hugged him back! <<else>>\ The $child had not resisted it at least. <</if>>\ Should he go for it? <<elseif $hug_reaction is 4 >>\ He had hugged $MCname before, when they were talking about $hisher hands, but that had not gone well. The $child had not liked it. What else could he do?! <</if>>\ <<else>>\ He could try a hug? Talking? <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard went in for a hug. |trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV_hug2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard knelt and spoke as soothingly as he could. |trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOVtrauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_trust_no_hug]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h2> Your POV </h2>\ "Are you sure?" Havard asks gently. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You changed your mind. You do want to get a hair cut. |trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOVtrauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_trust3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are sure. You do not want to get a hair cut. |trauma_hair_no_haircut]]</div> </div><</nobr>> //Note: Not wanting a haircut skips all character customization and a significant portion of this chapter. Your hair is assumed as waist-long, silky and black. Additionally, no special features and grey eyes will be assumed.//

<h2> Your POV </h2>\ <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ "Then please just indicate a length you are happy with using your hands." Havard smiles you reassuringly. <<else>>\ "Then please just tell me a length you are happy with." Havard smiles you reassuringly. <</if>>\ //Please select a hair length:// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Short|HairColor c2][$HairLength to "short"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Ear-long|HairColor c2][$HairLength to "ear-long"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Shoulder-long|HairColor c2][$HairLength to "shoulder-long"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Mid-back|HairColor c2][$HairLength to "mid-back"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Waist-long|HairColor c2][$HairLength to "waist-long"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Something else (set the length yourself).|Choose_hairlength]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $EyeColor to "grey">>\ <<set $HairColor to "black">>\ <<set $HairType to "silky">>\ <<set $HeritageFeature to []>>\ <<set $HeritageType to []>>\ <<set $HeritageFeatureCounter to 0>>\ <<set $skipped_haircut to true>>\ "That's fine. You don't have to see if you don't want to." You let out a sigh. "In case you want to know, your eyes are $EyeColor by the way. Like a stormy sky." He says. Your eyes are $EyeColor? That's... good? Is it? No idea. Have you ever seen a stormy sky? If you have, you don't remember. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is not "escape">> Have you ever seen a storm or the sky? <</if>> "Don't worry about it." Your face must have been doing things. "They are very pretty eyes." Your $EyeColor eyes are pretty? You are not sure what to do with that information. Havard helps you back into the bed. Your legs feel very heavy for some reason, so you suppose it's fine. He just cut your hair. No point making a fuss now, or so you figure. <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>> Besides, you trust him. <<else>> Even if you don't trust him, you are not exactly in a position to complain. Or you could, but you doubt it would do anything.<</if>> It's not like he is going to stop helping you even if you tell him to. The vague sense you have is certain of this. Soon you are back in bed. Havard tucks you in and smiles. "There we are. Try to get some more rest." Havard retreats to the table in your room, and sits down to work on some papers. Writing, that mystical art of making squiggly lines that people somehow understand. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The thing is, you are not tired right now.|Chapter 2_6]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $HavardHugC2 to true>>\ Havard wrapped his arms around the $child who was trying to hide from the terror still fresh in both their minds. The hug is firm but tender, his arms encircling the small figure of $MCname. <<if $hug_reaction is 1 or $hug_reaction is 2>> Havard hoped this hug would go as well as the first one. <<else>> Havard hoped this would go better than the first time.<</if>> <<if $coping is 1>>\ The laughter ended abruptly. Havard took it as a good sign. <<elseif $coping is 2>>\ In his arms, $MCname moved, no longer a statue. Havard took it as a good sign. <<elseif $coping is 3>>\ He hoped the hug would help. <<elseif $coping is 4>>\ The facade of nonchalance ends. Havard took it as a good sign. <<elseif $coping is 5>>\ The anger went out of $MCname. Havard took it as a good sign. <</if>>\ As Havard wrapped his hands around $MCname, he rubbed $hisher back soothingly, hoping that would provide at least a little comfort. Gently, Havard used his robes to shield $MCname from the overwhelming world. Havard didn’t say a word, not daring to shatter this tentative peace, and hoping that right now silence and warmth are all the $MCname needed from him. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The child allowed the hug. |trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV_hug_yes]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[The child did not allow the hug.|trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV_hug_no]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Havard knelt in front of $MCname and gathered all his certainty and confidence. "It's all right. You are safe here. Whatever you saw, it is only a memory, it can't hurt you anymore no matter how real it feels." <<if $coping is 1>>\ At his words, the laughter ended abruptly. Havard took it as a good sign. <<elseif $coping is 2>>\ At his words, $MCname moves slightly, no longer a statue. Havard took it as a good sign. <<elseif $coping is 3>>\ He hoped the words would reach, that they would help. <<elseif $coping is 4>>\ At his words, the facade of nonchalance ends. Havard took it as a good sign. <<elseif $coping is 5>>\ At his words, the anger goes out of $MCname. Havard took it as a good sign. <</if>>\ A small moment of hesitation, then $MCname’s gaze flicked toward him, eyes full of dull terror and despair. Uncertain, questioning. Doubt clung to the $child, but at least $heshe remained silent and watched Havard. “I won't say it will be easy. You’ve been through hell, and this will probably keep happening." He could not lie to $MCname. "And you are going out the other side every time,” he continued, his voice unwavering with absolute certainty. “Remember, you are not alone. I’m here with you now. You don’t have to go through this alone. Later I will introduce you to Lexia, the Silver Protector who will keep you safe. Show you the walls surrounding the orphanage. Show you that here you are safe." Havard hoped with all his heart that his words were enough. The $child stared at him, eyes wide and uncertain. Such a lost soul. Dull those eyes may be right now, but Havard could see it. The soul and mind underneath a broken exterior, uncertain if he could be trusted. Uncertain if this place was what it seemed. Even with all that trauma, the mind of a child was unbelievable. If the orphanage, the Custodians and Protectors both, could provide a safe place. A happy childhood. A place where $MCname could live in peace and happiness, who knew what would emerge in time. So Havard smiled. "I promise. But first we do have something to attend to. You will come to no harm in my care. So, do you want to have your hair attended to? You can focus on the floor while I work." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The child nodded. |trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOVtrauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_trust3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[The child shook their head. |trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOVtrauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_trust2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addHavard 10>>\ Havard breathes in a sigh of relief when $MCname allowed the hug. When tiny bandaged hands clutched at Havard’s robes, grasping fistfuls of fabric as though holding on for dear life. If any child deserved all the hugs in the world, this one was near the top in Havard's mind. He just remained still, patiently allowing the $child all the time $heshe <<needs>>, his presence hopefully a calm refuge against the terror of the cruel world. Only when $MCname‘s grip on his robes loosened slightly, did he dare speak. Asking if $MCname was alright would be foolish. Instead, perhaps a little comfort in words would help too. “I won't say it will be easy. You’ve been through hell, and this will probably keep happening." He could not lie to $MCname. "And you are going out the other side every time,” he continued, his voice unwavering with absolute certainty. “Remember, you are not alone. I’m here with you now. You don’t have to go through this alone. Later I will introduce you to Lexia, the Silver Protector who will keep you safe. Show you the walls surrounding the orphanage. That here you are safe." The $child stared at him, eyes wide and uncertain. Such a lost soul. Dull those eyes may be right now, but Havard could see it. The soul and mind underneath a broken exterior, uncertain if he could be trusted. Uncertain if this place was what it seemed. Even with all that trauma, the mind of a child was unbelievable. If the orphanage, the Custodians and Protectors both, could provide a safe place. A happy childhood. A place where $MCname could live in peace and happiness, who knew what would emerge in time. So Havard smiled. "I promise. But first we do have something to attend to. You will come to no harm in my care. So, do you want to have your hair attended to? You can focus on the floor while I work." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The child nodded. |trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOVtrauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_trust3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[The child shook their head. |trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOVtrauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_trust2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addHavard -5>>\ The $child struggled and made a distressed sound. Havard let go immediately. No good. He would have to do something else. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Instead, Havard knelt and spoke as soothingly as he could. |trauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOVtrauma_hair_cutting_HavardPOV2_trust_no_hug]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1> Lexia POV </h1>\ <h2> Around the same time </h2>\ Lexia was feeling great! She had a chair with wheels that she was currently pushing along the marble hallways of the orphanage. One of the quartermasters at the Spire had acquired it at her request, just like that! There were not many of these yet in the city, but the Spire had a small storage. Needing one was an unfortunate hazard of living, monster or animal attacks, thugs, falling down things were all too common. Well monster or animal attacks rarely happened inside Firgrat. Yet, magical healing was beyond most, and the wheeled chair things were expensive. Yet, the Ancients, or the really the staff at the Spire, stored pretty much everything that is useful to some measure. Not having their own quartermaster was one of the reasons the orphanage could not be opened yet. Everything went through Havard and at the moment, which made things slow. Still, it was an insane amount of money, so control was needed. He was looking for someone to hire into the position, but his priority had been securing food and clothes for the orphanage. The orphans and staff that would live here did need the basic necessities of life. Specialty goods could come once the essentials were taken care off. Once hired, the new quartermaster would start taking care of all such things. There was the also matter of security. Anyone not approved by the Council of Ancients would not be allowed inside the Orphanage without extensive security measures, such as a Silver Protector always guarding them. It made things slow on that front as well, but Lexia did understand. The Ancients had gone through the trouble to meet and approve every Protector and Custodian. Letting random people inside now would undermine the whole process. Why they felt that an orphanage needed to be so secure was anyone's guess. It was not like the Ancients explained themselves to anyone. Or maybe it was that no one asked, at least to their faces. She was skipping along, lost in thought while pushing the chair along when her communication pin told her that Havard was trying to contact her. She wrapped a hand around the pin and focused. She had her gauntlets on, since she had left the premises of the orphanage, but the pin still worked. She had no idea how, but it did. "Lexia, $MCname has had a meal and proper clothes. I set $himher down in bed to rest some more, but I think you could head over to this room. Bring the chair with you, and I'll introduce you to $himher." “Ah, <<is>> $heshe all tuckered out?” Lexia could imagine how adorable that would be. Sleepy children were always cute in her mind. Like puppies or kittens, it had a similar effect. She was on her way over there, but if $MCname was napping again, she could wait. Just leave the chair nearby and train a bit was fine too. Meeting $MCname when they were not sleepy would probably be for the best anyway, even if it would be more adorable if the $child was sleepy. “I don’t think so, but I would rather $MCname rests as much as possible right now.” Lexia hummed in her mind to indicate she got it. “So… how was the second impression.” “I helped $MCname eat some porridge. $capitalheshe managed to eat bread using $hisher own hand… though it was messy.” “Messy? How is bread messy? Crumbles?” “No. Melted butter on bandages.” “Oh… that makes sense. But good that $MCname managed to eat something without help!” Lexia chose to focus on the positive. “Did $heshe seem to enjoy the food?” “Yes, very much so. Ate everything and had a mini food coma on the bed for a good ten minutes before I had to change the bandages.” Havard ponders about something. “If you want to score some easy points with $MCname, perhaps bring something tasty for $himher.” Now there was a thought! But she was not allowed in the kitchens today after the twins’ flour incident! That was totally not her fault... Ok it totally was. Was Havard telling this to her because she was not allowed in the kitchens? Was he secretly teasing her? Thoughts for later. Where could she get something tasty. Oh! A genius thought struck her! She could take $MCname on a tour! They could not deny her from the kitchens then, and she could offer $MCname options! The perfect plan! <<if $blades_trauma is true>>\ Havard’s voice cut off her thoughts. Oh, had he kept talking? Thinking? "There was an episode with cutting $MCname’s hair. The scissors triggered some kind of a flashback in $MCname. Please, leave your sword outside the room. I trust this is not an issue?" A flashback due to scissors? What could scissors... she remembered all the scars on the small form the Ancient cradled in the baths. Her steps faltered for a moment. Oh no... a fear of blades. It made sense. It made so much sense, yet it was so bad. Lexia loved the sword. She was good with the sword. Carrying her blade made her feel proud and ready for her duty. Yet, this was not about her. She could use other weapons. Hell, she would use her bare hands to do her duty if needed. It was just… she loved the sword, and the fact that her probable first charge was deathly afraid of blades took away one bonding opportunity. Lexia wanted for $MCname to like her. Still, it could not be helped for now. "I'll leave my blade with one of the other Protectors." she thought into the communication pin. “Did you manage to cut $hisher hair though?” <<if $skipped_haircut>>\ “No, $MCname did not want to get a haircut after the… episode.” “Oh…” Fuck. Lexia hated everything about this. Why did a child have to go through so much, $heshe <<was>> afraid of a haircut. The world was fucked up, Lexia knew that but… It was just not easy to understand, to reconcile what was and what should be. Maybe this was why the Ancients wanted the orphanage so secure – to make sure no children suffered like this. Though Lexia really did hope this was not a regular occurrence. “We will work it out. $capitalhisher hair is a bit wild right now, but I’ll get some way of tidying it up that does not cause distress. I promised to introduce you to $himher. To make $himher feel safer.” Lexia stopped pushing the chair. “Really? It’s not official yet though. That you are $hisher Custodian and I am $hisher Protector. It needs to be approved, no?” She was very hard trying to hold onto her excitement. She wanted this. That scene in the healing baths had haunted her, she wanted to help $MCname, whatever way she could. “It’s not official, but I’ll push for it hard if need be. I… I don’t think it would feel right to leave $MCname to someone else after… well seeing what I’ve seen.” He sounded so serious… which was good since she wanted to be $MCname’s protector as well. <<else>>\ "It was fine in the end. Clearly, $MCname was uncomfortable but agreed to it." Lexia lets out a breath. "That is a relief." It feels better to be properly cleaned up. Clean and neat hair helps one adjust, in her experience at least. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ Lexia was approaching the room that $MCname and Havard were in! She was getting hyped up! First impressions were important after all. She needed to make a good one. "I'll be there in just a moment." "Good. I will be here, don't knock in case $MCname is actually asleep." That was fine with Lexia! She would just enter the room and if $MCname was asleep, would chat with Havard. She could get to know him a bit better. It would be fun, either way. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ ”Oh, before I get there, one more thing. About the communication device for $MCname and Atru. You know, since $heshe won’t speak, and Atru only speaks to Azha.” Lexia says. “It will take a little time. The quartermaster at the Spire did not have any devices that could speak for $MCname. They need to have some made, and figure out who can make them, so I don’t have any yet.” “All right. There is no helping it if such a thing does not exist yet.” Havard says. “I suppose a communicator pin like ours is no good since they make no sound.” That was the problem really. The communicator pins the Custodians and Protectors had just made you hear the other person’s voice inside your head. And they needed a bit of magical training to use. So not exactly good for children. “They will contact us when they have something.” <</if>>\ <<if $blades_trauma is true>>\ She left her sword with a Silver Protector on the way in. <</if>>\ Lexia soon arrived right outside the room where Havard and $MCname were in. Lexia settled the chair with wheels next to the door, and slowly entered, careful not to make too much noise. There was Havard, by the table doing some paperwork. He was turning to look at her. Then in the bed, there must be… Lexia saw $MCname, who was just standing up. At least $heshe was wearing $clothes. Why <<was>> $heshe up? Havard had not noticed! Immediately those little legs collapsed upon hitting the floor, and the $child began falling. “Oh shit!” Lexia let out and dashed forward with all her speed. <<nobr>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("wings","nature features","elemental", "eyes", "feathers")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("wings")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Her thoughts idly stray to if $MCname always had $Feature? No... $heshe did not have wings earlier. Still, it suits $himher. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("feathers")>> <<elseif $HeritageType.includesAny("elemental")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("elemental")>> <<else>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("nature features")>> <</if>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> That $Feature looks good on $MCname. Did $heshe always have that? <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("eyes")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("eyes")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> While she dashes, she sees $MCname's pupils change into $Feature while $heshe falls. That is new right? Probably a panic reaction. As $heshe falls, $heshe <<closes>> $hisher eyes. <</if>><</if>><</nobr>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Lexia POV|Chapter 2_7]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

/*<<if $HairLength is "waist-long" or $HairLength is "mid-back" or $HairLength is "shoulder-long" >>*/ Your $HairLength $HairType hair is long... You eye Havard. Your hands can't do much right now, but maybe you could ask him for some kind of a style. Hair this long gets in the way doesn't it. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ You attract his attention with a hand and point and your hair. You gather it up together to indicate you would like it tied somehow. "You want me to tie your hair?" Havard tilts his head. You nod. <<else>>\ "Can you tie my hair?" You ask Havard. <</if>>\ "Of course, let's see." He walks behind you. "I'll use my hands to show you a few different styles so you can choose one." He says and gently starts handling your hair. It takes some time, but he shows you several options for how your hair could be tied. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[High ponytail – He pulls your hair back and secures it at the back of the head with a bit of leather string.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'high ponytail']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Low ponytail – He pulls your hair back and secures it at the nape of the neck with a bit of leather string.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'low ponytail']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Bun – He twists your hair into a rounded shape and secures at the back of the head.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'bun']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Messy bun – He loosely gathers your hair into a rounded shape and secures at the back of the head.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'messy bun']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Double Buns – He sections your hair into two, and makes two buns, one on each side of the head.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'double bun']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Half-Up, Half-Down – He ties the top section of your hair back, while the rest is left loose.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'half-up, half-down']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Twist – He twists sections of your hair together, and secures it at the back of the head.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'twist']]</div> <<if $HairLength is "waist-long" or $HairLength is "mid-back">> <div class="choice-item">[[Braid – He sections your hair into two, and crosses the two sections over in small pieces to create a delicate, intricate braid.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'braid']]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[None of these seem right to you (choose your own).|Choose hairstyle][$HairStyle to 'loose']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[After some thought, you are fine with how it was, untied and loose.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'loose']]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $chapter = '???'>>\ <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='splater'>''ChaPTeR ??: ThE You tHat usEd TO bE -- Or maYBe NeVER Was''</font> \ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'Chapter 4 dream 1'>><</cont>>

<<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ ''//"No one chooses to be born, and no one chooses their parents. Simply existing is never a crime, no matter how that life came to be. A child is innocent in every sense of the word."//'' </div> </span><</fadein>> <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ Attributed to the Ancient known as "Sheo". Specific time of the quote is unknown, though some record of the horrifying massacre that followed does remain. </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'Chapter 1 fadein'>><</cont>>

<h1><font face='splater'>''ChaPTeR ??: ThE You tHat usEd TO bE -- Or maYBe NeVER Was''</font> </h1>\ // Your flesh tears as a pair of pliers twists it away. You try to scream but the gag stops you. Your twist and trash but you are strapped to the table, the bindings keeping you still as you your body is torn and cut. A knife carves away a piece of your hand. It might have been a finger, maybe two. You are in too much agony to care. Why? Why are these people doing this? Why did they kill mom and dad? Why are they being so mean to you? They just took you, kicking and screaming. Your tried to run, tried to fight back but it was no use. You are just a child. A $child too young to know anything important, too young to be anything important. That was two days ago? Maybe more, maybe less. Who cares. They killed mom and dad. So much blo<font face='splater'>o</font>d, and g<font face='splater'>o</font>re. Mom’s neck was broken, dad’s head was torn off, entrails pulled out. So much bl<font face='splater'>Oo</font>d…. <font face='splater'>BloOd.</font> It was everywhere, such a deep red. Now you have been strapped to a table, held down as they grope at you, and began carving away at you. You scream and scream, every cut and prod agony. Searing and burning your flesh and soul. Why? It hurts What did you do? . It hurts. Who are they? It hurts so much. Why do they hate you so? It hurts too much. Father's head is staring at you. Right there, a bit away from you, eyes accusing at it watches you suffer. Another cut and twist and the world blacks out. Again, and again. Blo<font face='splater'>O</font>d pours from your ruined flesh. The table is covered in your blood and gore. There is so much bl<font face='splater'>OO</font>d. There is too much <font face='splater'>BLooD</font>. How are you alive? You should be dead. Dad's eyes tell you, you should be dead. Dead like mom and dad. All crimson and unmoving. Like the head with the accusing eyes. Dad's eyes stare at you from his dismembered head. His mouth opens and blood pours out. He can't speak, there is too much blood in his mouth . But the eyes. The eyes tell you it is all your fault. You twitch and spasm, but the restraints keep you still. Drip, drip, drip. The bloo<font face='splater'>d</font> drips to the floor from the table. There is a figure mopping it up. It is not enough. There is too much <font face='splater'>BlOo</font>d gushing out from you. Too much for a mop to clean up. How can you still be alive? Mom was not alive afer her neck was broken. Dad was dead, after his head was removed. Even if it is right there. Yet, you just bleed, such a lovely crimson. How can you bleed so much? So much blood. Infinite <font face='splater'>BLoOD</font>. The room is filling with <font face='splater'>bLoOd.</font> Everyone will drown in in. Dad's head will drown... Will that mean you kill him again, you wonder. At least you no longer have to see his eyes then. Your <font face='splater'>BlOO</font>d will drown the world. . A figure grabs your leg, and agony shoots up it as they tear and cut at your flesh. A sawing motion with a tiny knife, as they cut at tendons and flesh. Plucking out pieces with a pair a pincers. The <font face='splater'>Blo</font>od starts reaching the edge of the table. The figures wallow waist deep in it. The <font face='splater'>bLoOD and Life</font> gushing out from you. How? How are you still alive? Why are you still alive? You don’t want to be here anymore. Through the haze of agony, you faintly note the hooded figures putting pieces of <font face='splater'>you into</font> jars. They float in the sea of blood. Your blood. <font face='splater'>BlOod. BLoOd. bLooD. EnDlesS BlOOD</font>. These kidnappers collect your <font face='splater'>BLOOD and fLEsh</font>, like it had some use outside of your being. Scooping up your fluids with jars and ladles. Don’t they realize that it’s not <font face='splater'>blood or flesh</font> they seek? It’s in your <font face='splater'>head</font>. The <font face='splater'>legacy</font>. Your blo<font face='splater'>od</font> remains <font face='splater'>un-awakened, diluted</font>, useless without <font face='splater'>the trigger</font>, only fit for people to drown in. Like water, but red. Oh, so red. <font face='splater'>ReD.</font> You <font face='splater'>know</font> this. You have <font face='splater'>always known</font> this, even if you don’t always remember. A world<font face='splater'>ess sense</font> of the w<font face='splater'>orld</font> that only you have. Yet, <font face='splater'>you know</font> nothing of <font face='splater'>this sense</font> itself. No more now, than when you first opened your eyes as a baby. You also f <font face='splater'>orget</font>. Like you <font face='splater'>forge</font>t so many things. You don’t understand your own thoughts. There is too much pain. Too much panic. You are all going to drown <font face='splater'>in your BlOod</font>! A hand grabs your face and forces you to look at the figure holding you. You stare into an empty gaping abyss inside their hood – no face is visible. Not a person but faceless monster meant to torment you, to carve and tear at you. Or is it? Perhaps that is how these people wish to seem. Perhaps it soothes their minds, hiding their faces while doing this to a child. Perhaps doing it like this, allows them to pretend to still be people outside this <font face='splater'>room</font>. The masked monster holds your eye open. A spoon appears in your field of vision, coming towards <font face='splater'>your eye</font>. You feel the spoon sliding between the gap between <font face='splater'>your eye</font> and <font face='splater'>eye</font> socket. The spoon snags on something, and a searing agony shoots through you as it tears through whatever was in its way. A jerky movement digging deeper and deeper as they keep working the spoon under your <font face='splater'>eye</font> , uncaring of the damage done to you. The pressure builds and your e<font face='splater'>yE</font> comes out with a plop. The hooded figure plucks it from the air. You stare with your one remaining <font face='splater'>Ey</font>e, the blood flooding the room. You scream and drown in the <font face='splater'>blOOD, it fills your</font> lungs. So much bl<font face='splater'>oO</font>d. There is only b<font face='splater'>LooD</font>. Your last thought is the knowledge at least everyone will drown in your <font face='splater'>bLOOd. \\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Everything will drown in your blood.|Sheo_fadein]]</div> </div><</nobr>> </font> /*<<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Everything will drown in your blood.|Chapter 4 fadein]]</div> </div><</nobr>>*/

<<addHavard 10>>\ <<if $HairStyle is "loose">>\ The flowing and natural state of your hair is fine for you. So, Havard returns your hair to its natural state after all the examples. <<else>>\ Havard works on your $HairType $HairColor hair again, molding it into your chosen style. <<if $HairStyle is 'high ponytail'>> He pulls it back with gentle hands, into a high ponytail atop your head. <<elseif $HairStyle is "low ponytail">> He pulls it back with gentle hands, in a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. <<elseif $HairStyle is "bun">> He twists it into a tight coiled shape and secures the bun at the back of the head. <<elseif $HairStyle is "messy bun">> He twists it into a loose coiled shape and secures the bun at the back of the head. <<elseif $HairStyle is "double bun">> He sections it into two equal parts, and makes two coiled shapes. He secures the buns, one on each side of the head. <<elseif $HairStyle is "half-up, half-down">> He ties the top section of your it back with gentle hands, while the rest is left loose. This is really the best of both worlds. <<elseif $HairStyle is "twist">> He twists sections of your hair together with deft hands, and secures the result at the back of the head. <<elseif $HairStyle is "braid">> He sections your hair into two with gentle hands. You watch in the mirror as he crosses the two sections over in small pieces to create a delicate, intricate braid. <<else>> He styles your hair into the $HairStyle look as you wished. <</if>><</if>>\ You watch Havard work in the mirror, wondering if your own ruined hands will ever be able to do things like that. Styling your hair. Such a novel experience. You must have had your hair cut before, probably styled as well. Yet another thing lost in the void. Still, it is odd, watching someone just work on your hair like this. With their hands no less, no instruments to inflict pain in sight. Well you assume the scissors are still somewhere, but Havard has already shown he has no plans to use them to harm you. <<if $trustHavardC2 is true>> Not that you expected him to in the first place, you trust him. <<else>> Even if you are still vary of him.<</if>><<if $blades_trauma is true>> Still, the thought of the scissors makes you shiver a bit. Havard glances down at you with worried eyes. You see his mouth open for the question, yet you move your head a bit, forcing him to focus on your hair. He does. You don't want to think about blades, so you focus on your hair.<</if>> "There we are. Happy with this?" <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["Yes, this is good." you say.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[["No, I want to try another style." you say.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair_styles]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod. You are happy with this.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head. You want to try another style.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair_styles]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Choose your own hairstyle? <<textbox "$HairStyle" $HairStyle>> //Write it as you wish it to appear in text.// <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Proceed|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[[Go back to choose from the provided options|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

“Sing us a lullaby!” Azha demands. What is a lullaby? You have no idea about this one. Neither does your internal sense of things. She did say sing… what does that mean? You think it means like shouting... but nice? Words are hard, how do people know so many words. Havard looks down at you all. FLAVOR IF DIFFERENT BEDS:ADD FLAVOR TEXT IF SHARING BED WITH TWINS AND IF SEPARATA: “I assume Alessa sings to you most evenings?” He asks the twins. “Yes!” Azha answers, and you think Atru nods as well though it is quite small. Yet, you know that he is just as excited as Azha is. So this lullaby thing might be nice... or the twins might be odd. Possibly both. “Yeah, sign us a lullaby!” Lexia calls out behind Havard. Something flickers across Havard’s face. Your internal sense tells you it’s called exasperation. You are getting quite curious about this lullaby thing. What is it? If all three of the people who know what it is, want it, them maybe you can enjoy it too. That would be a person like thing to do... you think. You are coming to learn that people can be very different. Havard glances at you. Perhaps he sees something in your face because his expression softens even more. You have to figure out that face thing at some point. Not knowing what your face is doing most of the time is getting old. Another thing that people seem to be able to do, that you are having trouble wtih. “All right. I can manage that.” Havard says softly. You are interested… what is he going to do. Does this lullaby thing need him to do something special? Can he just do it here? No preparation? Havard’s voice changes into a slow, and rhythmic melody, like the pull of waves you saw from the walls with Lexia. A gentle sound, a soothing sound. A sound that speaks to something long forgotten and broken inside you. Evertything else fades away as you focus on your Custodian in wonder. // Hush now dear children, the night has grown still, as the moons drift above, over valley and hill. Far in the distance, where soft starlight glows, The Eternal Wanderer walks, steady he goes, with a quiet smile beneath his brow that always shows. Barefoot through the grass, he strides with great might, Pulling his ship through the shadows of night. A vessel that floats through the shimmering skies, against a backdrop of starlight, it silently flies. The ship gently sways on a sea of dreams, it glides eternally though the night skies.. Yet the Wanderer, steadfast and true, guides his ship through the sky’s endless blue. So sleep, sleep, dear children as the Wanderer roams, pulling his ship through the sky’s endless dome. With each gentle step, he lights up the night, bringing you dreams, like little whispers of light. Through valleys of twilight and forests of mist, the Wanderer forever walks where moonlight has kissed. He remembers a time from ages untold, when the stars were young and life did unfold. His ship gently sways, as it glides through the air. A promise of safety, a watchful care. The winds hum a song, whispering his name, the Wanderer eternal, always the same. So sleep, sleep, dear children as the Wanderer roams, pulling his ship through the sky’s endless dome. With each gentle step, he lights up the night, bringing you dreams, both soft and bright. Now close your eyes, and drift on the breeze, feel the ship’s sails as they dance through the trees. The Wanderer pulls with a rhythm so deep, guiding your dreams as you peacefully sleep. So sleep, sleep, dear children, the Wanderer’s near, his ship in the heavens will always be here, with stars in the sails and hope in his heart, he’ll watch over your dreams, all throughout the night. An endless journey, as time softly flows, the world around him changes, as the children grow. The Eternal Wanderer, he travels the stars, through the dark and the cold, never stopping, never far. Yet the wanderer himself, as ever remains, but a ghost in the fog, forever the same. // <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The end of Chapter 4.|EndOfDemo]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

A warm feeling floods you as Havard keeps doing something. This went all wrong didn't it. Your internal sense is telling you this went badly. Havard and this Lexia are actually worried about you. No has been worried about you before as far as you remember. Well Havard has been but it’s too new. You just wanted to not be held by a stranger! You didn't mean to worry anyone. You are not used to people worrying about you. What should you do? You should probably open your eyes. Show them that you are fine. Yes, that seems like a good plan. Will they be mad at you? Is this where the torture starts because you made them worry? You open one eye to peek out. Havard is focused, his eye closed and you think he is the source of the warm feeling running through you. Magic? Havard can do magic? <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "weapon">> Wait, didn’t he somehow get that shard from the flower vase out of your leg? Was that magic? <</if>> "$capitalheshe <<is>> awake! Havard!" The woman, Lexia says. Havard's eyes fly open. His gaze falls on you, full of worry. His hands drop and he gently places his hands on your shoulders, leaning closer. "Are you alright? What happened? Are you hurt anywhere?" He asks while Lexia worriedly hovers behind him, looking you over. As if searching for something obviously wrong. What should you do? <<set $silent to false>>\ <<set $play_dead to 0>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Best just sit up and show that everything is fine.|Chapter 2_8_playing_dead2][$play_dead to $play_dead+1, $silent to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are not sure if you should tell them.|Chapter 2_8_playing_dead2][$play_dead to $play_dead+2, $silent to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[ You have no idea how to communicate that you are fine, so you just stare.|Chapter 2_8_playing_dead2][$play_dead to $play_dead+3, $silent to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You squirm a bit in place. You did not mean any harm.|Chapter 2_8_playing_dead2][$play_dead to $play_dead+4, $silent to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You did not want to worry them! You try nodding vigorously to show you are fine.|Chapter 2_8_playing_dead2][$play_dead to $play_dead+5, $silent to true]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare back at him. "I am fine." You try to make your voice as friendly as possible.|Chapter 2_8_playing_dead2][$play_dead to $play_dead+6]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare back at him. "Fine." You say bluntly.|Chapter 2_8_playing_dead2][$play_dead to $play_dead+7]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

You blink. She did hold you... but you were falling. She did sort of save you from hitting the stone floor face first. Still, she did also hold you. Caught you before you hit the ground. Moved so fast, you could not really tell when she arrived but for the burst of air and her voice. Or maybe she is just really silent while moving... but she is wearing armor. Really shiny and fancy silver armor that catches the light as if it were crafted from pure starlight. <<if $Lexiareaction != 1 >> You were not all that happy being held, which you communicated as well as you could. Now you are on the soft bed and can see her better. Seeing her fully helps when you don’t have to strain your neck. Feels less like someone grasping at you and trying to hold you down. She is no faceless monster. <<else>> You were fine being held by a stranger, though only because Havard knew her. Havard would have done something if this person was a danger to you. <</if>> There is something about her... it feels odd, something about her is off to you. You can tell mainly because she is fidgeting a bit as you observe her. She seems worried and guilty. Why? Right... she asked you a question. Are you all right? Well you are in the bed again. Your legs had failed you? How? Why? <<if $brokne_hands_treating is 1 or $HavardMeetingReaction is "weapon" or $gardenespace is true or $drawer is true >> Well they did sort of fail you before… It makes some sense. <</if>>\ Havard is fussing over you. Quite literally, he seems to be checking you over while Lexia fidgets in the background. Testing your forehead and looking over your legs. The question remains: are you fine? You are not hurt, not bleeding, not in the void, not being strapped to a table and carved up... Yeah you are probably fine. At least by your standards. Really, this is some of the most pleasant times you can remember. Except for what is wrong with your legs? Well, this Lexia is starting to look really worried as you don’t answer her in anyway. " What happened? Are you hurt anywhere?" Havard asks when you don't say anything for a while while Lexia worriedly hovers behind him, looking you over. As if searching for something obviously wrong. You should probably say or do something. <<set $silent to false>>\ <<set $play_dead to 0>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Best just sit up and show that everything is fine.|Chapter 2_8_3][$play_dead to $play_dead+1, $silent to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are not sure if you should tell them.|Chapter 2_8_3][$play_dead to $play_dead+2, $silent to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[ You have no idea how to communicate that you are fine, so you just stare.|Chapter 2_8_3][$play_dead to $play_dead+3, $silent to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You squirm a bit in place. Two people staring at you is odd.|Chapter 2_8_3][$play_dead to $play_dead+4, $silent to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You try nodding vigorously to show you are fine.|Chapter 2_8_3][$play_dead to $play_dead+5, $silent to true]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare back at him. "I am fine." You try to make your voice as friendly as possible.|Chapter 2_8_3][$play_dead to $play_dead+6]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare back at him. "Fine." You say bluntly.|Chapter 2_8_3][$play_dead to $play_dead+7]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>> /* <<set $Lexia_are_you_fine to false>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[“Yes.” You are fine.|Chapter 2_8_3][$Lexia_are_you_fine to true ]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“No. My legs stopped working.” You say.|Chapter 2_8_3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod. You are fine.|Chapter 2_8_3][$Lexia_are_you_fine to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item"> [[You shake your head, your legs stopped working.|Chapter 2_8_3]]</div> </div><</nobr>> */

<<set $asked_Havard_about_babiesC2 to true>>\ <<addHavard 2>>\ "How do people living together make tiny people? Babies?" You voice your confusion. Havard freezes, eyes widening a bit. He was not expecting this question. Why? It is a good question, you think. How could you not ask it considering all he has told you. Still Havard is clearly caught off guard by the unexpected question. He blinks once, then twice, before regaining his usual calm air of comfort. You think Havard shifts a bit awkwardly, but the movement is gone before you can be sure. "Yes, they are called babies." He thinks for a bit. "Well, you see... Living together might cause people to fall in love. Especially so many people that would not interact under other circumstances. It offers... new experiences. When two people love each other very much, they… come together, and then a baby is made." What does that mean? What is love? You have no idea. Even your internal sense seems a bit muddled on the matter, giving a hint that love is confusing, wonderful and stupid... That is a new reaction from your internal sense. You really think this internal sense is something other than just your fragmented memories being vaguely recalled. Still, you don't get it. How does people "coming together" make babies? You stare up at him, unblinking and unsatisfied but still intrigued, as if waiting for more. "What does that mean?" You ask. "Like a hug?" <<if $HavardHugC2 is true and $q4 is true>>\ Havard has given you two hugs. Does that mean babies have been made? Where are they? <<elseif $HavardHugC2 is true or $q4 is true>>\ Havard has given you a hug. Does that mean a baby has been made? Where is the baby? <<else>>\ You know the concept of a hug, though you have never gotten one. As least as far as you remember. <</if>>\ Havard clears his throat, expression unreadable. He presses on after a short completative pause. "It is a bit more involved than that. Hugging is usually involved, as is spending time together. And then, well, in time, a baby may start to grow inside the mother's or surrogate's belly. It is called a pregnancy." Wait... babies grow inside of people? That's sort of gross, isn't it? Like... potatoes in soil? That makes some sense. But how does the baby get there? Potatoes get planted right? Yes, you know this for some reason. How does a baby get planted inside a person. Does the mother eat something special, a baby seed and a baby forms? Is the baby planted like a seed somehow? Is it magic?... You squint at Havard, trying to piece together this vague explanation. You don't get it, all you know is that hugging might be involved. Are hugs magic? Hugging plants babies? If it needs two people, then it makes sense that the second person does the planting somehow. So… hugs. "So… hugs make babies?" Havard opens his mouth, then closes it, clearly thinking. "This is not a conversation I expected to be having this soon..." He mutters. What does that mean? Not so soon? Then when? "But no, it's more complicated. Simple hugs don't make babies. We’ll talk more about it when you’re older." Oh... you need to be older. You already hate that. You have a feeling that getting "older" will be inconvenient, both hearing about it and actually getting older. You are dissatisfied but sense the topic isn’t going anywhere for now. <<if $HavardHugC2 is true and $q4 is true>>\ At least he said hugs are not enough to make babies, and you are now fairly certain there are no babies waiting to surprise you. <<elseif $HavardHugC2 is true or $q4 is true>>\ At least there is no baby suprising you if hugging is not enough to make one. <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageRace.concatUnique($HeritageRace2).includesAny("beastkin", "garuda", "elemental", "dryad", "dragon", "demon", "kitsune")>>\ But you have <<HeritageFeatureList>>. That makes you part <<HeritageRaceList>>... You are not sure what that means, but does that make it different? Spending time with different species like your <<HeritageRaceList>> ancestors, and then possibly doing stuff like hugging? And something else special that makes babies? That's all it takes? You suppose it could happen. You need to ask about this since you feel are onto something here, that it might be complicated if you are part <<HeritageRaceList>>. "But I have <<HeritageRaceList>> heritage?" You ask. Havard looks at you, and you have no idea what you are thinking. "Yes, you are part <<HeritageRaceList>> as far as I can tell..." He considers. "It's complicated how such unions come to be, but suffice to say, that magic is a powerful and wonderful thing. Let's leave it at that for now." He says. <<if $HeritageRace.concatUnique($HeritageRace2).length > 1>> "Though perhaps I will also add, that your heritages, the <<HeritageRaceList>> is likely due to several generations of your ancestry being passed down."<</if>> Well... that's disappointing. Magic makes sense, but you would like a real answer. You still have no idea how babies are actually made. You do know more than you did though... <</if>>\ At least you are learning a lot! This lesson thing was not so bad. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Now what else is there to do....|Heritage Navigation menu]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $investigateHeritageC2 to $investigateHeritageC2+1>>\ <<FeatureIndex "wings">>\ You lean on the chair for support and shift your shoulders experimentally. The $Feature on your back twitch. Your eyes widen. You did that! You try again, this time more deliberately. The wings respond, spreading ever so slightly, their movement both strange and natural. It feels like rediscovering a forgotten part of yourself. <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_why_now")>>They were not there until just a few moments ago? Why are they there now? Perhaps you can ask later. It is testing time now. <</if>> You raise your arms, and the wings lift upwards. They slowly unfurl with a slow, powerful grace. You think you will be able to do that without spreading your arms in the future. The wings are much bigger than you though, sweeping wide behind you and huge compared to the rest of your small form. A rush of air follows, and you feel a strange but thrilling weight pulling at your back. You have to lean forward a bit, using the chair to support you so you don't tip over. Havard takes a worried step forwards, but as you regain your balance he takes a breath and lets you be. You peer a bit behind you. You are a little curious about how your wings are attached, but right now it feels more important to test them! You can peek later. Turning your gaze back forward, the mirror shows your reflection, and it is mesmerizing. You stare at your $Feature now fully stretched out, casting shadows on the wall and floor of the room. Havard observes silently, still seemingly ready to dart forwards to support you if you tip over. You shift your shoulders again, this time trying to pull them back in, and they fold gracefully behind you, tucking close to your body. The sensation is foreign but oddly comforting, as if they’ve always been there, waiting for you to notice. Perhaps that is the case. Though it is lucky that your wings manifested only now, you have no doubt the people before the void that tortured you would have cut them off. Your $Feature are cool! You don't want them cut off. Or do they grow back? You are glad you never had to find out. With a deep breath, you try your wings once more, this time testing their full range. You stretch them out, feeling the power, your muscles tightening in places you never knew existed. A quiet thrill surges through you, a strange sense of freedom washing over your entire body. The wings move effortlessly, responding to your thoughts with fluidity and strength. You stand there, in front of the mirror, breathless and amazed, wings slowly folding back into place, your heart racing with the possibilities. Could you fly? If you could then... you could run away from bad people. Have freedom if the void ever came back to haunt you. You want to fly. You want to soar. You try to move your wings; to flap them... it sort of works, but your control is not good enough. Your wings move too slowly, and you are out of breath after only a bit of movement. You have also unbalanced yourself completely, and have to grab the chair as hard as you can, and Havard rushes over. He catches you before you tip over. You look at Havard. The Custodian is looking at you with a soft look. "You may one day fly." He whispers. You hear him perfectly well. "But now you must rest, allow yourself to heal." The words give you hope for the future. Maybe one day you will fly, with these $Feature, untainted by the void. A wave of fatigue hits you. Your grip, such as it is, tightens on the chair you have been using to stay up. Havard is there in an eyeblink. He has been letting you investigate in peace, only answering your questions. "Please sit down." He pleads softly. There is something wrong with your legs, they feel odd. It's probably best to do what Havard says so you sit back down to rest. Sitting is quite nice anyway. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Now what else is there to do....|Heritage Navigation menu]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $investigateHeritageC2 to $investigateHeritageC2+1>>\ <<FeatureIndex "tail">>\ You try to move your $Feature, leaning on the chair to stay standing. Your legs are odd right now, but you are too focused on the tail. You watch in the mirror as it twitches at bit, as if it knows you are looking at it. You give a little mental push, thinking about your tail moving. You are half expecting nothing to happen, it is hard to find the feeling for a muscle you did not know was there and even more so to control the movement, But is there, your $Feature flicks, almost playfully. As if happy you finally noticed it. You suppose you would be annoyed by being ignored by yourself too. Then it moves in a swaying motion from side to side behind your back, swishing and swooshing. It is like it’s responding to your thoughts, doing what you expect it to do. Act like a tail should act. You had no idea what that was, but you thought the swooshing sound was a good start! Time for something harder! You flex muscles you didn’t know you had, and the tail curls upwards. You are a little curious about how your tail is attached, but right now it feels more important to test it! You can peek later! Your $Feature is awesome! It can curl up and it feels so strange, almost like an extension of your spine that shoots out of you somewhere slightly above your butt. It is so natural, a clear part of you, yet utterly foreign to you. You test it again, trying to make it do a full circle behind you. The tail follows effortlessly! Swirling in a wide, graceful motion. Your tail is pretty awesome isn't it. You stare at your reflection, eyes focused. Time to try something even harder! You focus, and your tail wraps gently around your leg before uncurling again, moving fluidly with your every thought. You are caught somewhere between disbelief and fascination, still exploring what this unknown part of you can do. Havard says nothing as you keep trying different things. Turns out your $Feature can wrap around things... and it has better grip than your hands do! This could be very useful. For grabbing stuff? Like... your cloak. You will consider this some more later. <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("fluffy tail")>> The fluffiness might get in the way of gripping stuff, but the possibilities are still there! And... you bring your tail close to your front, and gently touch it. So soft! So fluffy!<<else>> You bring your tail close to your front, and gently touch it. <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("scaly tail")>> The scales feel firm and hard even through your bandages. It feels strong and firm. It is quite thick, but the tip is quite dexterous as you test it. <<else>> The leathery tail feels tough and smooth. Yet the tail is slim and very dexterous.<</if>><</if>> A wave of fatigue hits you, and your hands fly from your tail to the chair. Your grip, such as it is, tightness on the chair you have been using to stay up. Havard is there in an eyeblink. He has been letting you investigate in peace. "Please sit down." He pleads softly. There is something wrong with your legs, they feel odd. It's probably best to do what Havard says so you sit back down to rest. Sitting is quite nice anyway. Time to focus on the mirror again. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Now what else is there to do....|Heritage Navigation menu]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $investigateHeritageC2 to $investigateHeritageC2+1>>\ <<FeatureIndex "horns">>\ There they are right atop your head. Your $Feature. You have horns. It is hard to think they are real. How did you not know you have horns? Slowly, almost hesitantly, you raise a slightly trembling hand toward them. Is your hand trembling because it is damaged, or because you have horns? You do not know yourself well enough to decide. Your bandaged fingers hover near the base of the horns, hesitating for a moment, before moving in to touch. They’re there, your horns are undeniably solid. You press your fingertips against the surface -- it feels the cool, smooth and very solid, even though the bandages. They’re firm and unyielding. Like bone, or what you imagine bone to be like. They are also undeniably a part of you. You trace the curve of your $Feature, running your hand along the ridges. Only now do you notice that their weight is pulling slightly at the top of your head, something that has always been there, yet you did not notice. You grip them more firmly, testing their strength with what strength you have. They don’t budge, though your grip is damaged and weak so it could just be that. You glance back at your reflection. Oddly enough, the horns fit you. Your $SkinColor skin, and $HairColor $HairType hair take away nothing from the fact that your $Feature fit you. They are a part of you. They give your tiny frame a strange silhouette, but not an unpleasant one. There is still something surreal about seeing them attached to your body. Maybe they make you feel like less of a person but... Havard said people have all sorts of features, didn't he? That means that you still look like a person, even with $Feature. You gently tug on one horn, and your head moves with it. The sensation is strange but unmistakably real. They feel solid, strong, like they’ve always been there, just waiting to be noticed. Which is exactly true. It seems like the people before the void who tortured you would have done something to your horns, yet they are not broken. You wonder if they tried and failed or if your horns can grow back? You tilt your head from side to side, watching the horns shift with the movement, catching the light in the mirror. You run your hands over them once more, from the base to the tips, trying to absorb the reality of the fact that you have $Feature. There's an odd sense of calm that settles in as you take them in, your reflection now both vaguely familiar and yet entirely new. The reflection staring back at you is someone you’re just beginning to understand. A bit, a tiny bit. That is more than you have ever had before. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Now what else is there to do....|Heritage Navigation menu]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $investigateHeritageC2 to $investigateHeritageC2+1>>\ <<FeatureIndex "animal ears">>\ There they are, atop your head. Your $Feature. Soft and furry ears, twitching slightly as if responding to your sudden awareness of their existence. Were they always really there? How did they survive the people before the void who tortured you? Did they never cut them up? Or do your $Feature grow back? Best not to focus on that. Instead, you lean closer to the mirror. The ears atop your head, your ears, are covered in fine fur that matches your hair, $HairColor but subtly shifts in color near the tips. Tentatively, you raise a bandaged hand to touch one. Your fingers brush the soft, velvety surface, and you suppress a gasp. You can feel that, oh you can feel it very well. Every touch sends a strange, tingling sensation through your scalp, foreign yet oddly natural. You have the oddest thought to make contented little noises but resist it. You gently tug at one ear, watching the mirror. It twitches in response to your touch. It’s flexible, moving easily under your fingers. You press on the base of the ear, where it meets your head amidst $HairType hair, feeling the connection. It’s real, you really have $Feature. You let your hand drop and, try moving the ears without help, concentrating for a moment. You think of moving your ears, and to your amazement, the ears swivel slightly. As if tuning in to an unheard sound. Is your hearing better with these? Hard to say. If they have always been there then your hearing is just your hearing. You stare at the mirror in half disbelief, half awe. You focus harder, and the ears respond, flicking forward, then back. They move with surprising ease, twitching instinctively as if catching subtle noises around you. The sensation is strange, like an extra sense you’ve suddenly gained, yet has always been there. Awareness is scary. You are pretty sure you can hear Havard breathing. You must have been able to hear that before, but only now you realize it so easily. You turn your head to the side, watching the ears follow the movement in the mirror. They feel alive, as much a part of you as your hands or feet. You run your bandaged fingers over them again, marveling at their softness and the way they react to your every thought. You flick them forward, then fold them back. Then you repeat the test, trying to figure out how much you can move them. Each twitch, each flick is accompanied by a small burst of sensation that fills you with a strange feeling, you cannot quite identify. Staring at your reflection, at the $Feature atop your head, you feel a sense of wonder. The ears are so foreign, yet they also belong. They are a part of you, and they were always there. You just did not know. How odd your life is. Do these $Feature make you look less like a person? It is hard to say, but Havard did say that people have all sorts of features. So, you must still look like a person. The reflection staring back at you is someone you’re just beginning to understand. A bit, a tiny bit. That is more than you have ever had before. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Now what else is there to do....|Heritage Navigation menu]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $chapter = 'Preface'>>\ <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'> ''Act 1 -- Beginnings''</font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<fadein 3s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 200%;'>\ ''Esimated age: 7 - 8'' ''Year $year of the Age of Hope, the First Age of Wocdes''\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'Act 1_quote'>><</cont>>

<<set $chapter = 'Interlude - ???'>>\ <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'> ''Interlude ???''</font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 200%;'>\ <font face='splater'>''Somewhere in the city of Firgrat''</font> </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'Interlude Nylora'>><</cont>>

<<set $investigateHeritageC2 to $investigateHeritageC2+1>>\ <<if $HeritageType.includes("nature features")>>\ Your hair is a marvel. There amidst your $HairColor hair, is a glimmer of color, a vibrancy woven through your $HairType locks. <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("flowery hair")>>\ Tiny and delicate blooms of flowers are sprouting from your hair, their petals soft and vivid against the $HairType strands of your hair. <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("viny hair")>>\ Vines, thin and green, twist through your hair like they’ve always been there, growing naturally, as if your $HairType hair were the soil. <</if>>\ You tilt your head from side to side, $HairLength hair hanging from side to side, and observe your mirror image. It does not look bad, quite nice actually. You reach up to touch them. <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("flowery hair")>>\ The flowers are real and soft under your bandaged fingertips. All delicate and odd, with a subtle fragrance that fills the air around you. You smell good! You think. Maybe you should ask Havard later. You might have a bad perception on good and bad smells. <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("viny hair")>>\ You trace the vines with bandaged fingers, feeling their gentle tug on your scalp, as if they’re part of you. It is truly an odd look, the winding vines through each strand of $HairType like living braids. <</if>>\ They don’t pull awkwardly or hurt. It all feels natural, they rest gently atop your head, as if they belong. Apparently, they do, and always have belonged. You just didn't know it. <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_why_now")>>They manifested right now though? Why? Maybe you can ask later. It is testing time now.<</if>> You test a small movement of the head, shaking it slightly. <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("flowery hair")>> The flowers sway with the movement. <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("viny hair")>> The vines shifting gracefully but remaining intertwined in your hair. <</if>>\ A sense of awe washes over you as you examine the mirror again, your reflection is new to you even before the $HeritageFeature, but now it looks more otherworldly, like something out of a dream. <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("flowery hair")>>\ The flowers atop your head seem to bloom with every breath you take, opening just a little wider, their colors more vibrant against the mirror’s light. You adjust a bloom with a hesitant hand, tucking it gently behind your ear. It stays there, nestled naturally as if it’s always been a part of you. The flowers are now an inseparable piece of who you are. <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("viny hair")>>\ You pluck at a vine, wondering if it will pull away, but it stays rooted, firmly entwined with your hair. You lift a lock of hair, watching the vines stretch with it, marveling at how alive they feel—how alive you feel. <</if>>\ <<elseif $HeritageType.includes("feathers")>>\ Your hair is a marvel. There amidst your $HairColor hair, are feathers. Soft and delicate, they sprout from your hair and mingle with the $HairType strands in small clusters. It looks both odd and beautiful at once. A distinct combination. You feel it takes away from you looking like a person, yet it already feels distincly you. Besides, Havard said people have all sorts of features. You are not just used to it yet, for some reason. You watch yourself in the mirror as you reach up, bandaged fingertips grazing the feathers. They’re smooth and light. Lighter than anything you’ve felt before, slipping easily through your fingers. The colors shift subtly, from the $HairColor of your hair, to darker and paler hues, blending with your hair. You run your fingers through your locks again, feeling the odd sensation of feathers in your hair. You turn your head slightly, watching the feathers shift with your movement. It is curious how they catch the light and shimmer faintly as you move. They feel so natural, yet so foreign at the same time. You touch the base where the feathers seem to sprout, right from your scalp, intertwined with your hair as if they’ve always been there, growing alongside it. <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_why_now")>> Yet, while they have always belonged, they manifested right now though? Why? Perhaps you can ask later. It is testing time now. <</if>> A strange mix of awe and disbelief fills you. You tug gently at one feather, and it pulls back with a soft, natural resistance. They’re part of you. You let out a breath you didn’t realize you were holding and just stare at your reflection. You lift a lock of hair, noticing how the feathers weave through it, soft and elegant. As you shake your head slightly, the feathers flutter with the motion. It is as if they have a life of their own, responding to your every movement. The sensation of the feathers moving with your hair is light, barely noticiable. You stare at your reflection for a long moment, marveling at how your hair looks. <<elseif $HeritageType.includes("elemental")>>\ <<FeatureIndex "elemental">>\ Your hair is a marvel -- because it’s glowing. A soft, ethereal light is , the same $HairColor as your hair, is radiating from every strand, illuminating your reflection in the room. You lean closer to the mirror, as far as you can in your chair, trying to understand what you're seeing. The glow is subtle yet unmistakable, a soft halo of light surrounding your head. Each lock of hair seems to pulse gently, as if alive with its own inner energy, casting a faint, shimmering aura. You reach up, hesitantly running your fingers through your hair. It feels the same—$HairType, familiar now that you know what kind of hair you have—but there’s something new. An almost tingling feeling, even through the bandages covering your hands, as you touch your hair. The light shifts and flickers, glowing more intensely for a moment before settling back into its steady, calming radiance. <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_why_now")>>You have always been part <<HeritageRaceList>>, but your $Feature manifested right just a while ago? Why? Perhaps you can ask later. It is investigation time. <</if>> You tilt your head from side to side, watching the way the glow follows your movements, reflecting off the mirror. The light seems to pulse in rhythm with your heartbeat, glowing brighter when you breathe deeply. You give a small, disbelieving look at your reflection, lifting a lock of hair and holding it in front of your face. The glow is mesmerizing, not blinding but soft, as if your hair has been woven with strands of light itself. As you turn away from the mirror, the room feels different—warmer, softer, as if the glow of your hair is infusing the space around you with a quiet, peaceful light. You take a deep breath, staring at your glowing reflection, caught somewhere between awe and wonder. Your hair, already a novelty to you when it was just hair, now feels like it holds a secret, something magical pulsing just beneath the surface. <</if>>\ All in all, your odd hair is quite nice. You quite like this part of you. The reflection staring back at you is someone you’re just beginning to understand. A bit, a tiny bit. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Now what else is there to do....|Heritage Navigation menu]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"The light of the moon and stars is still light. Even if it doesn’t shine as brightly as the sun, it is enough to walk by—especially for one born in the dark." Attributed tot he Ancient known as "Abalf", in a private conversation with another Ancient.

<<set $investigateHeritageC2 to $investigateHeritageC2+1>>\ <<FeatureIndex "scales">>\ You lean in closer to the mirror, shifting on the chair. There, just beneath your eyes, are $Feature. They are small and iridescent, shimmering subtly in the light coming in through the window. The $Feature oddly enough fit very well to your $SkinColor skin. Your bandaged fingers move to your face, and you run them across the spot where the scales are most visible. They are smooth, cold and hard or perhaps firm is the correct word. Their color shifts between $SkinColor, same as your skin, to more silver hues with some blue and green flecks with each flicker of light as you move your head. They are real, they are part of you. Have always been a part of you. How did your $Feature survive the time before the void? The people who carved and tore at you? You would think they would have used pliers to pluck out each scale, yet there are no signs of such a thing. Perhaps your $Feature grow back? Best not to focus on these thoughts. Instead, you trace the outline of the scales from where they fan out gently from under your eyes. It feels oddly natural, which makes sense. They have always been there, just hidden from your view, unknown. You run your fingers over them again, feeling the contrast between the rough texture of the scales and the softness of the skin around them, even your bandaged fingers can tell the difference. You turn your head from side to side, watching the light dance across the scales in the mirror. They shimmer and catch the light, making your reflection look both strange and mesmerizing. The sensation is somewhat odd, foreign and almost comforting. You think the spots with $Feature feel warmer when the light hits them. Perhaps these scales hold a secret strength you never knew you had. Havard did say you are part dragon, and your internal sense seems convinced dragons are a big deal. Or at least very big. You are quite small at the moment, but who knows what you could grow into? Do these $Feature make you look less like a person? It is hard to say, but Havard did say that people have all sorts of features. So, you must still look like a person. For a long moment, you simply sit there, taking in the sight of your face, strange but undeniably your own. Maybe. It's not like you knew what you looked like before Havard dragged out the mirror to show you. The scales, though unexpected, feel like they belong, and the reflection staring back at you is someone you’re just beginning to understand. A bit, a tiny bit. That is more than you have ever had before. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Now what else is there to do....|Heritage Navigation menu]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $investigateHeritageC2 to $investigateHeritageC2+1>>\ <<FeatureIndex "pointy ears">>\ You focus on your reflection, on your ears specifically. Your $Feature, they are longer than normal rounded ears. Or so you think. The tips taper elegantly. Elvish ears, or so Havard had thought. You reach up instinctively, bandaged fingertips grazing the unfamiliar shape. How did you never notice them before? Have you never felt at your ears before? You must not have; the graceful curve is something entirely new to you. The ears twitch, and you feel them. They are quite sensitive to touch aren't they. You are a bit surprised they survived maintaining this pointed shape so far into your life. You would have thought the people before the void would have cut them up, but it does not seem so. Or do they grow back? Best not to focus on these thoughts. Instead, you focus on your $HeritageFeature. You can tell that the skin of your ears is warm, even if the sharp shape is odd to you. You gently trace the length of one ear from the base to the tip, feeling the slight point that you never noticed before. Or maybe you did know? Before the void ate so much of your mind and memories. You let your hand drop back to your lap. Tilting your head from side to side, you study your reflection in awe. The ears blend naturally with your features, a clear part of you. Like some secret you never knew about yourself. Seeing your reflection for the first time is odd, and your $Feature, so prominent and undeniably real, feels both strange and oddly right. This is you. You think this is you. The fact that you have $Feature does nothing to detract from the fact that you look like a person. It is subtle. And Havard said people have all sorts of features, so people must come in so many varieties. This all still feels a bit unreal. Well, the entire orphanage feels unreal and might be a delusion. You tug on one ear lightly, testing to make sure it is not some fake. The sensation is immediate, a faint pull that confirms it’s a part of you. You twist your head again, watching the way the pointed tips give your face a more ethereal, otherworldly look. They add something delicate and sharp at once, a touch of grace and mystery. A mixture of wonder and disbelief settles over you. You have $Feature, you are part elf. Or did Havard say elvish? Elven? Words are hard. The ears are slender and regal. You stare at them, trying to reconcile the reflection with your vague image of yourself. They fit. The reflection staring back at you is someone you’re just beginning to understand. A bit, a tiny bit. That is more than you have ever had before. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Now what else is there to do....|Heritage Navigation menu]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $option to "">>\ You need to shift on the chair and lean closer to the mirror. You have<<listbox "$option">> <<option "slitted eyes">> <<option "fully black eyes">> <</listbox>>. You stare yourself in the eyes. What happened? How?.. What? "What happened there? Your eyes were not like that earlier." Havard asks and takes a worried step forward. He comes over and kneels in front of your chair. <<linkreplace"Havard leans in and inspects your eyes.">>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push($option)>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("slitted eyes")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("dragon")>>\ "I would say it seems you have some draconic heritage." Draconic heritage? What's that? What does that mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is also confused. It thinks dragons have four legs, are huge and have wings, not children with slitted eyes. And more likely to eat anyone approaching them than make babies... How does one make babies? Your internal sense is foggy, almost as if saying it will tell you that it will tell you once you are older. Well that's dumb. You could ask Havard... Your train of thought is interrupted by Havard. "Dragons are ... well huge, winged, four legged creatures, that are often associated with breathing fire, but there are different types. They are also highly intelligent and magical." Your sense disagrees, seeming to think they will try to eat you or at the very least squish you, unless you give them a good smack. That seems oddly specific. Are you part dragon? What... <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("fully black eyes")>>\ <<set $HeritageRace.push("demon")>>\ "I would say it seems you have some devilish or demonic heritage." He tilts his head. "I am not sure but as far as I understand there is not an actual difference, but I do also admit I have never met a pure-blooded demon or devil." Demonic heritage? What is that? What does it mean? You have the vaguest sense, a fragmented memory that demons are bad. Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "Hmmm, how to put this. Demons have a horrible reputation. Are thought of as evil by majority of people." Havard scratches his head. "But I am not sure how true it is. You see, there is a demon Ancient, who is never here in Firgrat, but it is still well known. Therefore, I would guess they cannot be all bad." Are you part demon? You still don't really get what demons are. What... <<elseif $HeritageFeature is "glowing eyes">>\ <<set $HeritageRace to "elemental">>\ "I would say it seems you have some elemental heritage. Sometimes things like this happen." Elemental heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense seems to think you are part rock... It's a bit confused. You pick at a strand of $HeritageFeature. It just feels like hair... as far as your ruined hands can tell. "Elementals are powerful beings made of an element. Generally, the natural elements like fire, water, earth, metal and so forth. I have head tales of more artificial ones as well." Havard ponders and rubs his chin. "To be honest, I do not know much about them. I have never met one, though they are quite secular. I cannot say why your heritage chose to show itself now, but it has. It does not however seem strong enough to manifest any specific element." Made from an element? Then are you made of form rock like your internal sense things? At least partially? Is that why those people before the void carved you up? To see what was inside? Your mind is reeling, and you cannot understand. <</if>>\ You are very confused. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Your stare must seem like a question. <<else>>\ "What does it mean?" You ask. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> <</linkreplace>>

<<set $investigateHeritageC2 to $investigateHeritageC2+1>>\ <<FeatureIndex "eyes">>\ You observe yourself in the mirror, focusing on your $Feature. <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("slitted eyes")>>\ Your pupils have shifted into thin, vertical slits. Like a lizard. Or a dragon you suppose. Is that not what Havard said? That you are part $HeritageFeature. So draconic pupils. You have a sense that dragons are a pretty big deal. Or at least very big. You can see that, your pupils are glowing with an intensity you doubt you possessed before. Or perhaps you did. It is hard to think of the past since this is the first time you remember seeing yourself. <<if $checked_face is true>> At least your eyes are still $EyeColor, but just slitted. <</if>> The slitted pupils are sharp and predatory. They make you a bit uncomfortable, like you are a predator stalking yourself. They do not look like the pupils a person has, or at least not a person you want to meet. Too intense, too keen, too bright compared to your normal dull eyes... though Havard said that most people have very varied features. Still, these $HeritageFeature give your gaze a strange, powerful depth. You blink, and the pupils narrow slightly as your eyes adjust to the light in the room. Tentatively, you raise a hand to your face, bandaged fingers hovering near your eyes. There’s no pain or discomfort as your pupils dilate and contract, responding to the light. Seeing your eyes do this in the mirror, adjusting in real time as you shift your gaze from one thing to another, is a sight both mesmerizing and unnerving. You close your eyes, and think. You are not sure always having eyes like this would be good. Still, there is not much you can do about it. When you open your eyes, your eyes are <<if $checked_face is true>> still $EyeColor, but dull and normal. <<else>> back to their normal dull appearance.<</if>> Oh, you can make the $HeritageFeature go away! Well, that is good. You focus again, and your pupils turn back into slits and the intensity returns. You tilt your head, examining the strange new look, marveling at the way the pupils shift and glint, catching the light in a way that almost feels alive. If this is not permanent, it is much easier to appreciate. <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("fully black eyes")>>\ Your eyes, they are completely black. Not just the pupils but the entire eye, both eyes from corner to corner. For a moment you recoil from the endless void reflected in your eyes, thinking that the void will devour you. You close your eyes and wait, terrified. Oh no! The first glance at the mirror was a trick. The world is not that kind, the void will swallow you up now. All you can do is wait for reality to shatter around you, and for the void take you again. "What's wrong?" Havard immediately comes to you. You can vaguely tell he is worriedly hovering over you. You can imagine the worried expression on his face. You can't look at him right now. The void is coming. You wait... And wait... The void isn't eating you whole? Reality is not in pieces? The delusion did not break? You slowly open your eyes and look at Havard. He is hovering worriedly over you, hands clenching. He seems a little lost, and probably wanted to touch you but was not sure if he should. "Oh, your eyes went back to normal." He says and your gaze snaps back to the mirror. Havard moves to the side so you can see. <<if $checked_face is true>>\ There your normal $EyeColor eyes are, normal pupils visible. <<else>> There your normal eyes are normal dull pupils visible. <</if>>Dull but much more like a person than the blackness. You stare. But your eyes were all black just a bit ago? You think back on how it looked, and your eyes are flooded with blackness again. The sight is unnerving. Your eyes were quite dull and lifeless to begin with, but now they are are no longer windows to your soul but instead bottomless pits of darkness. "Oh…" Havard says as he sees. "Did you get scared by your eyes?" He asks softly. You nod idly, focused on the mirror. You lean in closer. There are no pupils, no irises, and no distinction between the pupil and the background? Sclera, your mind supplies. Just a smooth, glossy unnatural black. It’s as though your eyes swallow the light, absorbing it into the abyss. They seem cold, emotionless, like the eyes of something that is not a person. You are not sure you like this. The depth of the blackness seems endless, as if staring too long might pull you into it, drown you in the emptiness. When you think about your normal eyes, the black bleeds away. There is at least that. You can look like a person like this. "It is ok, quite a few people have these kinds of eyes." Havard says gently. You look at him. He is smiling again. Comforting and warm. You raise a hand to your face, fingers trembling slightly. You make your eyes black again. Everything else feels normal, you sight is the same. Looking into the mirror though... it is as if something hollowed out your dull gaze, replacing it with nothingness. You are not sure how to feel about this yet. Havard said this is due to your $HeritageRace heritage, not because of the void. <</if>>\ Your eyes were not like this before, you did not have $Feature or so you think... but now you do. Or perhaps you have always been able to change your eyes at will and did not know. <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_why_now")>> Still, why are they there now? Perhaps you can ask later. It is investigation time now. <</if>> You look back at the mirror. It feels odd, you have $Feature, you are part $Race. You stare at your $Feature, trying to reconcile the reflection with your vague image of yourself. The reflection staring back at you is someone you’re just beginning to understand. A bit, a tiny bit. That is more than you have ever had before. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Now what else is there to do....|Heritage Navigation menu]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"Little bitch bit me!" A massive hand flies through the air. A smacking sound echoes in the eery room. A sound far too loud for the space. You see the strike connect. See the shockwave travelling through flesh, the world slowing down to a crawl all around you. You see Azha fall, and the world feels slow. A little body hits the rough stone hard with a horrible crucnhing sound. A whimpering whine comes for behind you, and Atru dashes to his sister. His usually blank face shows distress you have never seen before. He whines, kneels next to Azha and shakes her. The girl does not move and Atru's distress increases. It all feels unreal. The man shakes his hand, teethmarks and a bit of blood visible. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You grin as you draw the knife and dash toward the man.|Act 2 ending 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are calm and detached. You are going to kill him, you don't know how, but you will. |Act 2 ending 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You wish you were anywhere else. This cannot be real. You curl up on yourself.|Act 2 ending 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You can't act. You are frozen in place.|Act 2 ending 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You throw yourself between the man and the twins.|Act 2 ending 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You dash to check on Azha too..|Act 2 ending 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You have never felt such rage. You throw yourself at the man, knife bared.|Act 2 ending 2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Double-click this passage to edit it.

"Good." Havard smiles as he steps back, letting your attention return to the mirror. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $checked_heritage is false>> <div class="choice-item">[[What the hell is that?|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]</div> <</if>> <<if $checked_scars is false>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should investigate this lack of scars and bruises more.|Chapter 2_mirror2_scars]]</div> <</if>> <<if $checked_face is true and $checked_scars is true and $checked_heritage is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You are done with the mirror for now.|Chapter 2_mirror2]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[High ponytail – He pulls your hair back and secures it at the back of the head with a bit of leather string.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'high ponytail']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Low ponytail – He pulls your hair back and secures it at the nape of the neck with a bit of leather string.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'low ponytail']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Bun – He twists your hair into a rounded shape and secures at the back of the head.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'bun']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Messy bun – He loosely gathers your hair into a rounded shape and secures at the back of the head.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'messy bun']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Double Buns – He sections your hair into two, and makes two buns, one on each side of the head.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'double bun']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Half-Up, Half-Down – He ties the top section of your hair back, while the rest is left loose.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'half-up, half-down']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Twist – He twists sections of your hair together, and secures it at the back of the head.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'twist']]</div> <<if $HairLength is "waist-long" or $HairLength is "mid-back">> <div class="choice-item">[[Braid – He sections your hair into two, and crosses the two sections over in small pieces to create a delicate, intricate braid.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'braid']]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[None of these seem right to you (choose your own).|Choose hairstyle][$HairStyle to 'loose']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[After some thought, you are fine with how it was, untied and loose.|Chapter 2_mirror2_longhair2][$HairStyle to 'loose']]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $AskedHavardHeritage to true>>\ <<addHavard 2>>\ "Oh? Curious about me?" Havard asks. "I am flattered." He smiles at your, like he always does. "Well, I do have a heritage feature. Nothing too extensive." He says. "Wanna see?" You nod. That is why you asked. "Then please observe my eyes." He says. You stare into those hazel depths, waiting for something to happen. <<if $HeritageType is 'eyes'>> You have some inkling what will happen because of your own $HeritageFeature<</if>> Havard's pupils shift into narrow, vertical slits before your eyes. His eyes remain hazel, but the pupils feel like something a predator has. They adjust to the light in the room, widening and narrowing in response to the light. <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("slitted eyes")>>\ They are not quite the same as yours. The pupils are not as long. The eyes are not as intense looking. Still plenty intense. "I am not part $HeritageRace like you. I am part beastkin. Probably a cat beastkin or maybe some other larger cat. I don't know for certain." Havard says. "These eyes are the only thing I received from my heritage. They let me see very well in the dark." <<else>>\ "I am part beastkin. Probably a cat beastkin. Maybe some other larger cat? I don't know for certain." Havard says. "These eyes are the only thing I received from my heritage. They let me see very well in the dark." <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageRace.concatUnique($HeritageRace2).includes("beastkin")>>\ Havard is part beastkin? Just like you? <<if $beastkin_tribe.includes("cat")>> He has even the same tribe as you! That is pretty cool.<<elseif $beastkin_tribe is []>> Though you don't know what kind of beastkin you are. <<else>> Even if he is not the same tribe, he said you were part <<BeastkinTribeList>>. <</if>> You peer at him, and Havard's eyes go back to normal while you watch. <<else>>\ Beastkin heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Once again, your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what to make of this. Havard's eyes go back to normal while you watch. He smiles at you, just like normal. "Beastkin is a general term, it does not refer to one specific people but a set of varried tribes. Each tribe takes traits from a specific animal." He explains. You ponder about this a bit. So, he is part cat? What are cats? You have a vague sense they are small animals, but you don't really know. <</if>>\ Havard draws your attention back to the mirror with a gesture. "Come. Enough about me for now. Let's go back to the mirror, shall we." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Now what else is there to do....|Heritage Navigation menu]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<div align="center"><h1>Custodian Havard</h1></div> The head custodian of the Orphanage. A father figure to all the children. His duty is to guide the children, and it is a duty he takes very seriously. <<if $MCmetHavard is true>> Havard likes wearing a set of simple gray robes and shoes. His face is shaved clean, and shows no signs of age. His black hair is long and straight, pulled back from his eyes. He has kind hazel eyes. Havard is normally gentle and soothing, but gets intense at times when the situation calls for it. <</if>> <<if $AskedHavardHeritage is true>>You have learned that Havard has cat-beastkin heritage in the form of slitted eyes. <</if>> <<if $AskedHavardPast>> Havard was once married to a woman called Mara who had demonic heritage. <</if>> <div id="stat-title"> <span> Approval ($Havard_love%)</span> <span> Worry (<<print 200 - $Havard_love>>%)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Havard' `$Havard_love/ $max_Havard_love`>> <<button 'Close Characters'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<div align="center"><h1>Protector Lexia</h1></div> Young, excitable and strong. One of the first to be chosen for the new elite order called the Silver Protectors. Havard's partner. <<if $MCmetLexia is true>>The Silver Protector in charge of you. Her silver armor is really shiny, polished to perfection really. She has short wild red hair, incredibly blue eyes - bright and clear. Her eyes are intense, and alive with boundless energy. <</if>> <<if $SawLexiaHeritage is true>> She is part elemental, with glowing hair. She can control the glow.<</if>> <div id="stat-title"> <span> Approval ($Lexia_love%)</span> <span> Worry (<<print 200 - $Lexia_love>>%)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Lexia' `$Lexia_love/ $max_Lexia_love`>> <<button 'Close Characters'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<div align="center"><h1>The Twins: Atru and Azha</h1></div> The original inhabitants of the orphanage and the only children that were already there when you arrive. They were saved from a "bad place" by someone called Irosia. Atru is a seemingly silent emotionless boy who clings to his sister Azha. Azha is a little girl shaped ray of sunshine and well-meaning mischief. And chatter! The twins are assigned to Custodian Alessa, and Protector Sandor. The twins adore both Alessa and Sandor. The day you arrived at the Orphanage, the twins have decided to investigate a mystery! <<if $MCmetTwins is true>>Both twins have short blond hair and green eyes. They snuck into your room at the end of the so called "Day of mystery".<</if>> <div align="center"><h2>Atru</h2></div> <div id="stat-title"> <span> Like ($Atru_love%)</span> <span> Dislike (<<print 200 - $Atru_love>>%)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Atru' `$Atru_love/ $max_Atru_love`>> <div align="center"><h2>Azha</h2></div> <div id="stat-title"> <span> Like ($Azha_love%)</span> <span> Dislike (<<print 200 - $Azha_love>>%)</span> </div> <<showmeter 'Azha' `$Azha_love/ $max_Azha_love`>> <<button 'Close Characters'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<div align="center"><h1>Custodian Alessa</h1></div> The custodian in charge of the twins. A sweet young somewhat shy woman who the twins adore, both in their own ways. Alessa has a gentle smile according to Atru. She has silky chestnut hair falling in soft waves around her shoulders, framing a heart-shaped face. <<if $MCmetAlessa is true>> The twins have observed she tends to act oddly around Protector Sandor, turning red easily. It is all rather mysterious. <</if>> <<button 'Close Characters'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<div align="center"><h1>Protector Sandor</h1></div> The Silver Protector in charge of the twins. A good-natured and somewhat shy young man often trailing after the twins with a fond look. He has deep azure eyes. <<if $MCmetSandor is true>> The twins have observed he tends to act oddly around Custodian Alessa, turning red and speaking oddly. It is all rather mysterious. <</if>>\ <<button 'Close Characters'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<div align="center"><h1>Custodian Ethel</h1></div> An older stout Custodian. Many find her intimidating due to the fact she is not prone to smiling but calm observation. Ethel is the most experienced custodian at the orphanage and has devoted much of her life to caring for children. Rumor has it, that she refused the position of First Custodian. As a result, Havard was offered the position. Whatever this rumor is true or not, remains unknown. <<if $MCmetEthel is true>> She once had auburn hair, though now it is mostly gray. Her eyes are also a steely gray, and her face carries the signs of her age int he form of wrinkles. The twins note that Ethel managed to drive off both Custodian Alessa and Protector Sandor with talk of something called "young love", a fabled concept from stories. <</if>> <<if $MCaskedEthelHavard>> Ethel once helped Havard to become who he is. She once ran an orphanage in the lower poor part of the city. For nearly 30 years. <</if>> <<button 'Close Characters'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<div align="center"><h1>The Orphanage of Firgrat</h1></div> The Orphanage of Firgrat or Firgrat Orphanage is an institution founded by the Ancients recently. It is not yet officially open; the official opening is hoped to be in some months. This place is meant to be a safe place for a place for children who have no other place to go. A place of care and learning. There are other orphanages in Firgrat but they are all run by kind souls who have had no official support. Firgrat Orphanage has a massive budget, a huge compound and plenty of people to look after children. <div align="center"><h2>Custodians</h2></div> The custodians each get assigned to specific children at least in the beginning. They will be the ones to take care of those children under their care, waking them up, taking them to meals and lessons, helping them settle in. Other custodians will provide help as needed. <div align="center"><h2>Silver Protectors</h2></div> The Ancients did not only create the orphanage, and the Custodians. They also created the Silver Protectors. Elite warriors whose duty is to guard the children inside the Orphanage so that no harm will befall them no matter what. There are a few varieties of Silver Protectors. Many get a partner from the Custodians upon their assignment and accompany the children they are assigned to during the day. Together the pair of Protector and Custodian will be responsible for the safety, education and wellbeing of their charge or charges with support from all other Custodians and Protectors. The orphanage has walls, and only one gate to enter through. The Silver Protectors keep a rotation of people on guard around the orphanage on the walls and the gate. A sort of general assignment to keep everyone safe, though there may not be enough Silver Protectors for this in the long term. The third role a Silver Protector could have is going out into the world to find children who need care and bringing them back to the orphanage. <<button 'Close Codex'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<h1> Interlude ??? </h1>\ <h2> ??? POV</h2>\ <h3><font face='splater'>''Somewhere in the city of Firgrat''</font></h3>\ <<set $OathsCodex to true>><<notify 3s>>A new codex has been unlocked: Oaths.<</notify>>\ The knife slides in and you delicately open the young woman on your table, cutting and cutting along her stomach, until you can see the guts all coiled up in there. She screams but the bindings are tight, and the gag prevents her from screaming loud enough to disturb you. A little screaming is quite relaxing as you work after all. As long as they can’t ruin your delicate work with their incandescent struggling, it is almost desirable to have a little background noise as you work. Now, let’s see. Your gloved hand slides inside her, rummaging though her guts. Where is it? You are sure she has one… You cannot be wrong this time. What else could it be…. Hah you have it! You squeeze, the woman strains and cries, trying to thrash around. How annoying, her insides are wiggling inconveniently. This won’t do. You use your other hand to punch down on her throat. That should calm her down. So dramatic these people. She goes limp, and with a tearing sound you pull out your prize in a gush of gore from her insides. Oh, it’s just a kidney… disappointing. She seems to have expired as well or is about to with how she is twitching in place eyes rolled back. You click your tongue. Why can’t these people be calm and submit. Still, all this work and mess for a normal kidney. How disappointing. Perhaps you are wrong and what you seek is not found in the guts. But you have carved open just about everything you can think of. Perhaps the trouble is the expiration of the subject before you can extract the secrets. You will need to come up with a way to force them to stay alive and conscious as you investigate. Those people whose brains you sliced into all expired far too quickly. Why are people so inconsiderate? Why are they all so useless? You sigh and idly wipe your hands into her hair. Hmm, you will need actual water. You walk over to a basin in the corner to wash your hands. Then you walk over to the door to your research room, and open it. “Dispose of the trash. Bring in the next one.” You call out to your guards. Two enter, and impassively drag the expired woman out by her hair. “No wait, put her in the spare parts pile.” You call out. Most of her is intact. Might as well use those hands and legs for something. And her head was intact. “Don’t pull out her hair!” It will make for a nice head for one of your pets. Yes… you are lost in thought for a moment. The guards change direction and change their grips. “Boss.” A rough voice says. You turn to look at the man. Oh, one of the more competent ones…whatever their name is. You don’t pay attention to your tools that much. He is quite a hideous thing though. All those scars. Your fingers twitch a bit. Oh, he would be fun to carve into. Some prefer innocence and terror. You like your subjects to have experience with pain. That way they thrash around less, and men like this try to keep their screams down. The pained grunts work just as well as background noise. “Boss?” Right this ugly man needed something from you. “Speak.” You say. In the background, the two other guards grab a new subject from the cage. “The last letter you sent to your… acquaintances. The messenger came back with it. There is nothing there anymore.” You pause in watching the two guards dragging a screaming boy to your research room. You stare at the ugly man. “What do you mean nothing there? They have been there for at least three years.” “Yet the place is now empty. No trace of the people… or their subject. No papers. Just an empty facility.” You frown. Yes… the subject they had. That $child they always refused to share with you… The one you always wanted under your knife. You remember the one time you were invited to visit them. Oh that broken little $child, $HairColor hair and $SkinColor skin, all marred by the scars and bruises. Such a broken little thing. There must be something about that one. It was just a sense you had, a tingling on your mind the moment you had laid eyes on the $child. Oh, how you had wanted your hands on that one! You were certain you could have coaxed out the secrets from that one. How had the Aspirants of Daborh known where to get such a prize specimen? It was infuriating! “All of it is gone? They had an extensive operation.” You should have their compound looted. Stripped and searched. The man nods. “All gone, or so the messenger says.” You frown some more. What could do that? The Aspirants of Daborh were the largest of the organizations who heard the truth of the world. You were not a part of them, rather you are or were more a competitor, an independent genius in search of the truth. What could have happened? Wocdes was full of creatures and monsters that could wipe out people, but that facility had been heavily defended. Which is why you never went after their subject. Too dangerous. Perhaps they had made an enemy of someone or something powerful. Been careless. Old monsters were about a plenty. “Send a team. Find everything that can be found. Bring me any survivors and notes. Anything you can find, and find out what happened.” “Yes boss.” “Hurry up. They have other branches. They will send people too. Be the first. Do not let anyone find out I sent you… Bring me anyone who stands in your way if you can. Kill them if you can’t.” “Yes boss.” You pick up your knife and approach the table. The guards have strapped the boy into position. This one is young, a teenager. Wonderful. You decide to search this one’s neck. You grab the boy by the mouth and start inserting your knife into soft flesh under his chin. @@.blur;“Slice, <font face='splater'>sl</font>ice. Sear<font face='splater'>ch</font> for it. Fi <font face='splater'>n</font>d the L <font face='splater'>eGaC</font>y.”@@ The voice inside your head whispers. Oh such a sweet sound. Yes. You will find all the secrets. You must find the truth. You will be the one to discover everything. The knife slices open the neck, blood pours out. A choking sound, the boy is gasping for breath. You plunge your fingers into the cut and spread it for your inspection. Just another day in search of the truth. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Chapter 3|Chapter 3 fadein]]</div> </div><</nobr>> /*This is about 1000 words */ /*??? POV VILLAIN: Nylora Harley Lestat. A WOMAN DRIVEN BY THE VOICES IN HER HEAD: CREATURES OF PRIFORE SEEKING TO BREAK/DEFEAT THE GUARDIAN; THE LAST PURE BLOODED MEMBER OF THE RACE SHEO CREATED (VOID WALKERS). ALL THE VILLAIN KNOWS IS THAT THEY MUST FIND THE “The LEGACY” (OF THE VOID WALKERS)” and figure out their weakness. The organization that held MC also heard these voices, but from a different creature trapped in Prifore. These creatures managed to tell a rough location of MC based on a bit of blood from the Guardian during one invasion of the World Gate in Prifore that the Guardian stopped. This creature riled up all the lesser beings and then managed to wound the guardian a bit. The organization that had you: The Aspirants of Daborh, daborh is the creature whose voice they heard. They could not find the legacy, so they decided to try and see what would happen if they let you be, left you chained up and worked on other tests. Trying to see of something would show up to get you. Prepared a trap. The creature whose voice/will VILLAIN (Nylora) hears: Lastris <div class="choice-item">[[End of ??? POV.|Chapter 3 fadein]]</div> */

<<if $play_dead is 1>>\ <<addshy -5>><<addcareful -3>>\ You try to sit back up! You will just show them you are fine. Havard stops you, his hands on your shoulders. He gently settles you back down on the bed. "Please, rest and answer the questions as best you can." You have little choice but to settle down. You suppose that trying to get back up without an explanation after just randomly falling down is a bit short sighted. <<elseif $play_dead is 2>>\ <<addinnocence -5>><<addstoic 3>><<addcareful 3>>\ You are not really sure you should tell them. What if they become mean because you do? Still, that look Havard has… He won’t just give up will he. He wants an answer, and seems worried about you. As much as you feel apprehensive about relealing you tried sneaking out of bed and your legs just gave out, it seems you have to give some kind of an explanation. <<elseif $play_dead is 3>>\ <<addstoic 5>><<addLexia -2>>\ You just stare blankly at him. How are you supposed to explain your thought process? <<if $nonverbal is true>> You don’t even talk.<</if>> For a moment you change to stare at Lexia as a glimmer of light catches your eye. Her armor. She is still hovering behind Havard. Lexia gives you a little wave, one that you don’t return. You just stare blankly. She waves again, and smiles hopefully.... You keep staring. A third wave. What are you supposed to do? She is practically holding her breath, yet you just stay still. Luckily, Havard makes a small coughing sound, so you turn to look at him. <<elseif $play_dead is 4>>\ <<addshy 5>>\ You fidget a bit in place. His gaze is gentle, and Lexia seems mostly worried, but the entire thing feels so stupid now. It feels silly. You tried sneaking out of bed and your legs just gave out and they seem genuinely worried. You fidget a bit more while you consider. It is embarrassing and your face feels hot for some reason. You don't want to tell them. Still, you work up your courage. <<elseif $play_dead is 5>>\ <<addinnocence 5>><<addstoic -3>><<addoblivious 1>><<addLexia 2>>\ You nod vigorously at Havard multiple times. You would smile at him, but you have discovered your smiles are odd, so you don’t. A flash of light catches your eye, so you tilt your head and stare at Lexia curiously, completely forgetting that Havard asked you several questions. She is so shiny! And that red hair! <<if $HairColor is "red">> It’s like yours! <<else>> It looks like her head is on fire! <</if>> Lexia gives you a little wave behind Havard, one that you contemplate returning. You are supposed to return waves right? She waves again, and smiles hopefully at you. You start raising your hand to wave back but Havard makes a small coughing sound, so you turn to look at him. Right, he was asking you stuff. <<elseif $play_dead is 6>>\ You clear your throat. <<addfriendly 5>>\ <<elseif $play_dead is 7>>\ You clear your throat. <<addfriendly -5>>\ <</if>>\ You stare at Havard, who looks at you calmly, waiting for an explanation. You glance at Lexia, hovering behind Havard and looking at you waving at you when you look over. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ You keep staring. You don't speak, how are you supposed to explan yourself. In the background, Lexia tilts her head puzzled. Havard observes you. “Right. Let’s do one question at a time then. Just in case. Nod or shake your head.” Well that could work. You can do that. "Are you alright?” You nod. “Did you fall down?” Another nod. “Did you slip or stumble on something?” You shake your head. Havard considers. Then his eyes focus on your legs. They are shaking a bit. “Did your legs give out from under you.” You nod <<if $play_dead is 1>> vigorously. <<elseif $play_dead is 2>> slowly.<<elseif $play_dead is 3>> blankly. <<elseif $play_dead is 4>> shyly.<<elseif $play_dead is 5>> vigorously. <<elseif $play_dead is 6>> calmly. <<elseif $play_dead is 7>>curtly. <<endif>> “Then Lexia caught you.” Lexia nods. “Was anything wrong with you?” This one you consider a moment. <<if $Lexiareaction != 1 >> You wanted to not be held, so you took action to avoid it. Now you are on the soft bed and can see her better. Seeing her fully helps when you don’t have to strain your neck. Feels less like someone grasping at you and trying to hold you down. She is no faceless monster. <<else>> You were fine being held since Havard seemed to trust this Lexia. <</if>> But no, nothing was really “wrong” with you by your standards anyway. So, you shake your head. Lexia looks puzzled. Havard observes you calmly while thinking. “Then why did…” Lexia starts but goes quiet as you stare at her. She must have realized complicated questions are our since you don’t talk. “Oh right. Sorry.” "To summarize, you got out of bed and fell down. Then Lexia caught you." You nod <<if $play_dead is 1>> immediately. There. They got it! <<elseif $play_dead is 2>> hesitantly. You observe their reactions carefully. <<elseif $play_dead is 3>> blankly. No point in denying it. <<elseif $play_dead is 4>> hesitantly. Your cheeks feel hot. <<elseif $play_dead is 5>> vigorously. You had thought it was a good idea at the time! And it worked! <<elseif $play_dead is 6>> calmly. <<elseif $play_dead is 7>>curtly. <<endif>> <<if $Lexiareaction != 1 >> “You did not like being held? Because you did not know her?” You nod again. Now they have the entire chain of events. <</if>> <<else>>\ “I am fine. My legs just gave up, after I snuck out of bed because I was not sleepy.” You <<if $play_dead is 1>> announce boldly. <<elseif $play_dead is 2>> say hesitantly. You observe their reactions carefully. <<elseif $play_dead is 3>> say blankly. No point in denying it. <<elseif $play_dead is 4>> say hesitantly. Your cheeks feel hot.<<elseif $play_dead is 5>> announce with no preamble. You had thought it was a good idea at the time! And it worked! Until it did not. <<elseif $play_dead is 6>> say calmly. <<elseif $play_dead is 7>> say curtly. <</if>> <<endif>>\ Havard looks at you calmly, then looks at Lexia. Lexia looks at Havard and then looks at you. You wait, wondering what they will do to you… Lexia bursts out laughing. All the tension and worry go out of her, and she beams. Havard sighs, letting out a deep breath. For a moment you are worried, but he smiles at you just like he always does. He even reaches over to help you sit up in bed. It was awkward laying down and staring up at them so this is a good sign. “While I wish you had simply alerted me that you wished to get up, I am glad you are not hurt.” Havard says, but he is clearly not mad at you. “Yep.” Lexia agrees. “Good that you were just trying to sneak around a bit.” You stare at them… They are not going to torture you now? Throw you out? Put you in the void? They are smiling at you. They just let you worry them, and then they smile at you? They are so weird. Why are they being weird? Should you do something? Say something? <<set $silent to false>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You squirm a bit in place. “I am sorry.” |Chapter 2_8_4][$apologize_for_playing_dead to true]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You squirm a bit in place, but say nothing. You stare at them with wide eyes to express you are sorry. |Chapter 2_8_4][$apologize_for_playing_dead to true, $silent to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare at them blankly, not really knowing what to do. |Chapter 2_8_4][$character_choice to 'stoic', $silent to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don’t think you did anything wrong so you just watch them warily. |Chapter 2_8_4][$character_choice to 'jaded', $silent to true]]</div> </div><</nobr>> /*<<if $Lexia_are_you_fine is true>>\ <<if $nonverbal>>You nod to indicate you are fine. <<else>> "Fine," you say. <</if>> You really are by your measure at least. You are not in the void, No one is carving away at you. Life is good. "Oh. Good." Lexia smiles at you. <<else>>\ <</if>>\*/

<<set $LexiaMeetingReaction to "play dead">>\ <<if $play_dead is 1>>\ <<addshy -5>><<addcareful -3>>\ You try to sit back up! You will just show them you are fine. Havard stops you, his hands on your shoulders. He gently settles you back down on the bed. "Please, rest and answer the questions as best you can." You have little choice but to settle down. You suppose that trying to get back up without an explanation after worrying them is a bit short sighted. <<elseif $play_dead is 2>>\ <<addinnocence -5>><<addstoic 3>><<addcareful 3>>\ You are not really sure you should tell them. What if they become mean because you do? Still, that look Havard has… He won’t just give up will he. He wants an answer, and seems worried about you. As much as you feel apprehensive about relealing you were only playing dead, it seems you have to give some kind of an explanation. <<elseif $play_dead is 3>>\ <<addstoic 5>> You just stare blankly at him. How are you supposed to explain your thought process? <<if $nonverbal is true>> You don’t even talk.<</if>> For a moment you change to stare at Lexia as a glimmer of light catches your eye. Her armor. She is still hovering behind Havard. Lexia gives you a little wave, one that you don’t return. You just stare blankly. She waves again, and smiles hopefully.... You keep staring. A third wave. What are you supposed to do? She is practically holding her breath, yet you just stay still. Luckily, Havard makes a small coughing sound, so you turn to look at him. <<elseif $play_dead is 4>>\ <<addshy 5>>\ You fidget a bit in place. His gaze is gentle, and Lexia seems mostly worried, but the entire thing feels so stupid now. It feels silly. You worried them by playing dead and they seem genuinely worried. You fidget a bit more while you consider. It is embarrassing and your face feels hot for some reason. You don't want to tell them. Still, you work up your courage. <<elseif $play_dead is 5>>\ <<addinnocence 5>><<addstoic -3>><<addoblivious 1>>\ You nod vigorously at Havard multiple times. You would smile at him, but you have discovered your smiles are odd, so you don’t. A flash of light catches your eye, so you tilt your head and stare at Lexia curiously, completely forgetting that Havard asked you several questions. She is so shiny! And that red hair! <<if $HairColor is "red">> It’s like yours! <<else>> It looks like her head is on fire! <</if>> Lexia gives you a little wave behind Havard, one that you contemplate returning. You are supposed to return waves right? She waves again, and smiles hopefully at you. You start raising your hand to wave back but Havard makes a small coughing sound, so you turn to look at him. Right, he was asking you stuff. <<elseif $play_dead is 6>>\ You clear your throat. <<addfriendly 5>>\ <<elseif $play_dead is 7>>\ You clear your throat. <<addfriendly -5>>\ <</if>>\ You stare at Havard, who looks at you calmly, waiting for an explanation. <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ You keep staring. You don't speak, how are you supposed to explan yourself. In the background, Lexia tilts her head puzzled. Havard observes you. “Right. Let’s do one question at a time then. Just in case. Nod or shake your head.” Well that could work. You can do that. "Are you alright?” You nod. “Did you fall down?” Another nod. “Did you slip or stumble on something?” You shake your head. Havard considers. Then his eyes focus on your legs. They are shaking a bit. “Did your legs give out from under you.” You nod <<if $play_dead is 1>> vigorously. <<elseif $play_dead is 2>> slowly.<<elseif $play_dead is 3>> blankly. <<elseif $play_dead is 4>> shyly.<<elseif $play_dead is 5>> vigorously. <<elseif $play_dead is 6>> calmly. <<elseif $play_dead is 7>>curtly. <<endif>> “Then Lexia caught you.” Lexia nods. “You went limp in her arms?” You nod. No use denying it. “Was anything wrong with you?” This one you consider a moment. You wanted to not be held, so you played dead. But no, nothing was really “wrong” with you. Not by your standards anyway. So, you shake your head. Lexia looks puzzled. Havard observes you calmly while thinking. “Then why did…” Lexia starts but goes quiet as you stare at her. She must have realized complicated questions are our since you don’t talk. “Oh right. Sorry.” “Did you perhaps choose to play dead?” Havard asks softly. You nod <<if $play_dead is 1>> immediately. There. They got it! <<elseif $play_dead is 2>> hesitantly. You observe their reactions carefully. <<elseif $play_dead is 3>> blankly. No point in denying it. <<elseif $play_dead is 4>> hesitantly. Your cheeks feel hot. <<elseif $play_dead is 5>> vigorously. You had thought it was a good idea at the time! And it worked! <<elseif $play_dead is 6>> calmly. <<elseif $play_dead is 7>>curtly. <<endif>>\ “Because you did not know her?” You nod again. Now they have the entire chain of events. <<else>>\ “I am fine. My legs just gave up, and I played dead because I don’t know her.” You <<if $play_dead is 1>> announce boldly. <<elseif $play_dead is 2>> say hesitantly. You observe their reactions carefully. <<elseif $play_dead is 3>> say blankly. No point in denying it. <<elseif $play_dead is 4>> say hesitantly. Your cheeks feel hot.<<elseif $play_dead is 5>> announce with no preamble. You had thought it was a good idea at the time! And it worked! <<elseif $play_dead is 6>> say calmly. <<elseif $play_dead is 7>> say curtly. <</if>> You also point at Lexia with a bandaged finger. <<endif>>\ Havard looks at you calmly, then looks at Lexia. Lexia looks at Havard and then looks at you. You wait, wondering what they will do to you… Lexia bursts out laughing. All the tension and worry go out of her, and she beams. Havard sighs, letting out a deep breath. For a moment you are worried, but he smiles at you just like he always does. He even reaches over to help you sit up in bed. It was awkward laying down and staring up at them so this is a good sign. “While I wish you had simply alerted me that you wished to get up, I am glad you are not hurt.” Havard says, but he is clearly not mad at you. “We were worried something was wrong when you went limp.” “Yep.” Lexia agrees. “Good that you were just trying to sneak around a bit and then pretending to be dead.” You stare at them… They are not going to torture you now? Throw you out? Put you in the void? They are smiling at you. They just let you worry them, and then they smile at you? They are so weird. Why are they being weird? Should you do something? Say something? <<set $silent to false>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You squirm a bit in place. “I am sorry.” |Chapter 2_8_4][$apologize_for_playing_dead to true]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You squirm a bit in place, but say nothing. You stare at them with wide eyes to express you are sorry. |Chapter 2_8_4][$apologize_for_playing_dead to true, $silent to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare at them blankly, not really knowing what to do. |Chapter 2_8_4][$character_choice to 'stoic', $silent to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don’t think you did anything wrong so you just watch them warily. |Chapter 2_8_4][$character_choice to 'jaded', $silent to true]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $apologize_for_playing_dead>>\ <<addshy 5>><<addinnocence 3>><<addHavard 5>><<addLexia 5>>\ <<if $nonverbal is not true and $silent is not true>>\ “Sorry...” You say, mumble really, squirming a bit in place. Lexia beams at you. “That is so cute! Look at those wide $EyeColor eyes! I bet I can teach you to do puppy dog eyes like no other kid.” Lexia practically coos at you. "You'll be a terror on the kitchen staff." <<else>>\ “Wow, those $EyeColor eyes are huge!” Lexia says. “I bet I can teach you to do puppy dog eyes like no other, kid.” Lexia practically coos at you. "You'll be a terror on the kitchen staff." <</if>>\ You startle a bit. You were trying to say you were sorry! What is a puppy? You have a vague sense that puppies are tiny and adorable. Are puppy dog eyes similar to puppies in cuteness? But what is cuteness? And she said your eyes are big? Is she saying you are tiny and adorable? Is that a good thing or a bad thing? What was that about kitchens? It is confusing! What even are kitchens? Isn't that where food is made? You don't want to scare the food! You just had some nice food for the first time and if it starts running away when your legs don't work, it would be a problem... Does food run away? Your mind is whirling, working at speeds you never thought possible. Unfortunately, you have no way to ponder all these mysteries. “Lexia.” Havard sounds odd. Not like when he talks to you. Something odd is tinging his voice. Exasperation, your internal sense tells you. “I believe $MCname is trying to communicate that $heshe <<is>> sorry for worrying us.” <<if $named_by_Havard>>\ Hey! That is you! Havard gave you that name. You have to remember that you are $MCname. You have a name now. It feels important. <</if>>\ <<if $nonverbal or $silent>>\ Lexia tilts her head. “Really?” She turns to you. “That is so sweet!” She beams at you. Sweet? Apologizing is sweet? Is that a good thing? <<else>>\ “Oh right. Sorry kid. You are just too cute.” She coos at you. She called you cute. Why is she so odd? No one has ever called you that, as far as you remember.... Is cute a good thing? <</if>>\ <<else>>\ You stare at the two adults <<if $character_choice is 'jaded' >> <<addinnocence -5>> suspiciously. You don’t think you did anything wrong, but they seem to be taking this all too well. You need to be on the lookout for any signs of deceit. <<elseif $character_choice is 'stoic'>> <<addstoic 5>> <<addoblivious 2>> blankly. What are you supposed to do now? You made them worry but are not sure what you should actually do about it. Living outside the void is so hard. How do people know how to act? There are so many situations where you have no idea what to do.<</if>> <<if $character_choice is 'jaded' >> “Oh look at those squinting eyes. Don’t worry kid, I don’t bite!” <<elseif $character_choice is 'stoic'>> “Oh such an blank face! It is impressive for someone so young! I bet you and Atru could have competitions.” <</if>> Lexia announces as she stares at you. You turn to stare at her in turn, your gaze leaving Havard for now. This woman is so odd. She beams at you. <<if $character_choice is 'jaded' >> You squint your eyes again. What is her deal? <<elseif $character_choice is 'stoic'>> Your stare is just as blank as before. You have no idea what to make of her. <</if>> She laughs delightedly. “Ah, such intense staring. Is it my armor? Hair? Well watch this!” She focuses and her hair flares up, glowing red like it was alive. <<if $HeritageType.includes("elemental")>>\ She is like you! Except she can turn off the glowing! Lexia beams at you. “Yep. We are similar! Both with elemental heritage.” She winks. “I’ll teach you how to turn off the glowing later. It’s not hard.” You nod. That could be useful. You don't know if you want to glow all the time but knowing how to not glow is good. “So cute.” <<else>>\ <<if $skipped_haircut is true>>\ What is that? Why is her head glowy? That's odd. Havard clears his throat. “She has some elemental heritage. We can have a little lesson about it later.”” <<set $HeritageCodex to true>><<notify 3s>>New codex entry.<</notify>>\ <<else>>\ <<set $SawLexiaHeritage to true>>\ Wow! That must be her heritage. Havard told you about them earlier. <<if $HeritageType.length > 0>> Like your <<HeritageFeatureList>>. <</if>> Glowing hair is pretty cool! The glow is reflected from her already shiny armor and amplified. She is super shiny right now! A little too shiny… it’s hurting your eyes a bit. Lexia turns it down, and beams at you. “Cool right!” She says happily. You nod, partially in relief and partially to agree with her. “So cute.” <</if>><</if>><</if>>\ Lexia is smiling and reaching a hand towards you. Your head specifically. Her gauntlets are gone. When did she take those off? Why is she coming closer? You have no idea what is happening. Your internal sense tells you she means you no harm, but you still don’t know what is happening. Should you be worried about this? Before you can react further, Havard’s hand stops Lexia. You stare at him curiously. Were you wrong? Was she going to hurt you? You don't think so... “What?” Lexia asks Havard, looking confused. Havard in turn looks at you meaningfully. Lexia's gaze follows. Whatever is on your face, makes her falter a bit. “Oh… right. Sorry. Too used to heatpatting things... people. I mean people. And dogs. Cats. The occasional horse.... A few birds....” She says sheepishly, looking a bit awkward rubbing the back of her head. Then she shakes hear head and slaps her cheeks. Why did she do that? “Want a headpat kid?” She asks. What the is a headpat? Is it literal? How hard is the patting part? Like trying to push your head in? That does not sound nice. Though you have a vague feeling, it not quite so extreme. You glance at Havard. “It is up to you. I promise it is nothing bad.” He says. Hmm... nothing bad... but it involves your head and patting. If it is nothing bad, you assume your head does not get pushed in... <<set $agree_to_headpat to false>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod. You agree to this headpat thing.|Chapter 2_8_5][$agree_to_headpat to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head. You don’t agree to this headpat thing.|Chapter 2_8_5]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[“Ok” you say. You agree to this headpat thing.|Chapter 2_8_5][$agree_to_headpat to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“No” you say. You don’t agree to this headpat thing.|Chapter 2_8_5]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<div align="center"><h1>Heritage and races</h1></div>\ Wocdes and the city of Firgrat and the continent of Anwol it is located on in particular contain countless races. Long years of friendly relations between races due to close proximity of living together has led to the fact that most people in the region have mixed blood in their lineage, meaning that people of different races had babies together. There are exceptions, the rare old individuals can be members of a specific race, usually a very long-lived one. Like dragons, elves or kitsune, they all live very long lives. The traits of some races seem to be more common than others and some races do technically strongly persist but only due to the nature of their species. Usually due to any child born to a member of such a race is of the said race as regardless of the other parent. Even so some of the traits of all parents do exhibit themselves in some ways, even if subtle. <<button 'Close Codex'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<div align="center"><h2>Humans</h2></div>\ "While all races engaged in… close relations resulting in all sorts of combined heritages, humans were among the most prolific. Numerous to begin with, humans have proven to be perhaps the most enthusiastic about the mixed blood that results from unions with more... permanent races. After all, we humans live short lives compared to many races. Some would call humans the race of change - always evolving, and always seeking to move forward. No matter the means..." That last bit sounded a bit bitter. "Still, humans with heritage features, like you, are among the most common. Though whatever humans are still considered human since so many of us have clear heritage features is somewhat of an ongoing debate in some parts of the world. Not so much in Firgrat since there are more of us here than anywhere else." - Havard Among the most numerous among the people of Wocdes, humans range widely in appearance. Through close relations with other races, they often manifest heritage features. While not inherently as physically strong as orcs or as long-lived as elves, humans are known for their incredible adaptability and tenacity. Their shorter lifespans compared to races like elves and dwarves mean they are driven by a sense of urgency, constantly striving to leave their mark on the world. This sometimes leads to rapid innovation and progress but also to conflict, as they seek resources or land. The Ancients however, have largely culled this instinct, forcing humans to behave within their means and not encroach on their neighbors. Their cultures can vary greatly between kingdoms or regions. In one area, honor and martial prowess may be prized above all else, with knights, warriors or martial artists ruling the land, while in another, councils or kings might govern society. Humans are highly adaptable, able to incorporate (or steal) elements from the cultures they encounter. Humans' greatest weakness is often their mortality and impatience. They burn brightly but live relatively short lives compared to some of the elder races. Their pursuit of power and legacy can lead them to make rash decisions or seek shortcuts through forbidden magic or dangerous alliances. However, this same drive makes them formidable foes, as they never shy away from challenges, often striving to push beyond their limitations. Their strength lies in their flexibility and ambition. They are quick to learn and often overcome their lack of inherent magical or physical superiority through sheer willpower, intellect, and innovation. <div align="center"><h2>Elves</h2></div>\ "The elves are renowned for their eternal youth, and grace. Usually considered close to nature and have an easier time with magic than most other races." - Havard Elves are often tall and slender, with an ethereal quality to their appearance. Their skin can range from pale, moonlit tones to warm golden hues or deep, earthy browns, often depending on their environment or magical affinity. They are the very picture of an immortal race; with often described as ageless, with smooth, flawless skin that shows little to no signs of aging until the very end of their long lives when they fall into blessed sleep for centuries or millennia at a time, until they are returned vitalized and renewed. Some elves possess faint luminescence to their skin, especially when in moonlight or starlight, further emphasizing their mystical nature. There are also aquatic elves, that live underwater. Elves are deeply attuned to magic, and the Eternal Flow. Rarely when new elves are born or those with majority of elven heritage, they are blessed by the Eternal Flow with an innate understanding of the arcane arts. Many elves possess the ability to manipulate the world around them with natural ease though they are often drawn to magic in its purest forms. Such elven magic is highly ritualistic and complex, often taking days, weeks, months or even years to weave complex, elegant enchantments though song and dance. Beyond magic, elves are renowned for their agility and grace. As an immortal race, they have the time to master any skill they wish, making them exceptional archers, able to hit targets from impossible distances, and their skill with blades and other weapons is legendary. Their movements are fluid, as if they dance through the world rather than walk, and their quick reflexes make them formidable in battle. With heightened senses, a keen eyesight that enables elves to see in low light or even darkness, and sharp hearing that picks up the faintest sounds, only a fool would challenge a true elf. Very few true elves remain in the Wocdes, and they are elusive, grieving for a past most have now forgotten. <div align="center"><h2>Fey</h2></div>\ "The fey... are more complicated. Suffice to say, there are a great many types of fey, but a common characteristic is a penchant for mischief and leave it at that." - Havard The fey are the most diverse of all races in Wocdes. The more benevolent or playful side of the Fey is represented by light fey, known for their beauty, creativity, and love of music and dance, but they can still be tricky and dangerous if crossed. The darker counterpart to the light fey are the dark Fey; chaotic, dangerous and vengeful or so the rumors go. Though not inherently evil, they are known for being crueler and more capricious than their light cousins. Some fey specialize in trickery and mischief, such as pixies, sprites, or gremlins. These fey love to play pranks, sometimes harmless, sometimes dangerous. The fey follow their own sets of rules, which can be incomprehensible to mortals. Their behavior is often dictated by emotions, seasons, or arcane laws unknown to most. Fey can change their minds or emotions in an instant, making them seem unstable and insane. They may go from being playful and kind to vengeful or malicious without warning. This makes dealing with the fey dangerous, due to their unpredictable nature. Many fey are however bound by ancient, unspoken rules. Fey are magical creatures by their very nature, and their abilities often seem to defy logic. Fey beings come in a wide range of forms, often mirroring the elements or aspects of nature they are tied to. However, they are typically graceful and otherworldly, radiating an aura that sets them apart from mortal races. They may appear in humanoid form, but many also take on forms that combine human traits with animalistic or elemental features. Some may have wings like butterflies or dragonflies, horns like a deer, or even bodies that shimmer like water or flames. Yet all of this is ephemeral to the fey, their forms often shift depending on their mood, the environment, or the season. Fey may wear robes of spider silk, gowns woven from flowers, or clothing made of mist and starlight. Others might wear natural armor made of bark, leaves, or stone, depending on the type of fey. Their attire usually reflects the natural forces they are aligned with. The Fey and Elves are related, though neither race would like to admit it. The playful fey and the dignified elves do not always get along. <div align="center"><h2>Dragons</h2></div>\ "Dragons are ... well huge, winged, four legged creatures, that are often associated with breathing fire, but there are different types. They are also highly intelligent and magical." - Havard Dragons come in diverse sizes and colors, and varying degrees of intelligence. Ancient dragons are beings straight out of legend. These beings are both magical and mysterious, both revered and feared. They are possibly the oldest known race in Wocdes, even beating out elves and the fey. Awe-inspiring, ancient, and immensely powerful creatures. The eldest of the dragons are seen as embodiments of primal forces, often connected to nature, elements, or magic itself. They are proud, territorial, and possessive creatures. They value their independence and hate being controlled or subjugated. Dragons are generally solitary creatures, often living in isolated places. Dragons are famous hoarders of riches and artifacts. Most dragons are massive, towering over most other creatures. Their bodies are muscular and covered in scales, which shimmer in various colors—ranging from fiery reds, emerald greens, sapphire blues, and onyx blacks to shimmering golds, silvers, or even iridescent hues. These scales are nearly impenetrable, like natural armor, making dragons one of the most resilient creatures in existence. Dragons are incredibly strong and agile despite their size. They can rend through steel with their claws and crush stone with their tails. Their wings enable them to fly at high speeds, giving them a significant advantage over ground-bound foes. Dragons are known for their mastery over powerful elemental forces. Depending on the type of dragon, they may control fire, ice, lightning, poison, or even the elements of earth or water. The most iconic power of a dragon is its breath weapon; a devastating attack that unleashes their elemental fury, such as a cone of fire, a blast of freezing ice, or a torrent of lightning. Some dragons can also breathe out corrosive acid, deadly gases, or even pure magic. Magic is also a key aspect of a dragon’s power. Many dragons are ancient spellcasters, capable of casting potent arcane spells or incantations that most mages could not even dream of. Their magic often surpasses even the most powerful magic users of other races, as dragons have all the time in the world, often spanning millennia or even more, to master their craft, only matched by elder elves, demons, fey and kitsune. Dragons are also highly resistant to magic, with some being completely immune to certain types of spells. Commonly, dragons possess intelligence far surpassing that of most mortals. Exceptions exist, some are more beasts than intelligent creatures. Yet, no matter what, they are often highly cunning, able to outwit and outmaneuver enemies through strategy as much as brute force. They are also often capable of communicating directly with other beings’ minds. <div align="center"><h2>Beastkin</h2></div>\ "Beastkin is a general term, it does not refer to one specific people but a set of varied tribes. Each tribe takes traits from a specific animal." - Havard Beastkin are humanoid creatures with distinct animalistic features, blending the characteristics of humans with various beasts. They come in many forms, with traits that mirror the animals they resemble—such as wolves, tigers, foxes, or even reptiles. It is often theorized that beastkins are just humans with multiple heritage features, but this has been hard to prove. Their behavior is often more primal, more akin to their animal counterparts than humans with beastkin heritage. There are also beastkin that are more animal than person, but the lines are blurred. Beastkin typically possess fur, feathers, scales, or other skin textures depending on their specific type of animal kinship. Some may have sharp claws, tails, horns, or even wings. Their faces often combine human features with animal-like characteristics, such as a snout, elongated ears, or slit-like eyes. Tails are a common feature among Beastkin, particularly those with mammalian ancestry like wolf-beastkin or fox-beastkin. Their tails serve as a tool for balance, communication, and sometimes even combat. Beastkin culture often revolves around survival, family, and loyalty. They tend to form tight-knit communities, like packs or tribes, where everyone looks out for one another. <div align="center"><h2>Kitsune</h2></div>\ “You see, kitsune are… fox spirits. Shapeshifting, fox-fire, and several tails up to nine depending on age. They are much more… mystical than most other species. It is hard to know what is true and what is not.” - Havard Kitsune are mythical fox-spirits known for their intelligence, shape-shifting abilities, and magical prowess. These beings age incredibly slowly, with many living for hundreds and thousands of years. As they grow older, they gain additional tails and more magical power, making them nearly impossible to defeat by mortals. The more tails a Kitsune has, the stronger they are, with nine-tailed Kitsune being the most powerful. Kitsune are known for being mischievous, playful, and enigmatic. They enjoy tricking humans, sometimes harmlessly for amusement, and other times more maliciously when they feel wronged or insulted. Their tricks can range from playful illusions to elaborate or cruel deceptions. However, they are not inherently malevolent. Kitsune can also be benevolent protectors, especially to those they have grown to care for or those who show them respect. Some Kitsune form deep bonds with mortals. They are particularly fond of those who treat them kindly, and... sufficiently in awe. Despite their playful nature, Kitsune are incredibly intelligent and cunning. This intelligence can manifest as either a playful wit or a darker, more calculating demeanor, depending on the individual Kitsune. Loyalty is also a key trait for many Kitsune. Once a Kitsune has made a bond, they can be fiercely loyal to their friends or companions and may act rashly. This loyalty can span lifetimes, as Kitsune outlive many of their mortal friends. Insulting them is a bad idea, as they are fiercely proud. When angered, Kitsune can be dangerous enemies, using their magic and trickery to wreak havoc. The most famous form of Kitsune magic is the ability to conjure foxfire. This blue or green flame they can manipulate to confuse, guide, or attack others. Challenging an old kitsune to a magic duel is a horrible idea, as kitsune instinctively use their tails to cast magic. Having nine tails and two hands makes elder kitsune among the most prolific creatures in terms of magical output. <div align="center"><h2>Garuda</h2></div>\ "The garuda are well, bird-people. They have colored feathers, wings in place of arms with dexterous talons to be used as fingers. Usually also a bird’s face with a usually curved beak. There are a few of them around still." - Havard Garuda are humanoid figures in appearance with the head, wings, and talons of a bird, while the rest of its body is humanoid. Their lives are longer than humans, but they are still mortal. Master's of natural flight, they have integrated well into life at Firgrat. Garuda are agile and fast but have hollow bones making them susceptible to breaking them. Yet, they more than make up for this with their natural advantages. Their kicks are especially powerful with their taloned legs. The garuda are often described as the people of freedom, with their ability to fly freely. They are humanoid sized and therefore very agile in the air. There are tales of //the Garuda//, a massive, eagle-like bird thought to be the progenitor of their race.. The Garuda's wingspan is said to stretch wide enough to block the sun. Its feathers shimmer in shades of gold, red, and bronze, giving it a radiant appearance in the light. It is a being of immense strength, speed, and wisdom, and is revered as a protector of the garuda people. Yet, only tales remain now, it has not been seen in a truly long time. /*killed by the void*/ <div align="center"><h2>Demons</h2></div>\ "Hmmm, how to put this. Demons have a horrible reputation. Are thought of as evil by majority of people." Havard scratches his head. "But I am not sure how true it is. You see, there is a demon Ancient, who is never here in Firgrat, but it is still well known. Therefore, I would guess they cannot be all bad." - Havard Like the fey, demons come in countless forms, demons can vary widely in appearance, motivation, and strength, ranging from mindless beasts to cunning overlords. These otherworldly beings are associated with darkness, chaos, and destruction, though it is unsure if this is universally applicable to their kind. Yet demonic heritage features are fairly common amidst mortals, speaking to their allure for those seeking companionship. Their forms vary from humanoid to beast-like to shadow or elemental forms. Typically, demons creatures of immense power, wielding abilities that far surpass mortals. Most demons are incredibly difficult to kill. They may regenerate from injuries at supernatural speeds, or their physical forms may be destroyed, but their essence lingers, waiting to be given new form or corrupt the eternal flow. Truly powerful demons are considered immortal, though certain magical weapons may be able to banish or destroy them permanently. Demons can often be summoned or banished through arcane rituals. Some demons are bound by pacts or contracts, unable to break their word once an agreement is made. This can be a double-edged sword for mortals who attempt to make deals with demons, as the wording of the contract can easily be twisted to the demon’s advantage. <div align="center"><h2>Dryads</h2></div>\ "Dryads are beings or perhaps spirits of nature. Their bodies, while humanoid often look as if made from wood. They might be made from wood. I admit to not knowing." Havard ponders and rubs his chin. "To be honest, I do not know much about them. I have never met one. They like forests and nature, and therefore Firgrat is not an ideal place for them. I also cannot say why your heritage chose to show itself now, but it has." - Havard Dryads are usually humanoid figures, though their forms often carry elements of their arboreal origin. Many dryads have bark-like skin that resembles the texture and color of the trees they are connected to. Their hair often resembles leaves, flowers, or even cascading vines. The color may change with the seasons, turning vibrant green in spring, golden in autumn, or silver under moonlight. Some dryads' hair blooms with flowers, reflecting the cycle of nature. As protectors of the forests, dryads possess a range of magical abilities that connect them to nature, allowing them to manipulate plants and animals. Many an unwelcome intruder has found the forest becoming alive around them. Dryads are fiercely protective of their forests. They are generally peaceful and safe to travelers passing by, but they will defend their homes with ferocity when threatened. Those who harm the trees or disrupt the balance of nature may face their wrath and perish by it. Though powerful, dryads are often shy and reclusive, often avoiding mortal contact. They may hide deep within the woods, only revealing themselves to those they trust or to fellow creatures of nature. <div align="center"><h2>Elementals</h2></div>\ "Elementals are powerful beings made of an element. Generally, the natural elements like fire, water, earth, metal and so forth. I have head tales of more artificial ones as well." Havard ponders and rubs his chin. "To be honest, I do not know much about them. I have never met one, though they are quite secular. I cannot say why your heritage chose to show itself now, but it has. It does not however seem strong enough to manifest any specific element." - Havard Each type of elemental is typically associated with one of the elements such as earth, air, fire, or water. They often possess powers and traits that reflect their elemental nature, making them powerful and enigmatic entities. Their personalities vary depending on their element, stone elementals tend to be steadfast and patient, while air elementals are often free-spirited and playful. It has often been speculated that elemental heritage features come from the fey or demons, not actual elementals. The reason for this is simple, true elementals are rarely seen. And their forms make them unsuitable for procreation with most mortals. <div align="center"><h2>Dwarves</h2></div>\ Dwarves are sturdy, resilient, and industrious beings who excel in craftsmanship and mining with a lifespan in measured in centuries. Known for their strong sense of community and deep connection to the earth, they are often portrayed as proud, honorable, and sometimes stubborn people. Living in mountainous regions or underground cities, dwarves embody the spirit of hard work, loyalty, and tradition. They typically stand between 4 to 5 feet tall but are incredibly broad and muscular, with a dense build that reflects their physical strength. Their faces often have strong, angular features with broad noses, high cheekbones, and deep-set eyes. They typically wear long beards, which are a source of pride and often decorated with beads, braids, or metal clasps. Proud and stubborn, resilient and tenacious, merry yet gruff, and fierce beyond all common sense, dwarves are the best friends and the worst enemies to have. They also are more resistant to magic than most races. <div align="center"><h2>Merfolk</h2></div> "The merfolk dwell in undersea cities and are often thought of as guardians of the sea. They are rather distinctive as they generally have a humanoid upper body with a lower half resembling a fish or other aquatic creatures." -- Havard With a humanoid upper body and a lower half resembling a fish or aquatic creature, merfolk are one of the races living underwater. Merfolk often have large and reflective eyes, webbed fingers, face fins or fin-like ears, and gills along their necks or ribcages. Basically, they adapted to living underwater. Their cities on the sea bottom are legendary, though often hidden deep in the oceans. They often have fins, scales, and webbed fingers but their appearances vary greatly though. Breathing underwater, communicating with sea creatures, and swimming with speed and grace means this race is deadly under water. The merfolk are often portrayed as guardians of the ocean. Their relationship with the world above is complicated, sometimes allies to sailors, sometimes enemies. Pollution, overfishing, or attempting to steal their treasures are all contentious issues with the merfolk and surface dwellers. The merfolk have however developed a bountiful trade with the world above, using seashells, corals, and pearls for trade and decoration. /*~3500 words*/ <<button 'Close Codex'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>> /* Adventurer's Guild: The Crimson Vanguard The Wildheart Expedition Stormrider's Legion The Gilded Hawks The Shadowrune Syndicate Warden's Watch The Ironclasp Adventurers The Vanguard of Valour The Dragon’s Path The Brave and Bold Collective Mage's Guild: The Obsidian Circle The Arcane Relic Keepers The Mystical Path The Nexus of Whispers The Arcane Tower The Crystal Scepter The Moonveil Enclave The Eldritch Order The Council of Elements The Runeweaver Academy Adventurer's Guild: The Lion's Ascent The Horizon Striders The Emberclaw Brigade The Drake's Oath Pathfinder’s Union The Ironclad Brotherhood The Serpent's Trail The Silverfang Company Blades of the Unseen The Eternal March Mage's Guild: The Arcane Forge The Celestial Cabal The Shimmering Spiral The Starfire Court The Etherbound Coven Order of the Astral Eye The Sapphire Conclave Council of the Shifting Winds The Shadowweavers The Arcanaeum of Secrets Adventurer's Guild: The Iron Vanguard Silverblade Fellowship Wanderer's Haven The Bold Expedition Stormbound Seekers The Golden Path Legends of the Wild The Uncharted Order The Gryphon's Roost Emberheart League Mage's Guild: Arcane Sanctum The Obsidian Circle The Eldritch Conclave Enclave of the Infinite The Twilight Veil The Runeweavers Mystic Horizon Order of the Sable Flame The Crystal Tower The Veil of Stars*/

<<if $agree_to_headpat>>\ Lexia beams. She slowly reaches out her hand, and it settles on the top of your head. You hold your breath, waiting to see what happens.... She gently... pats your head. The soft pressure on the top of the head is tender, making you feel... odd. A bit warm on the inside. Like... she cares about you? Is that what it feels like? Feelings are hard. Like expressions. The sensation is unexpectedly soothing, a gentle, reassuring touch. Why does it feel so warm? <<cycle "$cycle">> <<option "How can you ever go back to not getting headpats. You lean into the touch." >> <<option "You are not sure you like it.. It's fine? You don't mind but you are not crazy about it.">> <<option "You don't like it and lean away. Lexia takes no offence.">> <</cycle>> <<linkreplace "Lexia observes your reaction.">>\ <<if $cycle is "How can you ever go back to not getting headpats. You lean into the touch.">>\ <<set $MC_headpats to 'like'>>\ Lexia chuckles. "Oh, you like it? Just like the twins." You nod idly as you focus on the warm feeling, not really listening too much. Lexia keeps patting your head for a good bit. Such a simple gesture that brings you calm and comfort, as if all tension melts away under the light patting motion. It is so peaceful and safe. Just sitting here with Lexia patting your head. You could spend an eternity like this. Finally she stops. You miss the feeling already. <<elseif $cycle is "You are not sure you like it.. It's fine? You don't mind but you are not crazy about it.">>\ <<set $MC_headpats to 'neutral'>>\ You just sit there, as she pats your head. Lexia chuckles. "No strong feelings? That's cool. Not everyone needs to be crazy about headpats. The twins love them, or so it turns out." Really? Is this information you need? You suppose you will meet the twins eventually, so it could be useful information. Though with the state your hands are in and your limited headpat experience, giving good headpats seem unlikely. She stops patting your head and smiles down at you. <<elseif $cycle is "You don't like it and lean away. Lexia takes no offence.">>\ <<set $MC_headpats to 'dislike'>>\ "That's fine, kid." Lexia says and smiles at you. "Not everyone likes headpats, but if you want to test again, let me know." She says. "The twins love them, or so it turns out." Really? Is this information you need? You suppose you will meet the twins eventually, so it could be useful information. Though with the state your hands are in and your limited headpat experience, giving good headpats seem unlikely. She lets her hand drop to her side, but she smiles at you. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["Now then" she says, and kneels in front of you. |Chapter 2_8_6]]</div> </div><</nobr>><</linkreplace>>\ <<else>>\ "That's fine, kid." Lexia says and smiles at you. "Not everyone likes headpats, but if you want to try one, let me know." She says. "The twins love them, or so it turns out." Really? Is this information you need? You suppose you will meet the twins eventually, so it could be useful information. Though with the state your hands are in and your chosen lack of headpat experience, giving good headpats seem unlikely. She lets her hand drop to her side, but she smiles at you. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["Now then" she says, and kneels in front of you.|Chapter 2_8_6]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>

"I think I forgot in all the excitement to introduce myself properly." She says as she is kneeling down in front of you. Those intense blue eyes meet your $EyeColor ones. Why is she down there? And all serious. "I am Lexia. I will be... No, I am your Silver Protector. I am Havard's partner. Together we will help you grow up healthy and strong." She says, not an ounce of uncertainty in her voice. This is a statement. A truth. Help you grown up? Healthy and strong... you glance down at your arms. Is such a thing possible? This could all still be a delusion. <<nobr>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>>Your wings shift a bit behind you, adjusting automatically as you shift uncertainly.<</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> Your tail sways a bit behind you, a sign of uncertainy. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("pointy ears")>><<else>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("animal ears")>><</if>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature twitch a bit uncertainly. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("sea")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("sea")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> The $Feature on your face are changing colors with your uncertain feelings. <</if>><</nobr>>You could wake up in the void? Reality could shatter... <<if $blades_trauma is true>>\ Next to Lexia, Havard nods firmly, agreeing with her. His own hazel eyes are shining with that intense certainty that he sometimes gets. Certainty. <<else>>\ "You know, that is not actually official yet." Havard says, but it sounds weak. Your internal sense tells you, he is only saying it out of some obligation. "Nope. Not having any of that. I decided that it will be us, and everyone will just have to deal with that." Lexia states, not even glancing back. Her eyes have not left you. She seems different now, not so awkward. Not so worried. In this moment, she is certain. You glance at Havard, and see a small approving smile. His own hazel eyes are shining with that intense certainty that he sometimes gets. <</if>>\ In that moment, they seem similar. Both so sure, so certain that they can help you grow up. You stare at Lexia... Your Protector. She... could she really protect you? Is she genuine? Is... is this real? What if the void takes you again? What if the people who took you the first time come back for you? What if more people come for you? Could this shiny woman really protect you? She is wearing armor... That means she is strong right? <<if $blades_trauma is not true>>\ You glance at the thing on her waist. A sword your mind supplies. Could she use that to protect you? A hand and a half sword, commonly called a longsword. You somehow know this. Why do you know this? It is a sword that matches her silver armor. Simple engraving of something on the cross guard. A pommel with some decorative grooves in it. Why do you know so much about swords? No, you cannot focus on this right now. Your mind knows weird things, but the present is more important. <</if>> <<set $LexiaOath to 0>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $trustHavardC2 is true and $blades_trauma is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard said she would protect you, so she must be able to. You just nod. |Chapter 2_8_7][$LexiaOath to $LexiaOath +1]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[There is no way she can protect you, but it is no point in saying so. You just nod.|Chapter 2_8_7][$LexiaOath to $LexiaOath +2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[She says she can protect you, so she must be able to. You nod.|Chapter 2_8_7][$LexiaOath to $LexiaOath +3]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["Can you protect me from the bad people?" you ask in a hushed whisper, afraid of voicing this most inner fear.|Chapter 2_8_7][$LexiaOath to $LexiaOath +4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“Can you really?” You ask bluntly, skeptical. |Chapter 2_8_7][$LexiaOath to $LexiaOath +5]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $LexiaOath is 1>>\ <<addtrust 5>><<addinnocence 2>><<addLexia 5>><<addHavard 5>>\ You glance at Havard for assurance. He nods and smiles softly at you. That smile gives you courage. You nod at Lexia. Lexia smiles at you. Not the beaming grin she seems to do often but a much softer smile. <<elseif $LexiaOath is 2>>\ <<addtrust -2>><<addinnocence -5>><<addLexia -2>><<addHavard -2>>\ You don't think she can protect you, or maybe she does not even want to. But there is no need to tell her that, who knows what she would do to you. So you nod at her. Just like that, you nod. Lexia smiles at you. Not the beaming grin she seems to do often but a much softer, more knowing smile. You think she knows you don't believe her, but she is still smiling. Certain. <<elseif $LexiaOath is 3>>\ <<addtrust 2>><<addinnocence 5>><<addLexia 5>><<addHavard 5>>\ She says she can protect you, and you believe her. So you nod at her. Lexia smiles at you. Not the beaming grin she seems to do often but a much softer smile that makes you believe you made the right choice. <<elseif $LexiaOath is 4>>\ <<addtrust -1>><<addinnocence 3>><<addshy 3>><<addLexia -5>><<addHavard -5>>\ Something scary flashes in Lexia's eyes, but it is gone too quick for you to react. You would have scurried back from her, yet you don't think that was directed at you. It was so fast, and you feel as if was about something other than you. The bad people? "Yes." She says, her voice steel. Unyielding and certain. Then Lexia smiles at you. Not the beaming grin she seems to do often but a much softer smile. A knowing smile that makes you want to believe her. <<elseif $LexiaOath is 5>>\ <<addtrust -1>><<addinnocence -3>><<addshy -3>><<addfriendly -5>><<addLexia -5>><<addHavard -5>>\ Lexia smiles at you. Not the beaming grin she seems to do often but a much softer smile. "Yes. I can protect you." She says softly. <</if>>\ "I swear it. I will protect you or die trying." Your eyes widen a bit at that. <<nobr>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>>Your wings unfold behind you in surprise.<</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> Your tail wraps itself around your own waist as if ofering a way to ground yourself. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("pointy ears")>><<else>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("animal ears")>><</if>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature twitch a bit uncertainly. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("sea")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("sea")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> The $Feature on your face are changing colors with your surprise. <</if>><</nobr>> She… does she really mean that? Why would she say such a thing? "Lexia, that is too much." Havard says. You startle a bit. He was so silent while Lexia was talking to you. "Do not make such oaths to a child." He says firmly. "We do this the official way." He kneels before you too. "Sorry, Havard." Lexia says. She looks a bit sheepish... She said too much, your internal sense tells you. She was not supposed to tell you she would die trying to protect you. That's... scary. Why would she do that? What? She is so confusing! "Now then. Properly. Lexia, you may start." Havard says and your gaze is drawn to the two kneeling adults in front of you. Here you are, sitting on your bed, in your room. Two adults are kneeling in front of you. It feels surreal. This has to be some delusion, right? Yet, Lexia goes on catching your attention with a wave of her hand. Her blue eyes meet your $EyeColor ones directly. "I am Lexia, A Silver Protector of Firgrat. I swear to guide and protect you from this moment onwards. To protect this orphanage, that is to be your home that you may always feel welcome and safe." she says her voice clear and loud. No hesitation. No doubt. Before you can process this, Havard takes over, his hazel eyes boring into your $EyeColor ones. "I am Havard, the First Custodian of Firgrat Orphanage. I swear to guide, love, and cherish you from this moment onwards. To provide you a home and family in this orphanage, that you always feel loved and wanted.” His voice is just as clear as hers. Just as powerful, even if not as loud. No hesitation. No doubt. Your mind is reeling... Too much. It is too much. Your damaged mind can't process all of this... What? Why? How can they say all that? What if it's not real? What if they are wrong? What if they are lying? What... what... What is that? Your gaze snaps into the air. A light dances in the air around the three of you. Then another light. And another. They are not all the same, they all have different shapes, and different colors. Things you do not know. As more lights join the dance, the air seems to shimmer with magic until streams and rivers of light run though your room. Still those original lights are distinct from the rest. Bigger, brighter. Havard and Lexia still kneel but they too look at the lights surrounding you. Dancing around you. The rivers of light swirl and dance around the brighter lights that had started this all. Such a wonderous sight. The lights circle closer, their movements becoming deliberate, as if guided by an unseen force. With increasing speed and precision, they fly about the three of you, creating arcs and trails of vibrant color in the air around you. Whites, blues, violets, reds, yellows, countless colors and shades. Slowly, their chaotic flight forms into patterns, curves and lines connecting in the air. A feeling of being watched comes upon you. As if several pairs of eyes can suddenly see you. The air in the room changes... not suffocating but encompassing. As if you are in some secret magical space. You feel... safe. The eyes, they are not cruel, nor judging. They are curious... and kind. Approving. The glowing lights align, spinning gracefully into a unified shape and color. A symbol made of white and black light that floated towards the floor. You are too busy watching it to realize it is coming right towards the three of you. <<if $likes_cloak>>\ The same confusing symbol that is on the back of your cloak. The symbol of the Ancients. <<else>>\ A vaguely familiar symbol, as if you have seen it before. <</if>>\ A circle with several more circles inside it, intersecting in a confusing manner. You realize only now that the light is almost touching your head. There is no time to dodge. Three brighter circles stand out inside the symbol, as it passes through the three of you to settle on the floor. You glance down and realize that you, Havard and Lexia have each been located in such a brighter circle. @@.emboss;"A word is given, an oath witnessed and sealed. From this moment forth, so shall it be."@@ The voices echo around you, coming from everywhere and nowhere. For a moment, there is nothing but the voices. Words that even the world must obey. Several voices speaking at once, yet you could make out one much clearer than the others. You know that voice. That sound of hope. So soothing, calm and clear. //Something.// Your savior. The Ancient Sheo just bore witness to the oaths Lexia and Havard swore to you. And he was not alone. The symbol flashes and turns into streams of light again. They twirl around you three, before disappearing from sight, fading while you watch them. The room is silent. You dare not breathe... Your mind feels blank. The two adults still kneel in front of you. Their eyes are wide. The silence shatters, as Lexia draws in a deep breath. "What the fuck was that?!" She says loudly looking about. "Lexia! No swearing in front of $MCname." Havard says, slightly unsteadily. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The End of Chapter 2.|Interlude Nylora fadein]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''Chapter 3 -- The World Outside'' </font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'Chapter 3_0'>><</cont>>

<h1>Chapter 3 -- The World Outside</h1>\ <h2> Your POV</h2>\ <<set $chapter = 'Chapter 3'>>\ <<set $MCmetLexia to true>><<notify 3s>>Lexia profile updated.<</notify>>\ The world feels odd at this moment. Overwhelming. The oaths Havard and Lexia said to you were overwhelming. They promised you too much… it... It cannot be real. They are crazy, and you are supposed to be the broken one. Even you know, with nothing but pain and suffering in your memory that people... How can they just say those things… but then it happened. Magic. Real magic. Wonderful, beautiful magic, that makes everything realer somehow. Makes it all less overwhelming because you don’t feel so trapped inside your own head. Because you just saw magic. Real magic! And heard the voices of the Ancients! That was what it had to be! //Something// is an Ancient, Havard said so! Why were they doing magic things around you? Havard said the Ancients were super important, why would they care about you… but //something// did save you from the void. What are you supposed to think? Why would they be interested in what Havard and Lexia said to you? They did say all those things… about guiding, protecting and cherishing you… Things you cannot even comprehend as you are now. But maybe one day? Or perhaps that is a dream, unattainable and distant? Still, why would they do that? How could they do that? What even is love? You are not sure. But Havard said he would cherish you… Can they really do all those amazing things they said they would? Can you trust them? Their words? Could you trust this cruel world to not tear you into any more pieces? <<if $hope_for_hands is 1>>\ Earlier, you chose to have hope. Hope that your hand could maybe still be something. Should you now have hope that Havard and Lexia mean what they say? <<elseif $hope_for_hands is 2>>\ Earlier, you chose to not hope for too much. Decided it was too painful to hope your hands could still be something other than ruined and broken. Should you now have not have hope in Havard and Lexia? <</if>>\ Admittedly, you only met Lexia a short while ago. She stopped you from falling, and <<if $agree_to_headpat>> patted your head. <<if $MC_headpats is 'like'>> The headpat was nice… you want more of them. <<elseif $MC_headpats is 'neutral'>> The headpat was sort of meh. You could take or leave getting more. <<else>> You did not much care for the headpat, but at least you tried it. And Lexia did not take it badly when you pulled away. <</if>><<else>> offered to pat your head, which you refused. Who knows how hard the patting would have been. You like your head outside of your body, thank you very much!<</if>> She was also not mad at you for <<if $LexiaMeetingReaction is "play dead">> playing dead. <<else>> trying to sneak about. <</if>> That should be worth something, right? Then there is Havard. Havard who is the person who you know best in this world. Of course, not because you know him well, but because you know no one in this world. You might know more about him than you do yourself… Debatable but still. Such is the state of your affairs. <<if $trustHavardC1 is true and $trustHavardC2 is true>>You have also decided to trust Havard from the beginning. Having hope in someone you trust is good, or so you think. <<elseif $trustHavardC1 is false and $trustHavardC2 is true>> You have also decided to trust Havard because he brought you porridge and answered your questions. Having hope in someone you trust is good, or so you think. Still it is hard... can you really and truly put your hope in someone, anyone?<<elseif $trustHavardC1 is true and $trustHavardC2 is false>> You trusted Havard at first, but he lost you somewhere when he fed you that porridge. Can you really put your hope in someone you don’t trust? Could you really put your hope in someone, anyone?<<else>> You don’t trust Havard, and never have. Can you really put your hope in someone you don’t trust? Could you really put your hope in someone, anyone?<</if>> The past would say no... but your internal sense seems to think Havard and Lexia are not trying to trick you or harm you. But there are others here, in this orphanage, aren't there? What about all of them? What about all the people in the city that Havard says this orphanage is located? Cities have tons and tons of people... <<if $trust gte 10>>\ Still, you have been pretty trusting so far, and it has worked out pretty well. /*<<set $hidden_coping_vis to true>><<notify 5s>>A hidden stat has been revealed. You have been fairly trusting during your stay so far.<</notify>>\*/ <<else>>\ You have not been pretty trusting so far, and it has worked out pretty well. /*<<set $hidden_coping_vis to true>><<notify 5s>>A hidden stat has been revealed. You have not been very trusting during your stay so far.<</notify>>\*/ <</if>>\ Your attention is pulled to the two adults, that are now standing up. They seem to be talking about something. But the way they are talking is not the same as usual… why? What are they even talking about? What is swearing? You have a vague idea swearing is not allowed… but what it is? “Oh, come on Havard! That was worthy of swearing!” Lexia snipes back at Havard. “That was the fucking Ancients, for some reason witnessing our oaths!” She paces back and forth. “I was not told this was a fucking thing!” You observe them. She seems… agitated? Afraid? Surprised? There are many things going on there, even your internal sense has difficulty keeping up. What is that word Lexia keeps using? “Fucking Ancients”? What does that mean? Your internal sense tell thinks you are too young to know… Why does your vague sense of the world get to decide! Why is it fine to know what “gauntlets” are, yet not what a random word means? Your mind is so confusing! Assuming this sense thing even is a part of you... that is a scary thought. And it does not even matter. You almost sigh, but that would probably draw attention to you, so you don’t. There is nothing you can do about your brain after all. Best to move on. Still, you stash the word in your mind for later. <<if $nonverbal>> Even if you don’t talk, it could be useful. <<else>> New words could be useful. <</if>> “Lexia! No swearing.” Havard says again, much calmer than before. He seems to be collecting himself, though he looks pale. It seems he was not expecting all that to happen either. Lexia looks quite baffled. “The fuc…” She glances at you. “The freaking Ancients, Havard. I know we interact with them more than most, but them just randomly popping up… I almost shat in my armor!” She says and shivers a bit. Havard sighs. “Lexia, please.” He looks at you meaningfully. “No vulgarity in front of $MCname.” You meanwhile wonder what that means? “Shat in her armor?” Your internal sense tells you it’s better for now you don’t know this one either, and just tells you it means she was very surprised. Stupid internal sense hiding things from you. At least the lights were pretty! And //something// is not scary… you think. Probably. But it was surprising, hearing all the voices. The way they seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere. Though hearing //something//, again was odd… His voice did not bring back memories of the void. The opposite in fact. That voice feels realer than the void right now. All the voices do. //Something//, you mean this Lord Sheo… It does not feel right to call him that. What even is a lord? Something important? You think so, but it is hard to remember. You know that Havard calls him that but does that mean you have to too? You're not really sure... But //something// is really old, so he has to be a grandpa. That makes sense, even to your confused mind. Strangely your internal sense seems to object, but it keeps hiding things from you, so you ignore it! Hearing //grandpa// Sheo’s voice again, makes everything feel more real. Like the void is more distant now. Lexia looks at you too. Her gaze softens from the surprise and panic. Then her face changes, a twinkle appears in her eye. A smirk on her lips. “I meant to say, I nearly self-defecated?” Lexia says with a tilt of her head, a sly grin on her face and looks at Havard straight in the eye. /*He looks at her oddly in return, almost warningly. “Discharged my bowels? Unburdened my guts? Took a dump in my trousers? “*/ Harvard stares at her with such an unimpressed expression, you feel a little bad for her. “Come on! That one was funny!” Lexia says throwing her hands up in the air, and making a weird expression, pushing her lips outward in a sulky manner. “Pouting will get you nowhere.” Havard said evenly. Sternly. Lexia just grinned at him, and he sighed again. “Just get the rest over with.” Havard said, sounding resigned. You are very confused, but that has been pretty much your main state since getting to this orphanage. What does she mean? “Peed my pants?” Lexia says. Is she asking you? At least you know what peeing is, but what does it have to do with being surprised? Is that what she meant the whole time? <<if not $nonverbal >> Maybe you should confirm.<</if>> “Are you done.” Havard sounds tired. Though he is no longer so pale. “It was nearly an out of pants situation?” Lexia offers, thinking hard. Havard stares at her. “I worry about you.” Havard tells her. “Aah, that is too sweet! But oh boy, that lightshow sure was surprising, I almost could not avoid an emergency leak.” She grins at Havard, and glances at you. You are so confused. “Do you intend to teach $MCname every possible crude and roundabout way to say you were surprised?” Havard asks, sounding resigned. “Because I do believe that we have other things to do.” Why does being surprised have something to do with peeing, and whatever all of that stuff means? “Nah, I think I am all tapped out.” Lexia says. “Hard to come up with more.” “Thank the Eternal Flow for that.” Havard says. Now he is using words you don’t understand! What is all of this about? Adults... or possibly people in general are so confusing. And Lexia holds her mouth. A sound escapes her. A gleeful sound. “Eternal Flow…. sort of like when the voices appeared, I had the urge to let some of my eternal flow leak out.“ She looks so proud of herself. “Lexia! Could you stop, $MCname does not need to hear all of this!.... And neither do I!” “$capitalheshe <<does>> not need to, but it’s funny! And $MCname should hear some good ones, you know, who knows when a good pun or wordplay could come in handy. You know, to impress the other kids!” Lexia shoots back. “Impress the other kids! What are you trying to teach our charge! And some of those weren't even good!” They start talking over each other… You stare, still sitting in your bed. What are they doing? You should probably do something. This could go on for a while or so your internal sense tells you. They are being weird again! Differently weird from before, but still weird. You should do something to make them not be weird! <<if $nonverbal is not true>> There were several things you could ask about... or do something else.<</if>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["What does 'the fucking Ancients' mean?" you ask, tilting your head. |Chapter 3_1_fucking]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[["What is 'the Eternal Flow'?" you ask, tilting your head. |Chapter 3_1_flow]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“What does peeing have to do with being surprised?” you ask, tilting your head.|Chapter 3_1_peeing]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You sit quietly, observing the two. You think about all the things Lexia said. Then decide on one to say. “Fuck.” You say blankly. |Chapter 3_1_fuck]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You spread your wings and flap them. |Chapter 3_1_wings]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You smack the bed as hard as you can with your tail. |Chapter 3_1_tail]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You don’t like this. But you are not sure how to stop it, so you shuffle shyly in place, and hope they notice. |Chapter 3_1_shuffle]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Surely your legs are fine now. You try to stand up. |Chapter 3_1_standing]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addfriendly -5>><<addshy -3>>\ “What does ‘fucking Ancients’ mean?” you ask. It is a blunt but innocent question. Both Lexia and Havard freeze in the middle of an argument about “profanity”. Havard glances… no, glares at Lexia who becomes very awkward, and looks apologetically towards Havard. Is she fidgeting? Her eyes are now darting about as if searching for an escape. Is she feeling well? Or is there an enemy hidden somewhere nearby? Should you be more on guard? Oh… There might be another explanation. Maybe your inner sense was correct, and this is not something you need to know. You have never seen Havard make that face. It’s like he is saying “See what you did” when he looks at Lexia. It’s almost an angry look. Not quite though, it’s just… exasperated. Yet, when he looks at you, he smiles just as he always does. “It’s a bad word and you should not use it.” He tells you calmly. It is? Are words bad? Or is it the Ancients that are bad? What makes a thing bad? “Aren’t the Ancients nice?” You ask confused. “I mean the first word. It's... a word people use when they are angry or frustrated. But it's not a nice word. It is a word you should not repeat." Havard comes closer and kneels in front of the bed. You are very confused. Aren’t words just… sounds? Then again, what is a different between a sound and word? How can a word or a sound be bad? Luckily you can just ask one. “How can words be bad?“ You ask, genuinely puzzled. Havard does not falter. “Some words can simply mean bad things. Some words can be mean or make people feel uncomfortable. Often, however, it is not the words themselves but rather how they are used.” Havard considers for a bit whole you wonder if you know any bad or mean words... Maybe “void” or… “cycle”. Those seem the worst words you know. They do make you feel uncomfortable! Is that what Havard means… You note Lexia fidgets in the background of the conversation, not really taking part in the explanation. Does she know a lot of bad words? Is that useful knowledge? “In this case, Lexia used a bad word to emphasize that the Ancients rarely appear in person.” Havard finally says. “She was surprised and therefore used a word she should not have. Didn’t she?” Havard looks back at Lexia, who nods vigorously. “Yes. Havard is absolutely right. No need to for you to pick up my bad habits.” She says, sounding very amiable. “Please don’t repeat bad words to anyone. Especially to the twins!” Lexia looked panicked about that… “You know… when you meet them...” Was she afraid of something? Your internal sense seemed to think so... But she is strong, right? What would she be afraid of? You turn to look at Havard who is looking at Lexia with a raised eyebrow. When he notices your gaze, he once again smiles at you. “You heard her. She does not want you to repeat bad words either.” You think you get it. Some words, whatever they are, are bad. <<if $nonverbal>>\ Slowly you nod. You have no idea what words are actually bad but that hardly matters, you don’t even talk. <<else>>\ “Ok.” You say. You have no idea what words are actually bad but that hardly matters. You will figure it out eventually.” <</if>>\ “Good.” Havard smiles at you. “Thanks kid!” Lexia beams. Why do both Havard and Lexia smile so much? They are such an odd pair... or you think they are? You might not be an expert of being odd, you might not even be a person. Then again, is there any point in dwelling on that? Can you actually do anything about it? Is there a way to know if you are a person or not? You have no idea. At least Havard seems to think you are a person. You think... How are people treated really? Another thing you have no idea about. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard considers you for a moment.|Chapter 3_1]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addfriendly 5>>\ “What is “the Eternal Flow”” you ask, tilting your head. It is not much in the way of distraction, but you are curious. Also, it works in getting their attention away from each other, and to you. Success! Havard and Lexia stop an argument about “profanity” and peer at you. Havard coughs and straightens his robes, while Lexia rubs the back of her head. “Well, the Eternal Flow refers to the flow of mana, the raw energy used for magic, in Wocdes.” Havard says. “It is the source of all life, and all magic.” Wow…. that sounds cool! You wonder what kinds of magics there are? Could you learn magic? How does one learn? Do you need to know the odd squiggle things that you vaguely recall make up books. Is magic hard? What does magic look like? He said flow of mana... like a ... a flowing water thing? A river? Wait… you just saw a bunch of rivers made of light fill your room… Could it be... well what happened with those oath things was magic, even you know that. So... if this Flow thing is used for magic... You eye Havard and Lexia. “Those lights…” You start. Both Havard and Lexia nod, and you perk up. You knew a thing! Were correct about something! It feels good. “When enough magic is used, the Flows become visible in this realm. I have seen it happen only a few times, and always one of the Ancients is involved. Which is why their voices and such powerful magic to witness our oaths were quite surprising.” His brow furrows as he thinks about something. Right… the oaths… You deflate a bit. Your mind wanders back into the oaths they swore. They promised you so many things, impossible, wonderful things... Your internal sense knows about oaths. Oaths seem scary, because how can you know? Havard and Lexia seemed so sure that they could keep their words. Promising all those things to you… How can they know? Why would they promise such things to you? You might not even be a person... this might all be a dream. Does it even matter? Is there any difference if you are a person or not anymore? Is there some test to determine if you are a person or not? Yet, they swore on their knees... What happens to those that cannot fulfill their oaths? What does it all mean? You don't know, so you stare blankly at the two adults. The Custodian and the Protectors, now bound to you through their own will, for better or worse. Havard notices your change in demeanor and comes over to kneel in front of you again. That is something he does lot, kneeling to be level with you. You sort of appreciate not having to crane your neck all the time. “You are worried, but need not be." He says softly. "Just know that we are here, and we will do our best to make you feel at home." Home? Home is a good thing... You think. Home is something that people have... a place they belong, or so your internal sense tells you. It does not tell you where your home is, it does not assure you that you are a person. Is there even a way to know if you are a person or not? You don't know. The only thing you do know is that the man kneeling in front of you now, smiling at your softly, treats you like a person. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He consider you for a moment.|Chapter 3_1]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addshy -3>><<addfriendly -2>>\ “What does peeing have to do with being surprised?” you ask, tilting your head. You are genuinely curious. Both Lexia and Havard freeze in the middle of an argument about “profanity”. Whatever that is. Havard glances at Lexia with some reproach, but she just grins at him. It’s not a very stern glance that Havard gives her after all. “That is a good question!” Lexia beams at you. “Havard, do tell us!” She smiles brightly at Havard. But she is the one who said it! Why does she need Havard to tell her? She is so confusing. You focus on Havard waiting for him to explain. He is less confusing. The look that Havard gives Lexia is not very fond right now, or so your internal sense tells you. Yet, when he looks at you, he smiles just as he always does. “Sometimes when people get surprised” He considers. “Or scared, their bodies automatically do things like pee” He closes his eyes, and you think Lexia is making an odd sound against her hand. “Or even poop.” Havard says and looks at you alone. . “Oh, you went there on your own! I was totally going to ask that!” Lexia is breathing heavily and making an odd high-pitched sound with a quick rhythm… giggling? It might be called giggling. Havard pointedly ignores her comments and the giggling. “If it happens, it is not a voluntary reaction. It is something akin to… dropping something when surprised. It just happens, though it does not happen all the time. Only when you are really surprised. Do you understand?” You think hard. That was weird. Just weird. You don’t want to pee or poo yourself! You did both enough in the void! At the start anyway. It got hard to keep track after a while. You have clothes now. A bed! A room! You don’t want to get them dirty so soon! Havard notices your change in demeanor and comes over to kneel in front of you again. "Hey, it's all right. You are safe here." HIs voice is very soft. "We will do our best to make you feel safe and welcome here. This will be your home." Home? Home is a good thing... You think. Home is something that people have... a place they belong, or so your internal sense tells you. It does not tell you where your home is, it does not assure you that you are a person. Is there even a way to know if you are a person or not? You don't know. The only thing you do know is that the man kneeling in front of you now, smiling at your softly, treats you like a person. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havanrd considers you for a moment.|Chapter 3_1]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addstoic -5>><<addshy -3>>\ <<FeatureIndex "wings">>\ Your $Feature unfold behind you on the bed. You focus as best you can and flap your wings as hard as you can. It's hard work. Flap. Flap. Crash. Flap. It's exhausting. You manage all of three flaps before you are out of energy. Then you have to rest, and slump down on the bed. Disappointingly, you did not rise into the air. Damn… How long until you can fly? Can you even fly? Surely you can, that's why things have wings, right? To fly? Wait... wasn't there something other than a flap in there? You look to see... Oh, you knocked over stuff from the little table next to your bed. What is that thing anyway? Oh, it's one of those things full of the mysterious squiggles Havard looks at a lot...A book. Still, as underwhelming as your flapping wings were, your display works as intended. Or perhaps it was the crashing sound. Both Havard and Lexia stop arguing about what Havard is calling "profanity in front of children" and spin to look at you. The breeze your flaps created ruffles their hair, both black and red. Lexia beams. “Thanks! A nice breeze.” She says, flipping her hair playfully. “And cool $Feature! Did you always have them?” You stare at Lexia… <<if $nonverbal>> You shake your head. <<else>> “No.” You say. <</if>> “They sort of just... grew? Appeared earlier after the haircut.” Havard says as he walks to your side to check on you. He settles by your bedside. “Apologies. We got a little carried away arguing. Are you all right?” His gaze looks you over, as if searching for some injury you have gained in the few moments since he last looked at you. Well you did knock the book down from your table... Still Havard does not seem to find anything wrong with your wing as he looks it over. <<if $nonverbal>> You nod. <<else>> “Yes.” <</if>> At least there is nothing new wrong with you. That is a victory in your mind. Your wing did not seemingly break from the book. “Just grew?” Lexia asks while picking the book up and setting it back on your little table. “Like all of a sudden? Just.... popped up.” She puts both her hands together and opens them. <<if $nonverbal>> You nod. <<else>> “Yes.” <</if>> It seems you are mimicking yourself. “All right then.” Lexia says. "Still, good job on the flapping." She smiles, letting her hands drop. "Even if you did hit something... It happens." "Indeed." Havard says and smiles softly but keeps looking you over. "Your wings at least, seem to be doing very well. You just get tired quickly, but that will get easier in time." That's good, you only managed three flaps before you had to stop. It will be nice when you can do more... like fly! But small victories are still victories, and your life can certainly use them. You nod at Havard, who lifts his gaze from looking you over and smiles. Why do both Havard and Lexia smile so much? They are such an odd pair... or you think they are? You might not be an expert of being odd, you might not even be a person. Then again, is there any point in dwelling on that? Can you actually do anything about it? Is there a way to know if you are a person or not? You have no idea. At least Havard seems to think you are a person. You think... How are people treated really? Another thing you have no idea about. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard considers you for a moment.|Chapter 3_1]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addshy 5>><<addstoic 2>>\ You shuffle awkwardly in place on the bed, moving uneasily from side to side. Why are they talking to each other like that. You don’t like it, whatever it is. You think about it... Arguing. You think it is called arguing with each other. But what can you do… you are just you. You have no working arms, or even legs at the moment. You don't know how you are supposed to do stuff outside the void. Perhaps paying attention would lead you to some solution. Lexia and Havard argue about something called “profanity in front of children." What is that? The things she said? <<nobr>> You need to make them stop... catch their attention somehow... But how? <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <<FeatureIndex "wings">> Your wings, shift a bit uncertainly behind you, but that is not helping. Could you slap them with your wings? Possibly if you were close enough... which you are not. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <<FeatureIndex "tail">> Your $Feature is swaying slightly behind you. How about your tail? Smack them with it? Too far away. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("horns")>> <<FeatureIndex "horns">> You can feel your $Feature on top of your head. Odd how you never noticed before. Still, you doubt they can help you now. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>> <<FeatureIndex "eyes">> You doubt your $Feature are of much help here. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<FeatureIndex "pointy ears">><<else>><<FeatureIndex "animal ears">><</if>> You can feel your $Feature twitch as you shuffle. You can hear through the window, the sounds outside even as Lexia and Havard argue. Still, hearing stuff is not helping you right now, is it? <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("scales")>> <<FeatureIndex "scales">> Some light from the window hits the $Feature on your face as you shuffle. Some of it reflects back on the floor of the room. Could that help? You are not sure. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>> <<FeatureIndex "feathers">> <<else>> <<FeatureIndex "nature features">> <</if>> Your $HairLength $HairColor $Feature moves a bit around your head you as you shuffle. Some of the <<if $HeritageType.includes("feathers")>> feathers <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("flowery hair")>> flowers <<else>> vines <</if>> from your hair drop to the ground at your movement. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes( "elemental")>> <<FeatureIndex "elemental">> Your $Feature creates a light source in the room, and shadows are cast on the floor from both Lexia and Havard. Your shifting causes the shadows in the room to flicker.. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("sea")>> <<FeatureIndex "sea">> The $Feature on your face are very eye-catching, you feel them twitch a bit as you observe the two adults. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.length is 0>> You shuffle awkwardly in place, while you think. <</if>> <</nobr>> You are not sure what it was... Your movement, or something else, but suddenly Havard and Lexia look at you. “Aah. Apologies. We seem to have let our disagreement to get the better of us.” Havard says and straightens his robes, as if to say he is done with this silly argument. “Yeah. Sorry kid. We sort of started bickering a bit and time got away from us..” Lexia agrees and rubs the back of her head "Don't worry about it, kid." . “Indeed, please do not be worried.” Havard says observing your shuffling in place. Is your face doing things again? Why does it keep doing that? It would be fine, if you knew what it was doing. Havard smiles at you just like he always does and comes to kneel in front of you. “People bicker, and bickering is not usually a serious matter. It is normal and you do not need to worry about it. The Ancients surprised us all with that lightshow.” His voice is calm and soft, just like normal. “And when people are surprised, they tend to react.” You stare at Havard and then Lexia. Then Havard. So… it was not serious? They don’t hate each other now? They don’t seem to… Maybe it was all right then. Bickering… that seems like a concept you should try and remember. People are confusing. Life is complicated outside the void… <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard considers you for a moment.|Chapter 3_1]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addshy -3>><<addstoic -5>>\ You slide off the bed and plan to go over to the two adults! Your legs are probably fine now and you want to hear more about this “profanity” thing As soon as your legs hit the floor, they give out from under you and you fall again. Before you can really process it, you are being held up… again. That is rather disappointing. Why won't your legs work? It has been like... who knows how long. An eternity? Stupid legs. “Kid… you really should not try to walk right now.” Lexia says, having caught you. “It was just a bit ago you fell the first time.” Well… she might have a point. Not that you would admit that. <<nobr>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("wings")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature adjust slightly behind you, shying away from the metal of Lexia's armor. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("tail")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature almost automatically wraps around one of Lexia's arms. It feels better to have your own hold on something. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("pointy ears")>><<else>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("animal ears")>><</if>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature twitch as you adjust in her gentle grip. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("horns")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("horns")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> You can feel your $Feature on top of your head. They cast a shadow on to the floor that you can clearly see now staring down there in Lexia's grasp. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("elemental")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("elemental")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature shines light that is reflected from her armor. It is a little uncomfortable this close to her. The light is bright and she is so shiny. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("feathers")>> <<else>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("nature features")>> <</if>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Some of the $Feature from your hair drop to the ground from the sudden movement while you watch the floor for a bit. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("sea")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("sea")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> The $Feature on your face glow soflty, Lexia's armor multiplying the very faint glow. <</if>> <</nobr>> Then Havard is in front of you, looking worried about you. Lexia deposits you back on the bed, and Havard kneel in front of you to inspect you. “Apologies. We got a little carried away arguing. Are you all right?” His gaze looks you over, as if searching for some injury you have gained in the few moments since he last looked at you. <<if $nonverbal>> You nod. <<else>> “Yes.” <</if>> At least there is nothing new wrong with you. That is a victory in your mind. Even if your legs still don't work properly. "That was certainly one way to get our attention." Lexia says, smiling at you. "But maybe avoid doing that until your legs are better. Unless you really want to keep me on my toes." She closes one eye at you, a wink your internal sense supplies. You have no idea what she means once again. Why would you trying to walk make her stand on her toes? That makes no sense. "Yes, it might be best to focus on resting:" Havard smiles. Again. He is always smiling. "But it is good that you have so much energy." Is it? Is energy something people can run out of? That sounds horrible? What happens if I run out of energy? Sleep? Death? How serious is it? Or is that something that only applies to people. You might not actually be a person, it is hard to know. Then again, is there any point in dwelling on that? Can you actually do anything about it? Is there a way to know if you are a person or not? You have no idea. At least Havard seems to think you are a person. You think... How are people treated really? Another thing you have no idea about. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He consider you for a moment.|Chapter 3_1]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if ndef $trustHavardC3>>\ <<set $trustHavardC3 to false>>\ <</if>>\ <<if ndef $trustLexiaC3>>\ <<set $trustLexiaC3 to false>>\ <</if>>\ “Now then, we need to talk.” Havard says as he looks at you. You do? <<if $nonverbal>> You don’t really talk though. Surely, he knows that by now. <<else>> What have you all been doing so far if not talking?<</if>> Still, he sounds serious. Is it the time for torture now? Will he reveal this has all been a trick? <<if $trustHavardC2>> Of course, you did choose to trust him, the last time you thought about it... So you really hope that is not the case. <</if>> “Your legs.” Havard says. “We still have not addressed the fact that your legs gave out.” Oh… that is true. Well that's not so bad. The oaths and stuff got in the way, but is there really much to talk about? Your legs gave out, but why does that matter? It’s annoying and you are not happy about it... But things break. Like you. You can just add your legs to the pile. Though you hope this is not permanent. Not having legs sounds inconvenient. <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("wings")>> At least until you learn to fly. <</if>> Of course, your whole life is rather inconvenient... at least you think so. Hard to say when you have nothing to compare it to. Still you would prefer to be able to walk again. “Now, I will take a look, but I am no healer. If needed, we will call for one. There are a few among the Custodians and Protectors but... well it is likely better to not have too many people in here today. So only if it is necessary." Your internal sense interprets this as him not wanting to have too many new people interact with you. Which you appreciate, you have met two people already. That seems enough for a... however long a long time is. The less people you meet, the less chances of them being mean. Probably. Then again, if Lexia and Havard are here, and if any potential new people are mean to you.... What happens? You would assume based on the past that being mean to you is fine... But your internal sense keeps insisting Havard and Lexia would not like that very much. "However, I think it is just the lack of consistent use of your legs.” Havard says, interrupting your thoughts. You do get lost in your head a lot. “Therefore, you will be spending time in bed. Resting.” Havard says, and while his words are gentle, you don’t think there is any room for debate here. <<if $brokne_hands_treating is 1>>\ You walked to the healing baths! Why is this a thing now? Of course, you did sort of maybe collapse at the end of your last walk…He might have a point. Even if you don't like it. <<elseif $gardenespace is true>>\ You ran around earlier, trying to escape Havard! Why is this a thing now? You did also end up collapsing with your legs no longer supporting you.... He might have a point. Even if you don't like it. <<elseif $drawer is true>>\ You walked before! To the drawer… then had to sit down because you could not stand up properly.... He might have a point. Even if you don't like it. <</if>>\ Havard smiles at you. “Later today, after a bit of resting, myself or Lexia will take you to soak in the healing baths. While it might not heal your legs, this is not exactly an injury. Though it would help if there was something else wrong. It might feel slow but consistent work will let you walk again properly. And make no mistake, you will walk again.” You stare at Havard. Another thing you do a lot. The healing baths… <<if $sawHealingBaths>> that place you went to heal your arm. That place was… well you did not pay much attention. Too much other stuff going on. <<else>> that place where the healing water must come from. You are a bit curious.<</if>> As if on cue, Havard holds the pin thing you saw him holding earlier. He holds it in his hand and just stays still for a moment. What is all that about? He frowns. Does the pin... speak to him? Should you be worried about that? Is Havard insane? Delusional? Is that why he is nice to you? “I am sorry, but I have been asked to tend to an issue with today’s delivery to the kitchens.” Havard says and looks at you. He looks a bit worried but smiles and lays you down on the bed. “Do you think, you will be fine for a bit? Lexia will stay with you no matter what." Havard asks softly, observing you carefully. "And I will be back soon. You should rest and sleep." You stare at Havard. <<if $trustHavardC2>> You trust Havard, or have done so before... but <<else>> You don't trust him anyway? But then again, <</if>> do you want him to leave you with just Lexia? They have both sworn scary oaths to you, that include things like cherishing you and protecting you. Things you can barely imagine. But does that mean you trust them to keep their oaths? Oaths are scary things, your internal sense of the world tells you so. Oaths are words you have to live by or bad things will happen. They sound too much like chains... You suppress a shiver. Though your internal sense seems a little vague on the details... Because people can also lie and swear false oaths. Why is everything so complicated? You are not capable of sorting through all this new information. It is overwhelming. Maybe resting would not be so bad... The bed is very soft, and sleep was nice earlier. You decide it is best to focus on what you can understand. Or if not understand, at least see and interact with for now. The two adults in front of you. Namely, do you trust neither of them, one of them or both of them enough to stay here alone with Lexia on Havard's word. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You trust Havard. But you don't trust Lexia.|Chapter 3_1_trust][$trustHavardC3 to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You trust Havard and Lexia.|Chapter 3_1_trust][$trustHavardC3 to true, $trustLexiaC3 to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don't trust Havard, but you trust Lexia.|Chapter 3_1_trust][$trustLexiaC3 to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You trust neither of them.|Chapter 3_1_trust]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addstoic 5>> <<addcareful -3>>\ “Fuck.” The small sound seems loud in the room, and both Havard and Lexia freeze in it's wake. Havard glances… no, glares at Lexia who becomes very awkward, and looks apologetically towards Havard. Is she fidgeting? Her eyes are now darting about as if searching for an escape. Is she feeling well? Or is there an enemy hidden somewhere nearby? Should you be more on guard? Oh… There might be another explanation. Maybe your inner sense was correct, and this is not something you need to know. You have never seen Havard make that look. It’s like he is saying “See what you did” when he looks at Lexia. It’s almost an angry look. Not quite though, it’s just… exasperated. Yet, when he looks at you, he smiles just as he always does. “That is a bad word, and you should not use it.” He tells you calmly. “It's... a word people use when they are angry or frustrated. But it's not a nice word. It is a word you should not repeat." He comes closer and kneels in front of the bed. You are very confused. Aren’t words just… sounds? Luckily you can just ask one. You stare at him blankly and wait for him to explain. Havard does not falter. “Some words can simply mean bad things. Some words can be mean or make people feel uncomfortable. Often, however, it is not the words themselves but rather how they are used.” Havard considers for a bit, while you wonder if you know any bad or mean words... Maybe “void” or… “cycle”. Those seem the worst words you know. They do make you feel uncomfortable! Is that what Havard means… Lexia fidgets in the background. “In this case, Lexia used a bad word because she was surprised and a word she should not have used slipped out. Didn’t she?” Havard looks back at Lexia, who nods vigorously. “Yes. Havard is absolutely right. No need to for you to pick up my bad habits.” She says, sounding very amiable. “Please don’t repeat bad words to anyone. Especially to the twins!” Lexia looks panicked about that… “You know… when you meet them...” Was she afraid of something? Your internal sense seemed to think so... But she is strong, right? What would she be afraid of? You turn to look at Havard who was looking at Lexia with a raised eyebrow. When he noticed your gaze, he once again smiles at you. “You heard her. She does not want you to repeat bad words either.” You think you get it. Some words, whatever they are, are bad. Whatever that means you should not use them… who knows. Maybe there are times to use bad words? You sure would have liked to have known a few in the void… or maybe “void” is a bad word? This seems like important information for you to know. It is all so complicated outside the void. <<if $nonverbal>>\ So you nod. You have no idea what words are actually bad, but that hardly matters. You don’t even talk but it could be useful to know at some point. <<else>>\ “Ok.” You say. You have no idea what words are actually bad but that hardly matters. You will figure it out eventually and then make decisions if they are important to use. <</if>>\ “Good.” Havard smiles at you. “Thanks kid!” Lexia beams. Why do both Havard and Lexia smile so much? They are such an odd pair... or you think they are? You might not be an expert of being odd, you might not even be a person. Then again, is there any point in dwelling on that? Can you actually do anything about it? Is there a way to know if you are a person or not? You have no idea. At least Havard seems to think you are a person. You think... How are people treated really? Another thing you have no idea about. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard considers you for a moment.|Chapter 3_1]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if ndef $CurrentRaces >>\ <<set $CurrentRaces to []>>\ <</if>>\ <<set $CurrentRaces = $HeritageRace.concatUnique($HeritageRace2)>>\ You stare at your reflection with narrowed eyes. There is something still off with your reflection. Another odd feature? You already have <<HeritageFeatureList>>, making you part <<HeritageRaceList>>. "Is there something else?" Havard asks and inspects you too. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $HeritageFeatureCounter < 4>> <div class="choice-item">[["There is something draconic about your features." Havard observes. |Chapter 2 dragon][$HeritageRace2.push("dragon"), $HeritageFeatureCounter to $HeritageFeatureCounter+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[["There is something demonic about your features." Havard observes.|Chapter 2 demon][$HeritageRace2.push("demon"), $HeritageFeatureCounter to $HeritageFeatureCounter+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[["There is something beast like about your features." Havard observes.|Chapter 2 beastkin][$HeritageRace2.push("beastkin"), $HeritageFeatureCounter to $HeritageFeatureCounter+1]]</div> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears")>><div class="choice-item">[[Your ears seem to be pointed?|Chapter 2_heritage2_ears][$HeritageType.push("pointy ears"), $HeritageFeature.push("pointy ears"), $HeritageFeatureCounter to $HeritageFeatureCounter+1]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>><div class="choice-item">[[What is up with your hair, it has nature-like features mixed between normal hair?|Chapter 2_heritage2_nature][$HeritageType.push("nature features"), $HeritageFeatureCounter to $HeritageFeatureCounter+1]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>><div class="choice-item">[[Why are there feathers?|Chapter 2_mirror2_feathers][$HeritageType.push("feathers"), $HeritageFeatureCounter to $HeritageFeatureCounter+1]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>><div class="choice-item">[[Glowy bits. Why do you have glowy bits?|Chapter 2_heritage2_elemental][$HeritageType.push("elemental"), $HeritageFeatureCounter to $HeritageFeatureCounter+1]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("wings")>><div class="choice-item">[[There is also something bulging from your back (garuda wings).|Chapter 2_heritage2_garuda_wings][$HeritageType.push("wings"), $HeritageFeature.push("feathered wings"), $HeritageFeatureCounter to $HeritageFeatureCounter+1]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("sea")>><div class="choice-item">[[What is up with your face? It looks so odd with...fins?|Chapter 2_mirror2_sea][$HeritageType.push("sea"), $HeritageFeatureCounter to $HeritageFeatureCounter+1]]</div><</if>> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[No wait! It was nothing. "It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> </div><</nobr>> //You have $HeritageFeatureCounter heritage features. The maximum is 4.// /*<<if $HeritageRace is 'garuda'>>*/ /* <<if not $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears")>><div class="choice-item">[[Your ears seem to be pointed?|Chapter 2_heritage2_ears][$HeritageType.push("pointy ears"), $HeritageFeature.push("pointy ears"), $HeritageFeatureCounter to $HeritageFeatureCounter+1]]</div><</if>> <<option 'fox ears'>> <<option 'cat ears'>> <<option 'wolf ears'>> <<option 'rabbit ears'>> %DOES NOT HAVE A GOOD TAIL! <<option 'squirrel ears'>> "It seems that your tail a <<listbox '$beastkin_tribe'>> \ <<option 'fox'>> <<option 'cat'>> <<option 'wolf'>> <<option 'squirrel'>> <</listbox>> tail." Havard says. <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageType is not "wings">><div class="choice-item">[[There is also something bulging from your back.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType2 to 'wings']]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType is not "horns">><div class="choice-item">[[There are horns sticking out from your head.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType2 to 'horns']]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType is not "tail">><div class="choice-item">[[There behind you is a tail.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType2 to 'tail']]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType is not "scales">><div class="choice-item">[[There on your face are scales.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType2 to 'scales']]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageRace is 'demon'>> <<if $HeritageType is not "wings">><div class="choice-item">[[There is also something bulging from your back.|Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType2 to 'wings']]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType is not "horns">><div class="choice-item">[[There are horns sticking out from your head.|Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType2 to 'horns']]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType is not "tail">><div class="choice-item">[[There behind you is a tail.|Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType2 to 'tail']]</div><</if>> <</if>> <<if $HeritageRace is 'beastkin'>> <<if $HeritageType is not "horns" and $beastkin_tribe is not 'fox' and $beastkin_tribe is not 'cat' and $beastkin_tribe is not 'rabbit' and $beastkin_tribe is not 'squirrel' >><div class="choice-item">[[There are horns sticking out from your head.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType2 to 'horns']]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType is not "tail">><div class="choice-item">[[There behind you is a tail.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType2 to 'tail']]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType is not "animal ears" and ($beastkin_tribe is 'fox' or $beastkin_tribe is 'cat' or $beastkin_tribe is 'squirrel') >><div class="choice-item">[[There on your the top of your head are animal ears.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType2 to 'scales']]</div><</if>> */

<<if $HeritageType.last() is "wings">>\ There is a lump under your $clothes, on your back. Havard also seems surprised. It pushes uncomfortably against the chair, so you need to shift, and decide to rise to stand for a better look. You need to use the chair for support, your legs feel... odd. Still no time to dwell on that now. "What happened there? That was not there earlier when we chose your clothes." Havard asks and takes a worried step forward. You have no idea, but there is clearly something on your back, something distorting your clothes and making them fit badly. You start wiggling to get a look at your back, but it proves too hard. The cloth refuses to yield to you, and your ruined hands are not much use. It’s getting annoying. Who would imagine that getting out of the void, and now you are annoyed at a little inconvenience. As has happened many times in the recent past, Havard comes over to help. He fiddles with your clothes behind your back. "It's no use. As loose as these clothes are, I dare not force it, I don’t want to hurt you, so I'll just cut the cloth." <<if $blades_trauma is true>> He says it gently, looking for a reaction from you. You stiffen a bit, but he has already had every chance to carve away at you. Still, <</if>> Havard is afraid of hurting you? You doubt he could actually hurt you by just forcibly freeing whatever is back there, but he just grabs the pair of scissors from the table and snips at the cloth a bit. <<if $blades_trauma is true>>\ You stiffen for a moment again, but Havard already cut your hair with those scissors. He won't harm you now, and cutting open the back of your $clothes is not so bad. And you are curious. "Apologies for the discomfort." Havard says softly. The scissors never touch you. <</if>>\ Your leathery wings spring free, forcing Havard to dodge as a pair of burst out from the hole Havard made. You stare in bewilderment. Havard stares with wide eyes. Wings. You have wings. What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. <<elseif $HeritageType.last() is "horns">>\ On the top of your head, nestled amidst your $HairColor hair is a pair of demonic horns. You stare in bewilderment. Horns. You have horns. What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. "Ah, noticed your horns did you." Havard smiles at you. He knew? Of course he knew. <<elseif $HeritageType.last() is"tail">>\ You need to shift on the chair and then rise to stand for a better look. You need to use the chair for support, your legs feel... odd. No point in focusing on that now, because there behind your back a leathery tail is swaying back and forth. "Ah, noticed your tail did you. Must be a gift from one of your ancestors." Havard smiles at you. What? A gift? How does one gift a tail? Still… You have a tail and did not notice? It seems so, since clearly this is not news to Havard. Wait.. how can you even see it? You are wearing $clothes? Did the clothes have a tail hole in them? They must have since your tail is visible. <<elseif $HeritageType.last() is "eyes">>\ You need to shift on the chair and lean closer to the mirror. You have turned completelly black. You stare yourself in the eyes. What happened? How?.. What? "What happened there? Your eyes were not like that earlier." Havard asks and takes a worried step forward. He comes over and kneels in front of your chair. Havard leans in and inspects your eyes. <</if>>\ <<if not $CurrentRaces.includes("demon")>>\ "I would say it seems you have some devilish or demonic heritage." He tilts his head. "I am not sure but as far as I understand there is not an actual difference, but I do also admit I have never met a pure-blooded demon or devil." Demonic heritage? What is that? What does it mean? You have the vaguest sense, a fragmented memory that demons are bad. Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what a demon is? "Hmm, how to put this. Demons have a horrible reputation. Are thought of as evil by majority of people." Havard scratches his head. "But I am not sure how true it is. You see, there is a demon Ancient, who is never here in Firgrat, but it is still well known. Therefore, I would guess they cannot be all bad." Are you part demon? You still don't really get what demons are. Life is so confusing. <<else>>\ "Your demonic heritage must be strong." Havard says. Oh... you have more than one demonic heritage feature. That makes sense... probably. Ok not much makes sense. But your attention to drawn to Havard... there is an odd look in his eye. He did say eaerlier that demons have a bad reputation and that he has never met a full blooded one... But you think this has nothing to do with all that. He looks a bit sad. Like... lost in memory, or so your internal sense tells you. <</if>>\ Now, was there something else? Or is it time for that lesson thing? You peer back at your reflection. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> /*<</linkreplace>>*/

<<if $HeritageType.last() is "wings">>\ There is a lump under your $clothes, on your back. Havard also seems surprised. It pushes uncomfortably against the chair, so you need to shift, and decide to rise to stand for a better look. You need to use the chair for support, your legs feel... odd. Still no time to dwell on that now. "What happened there? That was not there earlier when we chose your clothes." Havard asks and takes a worried step forward. You have no idea, but there is clearly something on your back, something distorting your clothes and making them fit badly. You start wiggling to get a look at your back, but it proves too hard. The cloth refuses to yield to you, and your ruined hands are not much use. It’s getting annoying. Who would imagine that getting out of the void, and now you are annoyed at a little inconvenience. As has happened many times in the recent past, Havard comes over to help. He fiddles with your clothes behind your back. "It's no use. As loose as these clothes are, I dare not force it, I don’t want to hurt you, so I'll just cut the cloth." <<if $blades_trauma is true>> He says it gently, looking for a reaction from you. You stiffen a bit, but he has already had every chance to carve away at you. Still, <</if>> Havard is afraid of hurting you? You doubt he could actually hurt you by just forcibly freeing whatever is back there, but he just grabs the pair of scissors from the table and snips at the cloth a bit. <<if $blades_trauma is true>>\ You stiffen for a moment again, but Havard already cut your hair with those scissors. He won't harm you now, and cutting open the back of your $clothes is not so bad. And you are curious. "Apologies for the discomfort." Havard says softly. The scissors never touch you. <</if>>\ Your scaly wings spring free, forcing Havard to dodge as a pair of burst out from the hole Havard made. You stare in bewilderment. Havard stares with wide eyes. Wings. You have wings. What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. <<elseif $HeritageType.last() is "horns">>\ On the top of your head, nestled amidst your $HairColor hair is a pair of draconic horns. You stare in bewilderment. Horns. You have horns. What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. "Ah, noticed your horns did you." Havard smiles at you. He knew? Of course he knew. <<elseif $HeritageType.last() is"tail">>\ You need to shift on the chair and then rise to stand for a better look. You need to use the chair for support, your legs feel... odd. No point in focusing on that now, because there behind your back a scaly tail is swaying back and forth. "Ah, noticed your tail did you. Must be a gift from one of your ancestors." Havard smiles at you. What? A gift? How does one gift a tail? Still… You have a tail and did not notice? It seems so, since clearly this is not news to Havard. Wait.. how can you even see it? You are wearing $clothes? Did the clothes have a tail hole in them? They must have since your tail is visible. <<elseif $HeritageType.last() is "scales">>\ There are scales on your face... maybe somewhere else as well? Why are there scales on your face? What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. "Ah, noticed the scales on your face did you." Havard smiles at you and peer closer at your face. "Hmm, draconic or drake heritage, I am not completely sure but it amounts to the same thing as dragons are ancestors to the drakes." <<elseif $HeritageType.last() is "eyes">>\ You need to shift on the chair and lean closer to the mirror. You have slitted eyes. You stare yourself in the eyes. What happened? How?.. What? "What happened there? Your eyes were not like that earlier." Havard asks and takes a worried step forward. He comes over and kneels in front of your chair. Havard leans in and inspects your eyes. <</if>>\ <<if not $CurrentRaces.includes("dragon")>>\ "You must have some draconic heritage." Havard says peering at you, and smiling. Draconic heritage? What's that? What does that mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is also confused. It thinks dragons have four legs, are huge and have wings, not children with tails. And more likely to eat anyone approaching them than make babies... How does one make babies? Your internal sense is foggy, almost as if saying it will tell you that it will tell you once you are older. Well, that's dumb. You could ask Havard... Your train of thought is interrupted by Havard. "Dragons are ... well huge, winged, four legged creatures, that are often associated with breathing fire, but there are different types. They are also highly intelligent and magical." Your sense disagrees, seeming to think they will try to eat you or at the very least squish you, unless you give them a good smack. That seems oddly specific. Are you part dragon too? What... <<else>>\ "Your draconic heritage must be strong." Havard says. Oh... you have more than one draconic heritage feature. That makes sense... probably. Ok, not much makes sense to you but if you have one, might as well have more. <</if>>\ Now, was there something else? Or is it time for that lesson thing? You peer back at your reflection. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> /*<</linkreplace>>*/

<<set $option to "">>\ <<set $option2 to "">>\ <<set $option3 to "">>\ <<if not $CurrentRaces.includes("beastkin")>>\ "I would say it seems you also have some beastkin heritage." Havard says smiling. Beastkin heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what a beastkin is? Havard however does know and must see your confusion. "Beastkin is a general term, it does not refer to one specific people but a set of varried tribes. Each tribe takes traits from a specific animal, much like you have just the tail." <<else>>\ "Looks like your beastkin heritage is strong. " Havard says smiling. Oh... you have more than one beastkin heritage feature. That makes sense... probably. Ok not much makes sense to you, but if you have one, then having more seems reasonable. <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("animal horns2")>>\ "Let's see, those horns seem to be <<listbox '$option2'>> <<option "ram horns">> <<option "deer horns">> <<option "goat horns">> <<option "elk horns">> <</listbox>>". <<linkreplace "You think for a bit about this revelation".>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.deleteAll("animal horns2")>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push($option2)>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.last() is "ram horns">>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("sheep")>>\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.last() is "deer horns">>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("deer")>>\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.last() is "goat horns">>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("goat")>>\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.last() is "elk horns">>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("elk")>>\ <</if>>\ You have <<print $HeritageFeature.last()>>... that is cool right? <</linkreplace>>\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("fluffy tail2")>>\ "It seems that your tail a <<listbox "$option3">> \ <<option "fox">> <<option "cat">> <<option "wolf">> <<option "squirrel">> <</listbox>> tail." Havard says. <<linkreplace "You think for a bit about this revelation".>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push($option3)>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.deleteAll("fluffy tail2")>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push("fluffy tail")>>\ You have a <<print $HeritageFeature.last()>>... A <<print $beastkin_tribe.last()>> tail. That is cool right? <</linkreplace>>\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("animal ears2")>>\ "Those are some fluffy ears." Havard smiles at you. On the top of your head, nestled amidst your $HairColor hair is a pair of <<listbox "$option">>. <<option "fox ears">> <<option "cat ears">> <<option "wolf ears">> <<option "rabbit ears">> <<option "squirrel ears">> <</listbox>>. Or so Havard says. <<linkreplace "Still, you think for a bit about this revelation".>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.deleteAll("animal ears2")>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push($option)>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.last() is"fox ears">>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("fox")>>\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.last() is "cat ears">>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("cat")>>\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.last() is "wolf ears">>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("wolf")>>\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.last() is "rabbit ears">>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("rabbit")>>\ <<elseif $HeritageFeature.last() is "squirrel ears">>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("squirrel")>>\ <</if>>\ You have <<print $HeritageFeature.last()>>... that is cool right? <</linkreplace>>\ <</if>>\ <<if not $CurrentRaces.includes("beastkin")>>\ Still, are you part animal? What... These heritage feature things are so confusing. <</if>>\ Now, was there something else? Or is it time for that lesson thing? You peer back at your reflection. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> //Please remember to click the "You think for a bit about this revelation" after choosing your beastkin tribe/feature. Apologies for the clumsy solution to register your choice.// /*<</linkreplace>>*/

<div align="center"><h1>Adventurers</h1></div> The brave,foolhardy or insane. Adventurers are those who fulfill contracts for money or treasure. From monster subjugation, to escorting merchants, to hunting bandits, adventurers do it all. The occupation with the highest mortality rate in the world, good adventurers are always in need. Usually adventurers form parties, ranging in size from two to dozens of people. Adventurers come in ranks. <div align="center"><h2>Famous Groups</h2></div> <div align="center"><h3>The Iron Children</h3></div> //Forged, Not Born// - The motto of the Iron Children The Iron Children are a tightly bound group of adventurers known for their unshakable discipline, hardened resilience, and almost familial loyalty to one another. Despite their name, they are adults and fairly old ones. The Iron Children have been around for nearly 200 years at least; they took on the title because they were forged together from a young age in the crucible hardship. Their reputation in Wocdes, mostly Anwol where theyt work, is one of unyielding endurance and methodical precision. They may not be the flashiest, but they are the ones who survive, who endure, and who finish what others often cannot. They are a party of four, led by Ashra of the Black Chains. Her moniker is due to the black chains always wrapped around her right arm that otherwise always remains bare. Her fighting style makes use of the black chains that seem to be able to spawn shadowy chains, controled by her will. Only rumors are known of the origin of those chains, but some say they are the legacy of an Ancient now lost to time. /* Namely one of the Ancients who died during the void wars gifted the chains to a child whose arm was infected and nearly torn off by a beast. Unskilled in healing, this was what the Ancient could do*/ <<button 'Close Codex'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>> /* Adventurer Ranking System idea: NEED TO THINK AND EDIT! Bronze Initiate Description: Newcomers to adventuring, often fresh recruits who are learning the basics of combat, survival, and navigation. They typically take on easy tasks like gathering supplies or hunting small creatures. Tasks: Simple delivery quests, gathering herbs, pest extermination. Iron Apprentice Description: Still learning, but with basic experience in combat and handling danger. These adventurers are trusted with slightly more dangerous but routine jobs. Tasks: Guarding caravans, hunting wild animals, low-level monster hunts. Steel Explorer Description: More seasoned, able to handle tougher threats. Steel Explorers begin taking on exploratory missions and engage in dungeon expeditions or quests involving light combat. Tasks: Dungeon crawling, treasure hunts, mid-level monster extermination. Silver Vanguard Description: Respected for their skill and reliability, these adventurers are trusted with missions that require strategy and leadership. Silver Vanguards are often called to lead smaller groups. Tasks: Leading minor skirmishes, hunting powerful creatures, escorting VIPs. Golden Sentinel Description: Elite adventurers with a reputation for success. They have the respect of their peers and local communities and take on quests involving high risks, such as combating notorious monsters or securing dangerous territories. Tasks: Protecting cities, slaying legendary beasts, diplomatic missions in dangerous lands. Platinum Champion Description: Masters of their craft, often with specific expertise or magical talents. Platinum Champions are known across the realm and often hired by nobility or kingdoms for critical, nation-altering tasks. Tasks: Defending realms from invasions, hunting dragons, leading armies. Mithril Paragon Description: Rare and renowned individuals who are regarded as legendary. They have completed countless dangerous quests and have defeated beings of immense power. Their skills are said to rival the gods. Tasks: World-saving quests, defeating archdemons or ancient dragons, solving ancient mysteries. Adamantite Hero Description: Few ever reach this level. These adventurers are the pinnacle of heroism, their feats sung by bards for generations. Their presence can turn the tide of wars, and they are often seen as mythic figures. Tasks: Intervening in cosmic events, repelling world-ending threats, shaping the future of the realm. Eternal Legend Description: Beings of near-mythical status. Many believe Eternal Legends have transcended mortal limits, accomplishing feats so grand they are almost divine. Only a few in history ever achieve this rank, and they often become legends. Tasks: Unknown or forgotten. Their actions influence the balance of the entire world. Those who fight in silk, Shashura, dancer warrior, who move like water, using flowing robes or dresses to obscure attacks. */

<<set $HeritageRace2.push("elf")>>\ <<if $HairLength is "short">>\ It is pretty easy to see your ears due to your $HairLength hair. <<else>>\ You push your $HairLength hair to the side to peer at your ears. <</if>>\ Your ears are pointed! Are ears normally pointed? Havard's ears are not pointed. You try to remember something about this, yet come up blank. Maybe it's another heritage thing? You bring up a hand to touch your ears, but you have no time to properly investigate. "Ah, noticed your ears did you. You must have some elvish heritage. Maybe some kind of fey, it is really hard to tell right now." Havard smiles at you and peer closer at your ears. "Hmm, I think elvish though I am not completely sure. I suppose we will see once you are older." Elvish or maybe fey heritage? What are those? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "The elves are renowned for their eternal youth, and grace. Usually considered close to nature and have an easier time with magic than most other races. The fey... are more complicated." He ponders. "Suffice to say, there are a great many types of fey, but a common characteristic is a penchant for mischief and leave it at that." Eternal youth? Grace? Mischief? You stare at Havard. Do you have anything remotely like any of that? You have pointed ears, assuming this is not some delusion. They did not help you so far... You are rather confused about the whole thing. Are you something that is not a person? All this heritage business is confusing you. Is it now time for that lesson Havard talked about? Whatever that is. You peer back at your reflection. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> /*<</linkreplace>>*/

<<set $option to "">>\ <<set $HeritageRace2.push("dryad")>>\ On the top of your head, your $HairType $HairColor <<listbox "$option">>. <<option "flowery hair">> <<option "viny hair">> <</listbox>>. You stare at your hair. What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. It must be another one of those heritage feature things... "What happened there? Your hair was not like that earlier when I was cutting it." Havard asks and takes a worried step forward. He walks over and kneels in front of you. <<linkreplace "Havard inspects your hair.">>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push($option)>>\ "I would say it seems you have some dryad heritage. Sometimes things like this happen." Dryad heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know whatw dryad is. <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("flowery hair")>>\ You pick at one flower in your hair. It just comes off, like a loose hair would. Naturally. <<elseif $HeritageFeature.includes("viny hair")>>\ You pick at one green vine in your hair. It just comes off, like a loose hair would. Naturally. <</if>>\ "Dryads are beings or perhaps spirits of nature. Their bodies, while humanoid often look as if made from wood. They might be made from wood. I admit to not knowing." Havard ponders and rubs his chin. "To be honest, I do not know much about them. I have never met one. They like forests and nature, and therefore Firgrat is not an ideal place for them. I also cannot say why your heritage chose to show itself now, but it has." Beings of nature? Made from wood? Then are you made of wood? At least partially? Is that why those people before the void carved you up? For wood? You didn’t catch on fire when they burned you though. It just hurt. Your mind is reeling, and you cannot understand. All this heritage business is confusing you. Is it now time for that lesson Havard talked about? Whatever that is. You peer back at your reflection. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> <</linkreplace>>

CHANGE ' to ", /*<<set $HeritageRace.pushUnique($HeritageRace2)>>\*/ /*, , $HeritageRace.pushUnique("demon"), , set $HeritageRace.pushUnique("beastkin")]*/ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $HeritageRace2.includes("dragon")>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("wings")>><div class="choice-item">[[There is also something bulging from your back (dragon wings).|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("wings"), $HeritageFeature.push("scaly wings")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("horns")>><div class="choice-item">[[There are draconic horns sticking out from your head.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("horns"), $HeritageFeature.push("draconic horns")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("tail")>><div class="choice-item">[[There behind you is a scaly tail.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("tail"), $HeritageFeature.push("scaly tail")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("scales")>><div class="choice-item">[[There on your face are scales.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("scales"), $HeritageFeature.push("scales")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>><div class="choice-item">[[Your eyes have turned slitted (draconic).|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("eyes"), $HeritageFeature.push("slitted eyes")]]</div><</if>> <</if>> <<if $HeritageRace2.includes("demon")>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("wings")>><div class="choice-item">[[There is also something bulging from your back (demon wings).|Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType.push("wings"), $HeritageFeature.push("leathery wings")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("horns")>><div class="choice-item">[[There are demonic horns sticking out from your head.|Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType.push("horns"), $HeritageFeature.push("demonic horns")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("tail")>><div class="choice-item">[[There behind you is a leathery tail.|Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType.push("tail"), $HeritageFeature.push("leathery tail")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>><div class="choice-item">[[Your eyes have turned black. All black. (demon) |Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType.push("eyes"), $HeritageFeature.push("fully black eyes")]]</div><</if>> <</if>> <<if $HeritageRace2.includes("beastkin")>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("horns")>><div class="choice-item">[[There are animal horns sticking out from your head.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType.push("horns"), $HeritageFeature.push("animal horns2")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("tail")>><div class="choice-item">[[There behind you is a fluffy tail.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType.push("tail"), $HeritageFeature.push("fluffy tail2")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>><div class="choice-item">[[There on your the top of your head are animal ears.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType.push("animal ears"), $HeritageFeature.push("animal ears2")]]</div><</if>> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|previous()]]</div> </div><</nobr>> /*<<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $HeritageRace2 is "dragon">> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("horns", "tail", "scales", "eyes")>><div class="choice-item">[[There is also something bulging from your back.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("wings")]]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("wings", "tail", "scales", "eyes")>><div class="choice-item">[[There are horns sticking out from your head.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("horn")]]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("wings", "horns", "scales", "eyes")>><div class="choice-item">[[There behind you is a tail.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("tail")]]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("wings", "tail", "horns", "eyes")>><div class="choice-item">[[There on your face are scales.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("scales")]]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("wings", "tail", "horns", "scales")>><div class="choice-item">[[Your eyes have turned slitted.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("eyes")]]</div><</if>> <</if>> <<if $HeritageRace2 is "demon">> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("horns", "tail", "eyes")>><div class="choice-item">[[There is also something bulging from your back.|Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType.push("wings")]]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("wings", "tail", "eyes")>><div class="choice-item">[[There are horns sticking out from your head.|Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType.push("horn")]]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("horns", "wings", "eyes")>><div class="choice-item">[[There behind you is a tail.|Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType.push("tail")]]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("horns", "wings", "tail")>><div class="choice-item">[[Your eyes have turned black. |Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType.push("eyes")]]</div><</if>> <</if>> <<if $HeritageRace2 is "beastkin">> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("animal ears", "tail") and $beastkin_tribe is not 'fox' and $beastkin_tribe is not 'cat' and $beastkin_tribe is not 'rabbit' and $beastkin_tribe is not 'squirrel' >><div class="choice-item">[[There are horns sticking out from your head.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType.push("horn")]]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("animal ears", "horns")>><div class="choice-item">[[There behind you is a tail.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType2 to 'tail']]</div><</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("horns", "tail") and ($beastkin_tribe is 'fox' or $beastkin_tribe is 'cat' or $beastkin_tribe is 'squirrel') >><div class="choice-item">[[There on your the top of your head are animal ears.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType2 to 'scales']]</div><</if>> <</if>> </div><</nobr>> <<if $HeritageRace2.includes("beastkin")>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("horns") and $beastkin_tribe is not "fox" and $beastkin_tribe is not "cat" and $beastkin_tribe is not "rabbit' and $beastkin_tribe is not "squirrel" >><div class="choice-item">[[There are horns sticking out from your head.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType.push("horns"), $HeritageFeature.push("animal horns")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("tail")>><div class="choice-item">[[There behind you is a tail.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType.push("tail"), $HeritageFeature.push("fluffy tail")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("animal ears") and ($beastkin_tribe is "fox" or $beastkin_tribe is "cat" or $beastkin_tribe is "squirrel" or $beastkin_tribe is "wolf") >><div class="choice-item">[[There on your the top of your head are animal ears.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType.push("animal ears"), $HeritageFeature.push("animal ears")]]</div><</if>> <</if>> */

You stare at her silently... Thinking. You don't have a name. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You try to communicate with your eyes that you can't. Lexia look's confused for a bit... then seems to understand. <<else>>\ "I... can't." you say. <</if>>\ "Oh...." She seems a bit taken aback. "Sorry, I forgot. I heard from Havard that you have no name. That you don't remember?" Lexia asks. "Or maybe you just did not want one." That is true. You don't remember, nor did you accept a name from Havard. Are names good? Maybe it could be useful.... You are starting to get that names might have some meaning. If Havard and Lexia did not have names, how would you tell them apart? Haircolor? Well obviously the armor, but other people might have armor too. She is not the only Silver Protector. So, them having names is a useful thing. Makes things much easier if you ever meet more people. But Lexia and Havard are people... You are still not so sure about yourself. Lexia is staring at you again, waiting for some kind of an answer. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod. <<else>>\ "Yeah." you say. <</if>>\ Lexia looks pensive for a moment, one of her hands holding her chin. Then sits up properly, no longer lounging and resting against her hands. She looks you straight in the eye. Intense blue eyes meet your $EyeColor ones. "I know we just met and all but... want me to name you?" she asks. She wants to name you? Why? How would she know what name to give you? How do people know what other people are supposed to be called? You would have no idea how to name someone. Then again Havard also offered you a name... Maybe it is some kind of an adult power? Naming things. A name could be useful... If you are a person, or will eventually become one after some grand event. You have no idea, but even things have something they are called. A chair is a chair. Though you are a $child, and can be called such... but if you are not the only $child, it could get confusing? It seems you have another choice to make. You suddenly have so many. What should you do? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod. You would like a name from Lexia.|Lexia_names_you]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["Yes please." You say. You would like a name.|Lexia_names_you]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You are not sure, maybe your name will come back to you.|Need_time_for_name_C3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Do you really need a name? You are still fine without one.|Dont want a nameC3]]</div> </div><</nobr>> /*<div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head. You want to choose your own name.|Choose name_C3]]</div>*/ /*<<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["No. I want to choose my own." you say.|Choose name_C3]]</div> <</if>>*/

<<set $named_by_Lexia to true>>\ <<if visited() is 1>>\ <<addLexia 20>>\ <</if>>\ "YES!" Lexia exclaims and jumps up, stratling you a bit You bump into the wall next to your bed.. "Sorry, sorry." She says, hovering over you. "You good, kid?" You think her cheeks are a bit flushed. You are good, you were just surprised by the loud sound. You eye her... She is not planning on doing it again, is she? Still, nodding seems like the way to go. "Good, good. Sorry... I am just... excited, that's all." Why would she be excited about naming you? It seemed to mean something to her because she is thinking hard. You don't really get it. Why does naming something like you matter? Is there some benefit for her in naming you? Does she get something out of it? She is thinking.... And thinking. Still thinking. Finally she nods to hersel, and beams at you. <<switch random(8)>>\ <<case 0>> "Kinbilnarg" <<set $MCname to 'Kinbilnarg'>> <<case 1>> "Giledzir" <<set $MCname to 'Giledzir'>> <<case 2>> "Tumunzan" <<set $MCname to 'Tumunzan'>> <<case 3>> "Toheath" <<set $MCname to 'Toheath'>> <<case 4>> "Nandorthell" <<set $MCname to 'Nandorthell'>> <<case 5>> "Falonde" <<set $MCname to 'Falonde'>> <<case 6>> "Nionorith" <<set $MCname to 'Nionorith'>> <<case 7>> "Brondorion" <<set $MCname to 'Brondorion'>> <</switch>>\ She is smiling so widely, it is a wonder her face is not splitting in two. "Isn't it awesome? Do you like $MCname?" she asks enthusiastically. "But it's totally fine if you don't like this one! I can think of another! Or you can!" She assures you, vibrating with energy, oddly happy and a bit nervous. As if naming you was important. Maybe it is? Once again you ponder if names are important? You think so but your memory of before the void is so limited. You didn't even accept a name from Havard. Still, knowing that a table is called a table makes things easier. It’s probably a similar thing. But is it the same? Knowing what to call something makes life much easier so it could just be practical. Yet.... Lexia seems so... excited. There might be more to this. Still... is the name she suggested, $MCname, really fine? It seems a little.... different from the names you know. And you know like... two names. The thing is... if you can tell it is different, your internal sense is warning you that it might be really different. Also too long! Your memory is bad as it is! How are you supposed to remember something that complicated! Lexia seems to expect some sort of an answer from you. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head. You would like another name from Lexia.|Lexia_names_you]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are happy, you nod.|Lexia_named_you]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare at her blankly.... "Maybe.... a more common name?" She asks and you nod.|Lexia_names_you_common]]</div> </div><</nobr>> //Note: For some reason, the random name choice is sometimes just blank or even unknown. If this happens, the first choice reloads the page. There are eight "names" she can say.// /*<div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head. You want to choose your own name.|Choose name_C3]]</div>*/

<<set $MCname to 'the $child'>>\ <<set $lastname to 'Unknown'>>\ <<addLexia -5>>\ "Ok, that cool too.." Lexia says, but her expression is a bit odd... Off somehow compared to the usual. Then she smiles.. "No rush. Take all the time you need." Huh... first Havard did not make a big deal about it and now Lexia is following suit. What are you supposed to do... These people keep being nice to you. Even when you don't want a name, at least not right now. Why are they nice to you, even when you don't behave like they want you to? You have no idea. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You decide you would like Lexia to name you.|Lexia_names_you]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are happy with letting it be, so you nod.|Chapter 3_5]][$MC_name_random to true]]</div> </div><</nobr>> /*<div class="choice-item">[[Shake your head. You want to choose my own name instead.|Choose name_C3]]</div>*/

Choose your own name: <<textbox "$MCname" $MCname>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Proceed|Chapter 3_5]] </div> <div class="choice-item">[[Go back|C3 Lexia name]] </div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $MCname to 'the $child'>>\ <<set $lastname to 'Unknown'>>\ <<addLexia -5>>\ You still don't know if you are really a person. You look like one, even if a sort of broken one. Names are for people, like Havard or Lexia. Names are words that mean the person who have them... or something. But what makes a person? It is so hard to tell... Havard and Lexia smile a lot, but their smiles are different. Your smile is... well not very nice. Your eyes are too... devoid of any life and emotion. It seems dubious to you, that a thing like you should have a name. "Ok, that cool too.." Lexia says, but her expression is a bit odd... Off somehow compared to the usual. Then she smiles.. "No rush. Take all the time you need." Huh... first Havard did not make a big deal about it and now Lexia is following suit. What are you supposed to do... These people keep being nice to you. Even when you don't want a name. Why are they nice to you, even when you don't behave like they want you to? You have no idea. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You decide you would like Lexia to name you.|Lexia_names_you]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are happy with letting it be, so you nod.|Chapter 3_5]][$MC_name_random to true]]</div> </div><</nobr>> /*<div class="choice-item">[[Shake your head. No I want to choose my own name instead.|Choose name_C3]]</div>*/

"Oh fine. I was thinking you should have a cool unique name, but I went a bit overboard." Lexia admits a bit sheepishly. You have no idea if she did go overboard, you just thought the name was a bit different. If even you could tell it was a bit different, then it might have been really odd. It could have been trouble later. She starts thinking, hand on her chin. And thinking. Why is this one taking longer than the last one? You are almost afraid of what she will come up with now. What if it gets worse. Finally she nods to herself, and beams at you. Bracing yourself, you nod at her. You are ready to hear her idea... <<switch random(5)>>\ <<case 0>> "River" <<set $MCname to 'River'>> <<case 1>> "Ezra" <<set $MCname to 'Ezra'>> <<case 2>> "Quinn" <<set $MCname to 'Quinn'>> <<case 3>> "Sage" <<set $MCname to 'Sage'>> <<case 4>> "Rene" <<set $MCname to 'Rene'>> <</switch>>\ Oh, well that is much more normal. You think.... What is considered normal? At least it is shorter. You might even be able to remember this one. She is smiling so widely again. "Do you like $MCname? Isn't it more common, but still awesome?" she asks. "But of course I can come up with another one! Or you can!" She assures you. Lexia is waiting for your decision, fidgeting a bit. She is nervous, your internal sense tells you. Why is she nervous about this? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head. You would like another name from Lexia.|Lexia_names_you_common]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are happy, you nod.|Lexia_named_you]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You think you want a more uncommon name (go back to previous page).|Lexia_names_you]]</div> </div><</nobr>> //Note: For some reason, the random name choice is sometimes just blank or even unknown. If this happens, the first choice reloads the page. There are five names she can say.// /*<div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head. You want to choose your own name.|Choose name_C3]]</div>*/

<<set $MC_name_random to false>>\ <<set $named to true>>\ Her smile is so bright you have to look away. It's too bright right now. Brighter than her armor when it's reflecting light... How can someone smile like that? So wide and.... happy. Does it not hurt her face to do that? Will her face into split in two? Even Havard does not smile at you like this. He is comforting and soft. Lexia is just.... bright. Too bright for your eyes, only used to the darkness of the void. <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "escape">>\ Your brief stint into the outside world did not seem so bright as her smile. The garden was wonderful, but right now that memory feels less bright than that smile. <<if$SawTheSeaC1>>\ The sea you saw from the window was wonderous and alien, yet her smile is more real than that disdant vision of paradise. <</if>><</if>>\ "Hello $MCname!" She says, full of happines. $MCname. Your name. You have a name now. She gave you a name. It's odd. $MCname... A word that means you. How odd is that? There is a word for you. Lexia is staring at you, smiling. Beaming really. Is she expecting something from you? Are you supposed to do something? Right... She said hello. Aren't you supposed to say hello back. <<if $Lexiareaction2 is 5>>\ It's a little odd... You just said hello to her not too long ago. When she was staring at you. Still... now you have a name. Is saying hello special when you have a name? It might be... she made a big deal about your name after all. <</if>>\ <<if ndef $pchoice>>\ <<set $pchoice to "">>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["Hello..." You say back softly. You feel a little shy all of a sudden.|Chapter 3 Lexia hello][$pchoice to "shy"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[["Hi." You say curtly.|Chapter 3 Lexia hello][$pchoice to "blunt"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[["Hello!" You say happily. You even give a little wave.|Chapter 3 Lexia hello][$pchoice to "innocent"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[["Hello!" You say and wave lively.|Chapter 3 Lexia hello][$pchoice to "lively"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[["Hello." You say expressionless.|Chapter 3 Lexia hello][$pchoice to "stoic"]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice-item">[[Your face feels hot.. You feel a little shy all of a sudden. All you manage is a little wave.|Chapter 3 Lexia hello][$pchoice to "shy"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod curtly.|Chapter 3 Lexia hello][$pchoice to "blunt"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod happily. You even give a little wave.|Chapter 3 Lexia hello][$pchoice to "innocent"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You not enthusiastically, and and wave lively.|Chapter 3 Lexia hello][$pchoice to "lively"]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod blankly, face expressionless.|Chapter 3 Lexia hello][$pchoice to "stoic"]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>> /* <<switch $pchoice>> case "friendly" case "blunt" case "stoic" case "lively" case "oblivious" case "smooth" case "innocent" case "jaded" case "shy" case "bold" case "careful" case "reckless" <</switch>> <<switch $CopingChoice>> case "madness" case "numbness" case "selfharm" case "avoidance" case "anger" case "trust" <</switch>> */

<<switch $pchoice>>\ <<case "friendly">>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ <<else>>\ <</if>>\ <<case "blunt">>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod curtly <<else>>\ "Hi." You say bluntly. <</if>>\ Lexia blinks at your version of the greeting. But seems to accept it. "Very efficient, kid." She says, and nods. You are content with that. Efficient is good. Makes things happen. <<case "stoic">> <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod blankly, face expressionless. <<else>>\ "Hello." You say expressionless. <</if>>\ Lexia looks at you for a moment, and you just stare at each other. Then she nods at you, seriously. "Efficient." She says. "Perfectly understantable. And you can put that impasiveness to use, you know. If we ever play cards." You are content with that though you have no idea what she is on about with the cards. <<case "lively">>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod enthusiastically, and and wave lively. <<else>>\ "Hello!" You say and wave lively. <</if>>\ Lexia laughs. "Someone is full of energy. That's good." She waves back at you, just as lively and full of energy. <<case "oblivious" >>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ <<else>>\ <</if>>\ <<case "smooth">>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ <<else>>\ <</if>>\ <<case "innocent">>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod happily. You even give a little wave. <<else>>\ "Hello!" You say happily. You even give a little wave. <</if>>\ Lexia's smile gets even wider. You wonder how wide it can get and peer at her, leaning a bit closer. You stare at her lips intently... Then hear something from the open window. A sound... Maybe a bird. You stare at the window next, having forgotten what you were doing earlier. She laughs, and you turn to look at her now, tilting your head. "Someone is rather... guiless... And cute.." What is? What is that? If she says so, it could well be true. <<case "jaded">>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ <<else>>\ <</if>>\ <<case "shy">>\ Your face feels hot under her intense scrutiny. Her unbrideled joy at naming you, and sayig hello to you is a bit overwhelming. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You give a little shy wave at her. <<else>>\ "Hello..." You say softly. <</if>>\ Then pull the duvet over your face. You hear her giggle, but you are hiding now. "You have no idea how cute you are, do you?" She asks. Cute? You are cute? You thought your face could not feel any hotter but it does... Lucky you are already hiding it so she can't see. Once you feel your face is not so hot, you peek out from under the duvet at Lexia again. <<case "bold">>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ <<else>>\ <</if>>\ <<case "careful">>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ <<else>>\ <</if>>\ <<case "reckless" >>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ <<else>>\ <</if>>\ <</switch>>\ Lexia beams at you for a while more. "All right. Now that we have the introductions out of the way, I think we should get back to... whatever we were doing." She nods. You consider this, though it is not like you have options. You do have a name now! And you have been introduced to one person. It is a pretty eventful day in that regard. It is a milestone in your life... probably. It feels like it is. Are introductions important? Havard introduced himself to you... but then you had a whole lot of thinking to do with your name... and you did not really introduce yourself. <<if $nonverbal>> Not that you did that very well right now either, since it is not like you said anything.... Maybe Havard will get that magical thing for you at some point that can talk for you. You are starting to grasp that not talking might be inconvenient sometimes. Though... you have been just fine so far. <<else>> Perhaps later you can introduce yourself to Havard too in this more... proper manner. Maybe. If it is important. A name means it would be a proper introduction now, does it not? <</if>> Right now, your internal sense tells you that people introduce themselves to each other as a part of life and even if your personhood is questionable, this feels like a step in the right direction. After all, your life is not all torture and pain, or the void and pain anymore... There really was a lot of pain involved. By comparison this whole introduction business is not so bad. In fact, this whole introduction business is good. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[It makes you feel more like a person.|Chapter 3_5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<nobr>> You bare your teeth and lift your cheeks more. Is that a smile? It looks odd on you and is still very unsettling with how your eyes are. Nothing like the nice smiles Havard has. Or the sad ones. How does he do so many smiles? All your smile is doing is making you vaguely uncomfortable. <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("wings")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your face is framed by your wings, but that is not helping. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("tail")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature is swaying slightly behind your face, yet it is not enough to make your smile appealing. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("horns")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("horns")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Your $Feature are not really helping either, sort of making you look more off while you smile. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("eyes")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> You change your eyes into your $Feature... Nope. That made it much worse. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("pointy ears")>><<else>><<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("animal ears")>><</if>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ Your $Feature at least take away some of the effect. <<if $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> Fluffiness is a great deterrent for creepy, at least in your fresh opinion.<</if>> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("scales")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("scales")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> The $Feature on your face are not really helping either. They sort of highlight how unnerving your smile is. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("feathers")>> <<elseif $HeritageType.includesAny("elemental")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("elemental")>> <<else>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("nature features")>> <</if>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> At least your $Feature makes the effect a bit softer somehow. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("sea")>>\ <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("sea")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ The $Feature on your face are very eye-catching. Translucent and... wavy? They spread out on both sides of your face. Very noticeable, yet you never knew they were there. You can in fact see them on the edges of your vision, but they have always been there. You never paid enough attention. <</if>> <</nobr>> % SECOND <<nobr>> Lexia and Havard argue about “profanity”. You need to make them stop... catch their attention somehow... But how? <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <<FeatureIndex "wings">> Your wings, shift a bit uncertainly behind you, but that is not helping. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <<FeatureIndex "tail">> Your $Feature is swaying slightly behind you. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("horns")>> <<FeatureIndex "horns">> You can feel your $Type on top of your head. Odd how you never noticed before. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>> <<FeatureIndex "eyes">> You doubt your $Feature are of much help here. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<FeatureIndex "pointy ears">><<else>><<FeatureIndex "animal ears">><</if>>\ You can feel your $Feature twitch as you shuffle. You can hear through the window, the sounds outside even as Lexia and Havard argue. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("scales")>> <<FeatureIndex "scales">> Some light from the window hits the $Feature on your face as you shuffle. Some of it reflects back on the floor of the room. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>> <<FeatureIndex "feathers">> <<else>> <<FeatureIndex "nature features">> <</if>> <<set $CurrentRaces = $HeritageRace.concatUnique($HeritageRace2)>> <<if $CurrentRaces.includes("dragon")>> For some reason, you really like shiny things. <</if>> <<if $MC_headpats is 'like'>>>>She pats your head gently and you automatically lean into the touch. <</if>> If you’re using your above code within the “dungeon” passage, then hasVisited("dungeon") will be true, because you’re currently in that passage, thus it has been visited. If you want some text to only show the first time you enter a passage, you can do this: <<if visited() == 1>> First visit text. <<else>> Text shown in subsequent visits. <</if>> <<if $MC_name_random is false>>\ "Good night, $MCname." <<else>>\ "Good night." <</if>>\

<<set $asked_why_heritage_now to true>>\ You stand there and look yourself over in the mirror again, focusing on these new features. <<nobr>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("wings")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> The wings on your back, the $Feature. You spread them out and observe them for a moment. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("feathers")>> <<elseif $HeritageType.includesAny("elemental")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("elemental")>> <<else>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("nature features")>> <</if>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> You stare at your $Feature, turning your head from one side to the other, observing how your $HairType $HairColor hair looks. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("eyes")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("eyes")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Blinking, your eyes change into $Feature. You repeat this a few times and observe. <</if>><</nobr>> It really is odd, isn't it? That your heritage manifested just now. Why is that? <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ You look at Havard quizzingly, hoping he understand what you want to ask. <<else>>\ "Why did they just appear?" You ask. <</if>>\ Havard smiles as usual. "I fear I do not know why they only appeared now. Certainly certain heritage features only appear as one ages, but the timing is quite auspicious. Perhaps it is an emotional response, as often such things manifest during times of... emotional turmoil." Havard sounds unsure, and you cannot blame him. After all, if all it takes is emotional turmoil, you should have plenty of that, though the void and the cycle, and even the torture before it was quite... monotone in the end. Your time at the orphanage is the most varied thing you remember, and it consists of basically only this room and Havard. Yet, you have had food, got clothes and a haircut... and you did see yourself in the mirror for the first time in your memory. Perhaps that counts? There is no point in focusing on the "why" or "how" in your life. You are out of the void, and you are looking at yourself in the mirror for the first time. Time to get back to it. /*I think having this separately removed (-700+140)~-560 words as a whole. But also adding about 50words without code. */ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Now what else is there to do....|Heritage Navigation menu]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

What should you do next next? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <<if $asked_Havard_about_babiesC2 is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should ask him about babies.|Chapter 2_mirror2_babies]]</div> <</if>> <<if $AskedHavardHeritage is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[“What about you?” you ask. Now you are curious about Havard himself.|Chapter 2_mirror2_Havard_race]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $AskedHavardHeritage is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[ Now you are curious about Havard himself, so you point at him and tilt your head.|Chapter 2_mirror2_Havard_race]]</div> <</if>> <<if $investigateHeritageC2 < $HeritageFeatureCounter >> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_fly")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have wings, you want to fly!|Chapter 2_mirror2_fly]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_tail_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have a tail, you should test it out.|Chapter 2_mirror2_tail_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_horns_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("horns")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have horns, you want to feel them.|Chapter 2_mirror2_horns_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_animal_ears_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have animal ears, you want to feel them.|Chapter 2_mirror2_animal_ears_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_nature_hair_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have to take a closer look at your hair.|Chapter 2_mirror2_nature_hair_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_scales_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("scales")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have scales on your face. Better investigate a bit more.|Chapter 2_mirror2_scales_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_pointy_ears_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have pointy ears. Better investigate a bit more.|Chapter 2_mirror2_pointy_ears_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_eyes_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should check your eyes in more detail.|Chapter 2_mirror2_eyes_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_sea_test")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("sea")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should check your face fins in detail.|Chapter 2_mirror2_sea_test]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Chapter 2_mirror2_why_now")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("wings","nature features","elemental", "eyes", "feathers") >>/*and $asked_why_heritage_now is false*/ <div class="choice-item">[[You should ask about your heritage only manifesting now.|Chapter 2_mirror2_why_now]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $checked_face is false>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should focus on your face.|Chapter 2_mirror2_face]]</div> <</if>> <<if $checked_scars is false>> <div class="choice-item">[[You should investigate this lack of scars and bruises more.|Chapter 2_mirror2_scars]]</div> <</if>> <<if $checked_face is true and $checked_scars is true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You are done with the mirror for now.|Chapter 2_mirror2]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $HeritageRace2.includes("dragon")>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("wings")>><div class="choice-item">[[There is also something bulging from your back (dragon wings).|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("wings"), $HeritageFeature.push("scaly wings")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("horns")>><div class="choice-item">[[There are draconic horns sticking out from your head.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("horns"), $HeritageFeature.push("draconic horns")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("tail")>><div class="choice-item">[[There behind you is a scaly tail.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("tail"), $HeritageFeature.push("scaly tail")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("scales")>><div class="choice-item">[[There on your face are scales.|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("scales"), $HeritageFeature.push("scales")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>><div class="choice-item">[[Your eyes have turned slitted (draconic).|Chapter 2_heritage2_dragon][$HeritageType.push("eyes"), $HeritageFeature.push("slitted eyes")]]</div><</if>> <</if>> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]>></div> </div><</nobr>>

<<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $HeritageRace2.includes("demon")>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("wings")>><div class="choice-item">[[There is also something bulging from your back (demon wings).|Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType.push("wings"), $HeritageFeature.push("leathery wings")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("horns")>><div class="choice-item">[[There are demonic horns sticking out from your head.|Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType.push("horns"), $HeritageFeature.push("demonic horns")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("tail")>><div class="choice-item">[[There behind you is a leathery tail.|Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType.push("tail"), $HeritageFeature.push("leathery tail")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>><div class="choice-item">[[Your eyes have turned black. All black. (demon) |Chapter 2_heritage2_demon][$HeritageType.push("eyes"), $HeritageFeature.push("fully black eyes")]]</div><</if>> <</if>> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]>></div> </div><</nobr>>

<<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $HeritageRace2.includes("beastkin")>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("horns")>><div class="choice-item">[[There are animal horns sticking out from your head.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType.push("horns"), $HeritageFeature.push("animal horns2")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("tail")>><div class="choice-item">[[There behind you is a fluffy tail.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType.push("tail"), $HeritageFeature.push("fluffy tail2")]]</div><</if>> <<if not $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>><div class="choice-item">[[There on your the top of your head are animal ears.|Chapter 2_heritage2_beastkin][$HeritageType.push("animal ears"), $HeritageFeature.push("animal ears2")]]</div><</if>> <</if>> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]>></div> </div><</nobr>>

Male: Rancent Adwald Gery Bedde Ceolwy Cyne Adard Hames Goodwe Hybert Lothher Giles Wine Eanwan Lasym Rica Andres Sirel Jino Irion Odwin (m) - A grey protector from a snippet. An old man with wings, huge, calm and nice. Hybert (m)- A silver protector, one of the gate guards, tanned face spreading into a pleasant smile, his brown hair tied back at the nape. Kathil (f) - A silver protector, one of the gate guards. her smile is very subtle. Her black hair is cropped close, and your internal sense tells you it is practical for helmets. Bruna (f) - The head cook. A strick woman with a soft spot for sneaky little thieves. Giles (m) - A custodian. Cilia (f) - The Commander of the Grey Propectors, married to Ethel. Enlon (m) - Elven sword master at the spire... really long winded, like "practice this swing for five years" Thrinan (f) - Drawen weaponmaster at the spire. ILBOR - Green Protector, son of Enlon. "Elven heritage" -> Half elf -> Older than he look. Female: Bruna Burga Waru Brega Marey Borne Ausan Suse Brona Stilleue Anell Fane Burga Kathil Saethre Leane Cilia Cwynna Neutral: Eril Rithre ------------------- Companion names list from notes: The twins: Atru and Azha. Brothel Kid. At least one silver protector recruit (child of an inkeeper seems like a good idea). A grey protector recrtuit. Someone related to the Equinox? Some sort of noble (protextor?) out of touch with the world would be a good idea I think. Adventurer. Potentially FREAKISHLY tall buff and mean (woman? was the request) NAMES options: male Garran, Skyler, Estmond, Olek, Hayward, Cyne female: Raylene, Neda, Sondra, Kathil % Alexia/Alex/Alexa (good pairing but mayube no more starting with A since twins), Fenna Personality idea: Agresively sweet (think Chef Rush) Towns/cities Dahim (The villave where Havard comes from) Lafeld, the City of Ghosts Enegion ----------------------------- <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("ram horns")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("sheep")>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("deer horns")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("deer")>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("goat horns")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("goat")>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("elk horns")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("elk")>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("fox ears")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("fox")>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("cat ears")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("cat")>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("wolf ears")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("wolf")>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("rabbit ears")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("rabbit")>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageFeature.includes("squirrel ears")>>\ <<set $beastkin_tribe.push("squirrel")>>\ <</if>>\

<div align="center"><h1>Currency</h1></div> The every day currency in Firgrat is different coins. <div align="center"><h2>Iron Bits – Square coins made of iron.</h2></div> <li>Value: 1 iron bit, which is the base currency</li> <li>Iron bits are used for buying basic items like a loaf of bread or a drink at the tavern.</li> <div align="center"><h2>Bronze Marks – Circular coins made of bronze.</h2></div> <li>Value: 1 bronze mark = 10 iron bits</li> <li>Bronze mark are for purchases, like a full meal, tools, or basic clothing. A handful of bronze marks could pay for a night at a regular inn. </li> <div align="center"><h2>Silver Marks – Circular coins made of silver.</h2></div> <li>Value: 1 silver mark = 10 bronze marks = 100 iron bits</li> <li>Silver marks are used for expensive purchases, like weapons, fine clothing, or a week's worth of provisions. Most rents are some silver marks.</li> <div align="center"><h2>Gold Marks – Circular coins made of gold.</h2></div> <li>Value: 1 gold mark = 10 silver marks = 100 bronze marks = 1,000 iron bits</li> <li>Reserved for high-value transactions, like buying land or a house, rare (but not magical) items, or large quantities of goods. Only the wealthy typically carry these.</li> <div align="center"><h2>Diamond Marks – Diamond-shaped coins made of a rare, shining metal.</h2></div> <li>Value: 1 diamond mark = 10 gold marks = 100 silver marks = 1,000 bronze marks = 10,000 iron bits</li> <li>The most valuable currency that most people never see. Used for purchases like estates, magical artifacts, or large-scale trade deals. </li> <<button 'Close Codex'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<<set $HeritageRace2.push("garuda")>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push("feathered hair")>>\ There are feathers in your hair. You have feathered hair. You stare at your hair. What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. It must be one of those heritage feature things. "What happened there? Your hair was not like that earlier when I was cutting it." Havard asks and takes a worried step forward. He comes over and kneels in front of you. <<linkreplace "Havard inspects your hair.">>\ <<if not $CurrentRaces.includes("garuda")>>\ "Feathers... you must have some garuda heritage." He says. Garuda heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "The garuda are well, bird-people. They have colored feathers, wings in place of arms with dexterous talons to be used as fingers. Usually also a bird’s face with a usually curved beak. There are a few of them around still." Bird-people? Are you part bird? What... Is that why the people before the void wanted you? To… you have no idea. Why? What... you are very confused. <<else>>\ "Your garuda heritage must be strong." Havard says. Oh... you have more than one garuda heritage feature. That makes sense... probably. Ok, not much makes sense to you but if you have one, might as well have more. <</if>>\ All this heritage business is confusing you. Is it now time for that lesson Havard talked about? Whatever that is. You peer back at your reflection. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> <</linkreplace>>

<<set $HeritageRace2.push("elemental")>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push("glowing hair")>>\ On the top of your head, your $HairType $HairColor is glowing. You stare at your hair. What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. It must be another one of those heritage feature things? "What happened there? Your hair was not like that earlier when I was cutting it." Havard asks and takes a worried step forward. He comes over and kneels in front of your chair. <<linkreplace "Havard inspects your hair.">>\ "I would say it seems you have some elemental heritage. Sometimes things like this happen." Elemental heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense seems to think you are part rock... It's a bit confused. You pick at a strand of glowing hair. It just feels like hair... as far as your ruined hands can tell. "Elementals are powerful beings made of an element. Generally, the natural elements like fire, water, earth, metal and so forth. I have head tales of more artificial ones as well." Havard ponders and rubs his chin. "To be honest, I do not know much about them.I have only met one under... strained circumstances, though they are quite secular. I cannot say why your heritage chose to show itself now, but it has. It does not however seem strong enough to manifest any specific element." Made from an element? Then are you made of form rock like your internal sense things? At least partially? Is that why those people before the void carved you up? To see what was inside? Your mind is reeling and you cannot understand. All this heritage business is confusing you. Is it now time for that lesson Havard talked about? Whatever that is. You peer back at your reflection. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> <</linkreplace>>

<<set $HeritageRace.push("merfolk")>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push("face fins")>>\ <<if $HairLength is "short">>\ It is pretty easy to see your ears due to your $HairLength hair. <<else>>\ You push your $HairLength hair to the side to peer at your face easier. <</if>>\ Your face is odd? On the sides there are large translucent fins. Havard's face is not like that.. You try to remember something about this, yet come up blank. You bring up a hand to touch your face fins, but you have no time to properly investigate. "Ah, noticed your fins did you. You must have some merfolk heritage." Havard smiles at you and peers closer at your face. Merfolk heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "The merfolk dwell in undersea cities and are often thought of as guardians of the sea." Havard ponders. "They are rather distinctive as they generally have a humanoid upper body with a lower half resembling a fish or other aquatic creatures." Undersea cities? What <<if $SawTheSeaC1 is true>>You saw the sea from the window after running away from Havard... There are people living under there? That must be... so pretty! People can live in water? Can you live in water? <<else>> You have never seen the sea... That is a big pool of water, isn't it? You can't even imagine it. Well, you can barely imagine water." <</if>> You stare at Havard. These merfolk sound like a story... Do your fins do something? They did not help you so far... You are rather confused about the whole thing. You have face fins, assuming this is not some delusion. Are you something that is not a person? <<if $nonverbal is true>>\ Your stare must seem like a question. <<else>>\ "What does it mean?" You ask. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> /*~300 word*/

<<set $HeritageRace2.push("merfolk")>>\ <<set $HeritageFeature.push("face fins")>>\ <<if $HairLength is "short">>\ It is pretty easy to see your ears due to your $HairLength hair. <<else>>\ You push your $HairLength hair to the side to peer at your face easier. <</if>>\ Your face is odd? On the sides there are large translucent fins. Havard's face is not like that.. You try to remember something about this, yet come up blank. It must be another one of those heritage feature things. You bring up a hand to touch your face fins, but you have no time to properly investigate. "Ah, noticed your fins did you. You must have some merfolk heritage." Havard smiles at you and peers closer at your face. Merfolk heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "The merfolk dwell in undersea cities and are often thought of as guardians of the sea." Havard ponders. "They are rather distinctive as they generally have a humanoid upper body with a lower half resembling a fish or other aquatic creatures." Undersea cities? What <<if $SawTheSeaC1 is true>>You saw the sea from the window after running away from Havard... There are people living under there? That must be... so pretty! People can live in water? Can you live in water? <<else>> You have never seen the sea... That is a big pool of water, isn't it? You can't even imagine it. Well, you can barely imagine water." <</if>> You stare at Havard. These merfolk sound like a story... Do your fins do something? They did not help you so far... You are rather confused about the whole thing. You have face fins, assuming this is not some delusion. Are you something that is not a person? All this heritage business is confusing you. Is it now time for that lesson Havard talked about? Whatever that is. You peer back at your reflection. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]>></div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $investigateHeritageC2 to $investigateHeritageC2+1>>\ <<FeatureIndex "sea">>\ You focus on your reflection, on your face specifically. Your $Feature, they are delicate and translucent. The fins fan out from just above your cheekbones, their shimmering colors catching the light from the window. You turn your face from one side to another, watching the colors of the fins shift with the light. How odd. Otherwordly. They shift slightly with every breath you take, soft and graceful. Tentatively, you raise a hand to your cheek, bandaged fingers clumsily brushing over the strange fins. There is feeling in your fins. The sensation is gentle, but startlingly real. Your touch sending a faint ripple through the fins, causing them to twitch in response. The edges are glistening like fish scales in sunlight, or so your internal sense tells you. You slowly turn your head again, watching the fins shift in the mirror, catching and reflecting light in an eye-catching manner. It all feels a bit unreal. You have fins, you have merfolk heritage. Well, the entire orphanage feels unreal and might be a delusion. You tug on one fin lightly, testing to make sure it is not fake. The sensation is immediate, a faint pull that confirms it’s a part of you. You twist your head again, watching the fins give your face a more ethereal, otherworldly look. They add something delicate and sharp at once, a touch of grace and mystery. A mixture of wonder and disbelief settles over you. You have $Feature, you are part merfolk… People that live underwater. That is so odd. And confusing. The fins are slender, translucent and regal. You stare at them, trying to reconcile the reflection with your vague image of yourself. They fit. The reflection staring back at you is someone you’re just beginning to understand. A bit, a tiny bit. That is more than you have ever had before. /*~300 words*/ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Now what else is there to do....|Heritage Navigation menu]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $HeritageRace2.push("garuda")>>\ There is a lump under your $clothes, on your back. Havard also seems surprised. It pushes uncomfortably against the chair, so you need to shift, and decide to rise to stand for a better look. You need to use the chair for support, your legs feel... odd. Still no time to dwell on that now. "What happened there? That was not there earlier when we chose your clothes." Havard asks and takes a worried step forward. You have no idea, but there is clearly something on your back, something distorting your clothes and making them fit badly. You start wiggling to get a look at your back, but it proves too hard. The cloth refuses to yield to you, and your ruined hands are not much use. It’s getting annoying. Who would imagine that getting out of the void, and now you are annoyed at a little inconvenience. As has happened many times in the recent past, Havard comes over to help. He fiddles with your clothes behind your back. "It's no use. As loose as these clothes are, I dare not force it, I don’t want to hurt you, so I'll just cut the cloth." <<if $blades_trauma is true>> He says it gently, looking for a reaction from you. You stiffen a bit, but he has already had every chance to carve away at you. Still, <</if>> Havard is afraid of hurting you? You doubt he could actually hurt you by just forcibly freeing whatever is back there, but he just grabs the pair of scissors from the table and snips at the cloth a bit. <<if $blades_trauma is true>>\ You stiffen for a moment again, but Havard already cut your hair with those scissors. He won't harm you now, and cutting open the back of your $clothes is not so bad. And you are curious. "Apologies for the discomfort." Havard says softly. The scissors never touch you. <</if>>\ Your feathered wings spring free, forcing Havard to dodge as a pair of burst out from the hole Havard made. You stare in bewilderment. Havard stares with wide eyes. Wings. You have wings. What… how… why? You are so lost. It’s not like you have been on top of things for the last… however long you have been here at the orphanage, but this is confusing. More confusing than usual… everything is confusing outside of the void. It must be one of those heritage feature things. <<if not $CurrentRaces.includes("garuda")>>\ "You must have some garuda heritage, to get wings like this. I cannot say why your heritage chose to show itself now, but it has." Garuda heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Oddly enough your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what these things mean. "The garuda are well, bird-people. They have colored feathers, wings in place of arms with dexterous talons to be used as fingers. Usually also a bird’s face with a usually curved beak. There are a few of them around still." Bird-people? Are you part bird? What... Is that why the people before the void wanted you? To… you have no idea. Why? What... you are very confused. <<else>>\ "Your garuda heritage must be strong." Havard says. Oh... you have more than one garuda heritage feature. That makes sense... probably. Ok, not much makes sense to you but if you have one, might as well have more. <</if>>\ Now, was there something else? Or is it time for that lesson thing? You peer back at your reflection. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["It seems it is time for our first lesson." Havard says.|Chapter 2_mirror2_heritage2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There is still something off with your image.|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item"><<back [[Wait you think you nodded off, this is not what you saw in the mirror! (Go back)|Chapter 2 heritage feature 2]]>></div> </div><</nobr>> /*<</linkreplace>>*/

<<FeatureIndex "tail">>\ Your $Feature sways behind you. You focus as hard you can and... smack the bed with your tail. As fast and hard as you can with your newly discovered control over your $Feature. Thump. Thump. Thump. The sound of your tail smacking the bed is not very loud. And you can't do it for long. You have to rest after three thumps, and slump down on the bed, already exhausted. Damn… It's so hard to actually do stuff. Still, it works as intended. Both Havard and Lexia stop arguing about what Havard is calling "profanity in front of children" and spin to look at you. Lexia tilts her head... "Are we being scolded by the kid? Or does $heshe need the bathroom?" She asks Havard. You stare at Lexia… What, no. You don't need a bath, you wanted their attention! <<if $nonverbal>> You shake your head. <<else>> “No.” You say. <</if>> “Apologies. We got a little carried away. Are you all right?” Havard say, already walking to your side to check on you. His gaze looks you over, as if searching for some injury you have gained in the few moments since he last looked at you. <<if $nonverbal>> You nod. <<else>> “Yes.” <</if>> At least there is nothing new wrong with you. Your legs are probably still off. Still, that means everything is fine in your mind. “Good job on getting our attention without saying a word." Lexia says and smiles at you. "I bet in a few years, that tail will be really strong if you keep this up." Would that happen? Having a strong tail would be good. Your arms and legs seem to be bad, it would be nice to have a body part that works. What could you do with a strong tail.. Pick up stuff? Hang off things? "Indeed." Havard says and smiles softly but keeps looking you over. "Your tail at least, seems to be doing very well. You just get tired quickly, but that will get easier in time." That's good, you only managed three thumps before you had to stop. It will be nice when you can do more... or maybe something a bit more useful than smacking your tail against the bed. But small victories are still victories, and your life can certainly use them. You nod at Havard, who lifts his gaze from looking you over and smiles. Why do both Havard and Lexia smile so much? They are such an odd pair... or you think they are? You might not be an expert of being odd, you might not even be a person. Then again, is there any point in dwelling on that? Can you actually do anything about it? Is there a way to know if you are a person or not? You have no idea. At least Havard seems to think you are a person. You think... How are people treated really? Another thing you have no idea about. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard considers you for a moment.|Chapter 3_1]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $trustHavardC3 and $trustLexiaC3 >>\ <<addtrust +10>>\ The both swore oaths to you, they both have been nothing but nice to you so far. Sure you just met Lexia but she promised to protect you. Lexia seems earnest and fun. And she has cool armor. Havard fed you, and gave you clothes. Cut your hair. <<if $blades_trauma>> Even when you were terrified. <</if>> <<if $trustHavardC1 is true and $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ Besides, you have trusted Havard since the start. It makes sense to keep doing so. And Havard seems to trust Lexia which is another point in her favor. <<elseif $trustHavardC1 is false and $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ Even if you didn’t trust Havard at the start, you have now trusted him for a while. <<elseif $trustHavardC1 is true and $trustHavardC2 is false>>\ Thinking back, you trusted Havard at the start, then distrusted him, and now trust him again. Seems like you change your mind a lot? <<else>>\ While you haven't trusted Havard so far... but after the food, clothes and mirror thing, you find that you feel like trusting him now. <</if>>\ <<elseif $trustHavardC3 and $trustLexiaC3 is false >>\ <<addtrust +5>>\ Havard has earned your trust by now. <<if $trustHavardC1 is true and $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ Besides, you have trusted Havard since the start. It makes sense to keep doing so. <<elseif $trustHavardC1 is false and $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ Even if you didn’t trust Havard at the start, you have now trusted him for a while. <<elseif $trustHavardC1 is true and $trustHavardC2 is false>>\ Thinking back, you trusted Havard at the start, then distrusted him, and now trust him again. Seems like you change your mind a lot? <<else>>\ You haven't trusted Havard so far... but after the food, clothes and mirror thing, you find that you feel like trusting him now. <</if>>\ Havard fed you, and gave you clothes. Cut your hair. <<if $blades_trauma>> Even when you were terrified. <</if>> Lexia you just met. You can't trust her yet. She may have sworn an oath to you, and Havard seems to trust her, but you don't care. You need to see more of her to see if she can be trusted. <<elseif $trustHavardC3 is false and $trustLexiaC3 is true >>\ <<addtrust +5>>\ Havard you have your doubts about... Sure he helped you eat, and redid your bandages. But still, he could be lying. Even if your internal sense disagrees. That thing is not always right. <<if $trustHavardC1 is true and $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ You may have trusted Havard since the start.... But now you have changed your mind. You are allowed to do that. <<elseif $trustHavardC1 is false and $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ You didn’t trust Havard at the start, then you trusted him for a while. Yet, now you find yourself doubting again. Why? <<elseif $trustHavardC1 is true and $trustHavardC2 is false>>\ Thinking back, you trusted Havard at the start, then distrusted him, and now keep distrusting him. That seems like the correct course of action. <<else>>\ You haven't trusted Havard so far... it makes sense to not trust him now either. Who knows what kind of agenda he might have? He smiles far too much, but not the way Lexia does. He smiles in a way that is much harder to understand. <</if>>\ Lexia now... Lexia seems easier to judge. Earnest. And she has cool armor. She said she would protect you. She seems like she could beat you up easily, but chooses not to. ThoughHavard could probably do that too, you are tiny compared to them both. Still, Lexia has armor so she must beat up lots of people. But she does not beat you. So you trust her. <<elseif $trustHavardC3 is false and $trustLexiaC3 is false >>\ <<addtrust -10>>\ As you consider the matter, you realize you trust neither of the two. This is all far too good to be true, they must be trying to trick you. <<if $trustHavardC1 is true and $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ You may have trusted Havard since the start.... But now you have changed your mind. You are allowed to do that. <<elseif $trustHavardC1 is false and $trustHavardC2 is true>>\ You didn’t trust Havard at the start, then you trusted him for a while. Yet, now you find yourself doubting again. Why? <<elseif $trustHavardC1 is true and $trustHavardC2 is false>>\ Thinking back, you trusted Havard at the start, then distrusted him, and now keep distrusting him. That seems like the correct course of action. <<else>>\ You haven't trusted Havard so far... it makes sense to not trust him now either. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ You are a little too lost in thought, and startle a bit when Havard leans down to inspect you again. "Is everything alright?" He asks softly. "You seem lost in thought." You were! Lost in thought... you think you understand what it means. You were once again thinking, inside your head and ignoring Havard and Lexia. Are you not supposed to do that? Then how do people react to things if they don't think about what they think about the things? Why is everything so complicated outside the void? But you are fine enough. Just being confused is better than what you are used to. So, you nod to indicate that you are fine. "So are you going be alright if I go and deal with the kitchens?" He asks. "We would not want to have issues with food." He smiles. That... is a good point. You don't have much choice then. You want to eat again after all. That was fun.<<if not $trustHavardC3>> Besides, you don't trust Havard so his presence is not required. <<else>> You trust Havard and would prefer he stays but food is important or so you have learned recently. <</if>><<if $trustLexiaC3>> And you trust Lexia. <<else>> You don't trust Lexia but you will bear it for the food.<</if>> In any event, you will be fine. You are in bed. You had food recently. You have clothes. You have your cloak. <<if $trustLexiaC3>> You have Lexia too. Even if you are not sure you need her at the moment, you don't mind the thought of her being present. <<else>> You sort of have Lexia too, but you don't trust her so you would rather not have her present. Still, looks like you have no option there.<</if>> “I am sorry to leave you, but Lexia will stay with you to make sure you stay in bed, and if you need anything you can just ask her.” He adjusts the covers, so you are fully under the duvet. It feels very snug. “If you need me, Lexia can contact me at any time. I can be here in person quickly if needed.” With a final smile, Havard turns and leaves your room with a nod at Lexia. You are left alone with the woman in silver armor. Lexia. <<if $trustLexiaC3>> You trust her... but you don't know her. Not ideal. How do people get to know each other? You have no idea. Havard just sort talked to you. <<else>> You don't trust her, and you don't know her. Not much to be happy about here.<</if>> She is your Silver Protector, a guardian to keep you safe.... Best not focus on what you are supposed to keep you safe from. Now that you have encountered people that do not immediately want to carve into you, and trap you in the void, you do wonder if those people are not the majority in the world... What an odd thought that is. Then again, you have only met two people so far. And //something//, grandpa Sheo, Lord Sheo or whatever he is called, but you have a feeling his personhood is more questionable than yours. She smiles widely at you, walking over with a chair and sitting down next to your bed. You think she is using the chair wrong, her chin is on the backrest but it's not like you are an expert on chairs. "Looks like it's just you and me now kid." She says. "Try to get some rest. I will be right here." Well, you are in the bed, all tucked in even. Rest seems like the thing. Even if you wanted to do something else, she is right there watching you. And your legs don't work so the chances of getting out of bed seem slim. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You might as well do as she asks for now.|HavardPOV1 C3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1> Tales From The Past </h1>\ What is this? The demo for the Silver Protector was close to reaching 10 k browser plays when I started working on this little story as a thank you for reaching that milestone. I thought it would be about 1k words and focus on Havard and a rock (an idea from an ask on the Tumblr blog), but then it sort of spiraled out of control. Real life also interfered, and I had no time to actually finish the story. The demo passed 10 k browser plays... and many more. However, I was about 6.5 k words into this story, and it seemed a shame not to finish it. Though it seems to just keep growing. It got a little out of hand but I have no regrets. The current published parts are: <li> Havard Part 1 (~ 11 000 words)</li> <li> Havard Part 2 (~ 11 500 words)</li> <li> Havard Part 3 (~ 13 000 words) (soon)</li> More will be published as milestones are passed. I have written some of that already and will probably write more. The next one will likely be at ~40 k browser plays. This is quite... different from the main story so far, but I hope you enjoy this start of Havard's backstory. I consider this some sort of practice for later in a sense. The current main story is far from having these sorts of dynamics before some time passes. Feedback is welcome, as always. 6.7.2025 All content warnings from the main game apply. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Here is a more detailed list of content warnings. Possible spoilers! |ContentWarnings]]</div> </div><</nobr>>\ Underneath, you can start the Havard story: <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard bonus story|HavardRock1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard bonus story - skip to part 2|HavardRock9]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard bonus story - skip to part 3|HavardRock20_Part3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $chapter = 'The Past: Havard'>>\ <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'> ''Havard - The Village Of Dahim''</font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<fadein 3s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 200%;'>\ ''Year 135 of the Age of Hope, the First Age of Wocdes''\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'HavardRock2'>><</cont>>

<h1> Havard -- The Village of Dahim </h1>\ <h2> Year 135 of the Age of Hope, the First Age of Wocdes</h2>\ There was a very large rock on the outskirts of the little village called Daham in the middle of an opening in the woods. It was a nice smooth rock, beaten by rain into a rounded shape that was so pleasing to the villagers. The opening was oddly circular, and the perfect size to feel cozy, yet large enough to hold quite a few people. Havard had been coming here for most of his life. When the other village children or the villagers themselves had been mean to him, this was where he came. He would even talk to the rock at times, voicing his worries and thoughts about the unfair world. The rock predictably had never answered him, but he always felt better afterwards. As if someone had listened to him and heard him. He could of course tell his parents, but then his mother would go and make trouble with the villagers. Havard had never wanted that. Now was some reason, he felt this is where he needed to go. So he took a slight detour to visit the clearing with the rock on his way back home. It was in that clearing, by that rock that Havard found the woman with leathery wings. She was leaning against the rock, long black hair spreading out behind her as she was gasping for breath. Blood was trickling down from her lips and a few cuts on her face in little crimson trails. There were only a few people with heritage features in the little village Havard had grown up in. In fact, there were only two people: himself and his mother. Still, that did not matter in the least to Havard. People were not defined by who their parents or ancestors were. The woman was clearly hurt. That was enough for him to worry about her. He rushed towards her, dropping the empty basket he had used to deliver fresh bread to the farmers on the outskirts of the village. “Are you alright?” He asked as he knelt by her side. “Where are you hurt?” His hands hovered uselessly above her, unsure of what to do. Slowly, she opened her eyes. Unfocused eyes, that filled with darkness as she recoiled away from him. “Get away from me! Leave me be!” She screeched at him, and he fell over in surprise. The wet grass was cold against his back, but he cared nothing for his own discomfort right now. “Sorry, sorry!” He raised his arms in a placating gesture. “I just want to help!” He said. He must look like a fool, laying on his back, raising his arms like this. The woman however did not look at him as if he was a fool. Her eyes turned back to normal, and they were full of terror. She was afraid of him. Terrified of him. Why? “Stay back!” She said and tried to get up, leaning against the rock. “But I just want to help!” Havard pleaded. “I know what kind of help you backwater villagers offer!” She spat. To his horror, Havard realized there were tears in her eyes. Falling down her cheeks, they were mixing with her blood. “What?” “Don’t pretend! I won’t be tricked again!” She screamed. Her breathing was ragged, and she was sliding down against the rock. Havard hovered worriedly. “Please? I don’t know what you mean. Let me help you!” Havard pleaded. “You are hurt.” She scoffed at him. “Why do you think I am hurt? You people slaughter strangers for sport!” She screamed. She was crying now. “Why? What did I do? What did we do?” Her voice was wobbly. “Because of these?” She weakly gestured to her back. “Or these?” Her eyes turned black, even as tears still streaked down her face. For a moment Havard was taken aback by her eyes changing, but then he was just confused. Why would any of that matter? Then it struck him. Demonic heritage. Evil by their very existence, or so people said. People said a lot of things. Like how elves ate babies, how the fey stole babies, and how dragons kidnapped princesses. How beastkin were little better than animals, and spent their time rolling around in shit between bouts of rutting. That last one he knew for sure to be untrue, but he had his doubts about the rest too. Wasn’t there a demon Ancient? That’s what the rumors said. He had beastkin heritage, and people sometimes called him all sorts of things. Just like they called his mother all sorts of things as well. More than him in fact, she could not hide her tail and ears. All behind their backs of course, but Havard could tell. Wasn’t it the same for someone like her? But what she said…. did people really attack her just because of her heritage? Her appearance? But… that was… that was so stupid! She didn’t choose her heritage! People don’t choose to be born! He was getting a bit angry on her behalf… Still, it was time to be calm. Try to reassure her. “I don’t know what happened to you… but I promise. I won’t hurt you.” He pleaded, trying to project all his sincerity with his voice. He changed his eyes into slits. “I don’t think it’s quite the same… but I get it. A bit of it, at least. No one has ever attacked me but… well I hear the whispering.” She stared into his cat like slitted eyes. He could see it on her face. Disbelief and distrust. She did not believe him… but she did not have much choice as she fell down fully against the rock. “I can’t… I… won’t….” Her shoulders fell, and she slumped weakly against the rock. The fight went out of her. “Do…. Do as you wish… If you are going to hurt me, then please at least have the decency to be quick.” She said, now tired. Resigned. “I’ll be dead soon anyway.” He scrambled up to her. “Where are you hurt?” He asked in a rush. She was slumping down; eyes closed and did not answer him. That was a lot of blood. Her dress was soaked with it. He inspected her frantically. The deep wound in her shoulder. The gashes across her stomach. He thought one of her legs was hurt, but it was hard to see with her dress in the way. Havard thought the shoulder was the worst one. From what he could see anyway. He tried to be gentle as he inspected the wound… then tore off one of his sleeves, the one that had not hit the wet grass, and pressed it to the wound firmly. He had to stop the bleeding, clean the wound, bandage it up…. She hissed in pain and her eyes fluttered open. She stared at him with dazed eyes, taking in his worried face and desperate attempts to stop her bleeding. “Oh… you are one of those. I thought people like you were a myth….” She muttered weakly. “Don’t think I have ever met one before…” “One of what?” Havard asked distractedly, trying to form a plan on how to help her. She smiled at him then, and Havard felt his heart skip a beat. His mind suddenly felt very empty. Horribly wounded and wronged, she smiled at him so gently and softly. That smile was full of wonder and intrigue, because he was trying to help her. Even marred by pain and a trickle of blood, it was the most beautiful smile he had ever seen. No one had ever smiled at him like that. “A kind person.” It came out in a whisper. “A stupidly kind person.” His eyes widened and he stared at her… What kind of a life did one have to lead to be surprised by that? “I… I am Mara…” She managed weakly, and she was still smiling… Oh that smile had him feeling things he had not felt before. Havard gulped; his mouth suddenly dry. Mara… it was a beautiful name. “Havard.” He tried smiling at her, but it felt odd… because he was happy? Happy to have met her? Happy because she was smiling at him. He felt very foolish in that moment. Then guilty. She was hurt, and he was happy about meeting her. But upon seeing his smile, she gave a miniscule nod, still smiling herself. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Then she passed out.|HavardRock3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Havard had never been so panicked in his entire life. Somehow, he managed to pry Mara off the rock and carry her, clumsily, towards the village. The trip passed in a daze. Or in particular case, his parents’ bakery and house, combined into one large building on the outskirts of the village. An odd place for a bakery really, but well. His mother and father wanted more space. Or that is what they had told him, when he was young. Unfortunately, a few villagers saw him before he made it inside with Mara. He had no time to worry about that now, but if what Mara had said was true and someone attacked her… Rumors would be bad. Still, there was nothing he could do about it right now. “Mom! Dad!” He called out immediately upon entering. “A little help!” “What is it sweetie?” His mothers voice called, and soon the small woman with a cat tail and ears appeared, wiping her hands on her apron. “I was doing the starter dough to be used in a few days…” Her voice trailed off, and her nose twitched. “Blood.” Her eyes snapped to him, and then to Mara in his arms. The wings, the blood, the shoulder. “Rowan!” She called for father, and dashed forwards. “Come, the kitchen table!” She said to Havard. He awkwardly carried Mara after his mother, who was clearing the kitchen table in a flurry. “Set her down!” “What’s going on?” His father had arrived, taking in the injured woman laying on their table, Havard sweating and dirty and Havard’s mother moving in a near blur. “Get my old stuff! The potion bag!” His mother said as she was cutting off Mara’s dress around her shoulder. “Got it.” His father took off at a brisk sprint, dashing up the stairs. He was soon back with a bag full of potions and bandages. Havard watched in a daze, as his mother and father worked efficiently, cutting away more of Mara’s dress, cleaning wounds, drawing out potions and bandages from the bag his father had gotten. He was not used to this…. He felt useless but at least he had gotten Mara here. Right now, he would get in their way, he did not know enough about wounds. For some reason, his parents did. He kept watching until he realized how much of Mara’s dress his mother was cutting away. He turned away awkwardly. Was his face hot? What was wrong with him? Mara was hurt! He should be focused on that, not whatever else was happening! “Havard, get water. As much as you can.” His father said, pulling him out of his thoughts. Havard nodded and grabbed the buckets, happy to have something useful to do instead of focusing on his worries and distracting thoughts. The bakery had a well just outside. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[So out the door he went.|HavardRock3_2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

The house only had two bedrooms and two beds. Right now Mara was laying in his bed. She was bandaged and breathing easier than before, much to Havard's relief. He had volunteered his own bed for her to rest in. It had been two days now. Havard had busied himself by making sure Mara was as comfortable as possible when he was not working in the bakery. Otherwise, he felt an odd need to stare at her…. Before he caught himself and forced himself to do something else. It was just that… she was so different from anyone he had ever seen. He had not seen people with heritage features before aside from his mother. But those wings, they were so… delicate. She was delicate with her finely shaped cheekbones and petite nose… and pretty eyes. Like molten gold. She had been crying. Those eyes had been haunted... but she had also smiled. He kept thinking about that smile. Now for the first time, Mara stirred, drawing Havard out of his memories. Slowly and groggily, she blinked a few times. Stared at the roof. Then shot up in the bed with a speed born of panic. “Wha… Where...” She spun around and her eyes settled on him. “Auch…” Her hand went to her shoulder. “Easy.” Havard said, raising his hands placatingly. “You are safe.” “What did you do?” She asked. “Brought you to my parents. They know a bit about healing.” Havard said “What? Are you stupid? They could still be out there! They could have seen! We could both die!” She panicked immediately. Her tongue was a bit at odds with her elegant looks in Havard’s opinion. “What else was I supposed to do? Let you die!” Havard snapped back and regretted it immediately. She was hurt and as far as he could tell, had been attacked. She had every right to be on edge. She eyes him balefully for a long time, golden eyes meeting hazel ones. “Fine. It’s too late now anyway.” She muttered. “But I have a strong demonic heritage. Those bastards are notoriously hard to kill. I might have been fine!” She said, glaring at him. Havard had his doubts. Her wounds were serious, and that same reputation applied to half the elder races. Dragons and elves were supposedly also hard to kill. Still, arguing with her would probably be useless right now. She had also said she would be dead soon... Had she really thought that? Or had that been some kind of... bluff to make him... What? Kill her quickly? Leave her alone? A test of some kind? He decided it would be bad to bring that up right now. So, Havard raised his hand up placatingly. “All right. I will try to keep that in mind.” He said in what he hoped was a reasonable calming tone. Mara eyed him for a good while… then nodded and turned her attentions on herself, the room and him. She poked at her bandaged wounds. Then narrowed her eyes at him. “Did you undress me? This is not my dress.” Her tone was a little accusing. He did his best not to blush… he did rub the back of his head awkwardly. “That was mostly my mother.” He said. “She did all the… changing and stuff. The gown is hers... She is shorter than you so it might be a little short.” Mara’s eyes narrowed as she stared at him. “Mostly?” Havard did blush a bit. “Well… the shoulder wound started bleeding while she was out… and I… well.” He avoided looking at her. “I had to unwrap your shoulder…” He trailed off. "To apply a potion!" He added hurriedly, realizing how it sounded that he had only unwrapped her shoulder. Havard did not look at her. Could not quite look at her for some reason. In fact, he should leave her be… she probably wants to recover alone. So, he stood up, and started to leave the room. Then a pillow smacked his head, and he spun to see her in surprise. There she was, sitting on the bed, and glaring at him with… annoyance? She did not seem angry but annoyed. “Where are you going? You are just going to leave me here? Alone? “ She said. “After ogling me for who knows how long?” Havard just stared… “But… I thought… You need rest.” He said in the end. “You thought? What am I? A mind reader? You do need to say things out loud you know, or at least communicate in some manner.” She said, then drew out her voice as if talking to a child, slow and clear. “Otherwise, people don’t understand you!” That was true, but her tone was a bit… annoying. Was she even hurt anymore? She had a whole lot of energy to berate him. She kept eyeing him suspiciously, and he turned his head to the side. Why was looking at her so hard? Awkward? No, he had no trouble looking at her when she had been asleep. It had been distracting, too distracting. He decided it was probably the glare... Or the fact that she was aware that he was looking. That had to be it. “At least have the decency to look at me! To speak to me! Am I that horrible to look at?” She asked pointedly. “What? Of course not! I like looking at you.” He blurted out. At least when she was not glaring at him. “Oh….” For a moment she seemed surprised. “So, you are a creep? A perv?” She asked and eyed him up and down. Havard stared at her… She was… What… He was a little lost. This did not seems to be going well. His shoulders slumped. “I’ll… just let you rest…” He mumbled and turned to go. He took two steps before she heard a sound. A light, bubbly sound. A giggle. He turned to look at her. She was giggling. “You should have seen your face! You are so easy!” She managed between giggles. “Ouch…” She grasped her shoulder again. “Ok… no giggling. It hurts.” “You… you were pretending?” He asked, narrowing his eyes at her. “To be cross with me.” “Well, I wanted to see what you would do.” She said, completely unrepentant. “You might have saved me, but you are a stranger still, and I don’t remember all the details. I am in what I guess is your bed and you admitted to partially undressing me. I wanted to see what kind of man you were.” That… Ok that made sense to him. She was alone in a strange place with a stranger. The circumstances were beyond her control so at least she should have some idea about the man who brought her here. “So now that I have an idea about you, thank you.” She said, smiling. “For saving me.” She was looking at him and he thought she was sincere… “You are welcome.” He said and smiled back at her. She looked around some more before looking at him again. “You have anything to drink?” Slowly Havard nodded. “Let me get you something. Is water good? Milk? Berry juice?” “Milk.” she said and leaned back in his bed, squirming a bit to find a comfortable position. There she perched, as if she belonged there, draped across his pillows, grabbing the quilt to arrange it over her bare feet. Why was his throat dry again? Why was she smiling at him like that`? He swallowed out of instinct... There was nothing to swallow. She kept staring at him, the golden pupils deep and so very interesting, lips curved in an amused smile and one eyebrow raised slightly. What were they talking about? Right, milk! He should get her milk. He walked out of his room on legs that felt like wooden sticks... <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[And so time passed.|HavardRock4_2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

“Havard?” Mara asked sleepily an hour later. He had carried her to his bed. He had been sleeping on a cot in the bakery for the past week, letting her have his room to herself. “I am here. You should keep sleeping.” He said, his back to her. He had just been about to leave. He had stayed to watch over her. Definitely not because he liked watching her. “I was just going to go.” “No!” She said, sounding panicked. “Don’t go. Please.” Havard turned to look at her. She was… afraid? Afraid of being alone… perhaps. Afraid of the night. The villagers... The why hardly mattered. She asked him to stay. His heart was beating fast but it was not the time to think about himself. So, he smiled at her. “Of course.” He said and dragged a chair next to the bed. “I am right here.” He said in what he hoped was a calm and reassuring voice as he sat down. Mara’s panicked look faded a bit, and she lay back down. For a moment Havard was distracted by how her wings settled underneath her… They sort of folded under her. “Is it not uncomfortable? On your back, I mean.” He blurted out. She raised an eyebrow, and fluffed one of his pillows. "Your wings, you are laying on top of them." He asked, fearing that perhaps that was inappropriate. He had no idea if it was acceptable to ask about someone's wings... She, however, was not offended. Probably happy to have something to distract her in fact. “Not really as long as they are… properly settled. The…” She pondered about it. “The joints need to be set a certain way and then it’s fine. It’s pretty much automatic, like… walking. You don’t usually need to think about it. It just happens.” Havard nodded along. “That makes sense.” The silence was deafening after that exchange. Havard kept trying not to stare at her, but his gaze kept drifting back to her. Even if he pretended the wooden walls of his room or the desk were very interesting. She on the other hand was lost in thought, staring at the roof. Havard was quite certain she did not see much. Finally, she broke the silence. “I left him there. Kai fell out of the air and I left him.” She said quietly. “I flew away as far as I could until I could fly no more.” “It’s not your fault. Those people attacked you.” Havard tried. Even as he said the words, he could hear how hollow it sounded. Even if it was true... “I left him!” She shrieked, throwing a pillow at him. It smacked him in he chest, doing nothing. Havard did not recoil from her. “Did you not say you saw the villagers get him again?” He asked gently. She froze, lifting a second pillow… “I… Yes. I turned to go back… I…” She was crying again. Slowly Havard moved to sit on the edge of the bed and reached out to her… She grabbed onto his hand and pulled him into bed, burying her face onto his shoulder. The pillow she had thrown was on the floor next to the bed, but it did not matter now. She needed, and wanted, comfort. Even Havard could tell that. “I saw them…. Saw him…. Wings broken, limbs at odd angles.” She whispered eventually. "Saw them stab him again... He had to dead... He should have been dead the first time..." “Then you did not leave him. You escaped a terrible fate thanks to him.” Havard said softly, trying to hug her but a bit unsure of where to put his hands. She was injured still and she needed the comfort… but he was so aware of how warm she was. He had never… Well, the villagers did not care for him. Mara was close to his own age and very pretty… also in need of comfort. It was all so new... but this was not about him. This was about Mara, and the horrible ordeal she had been through. “I…. I…” She let out a choking sound and said nothing. “You did not leave him.” He said gently. “You don’t need to say anything. I just want you to know that. You did not leave him.” “How can I ever face my parents?” She choked out. “Tell them what happened? Assuming I could ever get back in the first place.” One of his hands finally settled on her back, under her wings and rubbed her back. “One day at a time, Mara. For now, you just focus on getting well.” He said. “Then we figure out the rest.” Her breathing was hard and her hands tangled into his shirt. “One day at a time, Mara.” He repeated. “One day… at a time.” She whispered into his shoulder…. “Hey Havard…” “Yes?” “Stay with me…” “Of course.” He said, wrapping his hands around her fully. Letting her feel safe. Her breathing was uneven, and she was still crying. Her hands grasped at his shirt, her tears made his shirt a bit wet. He did not know how to help her. Perhaps one day he would know better, but for now all he could do was hold her. Eventually she calmed, her breathing evened out into soft breaths. Havard felt an odd twinge in his chest. Sorrow, happiness and guilt mixing into one. Sorrow for the man he had never known, and the cruelty of the world. Happiness that he had met Mara, even if the circumstances were not the best. Guilt for feeling happy because she was in pain. Yet, he could both grieve for what she had lost, and be happy to have met her. She was... confusing. That was the best word. She teased him, and sometimes smiled at him. It was those smiles that made him happy to have met her. It was hard to say, he had no experience in such matters but when she smiled at him, he felt... happy and excited. As if something wonderful was about to happen, and he would get to witness it. It was such an odd thing. A smile. This he knew. He wanted to see her smile more. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He fell asleep soon after, hugging her all the while. |HavardRock6]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

When Havard woke up, he felt very warm. He did not want to get up. Havard did not remember sleeping so well in a long time. The quilt did not cover him properly yet he felt warm. He nuzzled into the warm pillow, and let out a contented sigh. Were his pillows always this warm? Then memories flooded him… Mara. She had pulled him into bed with her, had she not? His eyes flew open and he realized he was all tangled up with her in his bed, nuzzling into her neck. A bed meant for one person. Last night, it had felt so natural… But now it was a problem. Her soft curves were pressed up against him and things were happening. He was a young man, it was probably natural… but it did not make him feel any better. He panicked at the sensation, the warm body entangled with his was too much for an inexperienced young man in the morning. He fumbled, trying to extract himself without waking her, and fell out of bed. Luckily, he did not drag Mara with him but he did yelp in a rather undignified manner as he hit the floor. She sleepily sat up in bed and rubbed her eyes, and he froze. Her wings unfolded a bit behind her as her sleepy gaze focused on him… Havard was splayed out all over the floor, flustered and embarrassed. He hoped she did not notice what he thought was obvious, namely what was happening around his crotch... He hoped his pants hid it but right now it felt so obvious. His face was hot, which probably made it more obvious. He opened his mouth a few times to speak but could not manage it. What could he say? Apologize? Tell her "It's not what it looks like!" when it was exactly what it looked like. That would also draw attention to... down there. She stared at him for a moment, looking him over. He watched her anxiously, and silently. No point in trying to hide, he was fully dressed but also no reason to draw attention to it. He was pretty sure Mara noticed the obvious... but she did not comment on it. That was a surprise, though he could swear there was something in her eyes... Apprehension filled him. Would she hate him? Be disgusted with him? Then she laughed. A bright joyful sound that made his insides do odd things. Perhaps it was his reaction. The situation. Or just the fact she needed levity. Her laughter was a beautiful sound. A miraculous sound after the sorrow of last night. He could not help it. He laughed too. A bit awkwardly at first, then more and more boldly as she kept giggling. It was good to laugh. He had rarely laughed so hard. Until his mother came up to check what they were laughing about. Then he had to scramble for an excuse about why he was in here already and why he had not been in the living room when his parents had woken up to start preparations for the day. His mother's look was awfully knowing. It was all worth it, seeing Mara smile. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[A very good start to the day.|HavardRock7]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

“Why is it so sticky?” Mara asked, spreading her fingers out and inspecting the sticky stuff between them. “You haven’t worked it enough.” Havard answered, kneading his own dough with a firm hand. “Or there is not enough flour.” They were in the bakery. Mara was learning how to bake, and Havard had offered to help. His mother and father were the master bakers, but Havard did know a thing or two from spending his childhood doing this. Besides, it was good for Mara to be up and about. It had been a few days since that night they shared a bed, and she had told him about herself. They had not talked about it since. It had happened, and Havard waited for her to tease him, especially considering how he had woken up. However, for some reason she did not tease him about it. “You need to work the dough until is just stops sticking to your hands.” Havard said. “Really? That will happen if I just keep wailing on it?” Mara gave him a skeptical look, giving her dough a little punch. Havard smiled. “Yes... Well if you keep kneading at it at least. Punching might be... less effective. You can add a tiny bit of flour if it keeps sticking after a while, but the more flour, the more tasteless it will be.” “It seems so odd.” Her face was scrunched up, golden eyes focused as she worked the dough with her hands. It was admittedly sticking quite a bit. She was clearly giving it her all and Havard noticed how she suppressed the occasional shiver of pain she must be feeling. Her shoulder had been bad and the potions his mother had use were not proper potions at all, meaning they had no magic or magical ingredients. Apparently she had no proper potions left. It had been a whole point of discussion between his parents, though he had not participated much. Havard watched mara knead the dough for a moment. “You know, you don’t have to do this?” Havard said. “What? I should just stay in your bed?” Her voice was dry, and she turned her head to give him an intense look. “How naughty. You sleep with a girl once and now you want her to always warm your bed.” Havard was getting more used to her tongue after being on the receiving end of it many times over the weeks. Still, his face felt... warm. Burning. Still, he pushed on. “No. I mean you could do anything you chose. You don’t have to help around the bakery.” He said, ears burning. "You are not our prisoner, nor do we expect compensation for the... room." She huffed, and went back to working the dough, pushing it back and forth. Her wings shifted, unfurling a tiny bit as she put more force into the movement, leaning forward more on the pushing part. His eyes snapped to those beautiful wings, and he forgot what he was doing for a moment. He really wanted to touch those wings, feel what the delicate membrane felt like… He wondered how they connected to her back. Havard had never seen anyone with wings but he could confidently say hers were gorgeous, midnight black and delicate. He flushed and went back to his dough; happy Mara had not noticed his… distraction. “Did you ever consider that I want to do this?” She asked. “That I would want to try and help the people who saved me and are letting me stay here, free of charge.” Uh, he forgot what they were talking about… Her wings were so distracting. He blanked out completely. Best play it cool. Pretend that he was focusing on the dough. “Hmm, sorry what?” He looked up from his kneading. She turned her head to look at him. Havard hoped his face was not flushed anymore, but he did his best to knead his dough while still looking at her. She inspected him for a while, and even stopped working. “Were you looking at my ass?” Mara narrowed her eyes at him. He spluttered. “What? No!” Mara kept eyeing him, evaluating his honesty. He had not been lying but he still felt like squirming… He had been looking at her wings, not her ass. “Hmm… Too bad. I was leaning forward enough for a good view.” Havard gaped at her. She smirked at him and kept working on her dough, exaggeratedly leaning forwards when pushing the dough, sticking out her behind and arching her back while swaying her hips. Havard gulped. His cheeks were burning he had stopped kneading the dough and was indeed looking at her behind… and wings. They were swaying too with the movement of her hips. Mara took one look at his face and laughed. “You are really looking! And it was so easy to make you.” She said, smiling brightly at him. “I suppose living out here does that to you." She said, sagely. "A repressed village boy like you, meets a gorgeous beauty out in the woods." He smiled back. “Yes.” He said. “You can’t blame me for looking, can you? With being a gorgeous beauty after all, teasing me on purpose.” His ears were on fire, but he felt proud of his composure at answering her. “Of course I can! My delicate features are not for you to ogle at freely, you perv!” She made a serious face, trying to mimic offense. Havard managed to keep a straight face and raised an eyebrow. She kept a serious face for half a second before giggling brightly. The sound did odd things to his insides again. Was there some kind of a monster nest inside his stomach? He hoped not... He did know that he was probably smiling like a fool. “Come on! It's your turn, you do it!” Havard looked at her for a long time…. “You… want me to do what you did? Stick out my behind and arch my back?” “Yes.” She fluttered her eyelashes at him. “I did it, only fair that you now do it.” “But… I didn’t ask you to do it?” “Irrelevant. You looked at me and now I wanna look too!” The logic of a child combined with those golden eyes and gorgeous smile were a potent combination. Havard was powerless to resist… and maybe it would make her giggle again. He wanted to hear that again. Now, how did she do it. Havard leaned forwards and mimicked her actions. Sticking out his behind and arching his back as he pushed on his dough with an exaggerated movement. It was an odd feeling, purposefully doing such a thing in front of a beautiful woman. Mara made a point of looking him over with an appraising expression. It was hard to tell what she was thinking… She grinned at him and opened her mouth. “I don’t remember teaching you to do it like that.” Said an amused voice. Both Havard and Mara spun to face the door. “Mom… We were…” Havard had nothing. At least he had the presence of mind to stop sticking out his behind and arching his back. “Flirting?” His mother asked. “Mom…” Havard started…. then just slumped his shoulders. Mara suppressed a snicker. “What exactly are you snickering about?” Havard’s mother said. Her tail was… swaying angrily? No, not quite. She was happy but trying to suppress it. To trick Mara? “Ma’am… I was just…” Mara started, but Havard’s mother raised and eyebrow that made the younger woman stutter a bit. “I was just…” His mother laughed, and smiled at Mara. “Hah, not so much fun when someone does it to you, is it?” Mara looked a bit indignant and impressed. His mother laughed some more. “I don’t disapprove Mara... but I do need you two to finish that dough. It needs to rise, twice, before we bake it so it will be a long time before the buns can be eaten. So, chop chop. Finish kneading, and put it to rise somewhere warm. Then you can flirt somewhere where I can’t hear.” She clapped her hands. “Yes, mom.” Havard could feel his ears burning. “Yes, ma’am.” Mara echoed him. “Erin, dear. Call me Erin.” His mother told Mara. Havard smiled as he kneaded his dough. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[And so, time passed.|HavardRock7_2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"Hey, rock?" Havard asked, leaning against the smooth surface of the large rock dominating the clearing he had met Mara in. "I think... I might be in love. It is hard to know." He whispered. The rock did not answer. "It's hard to tell... I have no experience with... these things." He continued. "But... when she smiles, I feel happy. Her laugher is my favorite sound and I wanna hear much more of it.... She sometimes pecks me on the cheek, and my insides do odd things." He confessed to the silent rock. "Is that love? Or just... a crush?" How was he supposed to know. The rock did not answer. It never had, but he still felt better talking out loud to it. "But she also likes teasing me. Says it's easy." He said. "But sometimes I wonder... is it teasing? Or flirting... both?" He rubbed the back of his head. "Why can't it be easy?" He tore off some grass and threw it a bit away. "I am afraid she will laugh if I ask her." He admitted. "What if it is all in my head? That she is just teasing me and there is nothing more to it.." He gently banged the back of his head against the rock. "Or worse... what if she is flirting, I mean seriously flirting with me? I have no idea what to do with that. I have never... You know." A horrible thought occurred to him. "She went through a horrible ordeal... Would I be taking advantage of that if I asked her? I saved her.. sort of, and what if she feels obligated towards me?" He bit his lip. "That would feel wrong... Besides she needs to get back home, to tell her parents about... all of it." He rubbed his eyes. "Why can't life be easy?" He asked the rock. "I just want to know... if she could ever... You know. Like me back? I don't know if it's love... but I would like to know..." Much to his horror, the rock answered. A deep voice sounded somewhere from above him. "Perhaps... because... life... is... unfair." The voice said, but it sounded... off. Familiar. "But... perhaps... you... should... simply... ask... her? Grow... a pair,... and... kiss... her?" The voice said, and as much as the advice made him blush... he also heard the slight giggle. "Mara?" He asked... and heard a louder giggle. "Look up, you... you wonderful idiotic man." Havard pushed off the rock, and looked up. There she was, perching atop the rock, wings spread out behind her. "I was wondering where you went. You know, talking to a rock is pretty embarrassing?" He blushed bright red. More than he ever had in his life. She must have landed on the rock, she had been testing flying in the past two weeks with some success. "How much did you hear?" He demanded. Mara smiled brightly at him. It was a sunny day, and it was hard to see her face, but her smile was wide, he could tell that much. "Most of it." She said. His heart sank. "Oh..." He slumped... He wanted to melt into a puddle, become a murkling and disappear. To let the ground swallow him. "I see..." He said looking at the ground. She jumped down from the rock, using her wings to slow her landing. She marched up to him. He kept looking at the ground. He was afraid of looking at her. Would she laugh at him? Mock him? Would she... would she leave? "What are you waiting for?" She asked. She sounded... not mocking. Not angry. It was a rather gentle tone she used. Slowly he looked up, then back down. He could not do it. "Waiting for?" He asked quietly. "Aren't you going to laugh at me?" He asked. "Laugh at you? No. There is a time for teasing, and I can't do it right now." Her hand came to his chin and lifted it up. "Not right now, after hearing your heart laid bare, Havard." She smiled a gentle smile. "Later... Perhaps. Probably. Not right now." Finally his eyes met hers. There was something soft in those golden depths. "So I ask again, what are you waiting for?" He was confused... and it must have shown. She rolled her eyes. "Havard, did you not hear what the wise rock told you?" He blinked stupidly at her... and thought back. But... the rock had not spoken to him, it had been her. What had she said? Grow a pair, and kiss her... The voice echoed in his mind for a moment. "Oh..." He blushed even more. How he could still manage it was a mystery. He thought he was all maxed out. "You want me to...?" He asked. "That rock is very wise." She said. Havard swallowed. His mouth was all dry again. She wanted him to kiss her. To just... go for it... He closed his eyes... He had never done this before. His heart was beating fast and hard... He opened his eyes and found Mara watching his face. "Is it such a terrifying thing?" She asked softly. He looked into the depths of those golden eyes... "I don't know..." He whispered... "But... I am afraid. Afraid things will change. Afraid I will ruin what we have... Mara... I..." He gulped. "These few months have been the happiest in my life. I don't want this to end." Her eyes were understanding and soft. "Havard... One moment of bravery, and you could find that these past months pale in comparison to what is to come. Or we could both be disappointed... but I don't think we will be, Havard." She said softly, smiling at him. Even now his insides did odd things as she smiled. "I like teasing you. Love it, in fact... That does not mean I was not serious." She said and leaned in to whisper. "You should live your life such that you have no regrets... If you don't do it now, will you regret it later? I know, I will." Her words gave him courage. Courage to take that step that could change everything. So, he leaned forwards. Their lips met in a soft, tentative kiss. Uncertain and clumsy. The best thing he had ever felt. Her lips were warm and soft. His chest tightened as he wrapped his hands around her. He was afraid that his heart might burst when she did the same to him. Her wings spread out behind her, and shivered in delight as they kissed. The fear and nervousness melted away. It felt right. Her hands held onto his shirt, and they deepened the kiss. When it finally ended, she rested her forehead against his. "Does that answer all your questions?" Mara whispered. Havard smiled. "Not even close." He said. "But I think we have time later to talk about them." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The End Of Part 1.|HavardRock9]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $chapter = 'The Past: Havard'>>\ <h1> Havard -- The Village of Dahim </h1>\ <h2> Year 136 of the Age of Hope, the First Age of Wocdes</h2>\ "Are you sure?" Havard asked as they lay in the grass, watching the stars and moons. "Yes, I am sure." Mara said. Havard rolled to his side, and took a moment to adjust. He was so full, his parents had really gone all out for the new year. "Are you really sure?" He could practically see Mara roll her eyes before she turned to look at him. "Yes, Havard. I am sure." She said, taking a moment to find how to stay comfortable with a full belly. "You know, we are going to be in trouble if you start doubting my words." She said dryly. "So listen carefully now, this is the last time I am saying this. I am staying here with you." "But..." "No buts." She said firmly. "It's far too far to travel back to Firgrat alone, even if I wanted to right now." She poked him in the stomach. Not hard but he was really full right now. "So stop worrying about it! If you bring it up again, I will start waking you up by sitting on you." Havard rubbed his stomach where she had poked her. "Fine... fine... I just worry about your parents... They deserve to know." "You think I don't know that? But it's not feasible right now, and some stupidly kind and understanding person told me to take it one day at a time." "But..." "One." Poke. "Day." Poke. "At." Poke. "A." Poke. "Time." She poked him with each word, clearly annoyed with him. "Fine! Fine! Can you stop poking me? I might throw up." She relented and they lay there in silence, staring at each other. "Sorry." She said eventually. "Just let it be for now." Havard nodded. He dared not bring it up again... There really was nothing he could do about it. Mara was right, it was her decision to stay and traveling alone would be hazardous. Not that he would have let her leave alone but she could not fly with him. Or so she thought, at least. She was not certain. Havard knew he would slow her down, and he was no fighter. Neither was she, but the roads had been getting more and more unsafe. There had been practically no merchants for the past two months for some reason. A single one that told everyone, he would not be coming back anytime soon but did not specify the reason. That did not bode well. He wanted her to stay here, he never wanted to be apart from her actually. It was safe here, and they were in a... relationship. None of it still changed the fact that Mara's parents deserved to know what had happened to their children. They must be worried sick. Havard had hoped the merchant could perhaps deliver a letter at least, but he had been unable to afford the price for such a thing. Not for the letter itself, that would not take much space, but it was looking for specific people that the merchant wanted a small fortune for. They were after all, not messengers and Firgrat was huge, beyond his comprehension. "As for the poking... well consider it payback for all the poking you do in the mornings!" She said with a grin. Havard blushed. A few times... a lot of times, Havard had snuck up back to his room in the evenings so they could share the bed like they had done once before, hugging. Even if he was embarrassed most morning about the reaction sharing the one person bed with Mara had on his body. Mara took it in stride and did not tease him about it too much, aside from complaining about things poking at her when she still wanted to sleep in the mornings... But she insisted he should try to get more comfortable with that particular reaction and try not fall out of bed so much in the mornings. His ears burned a lot in the mornings. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Life went on.|HavardRock10]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"Son, help me carry these." Havard's father said. He had come to Havard in the morning, and brought him outside. It was getting closer to winter so Havard had expected the day to come. Now he was staring down a pile of logs. "Really, dad? That is a lot of logs and..." He walked around the pile. "And planks." He said, seeing the second pile. He turned to his father. "This is not what we usually do for the winter. What is all this for?" His father, Rowan, stared calmly at him. "For you and Mara." He said, as if it was obvious. Havard froze... He knew! His father knew! "How... how much do you know?" His father looked puzzled. "Was it a secret? You have been sneaking to sleep with her in your room since last year." Havard's ears burned. "So... you knew. Does mom know?" "Havard... your mother has a nose like a blood hound. She could tell when you two kissed the first time." The burning feeling spread to his neck. He looked at the ground. His father walked over and put a hand on his shoulder. "It's all good, ain't it? You love her, don't you?" Havard fidgeted, and failed to look up at his father's face. "I think I do? How am I supposed to know?" He whispered. His father was silent for a moment. "Son, when you imagine the future, is she there." He didn't have to think about that. His gaze rose to meet his father's. Two pairs of hazel eyes stared at each other. "Of course she is." Rowan nodded. "And when you think about what you want to do on your free time, what do you consider first?" He thought about that for a bit. It wasn't that hard either. "I don't really consider it... I just find Mara if we are not already together." His father nodded again. "Now, if she were to say that she needs to go back to Firgrat, what would you do?" "I would go with her." He said with no hesitation. "Even if she could not fly with you?" Havard fidgeted again, gaze falling to the ground. Mara was not sure if she could fly with another person. She had never tried, but her wings were surprisingly strong. Flying with him would definitely make things much harder at least. It was wrong to burden Mara with that if she said she needed to go... but... but he had to know she was safe. He needed to help her face her parents and tell them what they deserved to know. Havard could not live with himself otherwise. He raise his gaze. "Even if I slowed her down, I would still go. Even if she left me behind, I would follow her." His father nodded. "Son, consider your answers. Then you will know if you love her." He thought over his answers... He always imagined her when he thought of the future, he wanted to spend all his free time with her and would go with her back to Firgrat to face her parents, leaving his home behind... "Oh..." He let out softly. With his father's help it was all rather simple. He was clearly in love with Mara. His father padded him on the back. "Don't feel bad, son. Feelings are hard." "Thanks, dad." He said quietly. His father gave him a crushing hug that made Havard smile. "You are welcome, son." Rowan let him go. "Now back to the logs. We need to carry them to the spot I picked out." "Fine... but I still don't get it, dad? Why are these logs for me and Mara?" His father looked at him, clearly puzzled. Like it should be obvious. "For a house, of course." He said calmly. "What?" Havard asked. "What?" Mara asked at the same time. Havard spun around. There she was, a bit behind him. Mara, casually standing there. Wings folded behind her back, wearing one of the dresses she so liked, black hair swaying a bit with the wind. It was unusual to see her like this. Eyes wide, mouth slightly opened in shock. She was staring at Havard's father. She must have come out here to look for him. She did have a habit of overhearing stuff... "What do you mean, a house?" She asked. Havard's father just titled his head. "You two need your own space, don't ya?" He gestured to the logs and planks. "Making you two a house makes sense, don't it?" Both Havard and Mara stared at Rowan... "You... you..." For once Mara had trouble with this. Havard... well once he understood what his father was doing, he was not so confused after the initial shock. It was... well a move very much like his straightforward father. Havard and Mara were in a relationship and Havard loved Mara. That much must have been obvious to his father. Therefore, they would need a place to live. That was probably all his father needed to arrange this. "Dad... we aren't..." Havard started but he wasn't actually sure what to say? They were in a relationship but... There was so much to discuss. To learn. He could not put it into words yet. Luckily, Mara took up his slack. "Sir." Mara started. She was always polite to his parents. "Your son and I... we are not there yet. We are in a relationship but... it's new. Something like a house..." She petered out too. It wasn't that new. It had been months... They were happy where they were right now, they had not spared much thoughts for the future. Not together. They were living one day at a time. Rowan just nodded. "Aye." Once again he sounded like this should all be obvious. "But it will be winter pretty soon. That and running the bakery means this will take time." He nodded to himself. "We need to move the wood, and at least get everything in some kind of shelter." Havard and Mara stared at Havard's father. Then at each other... "Exactly." Havard said. "We have enough work to do before the winter." "We do... but you will get it during the winter." His father said. "Now help me carry these." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[They had no choice but to participate. |HavardRock12]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"You know, when you asked me to undress, this is not quite what I had in mind." Mara said dryly. She sat on the bed in front of him, her back facing him. They were in his room. "I asked for no such thing." He said immediately, blushing hard. "I asked to see your wings. You just took off your dress." "Well, my wings connect to my back. Undressing is certainly required." She arched her back. Her bare back... The moment showed so many things he had not even dared to imagine. A smooth expanse of perfect skin. The delicate curve of her spine drew his eye unwillingly. The taper of her hips where her dress was bunched up. The small of her back with that faint hollow that seemed to invite touch... It was hard not to. He snapped his attention back to her shoulder blades, where the wings connected to her. She was right, this is what he had wanted to see... but he had just asked to see her wings, too shy to directly ask to see how they connected. Perhaps she had guessed his desires. Or perhaps she was teasing him again. After they had kissed in the clearing their relationship had been... different. They did things like hold hands, hug, and even kiss when there were no people to see. It all made him feel very warm on the inside, somewhere around his chest. Havard would prefer no one saw them doing thing like that. Mara cared nothing for the villagers but Havard's parents were a different thing. Havard did not quite understand... but Mara had explained that Mrs. Erin, Havard's mother, would be nosy. He could agree with that, his mother would probably do something embarrassing like... ask after grandchildren. Or worse, give him tips. Havard thought he was doing... not great but not bad either. He felt like he should be doing more for Mara. She liked helping him at the bakery and he felt like he should be doing something.... more for her. She was getting good at baking, and his parents did like that. Havard liked when they were working together but... She had told him the story about the Lord and Lady Of Joyful Sorrows. Two immortals in love, destined to always suffer for their connection. A bittersweet tale about laughing in the face of adversity, of celebrating life lived, not life lost. An understanding that pain and happiness are intertwined -- No sorrow could exist without joy, and joy was all the more profound because of sorrow experienced. The story had it all, adventure, love, great evil and great deeds. It also had surprisingly raunchy bits that had made his ears burn. The Lord and Lady in the story were not... traditional. They seemed to share their bed with... well a whole lot of people according to Mara. She had delighted in telling him all the details, that were apparently described in the book... At least the edition she liked. He had listened to her describe the... acts performed by the Lord and Lady. He was... interested even if it was embarrassing. Partially because... well maybe one day he would need the knowledge. He and Mara had kissed and shared a bed but only for sleeping... The current situation with her bare back in front of him was the most similar to anything Mara had told him of those kinds of scenes in the book. He suspected that the Lord and Lady of Joyful Sorrows were... advanced in their affections. Havard had a hard time imagining the mermaid’s tangle that seemed to involve a lot of tangled limbs and singing... The point was that Havard was happy. Even happier than in the months up to the first kiss. Mara liked him back... He sometimes smiled to himself just because of that. However, their relationship was not grand. It was not adventures, and the worst evil in their lives were the villagers. In short, he feared their relationship was far from what Mara wanted. She had left her home with her brother to live out grand adventures... Havard feared she would get bored of him, bored of life in quiet Dahim. Mara turned her head to look over her shoulder. "Stop dozing off, Havard. There is a gorgeous woman topless in front of you. It's rude to be lost in thought... Though the drool makes it slightly better." She said and wiggled her upper body, drawing his eyes to how her hips moved, her wings shifted and her back arched. Her swallowed... Then checked that he was not actually drooling, making Mara giggle. "I thought you were interested in my wings." She fluttered her eyelashes. "I think, you should touch, to feel how they connect." She smiled. "If you were to ask the wise rock, it would definitely tell you to." Havard stared at her. "Really?" He asked, mouth dry. Mara rolled her eyes. "Yes, Havard. I took off my dress for this... You really need to learn how to take a hint." She did smile at him. "Go ahead. Investigate away." Havard needed a moment where he just stared at her back. Her bare, delicate back. Right in front of him. Were his fingers shaking a bit? Mara said it was fine... Slowly, almost relevantly he reached out for the base of her wings, fingers making contact with her skin. Her wings seemed to grow seamlessly from her shoulder blades. He trailed his fingers around the base.... They seemed almost anchored deep into the muscle and bone, he could feel tendons under her skin near the base of the wings, invisible to his eyes but not his fingers. "Wow..." He said and traced the tendons. It made sense did it not... for such extra support to be needed for the wings. It was just... curious how they his eyes could not see them... Perhaps if he looked really carefully he could see the slight rise and tautness close to the base of the wings. Havard was pretty sure he would not have noticed without touching first. Mara was oddly silent, her head no longer turned to face him... "Can you... shift your wings a bit?" Havard asked, pressing his palms fully against her back. Did she shiver a bit? It was hard to pay attention. "Hmm, ok." She said and unfurled her wings as much as the limited space allowed. The tendons on her back became a lot more visible as her wings unfurled. Havard could see, and feel, powerful muscles beneath her skin flexing. For some reason, a faint shiver ran through her back as the wings unfurled... He could feel it with his palms pressed against her back easily enough. "Uh... Mara, do you usually... shiver when spreading your wings?" Havard asked... "No." That was all she said... Did her voice sound.. a little off. "Don't worry about it. You just keep... investigating, Havard." Havard tried to catch a glimpse of her face, but the wings were now in the way... He decided to trust that she would tell him if something was wrong. So, he moved his hands across her back, feeling the tendons and muscles of her back and shoulders starting from the base of her wings. He mapped out how far they spread, his fingers tracing her spine from her neck to the small of her back. Checking for signs of the wings all across her bare skin... Was she making little sounds? "Mara, are you sure everything is fine?" He asked, hands close to her hips, thumbs rubbing little circles into her skin. He barely noticed he was doing it. "Yes..." She said. "You clueless idiot." She muttered silently, sounding a bit annoyed at him. He had no idea what he had done now... But he did trust she would tell him eventually. He slid his hands up his back, and started investigating the membrane of her wings. It stretched thin between the arched bones of her wings, midnight black, but this close up Havard could see it was somewhat translucent and veined. It reminded him of a leaf in way, with the pattern. How solid was it? How did it feel to fly? He wondered if her wings were strong enough to carry more than just her? "Can you feel this?" He asked, as he gently traced a finger across the membrane. It quivered at the contact with his fingers. He thought he knew the answer when that happened. It was as if her wings were alive with sensitivity. "Yes..." She whispered. Why was her voice like that? All... low and breathy. He thought about it... He had asked to see her wings. She had instead bared her back to him, allowing him full access, even suggesting he should touch. She seemed to shiver and quiver a bit as he investigated... and she had called him clueless. Her voice was breathy and low... He thought about it, his hands almost automatically settling around her hips. Just... resting there. Mara sighed. "Think back to the story about the Lord and Lady. Those bits that made your ears burn." The bits that made his ears burn? The raunchy bits... His ears burned and his hands retreated in a panic. "Sorry!" He said, embarrassed. Mara sighed a second time. Then turned to look at him... Turned fully around. He had just been looking at her bare back for a good while, too absorbed to notice anything else. Now he noticed other things too. Her cheeks had a faint blush to them. She seemed slightly annoyed but something else drew his attention... She had said it earlier. That there was a beautiful woman topless... He had not quite internalized that when she said it, too focused on her back and his own thoughts. Now he processed the statement in full, and stared. Her torso was bare... and she was not using a hand to cover her chest. There they were right in front of him, rising softly as she breathed. A subtle movement that drew his eye... He had always been so focused on her wings, a very prominent feature of hers that always caught his eye, and more recently her back as a whole. Havard had never considered how interesting other parts of her were, and felt like a fool... Now faced with the bare reality in front of him, he stared and pondered. Were they as soft as they looked? How heavy were they? How would the curve of each breast fit into his hand? So many things he suddenly wished to find out. "Hmm... and what has you so enthralled?" Mara asked, batting her eyelashes and wiggled her torso. The movement was... well very interesting in the region his eyes were currently staring at. His gaze shot up to meet hers, and he could feel the burning sensation spread to his neck as well as his ears. "Sorry!" He said again and covered his own eyes with his hands. "Havard, there is nothing to be sorry about. Lower your hands." Mara said. She sounded slightly annoyed but was holding it back. "You really need to learn how to take a hint." She grabbed his hands, and pulled them down from his face. His face was burning, but Mara scooted closer to him on the bed, and lead his hands down to her sides. "Hold there." She said. Havard did as ordered. He liked holding her sides, even if it was not helping with his blushing. He was trying very hard to keep his eyes on her face. Her eyes made it easy, even if there was a glimmer of annoyance in them. "Now, when a woman lets her dress bunch up around her hips like this to let you look at her wings, what do you think it means?" She asked. "That... you guesses I really wanted to see how your wings connect?" Havard said, uncertainly. "Well... yes. But did I need to bare my whole torso for that?" "No..." "So why did I do it?" To tease him? That could be the answer... but it felt a little different. She had also muttered something about "taking a hint", and brought up the raunchy parts of the story... Oh... Oh! Havard was an idiot... Or was he? It was so hard to know sometimes. He decided that it was best to ask. "Because... you wanted me to see?" "Yes. Now, what does that mean?" "That you would like to do... adult things? Like in the story about the Lord and Lady of Joyful Sorrows?" Mara nodded, face grave. "Yes. The question is then, would you like to do adult things?" Havard tried keeping the panic from showing on his face. Why was she being so serious? He had no idea what to do... but he still nodded. He wanted to learn. Wanted to do stuff with her. Mara giggled, the grave face replaced with her usual smile. She took his hands. "You are still so easy." She said and leaned in to him. He felt he heat of her skin even through his shirt as she pressed against him, and claimed his lips with hers. He responded in kind. This he was more familiar with by now, after some months. "No need to be scared, Havard. We can learn together..." She whispered to his ear. "We don't need to do it all in one evening... Let's see where the night takes us." That did make him feel better. They were in no great hurry. It was both a wonderful and embarrassing night. All they did was touch each other... lots and lots of touching. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Mara proved to be no less curious than Havard. |HavardRock10_2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

It took some weeks to clear out an area for the new house. A lot of it had ben carrying all the logs and planks to the site between preparing for winter and running the bakery like normal. The chosen spot was near the bakery, right on the edge of the forest surrounding Dahim. They had cleared the ground of rocks and roots, leaving behind firm, dark earth. Havard and Mara had pounded wooden stakes to mark the outline of their future home, and a shallow trench had been dug where the log walls would eventually rise. Neither Havard or Mara knew how to build a house, but they could work under his father's guidance. Normally the villagers would help with matters like this, but there was not much hope of that happening. The village woodcutters were Omar's father and Omar himself, while the carpenters were Omar's uncle and cousins. Havard did not see any of them helping with this. Still, he and Mara worked together as best they could. It was supposed to be a house for them after all, and therefore Rowen insisted they should decide on a layout. While neither were entirely comfortable with the idea, it was a topic to talk about. "I want a central hearth." Mara announced while they were carrying rocks towards the chosen site. A house could not be built out of wood alone after all. The foundations were mostly done, so these would likely be the last rocks needed. With both Havard's mother and father present, the four of them had laid a base of thick, hewn stones. It had taken a lot of effort to stack it all carefully, and fill any cracks with a mixture of clay and straw to keep out the cold. "A central hearth? Actually in the center, or just centered on one wall?" "Wall. More open space." She smiled a bit. "Something to face and look at on dark evenings, drinking something warm." Havard nodded, looking at her wistful face with a small smile of his own. She had been getting more and more into the whole house building over the past weeks. He let out a breath as they set down the stones they were carrying. "Seems doable. We might need to carry more rocks, but a hearth is a must anyway so I am sure dad thought of it already." He said pondering. "Yeah, and your parents are bakers. They know about hearths and ovens and stuff." Mara said, setting down her own rock load. The stones would form a sturdy foundation for the house, elevating the logs above the ground to prevent rotting and water damage. Within the foundation, the wooden foundation had already been started with beams to anchor the structure. "So... should the bedroom be the room closest room to the heart, or the farthest?" Havard asked. Closest would mean the bedroom was the warmer of the two rooms they had planned in addition to the kitchen and general living space. He would prefer it to be cooler, he slept much better in cool air. "Furthest." Mara said brightly. "Cuddling for warmth if it is too cool is a very good use of time." Havard flushed a bit. "Oh.." He gasped softly. It was a very valid point. Mara laughed brightly, doing odd things to his insides. "Poor village boy, always getting teased by the mean city girl." Havard smiled at her. "The village boy does not mind... much." Mara was about to say something as the first snow began to fall. The delight on her face made his heart thump. "Snow!" She exclaimed and held out her palms to catch it, watching the little snowflakes melt against her skin. She beamed. "Snow, Havard. Snow." She beamed at him. Havard laughed. "I know. It happens every winter you know." He watched her for a while. "Come on, we need to carry stuff over the foundations and put up that covering dad showed us." "Really, are we in such hurry?" Mara asked. "You'll see. Help me build the framework." Havard said, and could already see his father approaching from the bakery. "We need to get that covering up today." He said immediately, and started carrying stuff over to the foundations and setting up the framework. "Him too? Havard, why does it need to be done now. It's just a bit of snow." Mara said, tilting her head. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["You will see." Havard said. |HavardRock13]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"What the fuck?" Mara asked, watching the snow fall from the window of his room. They had just woken up the day following the first snow, and found that it had snowed the entire night. Like normal, the snow was piling up, higher and higher. That was not news to Havard. He knew there would be a lot of snow. "It's snow." He said. "I know it's snow, you..." Mara spun to face him, and cut herself off. She was probably going to call him an idiot... but didn't. Because she liked him. "Why is there so much of it?" She asked instead. "It's winter." Havard said, confused. "Havard, you do realize that it does not snow like this in Firgrat?" "It doesn't?" Havard asked. That was weird. "What happens in winter in Firgrat?" He was rather curious about the city. Mara said it was massive, and surrounded by mountains. That to leave it, one had to walk under them, or fly over them. That the Spire of Firgrat reached the sky... "It's cold and it snows, though where we lived, you could barely ever see fresh snow. I am still sure it did not snow like this." Mara said, turning back to the window. "We lived in the middle levels. Not much snow there. Just... water when the snow on top melted." Havard nodded along, and then shrugged. "Well, it always snows a ton in Dahim. Always has." "But.... There's so much." Mara turned to watch the snow, piling ever higher and higher. The height of a man at least. "Like... We can't go outside." Havard nodded. "Yes... Or we can if we want to, like through a window but getting anywhere is a nightmare. You can fly though but..." He gestured to the window. It was snowing heavily. "After the snowing stops, we have time to get around." "So, you are telling me we are stuck inside the bakery for the winter..." She asked. "Assuming the snow doesn't cover the building and kill us all." "For some of the winter, yes but it usually stops snowing before it gets that bad." "But... that means it has to stop pretty soon. At this rate, it won't be long before there is too much of it." Mara said, coming back from the window and sitting on the bed with him. Havard wrapped a hand around her shoulder, and she rested her head against him. Ever since that day when she had let him inspect her wings, he had felt... different. She could still fluster him, especially with talk of the things they had done but... He knew she welcomed his touch now. That she wanted it, just like he wanted her. It felt natural to hold her, and he no longer worried about where his hands ended up so much. Well unless she teased him about it. "It will stop snowing tonight." "Really? So soon." Havard nodded. "It is like this every winter. It snows for nearly two days, enough to cover everything in a good layer of snow. Then no more snow so we can start digging pathways to get around." "That's... odd." Mara said, her hand idly playing with the hem of his shirt, causing him to shiver slightly as her fingers found bare flesh underneath. It seemed to be something she liked to do. Touch him somewhere, even without no plans of doing anything else. The problem was that he had no idea how to tell if she had plans to do more. He thought it might have been another way of teasing him since it started only after they had been... close. Well, close by his reckoning. In the stories Mara told him to fluster him, they had a long way to go still. "Is it? Has always been like this here." Havard said, his own fingers rubbing little circles into her shoulder. "Of course it has." Mara said, sounding amused. "Well, at least it's not some weird backwater tradition. The weather being weird out here is better than the villagers... like having an orgy every time the third moon is full." Havard blinked a few times, his fingers stopping. His ears were burning again. "What?" Mara asked, grinning. Her hand pressed fully against his stomach, sliding further under his shirt, leaving a trail of fire in it's wake. "What does my poor little village boy find confusing now?" She whispered her fingers dancing across his skin under his shirt. Havard was pretty sure she had plans beyond touching him, as her lips claimed his. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Not that he protested.|HavardRock14]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $nonverbal>>\ You give her a look... Just staring at her. Then point at your mouth. You don't talk! "Oh... right. You don't talk... Havard mentioned that..." She looks a bit sheepish while she ponders. Then slaps her cheeks with both hands, making you startle a bit. "Well, no matter. We can do a bit more unconventional introduction then." She straightens up in her seat. "Havard told me your name is $MCname?" Yes, that is your name. You nod. <<if $named_by_Havard>>\ "Havard named you?" He did! You have a name! Like a real person... Or something closer to it, maybe. You are pretty sure things other than people can have names too. Still, Havard gave you a name so you give Lexia another nod. <</if>>\ Lexia smiles at you. <<else>>\ "I...." You start slowly. "I am..." It feels uncertain. Can you really say your name? Introduce yourself so easily? Like a person can? Is it... Is it really so easy? To just... do it, like the void and cycle never existed. Are you sure it won't all come crashing down if you lend strength to this one bit of... normalcy? Still, you are going through with it now though. You got this far... just a bit more. If reality comes crashing down, then... Then you.... No. Best not dwell on it. You have never had any control over your life, so you doubt it matters in the end. "$MCname." You whisper. It is so odd. Using the word that means you. You never had to it the void. Yet, Lexia is still there, and nothing bad happened. A word for you. A name... You have a name. It still feels odd... Perhaps it will take time to get used to it. <</if>>\ "Hello $MCname." Lexia beams. "I already introduced myself but I'll go again since we can be all proper now." She sits up primly. "I am Lexia. It is..." Her smile softens, her eyes seem to shine. "Very nice to meet you, $MCname". You did already know that.... Why is she being all... odd about it now. Then again, you have just had your first introduction without having to try and remember your name first! You have a name! And you have been introduced to one person. It is a pretty eventful day in that regard. It is a milestone in your life... probably. It feels like it is. Are introductions important? Havard introduced himself to you... but then you had a whole lot of thinking to do with your name... and you did not really introduce yourself. <<if $nonverbal>> Not that you did that very well right now either.... Maybe Havard will get that magical thing for you at some point that can talk for you. You are starting to grasp that not talking might be inconvenient sometimes. Though... you have been just fine so far. <<else>> Perhaps later you can introduce yourself to Havard too in this more... proper manner. Maybe. If it is important. <</if>> Right now, your internal sense tells you that people introduce themselves to each other as a part of life and even if your personhood is questionable, this feels like a step in the right direction. After all, your life is not all torture and pain, or the void and pain anymore... There really was a lot of pain involved. By comparison this whole introduction business is not so bad. In fact, this whole introduction business is good. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[It makes you feel more like a person.|Chapter 3_5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

You inspect the odd amulet you were provided. It will let you speak? Well... you have been wondering about something. "How are babies made?" THe voice sounds... metalic? Monotone... It is a clear voice, and it speaks for you. Lexia’s face lit up. She smiled so broadly; you were convinced her face would split in two. It was sort of unnerving. She seemed what your internal sense dubbed as ludicrously happy, and a bit manic. "Yes Havard, where do babies come from?" Her voice sounded odd, there was a tremor to it. The words themselves were clipped, and came out in short bursts.

Wocdes generally only has one language or so everyone thinks. Some secluded communities and old races have their own languages (elves, dragons, demons). Some very isolated younger communities may have developed languages as well. However, only the truly powerful can even attempt to speak another langueage on Wocdes. Translation magic is possible, but no one studies it on Wocdes. This is becauase one of the world wide spells cast by the Ancients on Wocdes is a translation spell, that discretely forces everyone to understand each other, no matter their language. One of the efforts to eliminate war by the Ancients is to avoid misunderstandings, and hence the spell. It also helps with trading. Only the truly powerful are able to circumvent the spell and speak another language. <<button 'Close Codex'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<<FeatureIndex "wings">>\ <<addstoic -5>><<addinnocence 3>>\ You sit up on the bed in a hurry, and open your $Feature enthusiastically enough, spreading them out behind you. "Oh? Not sure that is going to work, kid. But give it a whirl." Lexia says, and smiles. "Never hurts to try... expect when it does. Still." <<if hasVisited("Chapter 3_1_wings")>>\ Well, she is probably right. Earlier you tried flapping your wings when Havard and Lexia where arguing about profanity. You did not manage to fly... but you still wanna try! There was no pain involved, but it hardly matters either way. Even if it hurts, you are rather used to such things. Flying is too awesome to be afraid of a little pain. <<else>>\ She might be right... But you still wanna try! Even if it hurts, you are rather used to such things. Flying is too awesome to be afraid of a little pain. <</if>>\ You focus, even closing your eyes. It is getting easier to use them. You are much more aware of their existence now. You suppose they are just like any other part of you. Flap... flap... flap.... You try your best, despite your wings already feeling so heavy. Flap... Crash Flap. That is all you have at the moment. Five flaps. You collapse onto the bed on your back, and try to catch your breath. You didn't even notice how hard you are breathing at the moment. <<if hasVisited("Chapter 3_1_wings")>>\ Wait... wasn't there another crash in there? You look to see you have knocked down the same book you did earlier... <<else>>\ You seem to have knocked stuff down from the little table next to your bed. What is that thing? Oh, it's one of those things full of the mysterious squiggles Havard looks at a lot...A book. <</if>>\ "Good try, kid." Lexia beams. <<if hasVisited("Chapter 3_1_wings")>> "You already managed more flaps than last time." She is right! You did manage more flaps, which means your wings are already getting better! "Even if you did knock down the book again." Lexia smiles, and pick the book up again. <<else>> No it wasn't, your butt did not even lift off the bed... But you suppose your legs and hands are not working either so being able to flap your wings is pretty nice in contrast. Lexia just pick up the book and puts it back to the little desk.<</if>> "I am sure flying will come at some point." Lexia says. "But for now, we are back to how you want to get around? But catch your breath first." You lay there for a time, until your breathing is even again. Odd, you never used to notice such things but you suppose being chained up and alone as not very physically exhauysting... Aside from the cycle, but you had bigger worries than hard breathing back then. Eventually Lexia helps you sit up again, and you consider your options. You give the chair contraption another glance, and consider... <<set $orphanage_tour to ''>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The chair seems like the way to go.|Chapter 3_5_tour][$orphanage_tour to 'wheelchair']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don’t trust that contraption. You would rather be carried by Lexia.|Chapter 3_5_tour][$orphanage_tour to 'carried']]</div> </div><</nobr>>

He was just filling up the second bucket when the people from the village arrived. “Oi, Havard!” A man at the head of a small group called out. Omar. He had an ugly scar over one eye and a perpetual sneer. “Yes?” Havard asked and kept filling up the bucket. He didn’t much care for Omar. The man was quite unpleasant, always sneering. “Heard you got a new freak in there? Thought we should come by. Take a look.” Omar smirked. That was about what Havard expected of the man. Out of almost everyone in the village, Omar was the only one who said such things to his face. He had never said much back after all. He did not consider it worth the trouble. No one said anything to his mother’s face, not anymore at least. There had been a few incidents, and his mother had claws like a true cat-beastkin when needed. She also was not shy about using them. “No.” Havard said simply and ignored the group, starting to carry the water back inside. He had no time for the antics of a bored idiot. Omar spluttered and tried to grab him. Yet, Havard was already halfway through the door, and slammed the door shut to his face. Omar dared not enter the bakery. He was all bark, no bite, these days. After all, it had been Havard’s mother who had nearly blinded Omar once. A fact that made Omar hate Havard, but especially hate his mother with a burning passion. Not that Havard cared about the man’s hatred. There were far more important things. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Like taking care of Mara.|HavardRock4]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Laughter filled the air as Havard was pulling water from the well. Not the sort of laughter that people enjoyed but rather a cruel cold laughter that made you dislike whoever it was producing that sound. He glanced around, and soon stopped the source. Omar and his... friends were busy near the edge of the forest. Havard thought he could hear something splash as the group laughed. "What is that horrible sound?" He turned around, bucket of water in his hands. Mara had come outside, perhaps to look for him. He nodded towards the group at the forests edge. "The one at the head is Omar. The day I brought you here, he showed up with his... friends to look at the "new freak". That should tell you everything you need to know." Mara gave the group of people a glance. "I see. One of those." She rubbed her arms a bit. It had rained recently, the air was humid and cold. "Best to ignore them." He said. "Are you cold? You should head back inside. I will be back in soon." He said, setting down the full bucket and picking up the second one, attaching a rope to it and dropping it down the well. "I can deal with a little cold, Havard." Mara said and came to stand next to him. "Hmm, there is no pump?" She asked. "Isn't it hard to get the bucket full like this?" Havard nodded. This way, you rarely got a full bucket. "There used to be a third bucket that was meant to be used as the one to fill any containers you brought along, but someone stole that one." He said as he decided the first attempt was not good enough. The bucket was only half full. He let the bucket drop back into the well again. "Who steals a bucket?" Mara asked idly. She was looking down the well, leaning against the stone edge. Havard remember the baking session and swallowed hard. Was she doing it again? Or just looking down the well? He had no idea. Best focus on drawing the water form the well. "It's getting away!" A shout interrupted his second attempt. "Where did it go?" Havard and Mara turned to look. Omar and his group were looking for something, dashing about. "Were they... tormenting some poor creature?" Mara asked, distaste evident in her tone. "I hope not, but ... I would not put it past them." He turned back to the well and started pulling the bucket up. "Hope whatever it was, got away." Mara nodded idly, her attention caught by something. Hazard glanced at whatever she was looking at. A little liquid ball, rolling towards the well from the direction of the forest. "Oh! An oozelet!" Mara exclaimed. "I love them." She sounded genuinely happy and knelt down to hold out a hand for the little ball of liquid. "Oozelet? We call them murklings." He said watching the surprisingly fast ball. "They get muddy out here." Indeed, the tiny creature was made from somewhat muddy liquid. Havard had always thought they were mostly water... Perhaps they were. They always appeared after rain, and were able to reshape themselves. They were also completely harmless, and rather cute. "Murklings... Hmm." Mara pondered as the ball of liquid grew little stubby legs to hoist itself onto her hand. She smiled happily and stood up holding the thing. "I get it... but oozelet is cuter!" She declared, tickling the ball of liquid with one finger. "Seriously? An ooze is not cute. Oozing is something that wounds do." Havard said, but smiled at her reaction. The murkling formed little hands to grab her finger. He doubted they could be tickled. "Oozing can be cute!" Mara argued. "Just look at this one! It is oozing cuteness." She smiled brilliantly at her proclamation. Havard stared... Damn that smile. He could not say anything to against that smile. She was too happy, too beautiful to argue with right now. Mara kept playing with the murkling, not minding the slight amount of mud on the little ball. "We always went out after rain to see the oozlings form." Mara said smiling a little sadly. Of course, "we" probably meant her brother. Havard was not sure how to help but he could at least distract her a bit. "You can see them form? I always thought they formed from water but I have never seen it." Mara turned to him. "Oh yes. It is easy to see them in Firgrat. They are very plentiful there after all, always rolling towards the sea. The paved streets make it easy." She said. "My mother explained it is because of the strong Eternal Flow in the city, the rainwater gets filled with mana, and forms oozlings." Havard nodded slowly. It made sense... maybe. He knew nothing about mana and magic. "So... they try to get to the sea?" Mara smiled. "Yes. It is rather fun to watch them, rolling down the streets in groups. People sometimes keep them as pets but they tend to find anything large enough to dissolve into." Havard nodded again. This he knew. Murklings liked merging with any puddles or bodies of water they came across. They eventually dissolved as they did so, but that seemed to be what they wanted. Sometimes they merged with little amounts of water and got bigger but mostly the found big things to merge with. "There it is! The freaks have it." A voice interrupted them. Omar, emerged from the edge of the forest. His friends were not here yet however. "Give it here, freak." Omar demanded from Mara, who looked at Omar much like one would a pile of shit. "No, fuck off." She said. The two had never met before, which made this the first impression they had of each other. It was going about as well as Havard had expected. Omar narrowed his eyes, and took a step closer. Havard had the second bucket up, and set it down between them. "You heard the lady, Omar." He said. "She seems unlikely to give you what you want, considering how politely you asked for it." Omar blinked, and sneered, the scar over his eye bunching up. "A lady? A freak's a freak, ain't it? What's wrong with calling things by their proper names, freak?" "Indeed. Well, would you kindly fuck off, you waste of life." Mara said, smiling sweetly. "Shitface? What does one do when there are so many options?" She pondered. Omar's face twisted in anger. He looked ready to grab her but... Well her wings were flaring out behind her. Spreading out ominously. Havard had always thought they were delicate and beautiful, but he also remembered Mara mentioning she had managed to smack away three people with her wings. "Yes? What is it, you shriveled up ballsack?" Mara asked Omar, who was eyeing the wings... Then Havard. Then around himself. He was alone. "Just go, Omar." Havard said. "You are not getting the murkling to do whatever you want with it. Don't make a scene." He said. Omar hesitated, gaze switching between Havard and Mara. "This is not over, freak." He said through gritted teeth, and walked away in a huff. Havard let out a sigh. "I understand why... but he could be trouble. Even if he is mostly talk." He said and picked up the buckets of water. Mara nodded. "I know, but he was really an ass." She said, shrugging. "We can deal with it.... Though sorry if I made things more difficult..." She did seem sheepish. "It's fine. He hates us anyway." Havard said, adjusting his grip on the buckets. Mara came to stand next to him, and held the murkling close to one bucket. The little ball seemed to shiver slightly in delight, and rolled right off into the bucket. Mara smiled at the little ball dissolving into the water... "You know that was a bit muddy?" Havard asked, but smiled. Mara grinned. "Whoops." She said, unrepentant. "You might need to get more water." Havard sighed, but smiled. "Come on. Let's get into the bakery. Even if he comes back with people, he is not entering the bakery." Mara nodded. "So why would he not enter the bakery?" "Mom has sharp claws." Havard said. Mara raised an eyebrow, and mimicked a slash across one eye. A place where Omar had a scar. Havard nodded. Mara giggled, and Havard's insides did odd things again. As they approach the bakery door, and she dashed ahead to open it for him. "Thank you." He said, entering. As he passed her, one of her hands stopped him. Before he could process what was happening, she leaned in and pecked his cheek. He was stunned. "What? Why would you..." He was probably blushing, his face was on fire. Mara giggled again. "You supported me after I so politely asked that shitface fellow to go." She said. "I rather liked that." She leaned in even closer, and Havard thought his heart might stop. He barely knew he was holding up two buckets of water. "But mostly it was because.... I felt like it." She whispered, pecked his cheek a second time and left him standing there, stunned. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard thought he was smiling like a fool when he finally carried the water inside. |HavardRock8]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

“Why are you out here?” Havard asked Mara after finding her outside the house, sitting in the grass near the edge of the forest that started right next to the bakery. It was evening, but not all that dark with how bright the moons were tonight. It had been about two weeks since they took Mara in. She was healing, but still weak. Also, stubborn. Which was probably how she was out here. He sat down on the grass next to her before she could protest. “You should rest some more. Recover.” She huffed at him. “You would have me chained to your bed, would you?” She said. “I am not a pet bird, I can do with a bit of fresh air. Need it in fact.“ He raised his hands up in surrender. “Fine, fine. But will you tell me why out here? Or maybe why now? It is late.” He tried to change the topic away from her being chained to his bed. That was a... distracting thought and he was doing his best to ignore it. “Watching the stars… or the moons.” Mara said, looking up at the sky. Havard looked up at them too. The four moons were all visible tonight, making the stars hard to see. It was quite a sight, the slightly different hues mixing together to batheforest and skyline in a beautiful silver hue. No clouds, making her features clearly visible, golden eyes shining in the moonlight. A slight wind made her long, black hair sway. He realized he was staring at her and made a point of looking away at the forest edge. At least she had not noticed. “So far away from Firgrat, yet at least the sky remains the same.” Mara said after a while. “It helps to know, that no matter where we go, the sky always makes us feel small. Though the city has enough light that only the moons can be seen like this, rarely the stars... Just like now." Havard only hummed agreeably, glancing at her profile as she spoke. She seemed… sad. “Hey Havard… can I tell you a story.” Mara asked, voice small. “Of course.” He said gently. “Whatever you want.” She sat there silently for a long time, staring up at the night sky. “There once was a family of four. A good family, with a good life in a huge city, magical and fantastic.” She started. “A father, mother, son and daughter. They had a house, not a big house, but a house still. They were not rich, but neither were they poor. Not by the standards of the city they lived in.” Havard just listened, letting her talk. It could be just a story, but considering recent events... He had his suspicions. “The mother was a librarian, a woman who loved books and stories. The father was an adventurer turned Protector.” She smiled wistfully. “What else could two such parents do but fill the heads of their children with stories of adventure and magic. Of great adventures and deeds.” She sounded so wistful, so longing. Havard wanted to reach out, and make her smile… but it was not the time for that. He hoped such a time would come, but for now he had to listen. “It was predictable wasn’t it. Their children grew up, learned the craft of storytelling, of song and dance. All in order to share the joy they had known since they were babes. They wanted to spread their wings… to bring the stories they so loved to other people. They knew the stories, songs and dances." Her voice was unsteady. Almost bitter. "They would travel, tell stories and sing of great adventures and greater deeds. Have their own grand adventures, or perhaps meet great heroes. Like Carbus, The Savior Mage. Or Asha Versailes, The Silver Witch. Meet groups like The Iron Children….” Havard did not know either story, or the adventuring group but he listened. Latching on to every word she spoke. It was important to her, and so he wished to listen to her carefully. “So, the siblings set out as soon as they deemed themselves old enough. Left the safety of the city, and their parents. Their parents protested, saying there were more than enough places inside the city for the siblings to perform." Her lips curled up bitterly. "But every child thinks they know better than their parents.” She was shivering a bit. Was it the cold? Or the story? “At first it was… not wonderful. Not grand. It was little things. Traveling together, telling stories, singing songs.” She said. “It was still a life, nice and interesting enough. Even if it was not grand, not like the stories it was still all new and hopeful. So the siblings kept traveling, from one city to the next, from small town to another.” Her voice was so small, nothing like the woman he was getting to know in the past couple of weeks. Havard wanted to reach out; to help her but he had no idea how. He had never helped comfort anyone, aside from his parents who did not need him to comfort them. Quite the opposite. How did one provide comfort? He was pulled out of his thoughts when Mara kept talking. “But slowly the siblings started noticing a change. Some people did not wish to listen to their stories or songs. They looked upon the siblings with hatred and fear, and the siblings did not know why. So, they traveled more, to farther reaches of the continent.” Her voice was quivering a bit. “In bigger cities, everything was generally well. Not everyone liked their stories and songs, but many listened, and the siblings found some success. Not a lot but some.” “They thought they had to get farther away from Firgrat. Somewhere where their stories would be unknown. Where they could reach a new audience willing to listen.” Her voice cracked a bit. She stopped looking up, turning to him with haunted eyes. “So, they started traveling towards the farthest reaches of the continent. Little isolated villages…. Perhaps they could even enter Kionthel, the land of the elves.” Kionthel was not too far away from Dahim… There was no official border, and Havard had never been that far out, but it was just about a week’s travel. The so called border was a forest where if you wandered too far into, you could encounter elves… Immortals. “The two siblings… The two fools kept traveling and traveling. They ignored the signs and feelings of unease as the villages turned smaller and smaller, the people more hostile. No more walls, no official law. Only the traditions and rules of each village, little villages with village heads that may as well be tyrants. Humans who seemed… somehow wrong to the siblings but it was hard to say why.” Her smile was bitter. "They were so very foolish, and with so little life experience." Havard was starting to get a sinking feeling. He did after all know where she ended up. “The siblings were willfully ignoring how the people eyed them. There were some… confrontations but all just verbal. The younger of the two even liked exchanging barbs with villagers…” She whispered. “They told themselves that it would all be worth it in the end. Until one day, the got into an argument with a village head that refused to have “filthy demon spawn” in her village.” Her voice gained an edge. “That they should go before we infect the good and honest folk of the village.” Finally, Havard had the courage to lay a hand on her shoulder, as gently as he could. She was shaking, but did not react to his touch otherwise. “It started happening more often the further away from Firgrat we went. “Demon spawn. Freak.” The looks became whispers, and the whispers became words. Then shouts. Yet we kept going, even after we stopped performing. We had some money, we could still travel to Kionthel and see the elves. We could still have our adventure.” She did seem to notice that the story had gone from “the siblings” to “us”. Havard said nothing either. It was what he had expected. “Stubborn idiots.” Her voice was a bitter whisper. “We just kept going. We had come so far.” She lifted her gaze and looked at him. “You know, in Firgrat, the people did not care about our heritage. That we were part demons, even if it was largely agreed that demons were bad, people still did not care. Not the decent people at least. It was a long time ago, they would say. It has nothing to do with us. Some even said that maybe all demons are not bad.” Her gaze was vulnerable. Haunted. Were those tears in her golden eyes. He did not consider his actions. If he stopped to think, he would think too much to act. Instead, he just hugged her from the side. She did not resist, but she did not hug him back either. The position was awkward, but he thought she relaxed just a tiny bit. For now that would have to be enough. She turned her head to stare at the night sky again, voice haunted. “Out here, there are people who have not seen mixed heritages. People who hate and fear anyone different for existing.” She whispered. “One night, we took a room at an inn. My brother and me. Just a normal inn in a little village. The innkeeper eyed us oddly but took our money and gave us a room.” She whispered. “Nothing out of the ordinary.” He could see the tears in her eyes. “Until in the early hours of the morning, the door burst open and the villagers rushed in. Three of them. They gave no warning, no explanations. Just went for the kill.” Her smile was bitter. “We would have both died but we were already up you see. We wanted to leave before the village awoke properly. To be on our way as early as possible.” Havard tightened his hug on her. “As soon as we saw the weapons, Kai threw himself at them. They grabbed him and started stabbing repeatedly. So many times, over and over again while I stood by and just… watched… There was so much blood, leaking into the floorboards..." She shuddered. "I managed to get him, flaring my wings, smacking them away… They still got me pretty good as I tried dragging him out. If I could just get him the window… They grabbed a hold of me too before I could, would have done the same to me but Kai was not dead. Somehow, he was not dead. He… He…” Mara's voice broke, and she finally leaned against him heavily, burying her face into his shoulder. Her breathing was ragged as the first sob escaped her lips. Havard did his best to turn to hug her better. She wept for what she had lost, as Havard held her. He did not know how long had passed. She cried until her tears dried and she could say more. “He lashed out at them and pulled me to the window. We fled, flying away…” She said weakly into his shoulder. “He... He dropped out of the sky still within the village…” She drew a shuddering breath. “More villagers were appearing… I… I… I saw them poke at him body, then stab it again... I… couldn’t get him…. I left… I left him there…” She broke down again, and Havard held her as she shuddered, shaking as she cried. He had no idea what to do, so he just held her hoping it was enough. That it helped at least a little. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[She fell asleep still crying against his shoulder.|HavardRock5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1>Sorry, the end for now.</h1>\ This is the end of the current Tales From the Past portion. Havard, Mara, and the rock and Ilbor will be back eventually. Please, check out the feedback section! Only if you want to of course! Also, thanks to "becky", the person who created this gorgeous Twine template. Link in the template info page. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Current demo version and about feedback|Version]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Twine template info|template info]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Return to the starting screen|start-menu]] </div> </div><</nobr>> /*As slim consolation as it may be, here are some words from the author: In truth, I had wanted to make this progress a lot more... but then I started doing the options for to react to Havard's entrance and we entered a messy hell that has taken forever to write and edit. I hope it is at least somewhat coherent now.*/

Time passes. The orphanage becomes familiar, the people a part of your every day. Life is odd at the orhanage. There is a lot of things you don't understand, but you do have some adventures. Mostly with Havard and Lexia. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Like that time you run away from the baths..|Snippet_bath1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Like that time you got the cooks to feed you..|Snippet_kitchen1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You had that phase when you cried at everything..|Snippet_cry1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You have eaten a ton of stuff..|Snippet_eatintg1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[That time you met an invisible person.|Snippet_petting1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Havard made you clean your room. Turns out you are messy.|Snippet_room1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You were all itchy that one time. Stupid chickenpox..|Snippet_sick1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You were all itchy that one time. Stupid chickenpox..|Snippet_sick1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You found a puppy|Snippet_pet1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[The day a bunch of strangers appeared|Snippet_fans1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[That one time you had a really weird dream.|Snippet_ftutureself1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You had trouble learning how to read..|Snippet_reading1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You had tdoubts about this place.|Snippet_afraid1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[That one time you fought a rooster..|Snippet_rooster1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[That time your wings needed preening..|Snippet_wings]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Your clingy phase..|Snippet_clingy]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are still not sure why clothes are such a big deal.|Snippet_nude]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You can be anything... or so you are told..|Snippet_future]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You had that clumsy streak.|Snippet_clumsy]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You saw Grandpa!.|Snippet_Sheo]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You made a painting.|Snippet_paint]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You did start a cult that one time..|Snippet_cult]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You did have some mood swings....|Snippet_moods]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[There was that whole hoard thing....|Snippet_hoard]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[That time you tried to breathe fire.|Snippet_fire]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Lexia took after the small form faster than Havard. It was expected at this point, MC escaping bath time but they still let it happen. Why? The reason was simple. Havard had seen it and Lexia had seen it too. The small hint of a smile on MC's face as they ran, free and content. Not because they had to run away from danger, but because they were allowed to run. Because they could run. This time they heard it too. A small delighted giggle from the small form running out in front... Havard saw Lexia glance behind her, looking straight at her, and then mouthing the words. "Did you hear that?" She asked, without actually making a sound. Havard smiled and nodded. She beamed like the sun. They both slowed down a little, just enough to let MC stay ahead of them for a while longer. By the time they caught up, MC was laying in the grass of the garden, giggling a bit. Having fun, just being a child. Everything was as it should be. ------------------------------------------ BATH 2 You sit grumpily in the water, you tried running away again but apparently once in a while you actually need to bathe for whatever reason. "Here." Havard says You eye the wooden thing suspiciously.... What are you supposed so to with this? What is that for? You peer up at Havard. "It's a toy boat. It floats." He says while rummaging around with some bottles on the side of the massive bath. It floats.... You drop the wooden thing, the boat, into the water. Huh.... It does float. You poke it. It goes a tiny bit deeper and pops back up. You poke it again. The same thing happens. You wonder what happens if you splash water at it.... So you do. It sways in the wave... This thing is pretty cool! You wonder what.... Havard interrupts you by pouring something into the bath. Bubbles. Lots and lots of bubbles erupt from the spot. Foamy small ones, individual big ones. You watch, eyes wide as they spread in the bath. They surround you and the boat, doing nothing to either. Some even float in the air. "The healing baths don't actually need things like this, but I thought it could be fun." He smiles at you. You are busy scooping up the bubbles and investigating. Around yourself, around the boat. You pop a few in the air, watching the odd sprays of little color they make. You wonder what they taste like....

Just like you practiced... You sneak into kitchens with your empty bowl. It is the middle of the day which is perfect for your purposes. Oh, someone is already noticing you! You have to hurry, the woman is coming over. So you sit on the floor, and hold out your bowl. You make your eyes as large as possible. Just like Lexia taught you. She said, you are very good at looking pitiful... not sure what that means but your eyes are apparently good. You can already see the woman's steps falter for a moment. Then she doubles her speed. It's working! You barely have time to process what happens. "No sitting on the floor in my kitchen, you little brat!" She says, while scooping you up, and plopping you down to sit on the counter. "You!" She points at a young man, and grabs your bowl at the same time. "Get the wyvern stew." She throws your bowl at the man who rushes off to a huge pot on the fire that smells really good. The woman spins around and inspects you. "Look at you, all skin and bones. What has Havard been feeding you, brat? You need meat on those bones." The woman muttered. ----------------------------------------------- Havard was looking for MC who was not at their room. Having asked Lexia via the communicator pin, he was now heading to the kitchen. He arrived to find a scene that made him stop to watch the chaos. MC was sitting on the counter, stuffing their face with the help of several cooks where their own hands failed. Bruna, the head cook, loudly complained about the state MC was in between making sure the child was chewing properly and spoon-feeding MC... was that wyvern stew? "All those ancients and can't even cure a little brat's hands... What are they good for then?" She wiped MC's mouth. "Is that good?" MC nodded, licking their lips. "Good." Bruna tapped a cook cooing at MC on the shoulder. "Bring some of that glowberry pudding we made earlier. That should be easy to eat for dessert." She gestured towards a massive bowl full of faintly glowing pudding. MC perked up trying to see, but was distracted by a hand holding out a massive cookie that needed eating. The cook rushed off to get some pudding. Havard could swear that there was already a clear hole in the massive pudding pile... Bruna grabbed another cook by the hand, stopping them from giving MC a cup of something steaming. "That's emberoot juice! You want the brat to not taste anything for the week? Get something milder. Frostmelon or moonmoss." Bruna turned back to MC, seeing the cookie. "Or milk. Get milk." "You know... I have been watching it happen and I still have no idea how the kid keeps eating." Havard glanced tot the side to find Lexia watching the scene, eating her owl bowl of stew. "It's a wonder the kid hasn't burst open yet." Havard did observe that every cook wanted to feed MC something... and was succeeding at least when Bruna did not stop them. "Also, look there." Lexia said and pointed. Under the pudding table, a pair of small hands were holding out two empty bowls... The cooks pretended not to notice aside from the one who grabbed the bowls, filled them with pudding and slid them under the table. "The twins?" Havard asked. "Yep. Only deserts go under that table. Alessa and Sandor were by three times, but the cooks pretended not to know where the twins were. Got hit with the double puppy eyes early on and have not recovered since." Havard sighed. He was the head custodian... It was his duty to put a stop to this. They probably already had two kids on a sugar rush, and MC was getting there.... At least MC was eating actual food... He hoped they would not throw up. Havard decided he would do his duty... after he had a bowl of that stew.

"Damn it." Lexia said, stuffing her ears with her fingers as Havard hurried over to see what was wrong now. Lexia did follow, holding her ears all the while. Turned out it was a butterfly landing on MC's nose. Havard knelt and smiled. "It was just a butterfly, MC. Nothing to be afraid of." He said softly, catching the child's attention with a gentle touch on their shoulder. MC looked at him with teary eyes... and slowly the crying turned to sniffling. Much more bearable for everyone's ears. "Oh thank fuck." Lexia exhaled. "How can the kid make that much sound. We need to get something to protect our ears." Havard gave her a warning look while picking MC up into his arms... though his own ears were still ringing. She was not exactly wrong but that was no reason to swear. "It was not so bad." He said eventually, adjusting MC and started to head towards their room. " Lexia shuddered, falling in step next to them. "Fair. I was half certain the Ancients were gonna blast the orphanage out of existence with the stubbed toe incident." Havard glared at Lexia as MC exploded into another crying fit at the comment. Without a word Havard hoisted MC onto Lexia. It would teach the Protector when to stay silent. "Sorry, sorry." Lexia said, panicking a bit, trying to calm the child. "Please don't cry, kid. I just don't know when to keep my mouth shut."

You stare at plant... flower. Whatever. It is colorful... You take a bite, and munch thoughtfully.... It does not taste very nice. "Damn it, not again." Lexia says from somewhere behind you. "Kid, you have to stop tasting things as a first resort." She is soon there kneeling in front of you. You look up at her, and munch some more. You have no idea what is edible though... so you need to taste things! The flower is not very tasty... Lexia raises an eyebrow. "Kid, spit out the flower. We are going to Havard. He can try to explain what is edible and what is not." You consider this... and slowly spit out the flower. Only because it is quite bitter and makes you see odd colors... Maybe knowing a bit about what is tasty and what is not would be good. ---------------------------------- Lexia sighs deeply. "Here we go again... Kid, you can't just eat and drink everything you come across." She picks up the bowl. "At least it's just water." She looks at the bowl. "Dirty water..." You look up at her, and employ a tactic she taught you... The puppy dog eyes. "You know, I did not teach you that, so you could use it against me." She says but smiles. "You wanna drink from a bowl? Let me at least get you a clean one." ---------------------------------------- "MC... please stop." Havard said and picked up the bowl. "It's dirty. You do not need to drink from a dog bowl." You look up at him... but you want to! Well... it is not that tasty. Still... the dog seemed to enjoy it. And you don't need your arms this way! "How about some real food or drink?" Havard asked. "Clean and nice...." He sighs at seeing your face. "And if you want a bowl, then let's at least have it be a clean one and on a table." He starts guiding you towards your room. "Maybe you can try drinking with a straw. That needs no hands either." You perk up a bit. A straw? You are willing to give it a try at least. ---------- "Really kid? Haven't we had this conversation lots of times already? About eating random things. " You peer up at Lexia as innocently as you can with a full mouth. They are crunchy! Well some of them are. You like the variety. You don't really see the difference between eating these and eating the things people eat all the time. These are even pretty tasty! Or so you think as you crunch down. "You know what, kid? Go for it. Just... avoid the poisonous ones." Hmm, you have no idea what that word means. There is so much variety with eating these. "If I get you a book about bugs, will you learn which ones are good to eat?" You stare at her blankly. You have no idea how to read those squiggles yet! Havard has been trying to teach you, but so far it has not gone very well. You are however pretty sure Lexia doesn't know that! So you nod slowly. Lexia narrows her eyes. "I'll ask Havard first." Darn. You keep munching. ------------------------------------ "Please." Havard said, spoon in hand. A piece of potato from the stew waiting to be eaten on the spoon hovering near MC's mouth. In response, MC stuffed what appeared to be a flower into their mouth and munched down. Havard sighed. "Real food would taste better." MC kept munching. Havard gave up and let the spoon drop back down into the bowl of stew. "Why do you eat everything but proper food?" He asked, sounding just a bit defeated. Was it a trust issue? Something else? MC grabbed a random weed and put it in their mouth. "You know, the kid has been at this all morning. I stopped them from eating anything that would be too bad, the kid will literally try to eat anything... though I have no idea about all those weeds." Lexia supplied, clearly amused. Havard eyed the grass and flowers... then reached out and grabbed some. MC's gaze snapped to his hand. Slowly he dropped some flowers into the bowl of stew and mixed it in. Then held out the spoonful of stew with random flowers mixed into it.. Not his proudest moment but MC was already eating the stuff. MC sniffed it, pondered something for a long time.... and ate the spoonful. Thoughtful munching ensued while Havard held his breath. After their mouth was empty, MC licked their lips... and their gaze locked on the bowl of stew. Havard smiled in relief and lifted another spoonful towards MC... who ignored that and bent down to dip their face in the bowl for a mouthful.... Havard decided this was fine. They had been out here for a while, the stew was not that hot anymore. Even if Lexia giggled watching Havard hold the bowl so MC could eat from it like a dog.

You spin around as someone pats your ears! A stranger... huh. Where is it?... Someone scratches your tail. Oh... it feels good. But no! You spin around again... Huh. No one there. Your ears get patted again... It feels nice... That's the spot... No! You spin around wildly, trying to find whoever is doing this. You find no one. It happens again. Your tail gets scratched, oh, oh... That feels goo... No! Maybe if you could see who it is? Maybe. You spin around, trying to find the culprit... It keeps happening... Eventually you just run to Lexia and climb into her arms in a flurry. "What is it, kid?" She asks. "Invisible... person keeps petting me." You whisper. "Really... well we can't have that." She says and pats your head. You stare at her grumpily. Your eyes narrow in suspicion... She smiles.

Havard looked around the messy room. "Lexia tells me you like learning from her... in short bursts." He said to the lump in the bed. The lump did not move. "That is good, MC." Havard said, sitting down on the bed. "However, you also need to do your chores. And clean your room." The lump did not move. Havard reached out, and pulled back the blanket, finding MC curled up in there. "Are you listening to me?" He asked. MC did not move. "Last chance, MC." Havard said. MC twitched but otherwise made no effort to pay attention. Havard sighed. "If you don't clean your room yourself, I fear it will need to be cleaned thoroughly by someone else." He said patting MC's shoulder and rising up. "Including all your hidden snacks." He threw that in there as he left the room. He caught a glimpse of MC's horrified face. --------------------------------------------------------- "So, Havard got to you. That's life, kid." Lexia said, as she helped you gather up all your socks. Right now, she was your favorite... Stupid Havard, making you clean your room. "Don't sulk. It will feel nice once it's all clean. And your snacks are safe." Lexia laughed at your expression. "How about we have another spar after?" You eye her... You really wanted to sleep after all this exertion. You had put away at least two pairs of socks, and all your dirty shirts. Well you put them into the basket for laundry. "Used up too much of your life force to clean, and none is left for sparring?" Lexia asked, clearly amused at the expression you had used to describe why you need to nap so much. You nod, ignoring her amused look. It takes too much energy to care about that. You fall onto the bed, ready to go back to sleep... "Kid... You do realize that we are just getting started?" You look at her, horrified. She has the audacity to laugh.

Stupid mittens... You rub against the tree. It's so itchy! Why is everything itchy! The tree is no good, so you lay in the grass and try rubbing against that. Even worse. Would water help? There is that fountain nearby.. Why not? Into the fountain you go. You roll about in the water for a bit. "Really, kid?" You hear a sigh. You sit up, and look around. Your gaze stops on Lexia. She is looking at you, faintly amused, sitting on a rock nearby. That shiny silver armor.... You get up and dash to Lexia. It takes her a moment to figure out what you are doing but once she does, she moves so quickly you are stunned. You spend all your energy chasing her about.

It was a small thing you found one day near the orphanage gate when sneaking out towards the kitchens one evening. A thing that was as curious about as you were of it. You think it is called a puppy. It keeps licking your bandages, and is very soft, based on how your bandaged fingers sink into the fur. So... you decide to keep it, wrapping your hands around the puppy and slowly lifting it up, making sure you are using your arms to hold it, since your grip is so bad. It sniffs your face. It has a very wet nose? You think it is a nose. You sniff it back. It licks your face.... You lick it back. Your investigation gets interrupted by a sound and you dash off towards your room. You will need to hide the puppy, then you can steal snacks... What do puppies eat? -------------------------------------------- Lexia stared down at the little puppy. She had just been about to enter MC's room, opened the door and there it is. A puppy, with a massive cookie in it's mouth. It is adorable... but MC is not the best at deciding what is appropriate to eat. Nor cleaning up after the puppy. The room is... well best not describe it too much. It is not hard to figure out what happened. Though how did the puppy get into the orphanage? She will need to talk to the gate guards.... Either they are slacking off, or thought one of the kids would have a field day. Now, what to do about the puppy.... There really is only one answer. She kneels down and pets the puppy on the head. "Who's a good puppy?" She cooed. "I'll have to tell Havard about you, but don't you worry. I'll convince him." --------------------------------------------- When you wake up, you see Lexia petting the puppy, making odd sounds and Havard inspecting the state of your room... Which now that you look around is quite... unclean. Havard notices that you are up, and comes over while looking at you. You squirm a bit in place, but wait. It's Havard. He won't be mad.... won't he? "Good morning, MC. I see you have a new friend." He says, sitting on the edge of your bed. You nod, dreading what is to come. "Don't worry. Lexia has already made a case for the puppy." He raises a finger to stop your happy nodding. "But there are conditions." He gestures around your room. "First, you help clean up your room. " You nod. "Second, you must learn to train and take care of the puppy. That includes walking it, cleaning up after it, and knowing what to feed it." You nod vigorously. You can do all that! Probably. "Good. Now, let's get breakfast and then get started." You nod, and jump out of bed. The first thing you do is dash to Lexia and the puppy and join in on her petting session. Havard also joins in, kneeling around the puppy so the three of you form a circle and pet the very happy puppy for a good while.

You peek out from behind the corner... These people... they keep trying to do things to you. Like... blankets. Why did that one person insist on giving you a blanket? You had to run away from all these strangers... so now you watch them. Who are all these people? How did they get here? At least the snacks are good. You did wonder if you should really take all the snacks when they were not looking. Why do those people carry around so many snacks in the first place? Especially since they just left then so unguarded after you ran away from them! It was easy to snatch some cookies, and lemon cakes, and milk... Some of them seemed to drop some shiny things too... Your hands are really full of all sorts of cool things. So, you dash off with your treasures. Weird people, trying to give you nice things. You are not sure you can trust them. It's all very suspicious. The blanket around your shoulders is warm, as you dash off to find Havard. Maybe he knows why all these people are here.... First you need to hide your treasures. The tasty things are easy, they go in your belly. The shinies.... Maybe you should start a new hoard.

You peer at the odd Protector in front of you. They look vaguely familiar. For some reason Havard and Lexia are glancing between you two. Hmm..... Maybe it's the nose? The eyes? The hair? Why does it all seem so familiar? The Protector smiles a brilliant, wide smile. "Hi, mom, dad and little me. I just came back to say, I am doing well." What does that mean? You are very confused. You are not he best at guessing ages, but this person must be as old as Havard. How can Lexia be a mom and Havard a dad? Have you misunderstood what those are? What does "little me" even mean? Havard and Lexia seem stunned. Then Havard smiles softly, like usual. "I see. We hear you, and we are glad." He says, and Havard nods in support. "Yeah, we hear you loud and clear, not kid." Lexia says and smiles too. "You should head back before whichever Ancient you convinced you to help with this blows their lid." The odd Protector bows at them, and Havard and Lexia smile proudly. Why are they proud of this stranger? They did call then mom and dad... "Thank you." The Protector says. "I will head back before Grandpa gets impatient." You are so confused. A hand lands on your head as you look about. The gesture is so familiar, you expect to see Lexia but it is the stranger. They pat your head. "Don't worry about. It will all make sense later." They whisper to you. Before you can react, they retreat a few steps. "Time to get back to the old ball and chain." They say so fondly it makes you think they don't mean an actual ball and chain.... They disappear in a flash of light. Havard and Lexia eye each other, then you. Then they grin at each other. "Hear that? 'Old ball and chain.' eh. Looking forward to that." Lexia says, smiling brightly. Havard nods, smiling. "Indeed. It is good to know the future is bright."

You wish you were back in the void.... Ok not really, that was much much worse. Still, learning the alphabet is so.... boring? Hard? Tedious? It's hard to determine what exactly is making it so hard. The squiggles are so hard to tell apart! Individually you can sort of tell, but then you have to remember each one, and when they are right after one another, like in "proper" books Havard has, it's just a mess! How can people tell what the mess says! The squiggles, they might be called letters... You were watching a pretty bird while Havard was explaining that part. The squiggles are hard to tell apart. That might be what is making this so hard. You want to learn! Maybe. Havard reads to you sometimes, and books have whole worlds in them, hidden behind the mess that is writing! Such cool and awesome things, like stories of heroes, dragons and mages! Who knew. But right now, you have no idea what the mess in front of you is. Writing is no better, it's hard to start with but you have trouble holding a pen with your ruined hands... You think this would be easier if you could try doing the squiggles yourself over and over again, but you can't. So, you are focusing on reading for now. Yet, it just blurs together. Havard says you just have to learn at your own pace, and just keep at it, not worrying about the other kids. Still, it is hard... Havard probably notices your troubles. He always does. Like normal, he smiles and taps the page. "How about we take a break. Have a little snack." You perk up! Snacks are good! So you nod. He brings out milk and cookies! Definitely better than the void.

Havard was worried. MC seemed scared of everything, scared of having fun, scared of making mistakes, scared of saying no to anything and scared of living. He thought he knew why, and he had to convince MC that they were safe here. That they did not have to put on an act of obedience to remain here. "MC?" He asked and entered the child's room. The child immediately grew tense and tried to smile. Havard should really help MC with smiling.... "At ease, MC" Havard said and sat down on the bed. "Now then, we should talk." MC kept smiling but Havard could see it. The fear and worry. So he smiled gently. "Remember what I told you after you got here?" ------------------------------------------------------------- Lexia titled her head. MC was acting odd.... tense. Worried. She had asked the child if they wanted to play in the garden, and now MC was attempting to play in the most boring way possible. As if trying to anticipate what Lexia wanted and giving it to her. That was not good. The thing was... How could Lexia make it better? She had sworn to defend MC, and she would. She supposed the only way to make MC believe her was time and patience.... "Hey, kid? You know that no matter what, you won't be throw out of here for being a kid? Like, you are allowed to say no and steal snacks and stuff?" MC looked confused for a brief moment, then just nodded and her, that horribly empty smile plastered on their lips. MC did not believe her.... So Lexia thought, and thought hard. Then she beamed. "You don't believe me. That is fine." She said. MC looked panicked for a bit at being caught... But Lexia pushed forwards. "So, we are going to do some mischief together. Come!" She gently took MC's hand and decided they were going to raid the cookie jar many, many times this week.

"Kid... who did you kill?" Lexia asked very slowly. "No one!" You didn't kill a person! Probably.....That dammed rooster. That thing was mean! Who knows how badly it was hurt, you had to run away before you check. To avoid getting into trouble. Havard rushed forwards and knelt before you. "What happened? Are you hurt?" You shook your head, you were not hurt. Not at least significantly enough to care. Well... Havard might disagree. The blood is mostly yours. Probably. The feathers are not. Havard inspects you... and makes you sit down while he cleans the scratches all over you. He also finds a few peck marks on you. "I would count this as hurt MC." He says softly. "What happened?" "There was a rooster.... It kept pecking the chickens... and people...." You say, squirming in place, afraid of what they will say. "So... did you win?" Lexia asks, watching from the back. "Lexia!" Havard scolds immediately. "What?" Lexia gives Havard a look. You are very confused. "Kid, you fought the rooster right? Did you win?" Lexia asks again. You have to ponder about it for a long time. "Maybe? It ran away after I bit it." Lexia looks at you, then bursts out laughing. Havard gives you a small lecture about fighting farm animals. Lexia later sneaks you extra snacks. For winning, she said.

"Not so flighty now, are you kid?" Lexia asked as she was gently arranging your feathers to interlock, and smoothing out ruffled ones. "It's rather easier when you don't run away, MC" Havard said, as he did the same on your other wing. You were all sitting in the garden. Your wings were spread out, and each adult had one wing in hand. They were preening your wings. You ran away the first... you can't count that high. So, a lot of times whenever someone touched your wings... There was a lot of chasing and running away and Lexia telling you it would feel good but you just kept avoiding it. Then your wings started getting a bit unruly. Some loose feathers, crumpled and messy spots... So you tried to preen them yourself... and that is how you ended up here. This is nice. Havard and Lexia are gentle and it is much faster than doing it all yourself. And Havard brought little brushes that help... and it feels nice. So you just make a contented sound and let them keep preening. Lexia looks a bit smug, and Havard smiles. You decide it feels too good to smack Lexia with a wing.

Lexia chuckles as you demand to be carried. "Really, kid? Would you rather not walk yourself? We are just going to the garden." You shook your head, and spread out your arms, demanding to be picked up. She smiles, and picks you up into her arms. "As you wish." ------------------ Havard is working by his desk again. You dash to his table, and crawl under it. Then into his lap. "Hello MC." Havard said, letting you settle and then wrapping a hand around you. "Comfy?" You nod and look at the papers he is working on.... Nope, still no idea what all those squiggles mean. You were just happy here. You peer up at Havard, tilting your head backwards and smile. He smiles back and you.

"Kid, it's all fine and good to like your awesome cloak, but.... people might take it a little wrong." You tilt your head at her... Did you forget something? You do have an awesome cloak! You look down... Nothing seems to be wrong here. You are covered by the cloak! Your toes are peeking out from under the hem... You wiggle them a bit. It is not cold out here. You stare at Lexia. "I mean if you wear nothing under the cloak, kid." You stare up at her. Why do people care so much about what you wear? You have your cloak! It's enough. It covers all the bits all those complicated clothes that are annoying to put on cover! And it is much cooler! Seeing your confused, and perhaps a tad defiant expression, Lexia sighs. "You know what? The cloak is fine." She smiles. "Just... avoid strong winds, ok." -------------------------- "MC, remember our discussion about clothes?" Havard asked. You peer up at him... You have a vague recollection, so you nod. "Would you be amenable to wearing some under your cloak?" You look down. Right! You felt like you forgot something. Adults were so fussy about the most curious things. Why does it matter if you have stuff under your cloak? It's just you under there. Besides, those clothes things are annoying to put on and just get in the way when nature calls! Life outside the void is so confusing. "Come along now. We are getting you your clothes MC. Inside the orphanage, it is not a huge deal but out in the city, you could get into trouble for not wearing anything under there." He says as he leads you towards your room. "So it is best to learn the habit now." You sigh, and wonder if you will ever remember all these rules that seem to have no real bearing on life.

When asked what you wanted to be in the future, there was only one answer. You pointed at Havard and Lexia. --------------------------- "Aah, kid you are going to make me blush." Lexia says and beams at you. Is it just you, or are her cheeks a bit flushed? Yet, you think she is incredibly happy right now. "Wanna start practicing how to swing a sword? Hit people properly?" She seems quite excited. "Put on armor?" With your hands, can you even hit people properly? Do you really want to? She keeps chattering.... and you have a feeling she is distracting you from the fact that her cheeks are in fact a bit flushed. Still... all of that sounds awesome. ----------------------------- Havard smiles softly at you. "I see." He says and comes over. "Thank you. That is incredibly flattering." He kneels in front of you. "It makes me very happy, but I do want you to remember that you can be whatever you wish to be MC. It might not be easy, but you can do it." Sure... but you wanna be like him! Nothing better to grow up into. His hands rest of your shoulders, and he chuckles softly. "Yes, and that is all fine and well." He seems really happy about it... Why is he telling you all this other stuff? As usual, he seems to understand your confusion. "All I want you to know, is that I am happy that you wish to be like me." He smiles, and you preen a bit. "But just remember, that you don't have to emulate me or Lexia. You are you after all." You don't really get it... but Havard just smiles at you. "You will. One day." ---------------------------- "Even a baker?" "Yes MC. Even a baker." Havard says and seems to consider this. "It would not be easy, but I am sure with proper gloves and enough practice, you could be good at it." You stare up at him. Is he being serious. You glance down at your bandaged hands that cannot really hold a spoon steady enough for you to eat. Havard kneels. "I am not saying it would be easy MC. I am saying that it is possible if you are determined enough." He smiles at you. "People are after all really amazing when they are determined enough."

"Careful, kid" Lexia catches you as you go tumbling off the bench you were balancing on. It is a familiar thing, the cold metal of her armor supporting you as you fall one way or another. You seem to fall a lot for some reason, but she is always catching you. Yet, it never hurt when she caught you, it was sort of odd. Her armor is hard... Oh well. It is a mystery. Might be magic. Lexia sets you down, and inspects you. "You good, kid?" You nod. You are good. Then you dash off. At the first corner, you slip a bit and almost smack into a wall. Yet, there she is again, catching you before you can hit the wall. You peer up at her, and she smiles down at you. "You ok, kid?" You nod. "How about we slow down a bit. Why don't you hold my hand, kid?" She offers you a hand. You take her hand. It is very odd.... You seem to fall a lot less like this. Though you do feel she sort of gently tugs on your arms a lot... -------------------------------------------------- Her duty was a lot easier like this, holding MC's hand and gently guiding them to avoid all the things that usually caused them to trip over. Which was.... far too many things. Or helping MC balance when they tripped over their own legs. Yet, MC is full of energy and keeps trying to dash about. It made her smile. She just has to pay attention. MC seems to be very accident prone, and is horrible at telling people if they are hurt. Though, she really has to pay attention when MC tries to sneak into the kitchen for snacks.... all the utensils, pots and pans are bad if MC falls there. Which they almost had six times so far. But Lexia did like feeling useful, even if it was keeping MC safe from their own adorable, clumsy ways.

It is your favorite time of the month. Because today is the day Grandpa Sheo visits you. And there he is, already waiting by the gate to the orphanage, black robes swaying a bit in the wind. The Silver Protectors on both sides are shifting a bit uncomfortably, throwing glances at the Ancient and each other. You run up to the Ancient. Grandpa Sheo always exudes safety for you. He might actually magically exude safety, who knows really. Still, you have noticed how tense most adults get when the Ancient appears. As if expecting something bad to happen, but the Ancient is always the same. Blank faced and steady. Everything felt... more real when he was present. The void dared not encroach on you when he was nearby. You peer up at him and do your best to smile. A rare thing for you but the Ancient brings with him safety and stability no one else does. These were the only moments, when you were sure this was not all a delusion. He peers back at you, his face never changing. Even your internal sense cannot make out what happens behind that face, but he saved you from the void. He is not what you would call nice excactly, but he is... something. "Shall we go then." The Ancient asks and offers you a hand. A hand covered by a glove, not so different from the ones delivered to you. You take the hand as best you can with your own gloved hand, and the two of you begin walking. Why the Ancient agreed to come have walks with you regularly is a mystery, but here he is. Because you kept asking for him? He is always on time, every month appearing right there by the gate to the orphanage. He never speaks much on these walks but he does explain things you are curious about.... Though his explanations are sometimes odd. Like... you heard at the orphanage some kids talk about how the moon was made of cheese... and when you asked Grandpa, he said "Not that one." and nothing else. Does that mean that there is a moon made of cheese somewhere? Or once you asked him about what he does when he is traveling, and he said "Cleaning up." What does that mean? Is there a mess somewhere that needs cleaning up? Why does he need to clean it up? But he also does things, like take you to Firgrat bay, and let you walk atop the ocean. Or underneath it. You saw a really big fish that was sort of scary. It was bigger than a building and had huge teeth. Grandpa asked if you wanted to eat it..... You rather enjoy the walks with Grandpa.

You stare at your masterpiece... It feels right. All encompassing black and violent red slashes, with a clear spot of light in the middle. Just like real life... light in the void. Your bandages drip with paint, but you feel good about it. It does not feel bad to remember this part of the void. Not anymore. Not after you got out... and remembering did not make you go back... maybe it's the light. Or maybe this is real... it is hard to tell. "Kid, you ok? That is quite a painting." Lexia is giving your masterwork a glance. Is that worry? You look at the painting too.... "It... it just... feels right." You whisper. She gives you a long look, that you can't quite figure out... Worry and sadness? A hint of relief... because in your own way, you are opening up? You are not sure. "Well it certainly is something, kid.... You know if you wanna talk, we are here?" You nod slowly. "Good. Now come on. Let's go get Havard." She says and smiles. "He should see your masterpiece... and your bandages are now messy."

--------------------------------------------------- "Kid, what the fuck?" Lexia asked, confiscating the lamb in a swift move and grabbing your sacrificial fork. "Cookies, shiny stuff and whatever is all fine, but no killing cute critters. Just stick to stealing things from the kitchen and everything not nailed down." You stare at her. Why not? You tilt your head, confused. She even used a bad word.... what did you do? You just wanted more of the delicious cookies. The cookies whisper to you... They promise you things... Like more delicious cookies. "Seriously, kid. It's not ok. As in no snacks for a month ok." You pale... That is a serious level of not ok... and that is Lexia's estimate. That is much less severe than Havard's level of not ok so far in all cases. You drop the fork, and make your best "I am sorry face." ----------------------------------------------------- "MC, stop." Havard's voice stopped you in your tracks, sacrificial fork high in the air. "What are you doing? Why are you trying to kill that lamb?" He was calm, but you think he was a little mad at you. You stare at the lamb, then Havard, then back at the lamb... but the cookies? They call to you! You want more! The voices said you could get more! Yet, Havard's gaze makes you yield. You drop the fork, and make your best "I am sorry" face. Havard narrows his eyes. "We shall discuss the consequences later. Now, free that poor sheep." ------------------------------------------------ The Ancient calmly took in the scene... The twins chanting, you raising the fork... Your hoard. Then his gaze locked onto the "void cookies." You were still chanting and raising the fork, about to plunge the fork down into the lamb... The Ancient lifted a finger. There was a flash of light, and the "void cookies" got destroyed in tiny blue fireball. "Do let the lamb go. I need to track down where those cookies came from." The Ancient just walked away. Huh... what just happened? Why is there a lamb? Why do you have a fork? ---------------------- "Wait.... killing?" Azha asked, looking at the lamb. "I thought it was play time!" She seems indignant. "I am not playing if the cute lamb gets killed!" She said. "Come on Atru!" She gave you a betrayed look and dashed away. Atru gave you a blank look and dashed away after his sister. --------------------

--------------------Disconnected--------------------- "MC, you have to eat." Havard said, as he brought up the spoon. The child just sat there, refusing to eat or react. Just a blank look, as if they were not even truly present. "Please." Havard said. "Just a few bites." All he got was a blank look. No other reaction. It hurt to see. Someone so connected from reality. The spoon faltered, and he set it down. He would find a way to get through to MC. He had to. ----------- Paranoid ---------------- "Hey, kid?" She asked softly, and MC spun around to eye her warily. "You know, I can't let you hide all the forks under your pillow." She said. MC tried to hide the new "weapon" they had found, clumsily. They could barely hold it with their bandaged hands. "You don't need the weapons MC." She said, kneeling. "I promise, I will protect you." She said, hoping the child would trust her. MC eyed her warily... and ran away with the fork. Lexia sighed. One day at a time. At least this time, MC had not tried to stab her with the fork. She hoped she would get through to them. She jogged after them, staying out of sight for now. ------------Aggressive--------------- Lexia caught the small body, and stopped them from trying to harm Havard, extracting the fork from the child. The small form snarled but there was nothing they could do in her firm grip. Havard looked incredibly sad as he looked at MC and knelt in front of them. "I am sorry, I know you have been hurt, but this is not the way to make yourself feel better MC." Havard said. "Hurting others is not the solution." MC did not listen, thrashing in her grip. The child had no chance to get free, of course. Not even when they bit her hands. Even without her gauntlets, her grip was not so easy to break. "MC, please. We mean you no harm." Havard said. "Talk to us." He pleaded. MC did not listen, still biting Lexia's hand. Havard sighed. "Let's go." He said tiredly to Lexia, who nodded and picked MC up. It was a common thing nowadays. Taking MC to their room and staying there until the child was calm again. She hoped this was a temporary thing, and MC would eventually talk to them instead of trying to hurt them. It was not fun, having to restrain a child. Still that was her duty for now.

Stealing... You did bad? You look at Havard, sitting on your hoard explaining the concept to you. You did something bad... You didn't mean to be bad. You look up at Havard. Your eyes feel odd. Some kind of stinging feeling... Havard smiles softly. "I know you did not mean anything bad. It will all be all right." He assures you. "Nothing bad will happen. Everyone will understand." You desperately study his face... he seems genuine. Maybe it will all be fine. "Now then. Up we go." He helps you on your feet. "Let's start by returning the cutlery to the kitchens, shall we." He smiles. You nod. It seems there is much for you to learn about all the rules in this strange new place you find yourself.

"Kid, why are you breathing so heavily on that candle?" Lexia asks from somewhere behind you. You ignore her. Fire. Focus on making fire. You draw a deep breath, and think. Fire. Maybe cool colored fire... like blue! Or.... purple? Yellow? Green? Pink? White? Black? What colors can fire be anyway? No, getting distracted. Need to focus on breathing. Fire. You exhale slowly and.... nothing. The candle remains unlit. Stupid candle.... Why can't you breathe fire? Dragons breathe fire, or at least some of them do. Havard told you so! You are part dragon, and therefore you can breathe fire. It makes sense. Except it is not working. Lexia peers over your shoulder. You ignore her and think. How can you make fire? Fire needs something to get it started, doesn't it? How do people make fire? Magic? You can't do any... Scratching things? Your hands are bad, and you have a feeling specific things are needed. Wait! You think you heard something about something called emberroot! While you were in the kitchens, begging for food. Embers can make fire, since they already glow and stuff. You have seen embers in the big fireplace in the dining hall. Havard did not let you touch them. And roots are edible! Though it might have been a juice they talked about... Oh well. You just need that root! It will start your fire, and then you can breathe it. You jump up, and dash towards the kitchens. "Kid? What is it?" Lexia jogs after you. Soon, you are in the kitchens. Where would it be? Aha! There! You can't read but you remember what it looks like. The emberroot juice sort of steams or smokes even just in the jug. You head over and carefully get a mug. Or try to. It is hard with your hands and the mug is high on a shelf, but you have Lexia! She helps you get the mug down and when you point at the steaming jug, she raises an eyebrow. "Kid, that is a bad idea. That stuff is no joke." She says. "Your butt will not thank you for drinking that." You fold your arms and glare at her, demanding the juice. Why would your butt thank you anyway? She makes no sense. "Ok, but don't complain to me." Lexia says, shrugging and pours you just a bit into the cup. "I do believe mistakes are good to learn from." You eye the tiny bit of juice. That is not very much. Still should be fine to get a nice fire going! It is still smoking and it looks hot. You drink the juice. Oh! You can feel it! The cup clatters from your hands. It burns... You will definitely be able to breathe fire like this! You breathe and breathe.... still no fire. Why? Your mouth definitely feels like it's on fire, so why no flames? You can even feel the warmth in your belly, surely this means the emberoot ignited your abilities. Huh... it's actually not that nice, sort of hot. Really hot actually. Burning really. It's still getting worse... You pant, trying to get air into your mouth. It does not help, and you aren't breathing fire. Why? You spin to look at Lexia, who raises an eyebrow. "You know, it's worse on the way out." She says. You might have made a mistake.

<div align="center"><h2>Undead</h2></div>\ <div align="center"><h3>Plague riders</h3></div>\ <div align="center"><h3>Fleshweaver</h3></div>\ A hulking mass of flesh made of corpses, with too many limbs, heads, and eyes, constantly rearranging itself as it moves. Can absorb and integrate the bodies of fallen enemies, growing larger and more grotesque and more dangerous. <div align="center"><h3>Bone colosus</h3></div>\ A towering undead creature formed from the fused from bones of dozens of creatures. Can unleash a storm of flying bone shards and reassemble itself when destroyed by drawing nearby bones to it. <div align="center"><h3>Marrowspike Horror</h3></div>\ An undead beast with exposed bones forming jagged, spiked protrusions amid rotted flesh. Its spine extends into a whip-like weapon to lash at enemies, or even crush them. It can also launch its bone spikes as projectiles and regenerate them rapidly. <div align="center"><h3>Blightbringer</h3></div>\ A four-legged abomination covered in rotting flesh and pus-filled boils that burst and spread disease. Its blood and bile are highly toxic, and it can exhale a cloud of infectious spores that raise the dead nearby. <div align="center"><h3>Bone colosus</h3></div>\ <div align="center"><h2>Magical beasts</h2></div>\ <div align="center"><h3>Shadowstrider Cat</h3></div>\ Jet-black cats with fur that seems to absorb light. Roughly the size of a normal cat, with a longer tongue. They can move between shadows and become completely invisible in the dark. Often solitary and protective, they are often associated with assassins or thieves. <div align="center"><h3>Stonefur bear</h3></div>\ Thick, stone-like fur; unmatched strength; immune to cold and most physical attacks. Weighs a ton, but is otherwise pretty much a normal bear in temerament. Bigger and stronger, but still a bear. <div align="center"><h3>Death wraith</h3></div>\ A Death wraith is a shadow given form. It is a figure of flowing black mist hovering in the air. It has no face, only an empty space beneath a shifting hood. The air around the wraith chills and grows still. Whispers echo around the Wraith, even when no one speaks. . Death wraiths are incredibly rare creatures often confused for death itself. Those who witness a death wraith are marked for death, often dying slowly afterwards by wasting away. A Death Wraith is drawn to places of great death, feasting on the essence (mana) of the dead and dying. They have a special taste for dying royalty, traitors, and battlefields soaked in sorrow. It is often assumed they find the taste of death difference depending on the circumstance. Despite being often confused for undead, they were never alive to begin with. Therefore they should be classified as magical creatures until a better classification is found. They are intelegent and capable of speech, yet unconcerned with the matters of mortals. Considering most who attempt to speak to one die immediately or soon after, very little information is available of communication attempts. <<button 'Close Codex'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<h3>Havard POV</h3>\ Havard sighed after he was out of $MCname’s room and leaned against a wall for just a moment. He was happy the $child had eaten, and especially happy that $MCname had managed to eat the bread $himselfherself. Even if it had been a bit messy. The $child had also agreed to get dressed. <<if $likes_cloak >> Even if they had only wanted to wear the cloak at first. He smiled a bit at that. So innocent, even after going through so much. <<elseif $not_deserving_clothes>> Though $MCname’s insistence on just wearing the cloak was a tad worrying. He will have to keep an eye on that, the $child seemed to think $heshe did not deserve more… or perhaps dared not ask for more. He would need to gently encourage $MCname to ask for things $heshe wanted, to express $hisher own desires to him. It would probably be a long process, but Havard was sure that in time $MCname would get used to living at the orphanage. <</if>> The haircut <<if $blades_trauma>> went horribly, with the clear fear of blades and a complete breakdown. At least he had managed to talk $MCname out of that. <<if $skipped_haircut>> Even if $MCname had not agreed to haircut after. <<else>> At least $MCname had agreed to a haircut afterwards. He had been worried it would be too much, but it went well. <</if>> <<else>> had gone well all things considered. No fuss..<</if>> He started walking. Apparently, there was something wrong with today’s deliveries to the kitchen. He really needed to get a quartermaster for the orphanage. Havard was now $MCname’s official Custodian, and he had duties as the Head Custodian. A quartermaster would solve many of the practical problems he was experiencing, but hiring one is difficult considering the restrictions the Ancient’s have placed on staff. Not that he disagreed, he felt better knowing the Ancients wished to meet whoever he chose. He had no idea why the Ancients insisted on such security for the Orphanage, but if it meant safety for the children, he fully agreed. He never wished to see the horrors monsters masquerading as people were capable of inflicting again. Even if seeing the consequences of such depravity was a part of his daily life. Things like seeing $MCname was fine. There was hope, and innocence there. It was the mobs and monsters that he never wished to see again. For a moment, he remembered the fire. The screaming. Ethel’s voice telling him to snap out of it. Rows of Grey Protectors surrounding a burning building. A life’s work gone in an instant because of… what? Someone wanted a building in the poor part of the city? Amidst the ashes an old woman, unbowed and unbroken, organizing rows of children to line up for blankets out in the streets. He had known very few people he respected as much as that old woman who had once taken in a broken man and given him a purpose. Yes, security for the orphanage needed to be tight. He had no wish to see more fires. Or worse… “Stop daydreaming.” A voice called out to him, shaking him free of the memories. As if summoned by his thoughts, there stood Custodian Ethel. “I assume the $child is awake. How did it go?” He blinked and smiled at his old mentor. She had been like this the whole time he had known her. Always straight to the point, and never shying away from difficult things. That quality of hers had once saved him from despair. No matter how much it hurt after Mara and Ashley... No, he would not get lost in those memories today. Hopefully never. “Yes, the $child has been awake twice now. ” Havard said slowly. “Some of it was good, some bad.” That was an understatement, but no need to launch into details right now. <<if $MC_name_random is not true>>“$capitalheshe <<is>> called $MCname.” Ethel just nodded and waited for more. <<if $named_by_Havard is true>>\ “I gave $himher the name.” He adds with a small smile. “Why did you need to name $himher?” Ethel asked immediately. “$capitalheshe could not remember $hisher own name.” Havard tried to keep his voice as steady as possible. Ethel pursed her lips. “I see. You did well.” Rare praise from the old woman. Or perhaps it was only rare to be directed at adults. Children she praised fairly often. Havard smiled a bit sadly. “Thank you.” <<elseif $MC_name_random>>\ “$capitalheshe could not remember $hisher own name and did not wish for a new name.” Havard did his best to keep his voice steady. Ethel pursed her lips. “I see. We will need to work on that.” Always straight to what can be done, instead of being stuck on what can't be fixed. Havard only nodded. What else was there to do? <</if>><</if>>\ Havard took a moment to consider how much to say about the first meeting... Just a bit for now. Any details could be covered later if needed. <<switch $HavardMeetingReaction>>\ <<case "weapon">>\ "The flower vase you delivered to $MCname’s room ended up being broken you know. When the $child first woke up, $heshe tried to grab it for defense and dropped it." Havard said. “Those hands are bad Ethel, not able to hold a flower vase.” Ethel studied him for a while; before she sighed. "Is $MCname alright?" “Yes, $heshe did step on a shard, but I took care of it.” Ethel eyes him for a good while, as if considering storming $MCname’s room to inspect the $child for damage… but eventually she nodded. “I will get that $child’s room some more flowers. Having something green will be good for $himher.” What was there to say to that… she would do as she wished. <<case "hide">>\ "Upon the first meeting, $MCname tried to hide in the bed.” Havard said evenly. “We worked it out.” Ethel nodded. She seemed to consider this a perfectly normal reaction. All thighs considered, it could have gone a lot better. <<case "escape">>\ "Upon the first meeting, $MCname jumped out the window... I managed to chase $himher down.” Ethel raised an eyebrow, but did not comment. <<case "naked">>\ "Upon the first meeting, $MCname tried to hide in the bed because $heshe <<was>> nude.” Havard said evenly. Ethel nodded along at this. It was a normal reaction. <<case "injured">>\ "Upon the first meeting, $MCname tried to the fact that they had injured themselves. I have treated the injury," Havard said as steadily as he could. Ethel eyed him for a good while, as if considering storming $MCname’s room to inspect the $child for damage… but eventually she nodded. Havard smiled a bit at that. <<case "frozen">>\ “Upon the first meeting, $MCname just froze in place.” Havard said. “We managed to get over it.” Ethel nodded at him, observing him calmly. <</switch>>\ “I answered some of $hisher questions after that. Then put $MCname back to bed as $heshe started nodding off.” “Must have been exhausted before coming here.” Ethel said. “Whatever…” Her lips curled up in displeasure. “Happened to the $child, it will have left scars. Both kinds of scars.” Havard could only nod at that. That much was obvious, even if some of the more visible scars were greatly reduced from the healing baths. The mental scars… Well, those were the bigger worry. The other obvious thing was the hands, but Lord Sheo had promised to get some custom gloves made. Havard hoped that would be enough. “The $child slept for some hours. After waking for the second time, $MCname was fed and clothed. <<if $blades_trauma>> The haircut… did not go well to start with. I idiotically brought out scissors and $MCname freaked out…” He hung his head. <<else>> Even the haircut went well.” <</if>> <<if $blades_trauma>>\ Ethel inspected him for a while. “The old bastard did not share any details of what that child has been through with you did he?” Old bastard? Did she mean Lord Sheo? That was… dangerous. Or so Havard thought. The Ancients might not care about what people call them… but some of them were supposedly petty, though he had no idea if Lord Sheo would be considered one. Still, it was best to be safe. “Ethel, you can’t just…” She cut him off. “I can and I will. The old bastard deserves it. Now answer the question. “ Ok, best to move on from that, and not ask for details. He did not want to know why Lord Sheo deserved it… That was what Havard told himself to avoid trouble at least. “Lord Sheo did not provide many details. Though he did say was he found $MCname tortured and chained.” Ethel looked thoughtful. “One of those crazy cults… Maybe some mad mages.” She muttered to herself for a moment, before shaking off whatever thoughts she had. “The point is, you knew it was bad, but you did not know the details. You still don’t know the details. So, accept your mistake, and move on. There could be other things too that set $MCname off, but then you deal with it.” Havard stared at the old woman… Was it really that easy. It was a significant mistake, caused $MCname to spiral… He should have known, should have avoided it. Ethel poked him on the forehead. “Stop dwelling. Move on. Do better next time.” Havard sighed. “No mercy, as usual.” “No mercy for whatever useless mental self-flagellation you are doing. It’s a waste of time.” Havard sighed again. Talking with Ethel was always like this. <</if>>\ “Now, why are you out here and not in there with $MCname?” Ethel asked. “And you should get that $child out into sunlight as soon as possible. Being cooped up is no good.” “There is something wrong with the kitchen deliveries. I left $MCname to rest, with Lexia watching over $himher.” Ethel narrowed her eyes. “With Lexia. Your partner.” She eyed him for a good while. “You know the decision has not been made yet. It will be put to a vote. About you and Lexia being this $child’s official Custodian and Protector. Yet, you are acting a lot as if it is already decided.” Havard worked very hard to keep his face neutral. “I am aware the vote has not happened yet. However, … I will push hard for this, insist on it in fact.” Ethels’ face was unreadable. “Insist you say? So, you intend to make it happen regardless of the vote." Havard could not tell what she was thinking. "And what has you so insistent about this $child.” “I believe it is important to not expose $MCname to too many new faces right now. Therefore, as someone $heshe already knows, it makes myself and Lexia the best options… and we already swore our oaths to $himher.” He said, voice as steady as he could keep it, remembering the lights. The voices of the Ancients accepting their oaths. “You did what?” Ethel glared at him, and Havard suppressed the urge to fidget under her stare. “That was not your decision. Not yet.” “I know… but it felt right, $MCname is now our responsibility. Even if I must step down as Head Custodian.” He was tense, waiting for condemnation. Ready to be berated for his rash actions. Ethel let him wait for a good while, studying his face impassively. “Good. That is how it should be.” She said eventually and smiled. “I never cared for this voting crap anyway. Takes too long to decide anything. It’s fine if we have an abundance of time, but for moments that need decisive decisions, well we have a Head Custodian for a reason.” Havard let out the breath he had been holding. “You approve?” “Yes, I approve. We are talking about a child, not a sack of potatoes to be passed around. If you feel strongly about being $MCname’s Custodian, then you should be. It’s that simple.” She huffed. “Not like your reasoning is bad either. If that $child finds it hard to meet new people, or just to trust people in general, then we should avoid introducing someone new to $himher, and taking you away. That would be stupid.” Havard nodded slowly. She was glossing over a lot of details… Him being the Head Custodian was a complicating factor, and the issue should really be put to a vote… but she had agreed with him, so he was not about to argue. He was adamant about this. Havard trusted all the Custodians and Protectors, but he believed he could maybe, just maybe, help $MCname better than most of them simply due to the interactions they had already had. “Thank you.” He said and smiled at Ethel. She did not smile back… but she rarely did. “Ethel… did you know? About the oaths?” She titled her head. “Know what? I know the oaths we swore. Every Custodian does.” “No, I mean, when we swore the oaths to $MCname. There were… unexpected effects.” Havard said. Ethel narrowed her eyes. “Explain.” “The Eternal Flow manifested, and the voices of the Ancients accepted our oaths.” Havard said, skipping over a lot of details. Those two were the important parts of the experience. The old woman pursed her lips and pondered that for a moment. “We do not swear to the Ancients, but to the children… Yet, we are chosen for this task by the Ancients. It seems that they will enforce those oaths, should it become necessary.” Ethel reasoned out. “Enforce them?” Havard asked. Ethel gave him a look. “They witness the oaths, so it stands to reason they would take some action should anyone break those oaths. Or perhaps the Ancients would prevent someone from swearing them under false pretenses.” She sighed. “Who knows, they do not share their reasoning. Never have.” Havard nodded slowly. It was a disconcerting thought that the Ancients might interfere with them directly if the oaths were to be violated. They already personally met every Protector and Custodian… Why go to such trouble? Havard sighed internally. Ethel was right that the Ancients did not justify their actions to anyone. It could be something… it could also be nothing. Or be something in a few millennia. There was not much point in thinking about the why. “You are missing the obvious.” Ethel said, drawing Havard from his thoughts. “What was that?” He asked. “You are missing the obvious.” She repeated. “And you should check.” Havard thought about what he was missing… Something obvious…. The twins. Havard and Lexia were not the first pair of Custodian and Protector to swear to a child… Or were they? Custodian Alessa and Protector Sandor had not mentioned hearing the Ancients. They should have… “You should go and talk to Alessa and Sandor.” Ethel said. “Confirm the experience. I will go to the kitchens and deal with whatever is wrong with the deliveries.” Havard thought about it. The kitchens were his responsibility, and the matter was urgent… but she was right. She could deal with that, and he trusted her. “Thank you.” Havard gave a little bow. “I will go find Alessa and Sandor. Any idea where they are?” Ethel gave a dry smile. “The twins are surely still set on solving the “mystery”. So, they could be anywhere.” “Right… I will start with the baths then.” Havard said. Alessa would have taken the twins there after the flour incident. It was a good place to start, even if that should have been a while ago. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Havard POV|Chapter 3_2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1> The Twins</h1>\ <h2>Azha</h2>\ <h3> Afternoon</h3>\ Damn Lexia. She had been too slippery! Too fast. Too… everything! Or so Azha thought as she and Atru were floating in the orphanage baths, washing off flour under Custodian Alessa’s gentle gaze. Well, Alessa was sort of washing their clothes, but she was in the room! Havard had said to get their clothes to the general laundry, but Alessa had said she would do it herself. It was only flour. Cleaning up all the mess that they made, chasing after Lexia had taken forever! Of course, Lexia and Sandor had helped… it was sort of their fault anyway! How the two Protectors had not ended up doused in flour was a mystery in itself. They were very tricky…. Azha wondered if she and Atru would be that tricky when they were all grown up. She hoped so, not getting messy would be good! Not that baths were not fun, quite the opposite in fact. At least here, the orphanage bath was huge! Like a pool! It was fun to splash about in here. Azha and Atru had the whole pool to themselves. They were taking their time, splashing about. It also felt really good for some reason, and the water glimmered with odd lights at times that she could chase about! Atru liked watching the lights, but she wanted to catch one! How did one catch light though? If it was really light… There were lots of confusing things in the orphanage that she had never seen in the bad place. She didn't like thinking about the bad place a lot, and it was easy not to. After all, it was so fun here at the orphanage! So much sun, and food, and Alessa and Sandor! They could play all day, everyday. No shouting or beatings. No cleaning up disgusting stuff. Nope, not thinking on any of that! She was swimming! Or trying to... Neither of the twins knew exactly how to swim, which they could in this pool, it was big enough for even adults to swim, but there was something odd here as well. It was very hard to stay underwater. They always ended up face above water. Alessa had not said anything about the twins diving under water over the month they had been taking baths here, so Azha assumed that it was probably impossible to get hurt in this bath. Maybe it was magic! The lights supported this conclusion, and Atru agreed with her. Which is why catching one is important! Except she had failed so far… She had made some pretty big splashes though… that had been fun! “Atru, Azha. I’ll set your clothes out to dry in the garden and get you new ones. Do not leave this room. Sandor is right outside if you need something.” Alessa called out as she carried a basket of their clothes outside. “Ok!” Azha called back for both of them. Atru gave her an imperceptible nod as thanks. Azha and Atru splashed about, occasionally playing a miniature water war, splashing each other. Azha knew Atru generally only played games like this because she liked it. He was sweet like that, thinking about what she likes… though sometimes he ended up having a lot of fun too with these games! It was just starting them that made him feel bad. He worried too much about things like splashing her with water! Nothing would happen to her. It's not like she would melt or something silly like that. Water was just water. Even if it was clearly magical water, Because she had never seen shimmering water elsewhere! Not that she had seen much, the most had been on the walk here with the scary nice lady... The one Alessa called Lady Irosia. Still Azha had seen a lot on the way up from the lower floors! There was real grass here, and the sky and clouds and... the sea! She was lost in thought, and Atru splashed her with a big wave! She spluttered a bit, making him take a step closer worriedly. Azha beamed at him, to show she was fine, and splashed him back, right in the face! He coughed up the water, and gave her an unimpressed look, that softened into his customary near imperceptible smile as she laughed. He never could stay mad at her, no matter how much he tried. She stopped the water war there. He would stop enjoying it if she took it too far and they both had gotten in some nice hits. Of course, they also do things that he liked too! Like sneaking into the orphanage library! They couldn’t read many of the books yet, and Atru could read better than she could, but there were many cool ones with pictures! Something apparently made specifically for the orphanage; picture books they were called. They floated in the water, enjoying how easy it was to do. It sucked how they always popped back up at the surface, but it was great to just float. She wondered if Alessa would let them sleep in here... Like every good thing, bathtime was coming to an end. The twins were right in the middle of renewed little splashing war, when Alessa came back into the chamber. “Time to get out.” She said. “I brought clean clothes.” Indeed, she had plush towels, and clean clothes for them. “Can’t we play for longer?” Azha whined. “It is almost time to eat, and didn’t you two have a mystery to solve?” Oh… OH! They did have a mystery to solve! Azha spun to Atru who nodded at her solemnly. Yes! The mystery must come first, even before playtime. So, the twins splashed their way to the stairs that lead out of the bath, right into Alessa’s waiting arms. Well, into the towels she held out and wrapped around them. “Yep. We have a mystery to solve! Lexia told us nothing!“ Azha pouted. Alessa smiled and ruffled her wet hair. Azha giggled a bit. Alessa repeated the gesture on Atru, who closed his eyes. He liked headpats and hair ruffling as much as Azha did. “Yes. Lexia is like that, isn’t she.” Alessa said smiling. “Ever since we were children, she has been… infuriatingly hard to nail down.” “Nail down? Like with a hammer?” Azha asked, peering up at Alessa. A soft giggle left the Custodian’s lips. “No, not literally little one. I have never… I have mostly not wanted to hurt her. It’s just that she is good at distracting people. It is hard to get answers out of her, when she does not want to give them.” “So, she is hiding things about the mystery!” Azha decreed and gave Atru a look! “We have to find her again and make her tell us!” Atru once again gave her a nod, with a determined glint in his eye. “Well, first we dry you two off, and get dressed. Then we have lunch. Then you can go back to the mystery and chasing after Lexia.” But the mystery and Lexia…. As if on cue, two small stomachs growled…. Ok maybe food was a good idea, before they got back into the thick of things! Just to confirm, she gave Atru a searching look. Her twin nodded at her, and she beamed at him. “Ok!” She told Alessa, who chuckled. Food first, then the mystery. The proper order to life. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Azha POV|Chapter 3_5_no_tour2]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Azha POV|Chapter 3_5_tour2]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<h1> The Twins</h1>\ <h2>Atru</h2>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>>\ The twins had been looking everywhere for Lexia! Yet, they could not find her. Not anywhere they were allowed to go in the orphanage. It felt a bit frustrating to Atru. Not that he would ever say anything about it. "Where is she?" Azha practically shouted, throwing up her hands and stopping. Atru stopped too. While Azha ranted, Atru turned to observe Sandor... He was just following them. Not helping, not telling them the secret. Sandor smiled and walked up to them. "I fear it is time to return to your room." He said, and Azha gave him a dirty look. She was a bit angry at the "traitor" still. "No." She said, crossing her arms. Sandor just smiled. "Custodian Alessa has something she wants to discuss." Sandor said and just picked them both up despite Azha's protests and squirming. Somehow he always managed that, even if Alessa could not carry both of them. Atru did not resist. This is how it was. Besides... talking might have been out the range of his abilities, but he secretly liked being carried. It made him feel embarrassed, but it happened often enough he was sort of getting used to it. This way he could feel like he was tall! "Not fair! We haven't figured out the mystery!" Azha squirmed hard, but Azha knew that there was nothing the twins could do to escape Sandor right now. Maybe later… after bedtime they might be able to sneak out. "Life unfortunately is not always fair. You will have more time to figure it out later." Sandor said. Azha huffed... and that was that. For now. Sandor took the twins to their room and set them down on the bed. “Just a moment.” He said and smiled down, reaching out to pat both heads. Atru leaned into the touch. It was almost automatic. Azha seemed to still be pouting but relented a bit at the headpat. Sandor retreated a few steps and grabbed the pin thing every Custodian and Protector had, clasping it in his hand and focusing. Atru suspected it was some way to talk with Alessa, but he had no proof of it. But sometimes Alessa and Sandor knew things they should not know… Maybe it was an adult thing, but Atru suspected it had something to do with that pin. That pin often came out… He turned to Azha, and tried to communicate his thoughts… He glanced at Sandor and leaned closer to Azha whisper. “Is he talking to Alessa?” Atru said. Azha glanced at Sandor and nodded. “Maybe… They do often use those pin things for something.” She scowled. “I wanna figure out the mystery.” She whispered. “No matter what Sandor says.” Atru fidgeted uncertainly… “But… what if it goes badly? What if we get caught?” He whispered. Azha took his worries seriously. She always did… "We won't get caught. Or... if we do then..." She bit her lip thinking. "We can say we were looking for the bathroom!" Azha exclaimed and looked at Atru expectantly. Atru fidgeted in place. He was not sure… Would that work? Azha took his hand and gave is a reassuring squeeze. His fidgeting stopped. She smiled at him. “Don’t worry.” She whispered. <<else>>\ There was Lexia! They had her, now they just had to catch up and make her tell them about the mystery. Well Azha would have to make her tell them, but Atru would back her up as best he could. Lexia was not scary; she was fun and gave them headpats! She was probably his favorite after Alessa and Sandor, as far as the Custodians and Protectors went. Not that the rest weren’t nice, but they just didn’t interact all that much with everyone! Lexia, however, often came to “pester” Alessa and Sandor. Whatever that word meant. Right now, the point was that she was right there, within their sight! Though… something was a bit odd about the Silver Protector. She was just... standing about, hand on her chin. Thinking? Did Lexia really think about things that hard? That seemed out of character... He was just about to turn to Azha, to ask her if she knew what was going on when Lexia turned enough for Atru to see the $child with $HairColor hair sitting <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> in an odd chair with wheels right next to her. <<else>>on her arm... She was carrying a child! <</if>> What? Atru knew he and Azha were the only ones here though! Or they should have been. So, who was that? All thoughts of the mystery fled Atru’s mind as it filled with new possibilities. The twins came to an abrupt stop, gaping. A new child! A new… Atru did not quite know what a friend was. All he had was Azha and she was his sister. Did that count as a friend? Maybe they could make a friend? Alessa had said friends were good… but she was also friends with Lexia, and she got really mad at Lexia sometimes. Still, Alessa did often smile fondly when with Lexia. It was all very confusing to Atru. Still, all the stories Alessa told them during bedtime talked about how great friends were! <<nobr>>\ <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <<FeatureIndex "wings">> From this far out, by far the most prominent feature on the $child is the $Feature… Wow, real wings! Atru had seen a few people with wings over his life, but never really known a person like that. Atru wondered if the $child would let them touch them. Could the $child fly? That would be cool! Atru glanced at Azha whose eyes were wide with excitement, and also on the wings. He was not the only one. He of course said nothing out loud, but one glance with Azha was enough to convey all his enthusiasm. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <<FeatureIndex "tail">> Was that a $Feature? Atru tried to see better, but they were a bit too far away. A tail… Could the $child grab stuff with the tail? That would be useful! Atru wanted to know… Of course, Azha would have to ask. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("horns")>> <<FeatureIndex "horns">> Were those horns? That was cool! How did one get horns? Atru had no idea what kind of horns they were… But he would like to find out. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<FeatureIndex "pointy ears">><<else>><<FeatureIndex "animal ears">><</if>>\ Atru thought there was maybe something odd about the $child's ears... but he could not tell what while running, even with his very good eyesight. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("scales")>> <<FeatureIndex "scales">> Is there something on the $child’s face? It is hard to see from this far away. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>> <<FeatureIndex "feathers">> <<else>> <<FeatureIndex "nature features">> It’s too far away to tell, but Atru thinks there is something odd with that $HairColor $HairType hair? <</if>><</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("elemental")>> Was the $child's hair really glowing? That was so cool! Could Atru learn that? <</if>> <</nobr>>\ “Who’s that?” Azha whispered finally whispered. “A new kid?” Atru could hear the excitement in her voice. They were both locked in on Lexia and the $child. The twins look at each other, gauging the other’s thoughts. Atru feels a bit unsure about approaching…. but it’s Lexia. It will be fine, and Azha is right there. Azha takes his hand. Then they dash for Lexia! “Oh, no you don’t.” Sandor’s voice said, and suddenly he was there. “Sorry, kiddos.” He caught both twins in his arms, and they were lifted up. “I can’t let you go there right now, sorry.” Somehow he always managed to get them both, even if Alessa could not carry both of them. “What? Why?” Azha demanded, trying to squiggle free. Atru already knew that there was no escaping Sandor. Instead, he wrapped his arms around Sandor’s neck and tried to stare at Lexia and the $child he did not know. “The Head Custodian’s orders. For now, only Havard and Lexia interact with the new $child.” Sandor explained as he turned away, carrying the twins. Atru turned his head to still try and look at the new $child. It was hard to tell from so far away, but Atru thought the $child glanced their way in that moment… For a tiny moment, he felt something, as if their eyes met. His sight was really good, always had been, probably due to the elven heritage the twins had. Alessa had explained it, but it all sounded very complicated to Atru. Still, they were so far away from Lexia and the $child, he could have just imagined meeting the $child’s eyes. It might have been his imagination… but it felt like the start of something important. Something meaningful and important. The moment was broken by Azha. “Why? That’s stupid. Why can’t we go play?” Azha demanded, still trying to squirm free from Sandor’s grasp. “I was not told all the details but…” Sandor considered his words as he took the twins away. “That $child has been through something horrible.” Atru turned to look at Sandor. There was something sad in their Protector’s expression. Something horrible had happened? Like… the bad place? At least Atru had had Azha back then, even in the bad place before they were saved. Azha made everything better. Azha stopped squirming, looking at Sandor. Her face was thoughtful for a moment too. “But we can help!” She declared eventually. “Playing helps!” Could they? Atru had his doubts about his ability to help someone… but Azha did make everything better. Maybe she could help the $child they had seen. Sandor smiled. “Oh, I have no doubt you two can help. But it might be a little overwhelming for now.” Sandor said. “Remember? How you two felt right after coming to the orphanage?” Atru thought back to those days. Irosia had left them here, promising they would be safe and taken care of here. They had been introduced to Alessa and Sandor. The first few days had been scary… Atru remember always holding onto to Azha. Everything was so uncertain and scary… but Alessa had taken care of them, smiling softly. Sandor had been a steady presence. Never intrusive but always near if needed. It would have been scary… but Azha was there with him and did all the talking. It was so much easier because Azha was with him. Without Azha, would he have adjusted? No, he needed Azha. Without her he would be scared and alone. Even here at the orphanage he would be lost without Azha. But even with her, it would have been much scarier if everyone they knew now had appeared all at once instead of just Alessa and Sandor. Havard, Lexia, Ethel… Even people like Hybert and Kathil who guarded the orphanage gate or Bruna the cook… It would have been so overwhelming. Atru thought that he understood what Sandor when he remembered those first few days… Would it be so bad though? For the twins to spend time with the new $child? $capitalheshe was alone! Maybe the twins could help… Or would they make things worse? Atru glanced at Azha. She would surely know…. She seemed uncertain, probably having arrived at a similar conclusion as him. It made Atru uneasy… Azha always knew what to do. Then her eyes caught his… and her uncertainty vanished. She smiled bravely. “Friends help!” She decided. “Having Atru helped! So, we should help the new $child by befriending $himher!” Sandor smiles. “In time, I have no doubt that is true. But right now, it is all new and scary… so please be patient.” Azha was clearly not happy and Atru was uncertain. “Then why is Lexia taking that $child the outside?” Azha asked, clearly grumpy. “If it’s all so scary and new.” Sandor winced. “I believe… that she did that on her own. It was not approved by Havard.” He said but sounded a bit uncertain. “See! Lexia clearly thinks it’s fine!” Azha said, seeming smug. “Lexia thinks and does a lot of things without permission.” Sandor said. “It is her business… but I am sticking to my orders.” He smiled faintly. “Sorry, kiddos. We are finding Alessa.” Azha pouted. Atru was still uncertain. How did one know what the correct thing to do was? He had no idea, he was scared of never knowing… but the prospect of meeting Alessa cheered him up. Maybe Alessa knew what was the best thing to do? Alessa knew tons of things! “We can help!” Azha whined, but Sandor was adamant. “Sorry, Azha. I can’t let you go right now.” “But… we can help!” “I have no doubt you will. Eventually.” Sandor said and kept walking with the twins in his arms. Azha tried arguing, but Sandor remained adamant. Even Azha knew that there was nothing the twins could do to escape Sandor right now. Maybe later… after bedtime they might be able to sneak out. Sandor took the twins to their room and set them down on the bed. “Just a moment.” He said and smiled down, reaching out to pat both heads. Atru leaned into the touch. It was almost automatic. Azha seemed to still be pouting but relented a bit at the headpat. Sandor retreated a few steps and grabbed the pin thing every Custodian and Protector had, clasping it in his hand and focusing. Atru suspected it was some way to talk with Alessa, but he had no proof of it. But sometimes Alessa and Sandor knew things they should not know… Maybe it was an adult thing, but Atru suspected it had something to do with that pin. That pin often came out… He turned to Azha, and tried to communicate his thoughts… He glanced at Sandor and leaned closer to Azha whisper. “Is he talking to Alessa?” Atru said. Azha glanced at Sandor and nodded. “Maybe… They do often use those pin things for something.” She scowled. “I wanna make friends with that new $child.” She whispered. “No matter what Sandor says.” Atru fidgeted uncertainly… “But… what if it goes badly? We haven’t made friends before? Or… does Alessa count? Sandor? Lexia?” He whispered. Azha took his worries seriously. She always did… “But… that $child was alone with… grownups. Even if it was Lexia...” Did Lexia count as a grownup was a debate Alessa sometimes had with Lexia. Atru had listened to that discussion a few times. ”We can help.” Azha said. She sounded… well not sure but determined. Atru fidgeted in place. He was not sure… Azha made things better, but Sandor said they should wait. Azha took his hand and gave is a reassuring squeeze. His fidgeting stopped. She smiled at him. “Don’t worry.” She whispered. <</if>> Before Atru could answer, Sandor interrupted them. “Alessa is on her way. We actually have something to do, properly this time for you two.” Atru stared at Sandor, mind whirling. What did that mean? “What does that mean?” Azha demanded, as if she was reading Atru’s thoughts. “It means that something was not done properly and needs to be done now.” Azha narrowed her eyes. “That’s not a good answer!” “It is not.” Sandor said, smiling. “But it’s a surprise.” “A surprise?!” Azha jumped up and dashed to stare at Sandor. “Tell us!” She whined. Atru was now curious too, dashing to join Azha in staring up at Sandor. The twins shared a glance and a miniscule nod to communicate. Time for the special move! Atru was bad at expressions, but he tried making his eyes as wide as possible. Azha did the same next to him as they clung to Sandor’s waist and stared up. Sandor stared back at them; expression conflicted. Good, he was cracking under their attack! Just a bit more, and Atru was sure Sandor would talk! They could break him. The door to their room opened, and Alessa walked in. Darn, enemy enforcements. “Leave poor Sandor be, little ones.” Alessa said, walking over to them and taking each twin by the hand. “Now then, you two sit on the bed. We need to talk about something.” <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>> <div class="choice-item">[[End Of Atru POV|No_tour]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice-item">[[End Of Atru POV|Tour_done3]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

It was one of the more embarrassing moments of his life. His father's words were already coming true about Havard and Mara wanting their own space during the winter.... and it was the first day. Mara had pushed him on his back to the bed, and was straddling him just as his mother burst in. Mara's hands stopped moving under his shirt, and she got off in a hurry as his mother raised an eyebrow. "It's the first day of winter and already you two are discovering how most couples spend the winter." His mother said. "Though usually that position involves a lot less pants. At least when I do it." Havard felt his ears burn, and Mara practically leapt off him landing on the bed next to him. Her face was pale. It was rather odd, she could tease him all day and make him embarrassed but before his mother, Mara got flustered. Maybe it was a woman thing... maybe it was just his mother. Though his mother embarrassed him as well all the time. "Mom... why are you here?" Havard asked. Then realized his shirt was riding a bit high from Mara's fast exit. He hurriedly pulled it down. "You two can do that later. Come on down, we just took a fresh batch of bread from the oven. Come have some while it's still warm." Then she was gone, leaving behind silence. Mara stared at the door, then turned to him. "Did she really need to interrupt us for that?" She sounded sulky. Perhaps she had a plan that had been ruined. Havard shrugged. He had no idea. "At least we get fresh bread." He said, smiling hopefully at her. She considered this for a while... Brightened and jumped out of the bed. "That does sound good. Grab a blanket. We'll get bread and milk and cuddle up near the fire." Havard's eyes widened. "Are you sure? You know... my parents are down there?" Mara rolled her eyes. "And? They both know about us, and it's just sitting by a fire. Why does it matter now?" She grinned wickedly. "Besides, didn't you hear your mother? I bet they are going to retire to their bedroom since they have finished working. You know, to have se..." Havard plugged his ears with his fingers, and tried to get rid of that thought. It did not help, he could still see Mara grinning down at him and grabbing his arms, trying to pull then off his ears. She could say such things to him all day, but would never say them directly to his parents. They ended up wrestling on his bed that then turned to kissing that turned into wandering hands.... until his mother came back up to tell them to hurry up. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The second time getting caught with Mara's hands somewhere under his shirt was just as embarrassing as the first.|HavardRock15]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Three days later, Havard could barely look his parents in the eye anymore. Somehow, it seemed like every time Mara and he kissed, one of his parents appeared. Which considering they were stuck inside, and this was Mara's first time being so bored, was often. It did not get any less embarrassing. "Why does this house have no locks on anything?" Mara said after the latest intrusion, adjusting her dress with a slight blush. His mother had not commented on it, but Mara had been sort of topless when she walked in. It was the first time Havard had seen Mara fluster badly as Havard usually did. Even if Havard thought Mara certainly had nothing to be embarrassed about, topless or not... "It's a remote village. The doors outside can be barred but why would we have locks inside?" "So that people can get naked, and do naked stuff in peace?" One would think his ears could not burn anymore after so many times within so few days, but here he was. "Were you.... Were you really going to get naked?" He asked hesitantly. They had done stuff together, wonderful stuff, but all above the waist. Mara tilted her head, a grin spreading across her lips. "Perhaps I was considering it." She pressed her face to his neck, and spoke in a hushed breathy tone. "You wanna see? I could take off the rest... if you ask nicely." Her hands were toying with the collar of his shirt. "But I fear we will be interrupted again. You might also burst into flame, Havard. So, not yet." She moved her hands to cup his face, and stared into his eyes. "But the day is coming. You should start considering it." She whispered. Havard gulped, his mouth dry. The day was coming? Of course, he had known that somewhere in the back of his mind, but he had never acknowledged the thought to himself. Where else could all this be going? Still, having her state it so bluntly was... incredibly exciting and scary. "Now, help me dress properly." She said, patting his shoulder. The reversal of direction left him confused before he realized what she was talking about. She could not dress properly with any real speed since her wings got in the way, so she was currently more just covering up, instead of being dressed. With Havard's help it was easy, but alone it took her a bit of time. Mara only had a few dresses, which were Mara's preference. His father had been appalled at what happened to Mara and had gone around, trying to figure out which village would do such a thing. It was hard to tell, but at least he could get her some simple dresses from the other villages. Dahim had a tailor, but his mother and the tailor were not on friendly terms after an incident in Havard's childhood. Still, the dress Havard had found her in was the only one that could properly accommodate her wings, and no new ones with the required modifications were available in Dahim or the closest villages. The dress had been terribly torn when Havard's mother had treated her wounds, and from the attack itself. Their fixes and modification attempts had been clumsy, but worked well enough. Still, the dress was a bit... well they had not the correct cloth. The fact it had been repaired showed. If Mara had not insisted on keeping it, they would have thrown the dress away. Her other clothes were what they could find. Mara was taller than Havard's mother so it was mostly shirts and pants from Havard, clumsily modified. Though he had to say, seeing her in his clothes the rare times she wore them was exciting for some reason. Then again, he did like her dresses too... Havard felt a finger poke him in the cheek. Golden eyes bore into him, her lips twisted in a grin. "My my, you are so distracted all of a sudden. Still caught up on the naked stuff?" She teased, poking his cheek repeatedly. "No." He said, a bit too quickly. Her grin grew. "Naughty." She whispered and kissed him. As he kissed her back, he knew was no way he could admit he had been lost in thought about her wardrobe, not the potential naked stuff. She would never let him forget that. Much like he would probably never be able to look his parents in the eye again, as his father soon interrupted their kissing session. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[It was time to try and get out of the house. |HavardRock16]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

It took a long time to work their way outside of the house the next morning. Opening the front door revealed a wall of snow, just like every other winter. "Wow... how is that normal?" Mara asked, faced with the wall of snow. "Because it happens every winter?" Havard offered, poking the wall with a shovel. "Weird." "Nature often is." "Enough, children." Havard's father said, starting to push on the wall of snow with his shovel near the top of the door. He gave a good push and the snow moved, revealing daylight. "Good, it's not much higher than the door. Let's push the top out to avoid getting so much snow inside." Havard sighed but joined his father, while Mara watched curiously. Havard's mother was looking for winter clothing while they got the process started. It was a bit too soon for the clothes, while they worked, they were warm enough without many layers or thick coats. "You really do this every year?" she asked eventually. "Yep." Havard said, as they started expanding the hole, pushing upwards and out from the door. Sunlight streamed into the bakery, as more snow was pushed away. They had to stop soon to wear warmer clothing, not full winter clothing but just something thicker than what they normally wore inside. Mara's back had to still have holes for her wings, but she seemed happy. They were all wearing long boots. Soon they had to take turns as they stepped out the door to expand the area, and there was no space for multiple people at first. Mara took her turns as well, mostly because she was curious and spent some time just touching the snow and molding it with her hands until she got cold. It was slow but they had four people. They had to keep expanding the area slowly, always pushing snow up but soon they had a nice area open area under the sun. His mother and father went to get some snacks and drinks. Mara looked around... Of course there was no seeing through the high stacks of snow. Then she grinned and turned to him... "Hey, Havard?" He eyed her... and did not trust that smile. Not even one bit. "Yes...?" He asked slowly. "Wanna see what the world looks like from the sky?" She asked, spreading out her wings. "I bet it's gorgeous with all the snow." Havard tried keeping his face neutral. Because on one hand, yes he absolutely wanted to. On the other hand, that smile made him think hard. "Mara... have you ever carried anyone? Can you?" He asked calmly. "I'll take that as a yes." She said, grinning and dashed to him with a flap of her wings. "Don't you dare!" He yelped as her hands were suddenly around him, under his arms. "Yes, I dare." She said brightly, hugging him as tightly as she could. Which was admittedly very nice, even through the layers of clothing. "Hold on!" Havard had no choice but to wrap his hands around her, as her wings flapped furiously in the open area they had cleared. He thought there was no way she could fly holding him... but she was either more stubborn than he had considered, or all those extra muscles her wings gave her were ridiculously strong. Havard caught a glimpse of his father's face looking amused as he came back with a jug of juice. Then he felt his feet leave the ground and he had no thoughts to spare. Mara laughed brightly, and despite being somewhat scared, Havard found the sound utterly and completely captivating. "I am doing it!" She laughed, and her wings. Her delicate wings, flapped and flapped until they were above the bakery roof. Havard could only see over her shoulder from this position, and they were only going up. Up, and up. Twice the height of the bakery. Thrice. Maybe more, it was hard to tell. Mara flapped her wings with gusto, laughing all the while. A snow-covered landscape stretched in every direction as far as the eye could see. A world draped in white beneath a clear blue sky. The forests surrounding Dahim were covered in snow, branches drooping with the weight with some dark green needles peeking through the thick snow. They would begin melting soon under the warm sun. From the forest, the wind picked up fluffy snow, like a white mist into the crisp air. He thought he could hear the occasional creak of a tree bowing under its snowy burden. The view was breathtaking. Havard even forgot to worry about being dragged into the air by Mara as he watched. "Wow..." He whispered. Mara turned in the air, and Dahim camee into his view. Thatched roofs weighed down by thick blankets of snow, smoke rising into the air from chimneys, curling up into white ribbons against the horizon. A scent of burning wood lingered in the air. All the villagers were still indoors, burning firewood, though Havard could see a few spots of movement. Others shoveling away from their doors. Mara moved again in the air, perhaps wanting to see more of the view herself. They had stopped climbing upwards. They were far above the trees already. The clearing came into view, what Havard would consider the heart of the forest. There in the middle stood the massive rock. It too is covered under thick snow, but still visible due to it's massive size, like some ancient slumbering giant. Havard had never realized how beautiful his home was. From up here, it seemed like a decent peaceful village, surrounded by forests. From up here, he could forget how the people were. "Havard..." Mara whispered. "Yes." He whispered. "Thank you. Thank you so much." What else could he say in response to such a gift. Havard leaned a bit back, hoping to see her face... and he found it strained. Still, she smiled brightly. Brighter than the sun above. Such a beautiful smile, and Havard felt his heart skip a beat. They were clinging to each other. Anyone could look up and see them, hugging tightly in the air. Havard found he did not care. The villagers would dislike it but they would dislike anything he and Mara did. It was not their actions they were really objecting to, but their existence. Not that anyone but Omar said it to his face. "Havard... my wings are cramping." She announced. "Wait... what?" Then they fell. Mara laughed again and flapped desperately to move them over the thick piles of snow. It was everywhere after all. Then they wrapped tightly around them both. Havard had no time to consider much, he just hugged Mara tightly as they plummeted into the snow. A muffled thumb, and both Havard and Mara sank deep into the soft embrace of the snow. Mara's laughter turned into a yelp as snow touched what bare skin she had, and the surface gave way in a gentle collapse. Powdery tufts of snow burst into the air like a cloud of dust at the impact. The cold rushed in immediately where snow touched bare skin, numbing the skin at Havard's wrists, neck and face. Still, they were relatively warm with Mara's wings wrapped around them. Or Havard was. Her wings were sensitive to touch, so Havard would assume... "Are you all right?" Havard asked. There would be time to talk about her rather reckless behavior later. "Cold!" She exclaimed. "My wings are freezing. Havard, help me get out of here!" The fall had not hurt, but there was a lot of snow surrounding them. They flailed in the snow, trying to find the surface. Then Mara's wings flared out, and a cloud of snow burst everywhere... but at least they could now see and stand up. They were standing in snow, waist deep in a small crater, surrounded by more and more snow. "Lucky I wore pants for this." Mara shivered but seemed fairly happy. "Had I been in a dress, well..." She gave Havard a grin. "I would have snow everywhere under the skirt." She watched his face. "You know, in my..." "I get it!" Havard said, blushing a bit. "I was going to undergarments." Mara said, grinning wickedly. "Assuming I am wearing any". "Mara..." Havard said, trying distinctly to not imagine that. Did she usually go around without? He had no idea... seemed like something she would do. Or something she would make up to make him blush. "We should get back to the house. Are your wings fine?" Mara's grin turned in a smile, much softer and genuine. "They are cramping and freezing... but I'll live. I still did it. For a bit, we flew... Hovered really." Her smile turned sad. "Kai and I always talked about it when we were little. If we would be able to carry people as adults, and what kinds of stories could be born out of that." Havard smiled too. "True." He said softly. "You did do it, and I am sure this will be a good story one day... When we are warmer." Mara grinned, then shivered. "Havard?! Mara?!" His mother's voice. "We are fine, mom." Havard called back. "We will try to get back." He turned to Mara. "I suppose no choice but try push ourselves that way..." He pointed towards the bakery. Or where he thought the bakery was. Then he watched her, considering. "Can you fly yourself back? No need for both of us to trudge through the snow." "Nope. My wings are cramping." She said airily. "It will be romantic, getting all cold and covered in snow." She winked at him. Havard was not sure if she was being honest. His eyes lingered on her wings. Were they really cramping. He could see a faint shiver but the wings themselves were mostly a membrane... but her back had a lot of extra muscles that he could not see right now. The shirt she wore also had holes for the wings, which must not have been nice when they hit the snow. She was probably much colder than he was. "You sure?" He asked. Mara gave him a look. "Remember our talking about you doubting my words?" She said dryly. He shuffled a bit under her gaze but then gathered himself and met it head on. "Mara, you must be freezing. How much snow got inside your shirt when we fell?" Her expression did not change. "Some. It's melting on my back. It's not fun, and does not change I can't fly right now." Her golden eyes flashed a bit, daring him to doubt her statement. He slowly nodded. "Then, let's try get back to the bakery as quickly as possible." He started wading through the snow, using his hands to push some out of the way as he took slow steps. The amount of snow increased somewhat closer to the bakery from piling up against the walls of the building. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Mara waded after him. |HavardRock17]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

As they broke through the last bits of snow, they were greeted by Havard's father leaning on his shovel. "Inside both of you." He said. "Erin's warming up water for a bath." Havard nodded, his teeth clanking a bit. He was freezing, and shivering. They had been working, shoveling snow. Their clothing was not nearly heavy enough to wade through snow like this, even if it was warmer than summer clothing. He turned to Mara. Her wings were shivering, and she was shaking too. He took her hand and they went inside. After taking off their shoes and heavier clothes, they headed towards the room where the bathtub was without too much thought. They were both shivering and rubbing their arms as they came across Havard's mother on the way. "Ah, good you are back. In there you go." She said, and smiled at them. "Thanks mom." Havard said, focused on getting in, too focused on how cold he felt and worrying about Mara to question this arrangement. It was only once they were inside the room usually used for baths, and saw the wooden bathtub willed with hot water, Havard realized something. The same tub as always. The single tub... They were in the room they used for baths... Baths... As in, soaking naked in warm water. He went rigid, staring at the tub. His ears were no longer cold, they were burning. "You just realized it, didn't you?" Mara asked, her voice shaking a bit. "I think your parents assume we are a bit more familiar with each other than we actually are." She managed to sound amused, even while shivering. He spun to face her. "I'll let you bathe." He managed to squeak out, and tried to walk past her. She caught him by spreading her wings to stop him, and grabbing his arm. "My poor shy village boy." She said, smiling widely. "It's just a bath." She said, but her smile was wicked. "Besides... My wings are cramping. I might need help." Hadn't she just stopped him with her wings? "But..." "No." "But..." "No." "Are you...?" "Havard, remember our talk about naked stuff. Think of it as a prelude. It's a bath, it need not be anything more. If you really want to go, you can but I want you to think about what do you actually want instead of it being a reflex." Havard gulped. He loved her, and they had been talking about things like... Well not exactly baths but still. He wanted to stay. There was nothing wrong happening here... he was just a bit shy compared to her. Inexperienced. Not only in terms of their relationship, but he had spent his life in Dahim. She had traveled some, and grown up in Firgrat. Apparently in Firgrat, public baths were a thing. Mixed bathing was a thing too. She was used to it, and it was considered normal. Not so in Dahim, where every house had their own tubs. Sometimes, the people, mostly younger people, would swim in a river nearby but he had never been invited. For now, the point was that he wanted to stay. Wanted to have new experiences with her. So he nodded. "Good. We both need some warmth." She smirked and started undoing her shirt. She was watching him, as he kept glancing at her. "Get undressed Havard." Mara said, but it was not so teasing anymore. It was a gentler tone. "We are both freezing." Havard nodded... And started to fumble with his shirt. Even with how shaky his hands were, how cold and clumsy his fingers, he was soon shirtless. Mainly because he could just pull it over his head. He was also shivering, but he did not know if it was still from the cold or excitement? Dread? He was not sure. Havard peeked at Mara and found her struggling. She had no option to pull the shirt off with her wings, yet her fingers must have been as frozen as his. He hesitated, but walked over to her. Her head rose, and she looked at his bare upper body for a while. She had her hands under his shirt often enough, but now that he thought about it, she was usually the one who ended up topless. He ignored the need to try and cover up, and stopped in front of her. "Do you need help?" He asked softly, even as he blushed. Mara seemed to fight a brief internal battle, likely between teasing him and letting him help. She clearly found it difficult, but her shivering probably provided motivation to not make him flee the room. "Thank you." She said softly instead, sounding genuine even. "I'll tease you later." "I would expect nothing else." Havard said, just as softly as his faintly shivering fingers started to undo the sting that held her shirt together. With her wings, she refused to wear shirts that needed to be pulled on, and could not be buttoned to tied at the front. It was not easy, his fingers were just as cold as hers. Havard did have the advantage of a better angle to see. Finally his frozen fingers managed to open the strings open, and they came loose. The rest was easy enough, Havard helped with getting her wings clear. Neither of them said much as they started working on their pants. Havard was self conscious, and hesitated, fingers hooked into his pants. Mara was not, she pushed her pants down in a hurry. Havard could not resists looking, and saw she had indeed been teasing him earlier, out in the snow. She was wearing underwear. Not anymore, but back then, she had been. Havard's ears burned so much, he was sure they would heat up the rest of him. Mara looked to see if he was ready, and caught him staring at her nude form. She giggled, and struck a pose, her wings spreading out behind her. "Get a good eyeful, village boy. Get used to the sight." She said, smiling at him. It took everything Havard had not not gape. To not let his gaze linger too long on her chest, to not comment on how... Pointy things were. It was natural after the cold. Why was she so interesting? Every part of her, he wanted to investigate more. To see how she would react if he touched her... His gaze went lower, and he realized what he was stating at, and snapped his head away. Mara giggled. "Just realized I am really naked did you?" Havard could only nod, and not meet her gaze. "Good. Now, get naked and give me a pose!" She said. Havard spluttered. "What?" He felt like his composure had been going down recently... It was probably all the kissing and touching while being stuck indoors. "I did it. Now you do it too." She placed her hands on her hips. "Or are you a perv, who just likes ogling naked girls? How naughty." Havard tried his best to meet her eyes. "I didn't ask you to do it. I even attempted to leave the room... " "Irrelevant." She waved it off. "We have had this conversation before, so let's skip the ending." She batted her eyelashes and placed a hand under her breasts to push them up. "Pretty please." Damn those golden eyes. Damn her logic and nude body... Damn that voice that made his heart skip beats. He hesitated... And pushed down his pants. Stepping out of them, he refused to look at Mara as he struck the same pose she had, face burning. There was no sound. He wasn't looking at her so he could not tell what her reaction was. He waited. Nothing happened. Slowly, Havard turned his head to peek at Mara. Her head was titled, and she was staring at him, clearly lost in thought. Was she really staring straight at his crotch... He glanced down... And realized the reason for her pondering. "You know... we'll try that again after the bath." She said, thoughtfully, much softer than he expected. Havard thought she would giggle or laugh. She might have, of course. To distract him from realizing what had happened, but he had already noticed. They had been caught in their normal routine but the two of them had just spent several hours outside, shoveling snow and then been wading through snow in too little clothing. It had been cold, he was freezing... Certain parts tended to retreat inside his body when cold. He closed his eyes, and tried to ignore the burn of embarrassment best he could. The first time she saw him naked... It was natural. Of course it was. It had been cold. It had been very cold. She knew all of that. He knew all of that. Knowing it was natural did not make him feel better. It was an embarrassing situation. He knew it was not a big deal, not really. Still, he had hoped... Well for it not to be like this when the moment came. Even if this was just a bath and not the real thing. He heard faint footsteps and then cold fingers taking his hand, wrapping around his own. Her voice was soft. "Sorry, I forgot for a moment where we just came from." She tugged gently on his hand. "Come on. Let's take a bath. Pay it no mind." He opened his eyes to find her smiling at him. Not grinning or smirking. Just smiling, in that slightly lopsided manner that made his heart skip a beat, and his insides grow warm. Her eyes were soft, golden orbs meeting his hazel ones. That was a smile that did not make him blush, or his ears burn. It was a smile that radiated joy and comfort. A quiet reassurance, that melted worry, and filled the air with something warm but unspoken. A smile so warm that it lingered long after it was gone. It was that smile that let her tug him to the tub and made him accept that there was nothing to be embarrassed about. It was that smile that reassured him that everything was well, when her wings folded underneath her, and she leaned as far back in the tub as possible to get them fully underwater. Then she let him wash her back, and he so liked running his hands over those intriguing tendons and muscles under her skin because of her wings. It was probably because of that smile that he forgot the whole incident with the posing. They shared a bath. Just a simple bath. Did they want more? Perhaps, but neither pushed for it. The warm water soothed the cold that had seeped in deeper than either of them had realized. They were content right now to just share this moment. After their bath, they shared a blanket in front of the hearth, and drank warm milk. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[It was perfect. |HavardRock18]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

After spending so much time indoors with Havard's parents, and being interrupted so often, both Havard and Mara agreed. It was time to get working on that house again his father had brought up some weeks before winter. Their own space would be nice. The posing incident in the baths was not discussed much. Mara did not tease him about that unless he brought it up first. Still, sharing a bath had not helped with their increasing desire for privacy. They were also now sharing his bed without pretenses. His mother had even started hinting at the future... So, despite the walls of snow still peppering the ground, Havard and Mara had decided they might as well get working again. So clearing away snow filled their free time. They dug a path to the foundations already laid, and made fires to melt and dry the area. It would not snow again, it never did in Dahim. The temporary cover had kept the logs and planks clear of snow, but they were still frosty. The stone foundations were also cold, and uncomfortable with having to work on top of them to start building the house frame. So, they build some fires, and dug some trenches to guide the water away just in case. It was hard work with the frozen ground, the fires needed to burn for a long time before their shovels could work properly. Turns out, they need not have bothered. As the snow melted, they formed. Murklings, or as Mara called them, oozelets. The formed out of the water and slush, rolling away from the two fires they had started. "They are so cute." Mara said, and knelt to let three roll onto her hands. "Ah, cold!" "They just formed from the snow and slush." Havard said, amused. He knelt down next to her and held his arms to catch let a few roll onto his hands as well. "I have never seen them form before. I suppose now I have." He smiled softly, remembering that watching them form was something Mara did with her brother. Mara hummed in agreement. "There are a lot of them." She said, considering the oozelets that kept forming from the melting snow. The only thing they did, was roll away from the fires. Then they tried climbing the snowbanks, but kept failing. They kept trying to absorb too much snow, and got slow and languid before the snow melted inside the little balls of liquid. "Never seen this many. I wonder why they are all coming out now?" Havard said as two of the oozelets in his hands started fusing into one bigger one. "Huh... They can fuse. Why don't they do that all the time?" Mara shrugged. "The bigger they get, the more water they need to dissolve into." She suggested. "Near an endless amount of little oozelets can fit into one bucket, but one big one will just grow even bigger." Havard nodded. That seemed as good an explanation as any. "Still, why so many?" Havard pondered as the new bigger oozelet rolled off his hand, and went splat on the ground, before slowly pulling itself together. Mara shrugged as she let the ones she was holding roll off her hands and then started warming her fingers by the first fire. "The Eternal Flow is stronger here?" She seemed to ponder about it. "Or just... I don't know. More water?" Havard frowned. The new house was not far away from the bakery but closer to the edge of the forest. Perhaps that was it. The trees could maybe cause the Flow here to be stronger. It sustained life after all. Neither of them was proficient in magic so they had no way of knowing. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[In the end, they went back to trying build the house, and decreeing that they were way out of their depth.|HavardRock19]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"How are we supposed to do this?" Mara asked, holding an axe and eyeing it dubiously. "Carve out grooves and notches?" "You are holding the how." Havard's father said. "We start with the two largest logs, and even them out to lay down first. Then notches on each end, and roll to more logs onto them to start on those walls and carve more grooves and notches. Apply some insulation, and roll on the second layer. Repeat that until the walls are at full height." The way his father said it made it sound so simple. Havard eyed the axe too. "Each of you, take one end." So, they got to work. It was satisfying, even if slow. Mara and Havard worked together under his father's guidance. Havard was a bit distracted at times, mostly seeing Mara. Her face was scrunched up in concentration, her golden eyes focused. A bard, a woman who grew up in Firgrat, yet she did not complain. She always took part in whatever work there was to do, from shoveling snow to building a house, and gave it her all. She looked damn good doing it. She was working on the notch near the end of the log with an axe. Then looked up, and glanced at him. She was sweating a bit from the work, and beamed at him. "Look Havard, I am doing it." She said, full of simple happiness from work done, and gestured towards the notch she had made. Havard smiled. "You are. How do you like it?" "I like it! Especially knowing what this house is supposed to be." She said, still beaming. "Our house." She whispered, and Havard's insides might have flipped. "Our... house." He whispered too, and could not help giving his own smile, full of happiness. "See Rowan." He could hear his mother whisper in the background to his father. "They should just hurry up and get married and make us grand-babies. Honestly, I have no idea how they can spend so much time in bed together, and not have one on the way already." Havard's ears burned, while Mara froze. "Whoops... I think they heard me." His mother whispered. "You know, I would like three or four grand-babies. Enough to really fuss over. I wonder if they will have wings..." Havard could hear the slap from his father face-palming. "Erin dear, they can hear you." "That's what I said." They started bickering in far too loud whispers, and Havard tried tuning them out. He started working on his own notch again. In the depths of his mind however, Havard thought that maybe there was something to what his mother said. The thought of marriage was more enticing than he could admit out loud. He glanced at Mara, who had gone back to working, clearly doing her hardest to ignore Havard's mother. The real question was, did she feel the same way? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[END OF PART 2.|HavardRock20_Part3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Activities for the first time skip: Trying to figure out what your cloak does Investigating the orphanage Breaking into the kitchens If wings: trying to learn how to fly Playing with the twins Shadowing adults - Ethel - Havard -Lexia -Sandor - Alessa Any of the snippets!

<<if visited() == 1>>\ "Ok, kid." Lexia says, peering at you. "Tour time! Let's get started properly. Where should we go?" How are you supposed to know that? What are the options? <<else>>\ "Ok, kid." Lexia says, peering at you. "Where should we go next?" She smiles brightly. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if not hasVisited("Tour_kitchens")>> <div class="choice-item">[["How about the dining hall!" She suggests with a smile.|Tour_kitchens]]</div> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Tour_baths")>> <div class="choice-item">[["We should check out the baths!" She says.|Tour_baths]]</div> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Tour_walls")>> <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> <div class="choice-item">[["Wanna see the best view we have here?" She asks.|Tour_walls wheelchair]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice-item">[["Wanna see the best view we have here?" She asks.|Tour_walls]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Tour_garden")>> <div class="choice-item">[["How about we relax in a garden?"|Tour_garden]]</div> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Tour_bathroom")>> <div class="choice-item">[[At some point you feel very weird. After some soul searching, you conclude your body is about to burst.|Tour_bathroom]]</div> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Tour_elementail")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("elemental")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Lexia suddenly slaps her forehead. ”Oh, didn’t I promise to teach you how to control that hair of yours.” |Tour_elementail]]</div> <</if>><</if>> <<if not hasVisited("Tour_gate")>> <div class="choice-item">[["Wanna see the entrance to the Orphange?" Lexia asks..|Tour_gate]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[["I think that is enough for the day." Lexia says.|Tour_done]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h2>The dining hall</h2>\ The dining room is a massive hall, with a sense of odd grandeur. The vast space is high, with a vaulted ceiling supported by arches of white stone that stretch overhead like the ribs of a massive beast. Natural light streams in through the plentiful windows on both sides of the hall, yet a massive hearth has been placed on the very end of the hall. You can almost imagine how it roars with fire, the flames dancing and crackling as they cast a warm glow onto the space. There is no fire right now, it is a warm enough day though it is odd how you can imagine such a thing. You think it is your internal sense of the world that tells you that is how it should be. Chandeliers suspended by heavy chains hang from the ceiling. You stare in wonder at the glittering lights they cast and realize there are no candles, there are no flames. Countless small balls of light suspended in the chandeliers are shining brightly, giving off a feeling like daylight. This must be magic! Even in your damaged mind, there is enough sense left, that random balls of light do not just appear in chandeliers. Lexia smiles at you. “A little gift from the Ancients. They thought that torches or candles were no good for a place meant for children and had these delivered all over the orphanage. The only other place that has lights like these is the Spire itself! Well, I suppose some of the richer places in the city have magical lights but none quite like this.” She leans closer to whisper. “These can change the color of the light. Make it like sunlight or moonlight, or even like the light of a fire.” You stare at Lexia, then at the lights, then at Lexia again. This must be real. There is no way your mind could dream up all of this in a delusion. This is your reality. Or so you feel right now, in this moment. “Your room has these lights too, even if not quite this opulent.” She winks at you. “I’ll teach you how to use them later. Just… when you meet the twins, don’t teach them how to do it. Alessa, their Custodian, is all sweet and kind before you piss her off, say by teaching her hyperactive charges how to make the lights constantly change color...” She eyes you suspiciously. “Actually, I barely know you… but then again neither does Havard…” She is thinking very hard. “So, if you make the lights in your room all obnoxious and… blinky, then don’t tell Havard I taught you how to do that!” She seems pleased with this plan. You stare at her. Twins? Alessa? You are going to meet more people? And how do you not tell Havard about the lights! You have a feeling he might figure it out… But new people… <<if ndef $newpeople >>\ <<set $newpeople to 0>>\ <<else>>\ <<set $newpeople to 0>> <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Looking forward to it!|Tour_kitchens2][$newpeople to $newpeople+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Should be fine. You have no real opinion. |Tour_kitchens2][$newpeople to $newpeople+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don’t like it.|Tour_kitchens2][$newpeople to $newpeople+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are carefully curious.|Tour_kitchens2][$newpeople to $newpeople+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are not sure you can handle meeting more people. What if they don’t like you? |Tour_kitchens2][$newpeople to $newpeople+5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h2>The baths</h2>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ Lexia pushes you in the chair towards the baths, humming all the while. <<else>>\ Lexia carries you towards the baths, humming all the while. <</if>>\ The door is rather large, and gives out to a hallway right next to a garden, like most of the rooms you have seen. Entering it with Lexia, you are met with probably the fanciest sight you have seen, at least indoors. Is it fancy? It is hard to say, but you would like to think this is fancy. The massive bath stretches out in front of you, an opulent sanctuary just waiting for you to dive in. You can’t of course, since your legs are useless. Also... can you just dive into water? You feel vaguely you should not just randomly do that for some reason... But the thought stands even if there are exceptions to it. The vast pool at the center of the room seems to shimmer with an otherworldly allure. The white stone, marble you think Lexia called it, floors are polished and neat, the smooth surface reflecting the soft glow of enchanted lights dancing in the air for illumination. <<if $sawHealingBaths is true>>\ You were here before with Havard to heal the hand your broke, but you were so out of it is like seeing this place for the first time. <</if>>\ The pool itself is immense, almost like a small lake within the chamber, with steps of marble leading down into the shimmering water. Hey you know what a lake is? No idea why, but you have accepted your mind and memory are broken so these things happen. The surface ripples gently, catching light in a way that seems almost unnatural—glittering with hues of blue, green, and silver, as if the water were infused with magic. “The healing baths! Or just regular baths” Lexia says. “Really cool. A soak in these will fix you right up! Most of the time…” She glances at your bandaged hands as she peters off. Small lights, like stars or fireflies, hover just beneath the surface, twinkling and swirling as though they have a life of their own. There is a dreamlike glow throughout the entire room as the lights pulse softly under the water, illuminating the mist that rises from the warm, inviting water. “You know, I think the Ancients have some weird habits.” Lexia whispers to you. “They built this fancy bath for the orphanage… but nowhere to change!” She says with some amount of glee. “Can you imagine that. No rooms for changing.” She giggled. “Makes one wonder what goes on in the Spire.” You turn to stare at her… Change? You don’t get it. What does that mean? Change what? Should you ask? Or is it not worth it? It could be confusing, and the world is already confusing enough. <<if ndef $Baths >>\ <<set $Baths to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare at Lexia, waiting her to elaborate.|Tour_baths_2][$Baths to $Baths+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare at the bath, willing to let it go.|Tour_baths_2][$Baths to $Baths+2]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[“What that mean?” You ask. |Tour_baths_2][$Baths to $Baths+3]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<h2>The walls</h2>\ Lexia helps you up the stairs. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> The chair with wheels was left behind, the stairs are too much for it. Lexia is now carrying you, and chatters about having the chair enchanted so it can do stairs. <<else>> She is carrying you, just like before so it is not a big deal. <</if>> Lexia promised a nice view for you up here. The walls of the orphanage are high and wide. It is not so odd to you, the walls also have rooms inside them, at least on one side. Therefore, it makes sense for them to be really thick and high. <<if $SawTheSea is true>>\ You know, because your current room is one of these rooms. It has a view of the sea! The room you found running away from Havard. <<else>>\ Or so Lexia tells you. <</if>>\ “Ready?” Lexia asks as you approach the top of the stairs. You nod. You hope this view is worth this! Your breath catches. A massive circular city stretches outward in from of you. So incomprehensibly large, the scale leaves your mind blank for a moment. Dominating your field of vision is a towering structure at the center of the city that reaches beyond the clouds, or so it must. It’s so tall! The city is enclosed on three sides by massive mountains, seeming like protective sentinels. Yet those mountains are so far away! The tower, gleaming white and impossibly tall, dwarfs even the surrounding mountains, and other massive buildings. You have to crane your neck to try and see the top of the tower, and yet you cannot. Your gaze climbs up and up… higher and higher until all you see is a big blue thing with the fluffy floating things up there… and you are lost. It’s real, vast, endless, stretching beyond sight. A vast expanse, even bigger than the city, that seems too enormous to belong above the world you can see. The immensity of it is overwhelming, making you dizzy. Can you fall up there? What if Lexia drops you, and you are lost in that endless blue expanse? It is like the void, but not all black and empty, yet just as terrifying in it’s own way. The key difference is that the sky is also beautiful beyond all comprehension. Fluffy white things, clouds your mind vaguely recalls, drift high above like slow moving creatures. Their shapes are all different, glowing with gold and pink where the light from the big yellow thing kisses them. The big yellow ball, the sun itself is warm- you can feel it on your skin and wonder what it is…. a warming presence. Is it alive or is it like a fire? Casting light on the entire world, painting the world in shades you have never seen before. Or maybe you have… before the void and torture. You don’t remember, but how could you ever forget this sight? What is wrong with you? The air feels different up here, under this open expanse of endless blue. It was always up there; you are sure but only now you realize it…. The air carries scents, whispers of places far away that you can’t even imagine. And as the first real sight of the sky sinks in, there’s a quiet realization. Maybe this is a delusion, a dream of a broken mind… but the vast expanse of blue, the cityscape spread out in front of you—it isn’t just something to look at. It’s something to feel, to breathe in, to become a part of. Could your mind really conjure such a thing? You have doubts. It is freedom, so very different from all you have known. So vast and… daunting. So beautiful, and for the first time in your memory, you feel truly free. You were saved. Or… you hope you were. If this is all a delusion, if this infinite expanse in front of you is a lie… You are not sure you will survive the truth anymore. How could you after seeing all of this? There is a hand on your shoulder. You are not sure when you started swaying back and forth in Lexia’s hold. “You good, kid?” A gentle whisper asks in your ear. Blue eyes stare at you. Red hair sways in the gentle breeze. You don’t know… You have no idea what you are… All you know is that the view was worth coming up here. <<if ndef $Walls >>\ <<set $Walls to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $trustLexiaC3>> <div class="choice-item">[[Lean against her shoulder and keep watching. .|Tour_walls2][$Walls to $Walls+1]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[Just nod. |Tour_walls2][$Walls to $Walls+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Try to smile.|Tour_walls2][$Walls to $Walls+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Do nothing, keep staring out into the world. |Tour_walls2][$Walls to $Walls+4]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $newpeople is 1>>\ <<addinnocence 3>><<addshy -3>><<addfriendly 2>>\ You are looking forwards to meeting new people! It should be fun, right? Maybe you will even meet other... tiny people? People like you? Children. You think the word is children. <<elseif $newpeople is 2>>\ <<addstoic 5>>\ You have no real opinion on new people. Should be fine, right? It has all been fine so far. Meeting Havard and Lexia has been... eventful but nothing to get worked up about. <<elseif $newpeople is 3>>\ <<addinnocence -3>><<addshy -3>><<addfriendly -2>>\ You don't like it. You have already met two new people, you have no interest in meeting others. Havard and Lexia are already enough. <<elseif $newpeople is 4>>\ <<addcareful 5>><<addfriendly 2>>\ You are curious about meeting new people, but a bit wary. What if they want to hurt you? What if they are mean? Though... Havard and Lexia have not really hurt you so far, who knows about others? Would it not be best to stop while you are still fine? Then again... the new people could be nice. <<elseif $newpeople is 5>>\ <<addcareful 3>><<addshy 4>>\ You have already met two new people, and that is a lot. Who knows what other new people, not Havard or Lexia, would be like? What if they want to hurt you? What if they are mean? Though... Havard and Lexia have not really hurt you so far, who knows about others? Would it not be best to stop while you are still fine? <</if>>\ The sound of clinking goblets, laughter, and conversation draws your attention. Voices echo off the stone walls. Silver Protectors and Custodians are all present in the hall. Some are carrying platters of roasted meats, bread, and jugs of milk or juice. Or so you think, at least, how should you know what they are drinking. The atmosphere is lively, and content. You have never seen so many people, and yet even these people are not nearly enough to fill the massive hall. It takes you a moment to realize that there are indeed a great many people here, and that they can all see you. Sure, they are mostly not looking at you or Lexia, but a few are curiously looking over at you. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> Of course the chair with wheels that Lexia has been using to push you around is probably not common. <<else>> Of course, Lexia is carrying you around, and you are basically sitting on her arm which might be an uncommon way to get around. You don’t know Lexia; she could do this often for all you know. <</if>> Still, you notice glances at you… There are so many people here. You have no idea how many but many more than you ever remember seeing at one time. Maybe before the void? You don’t remember… It is all so fragmented and foggy. <<if ndef $newpeople2 >>\ <<set $newpeople2 to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You really don't like this.. Why are they staring at you? Is it hard to breathe?|Tour_kitchens3][$newpeople2 to $newpeople2+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don’t mind the curious gazes. |Tour_kitchens3][$newpeople2 to $newpeople2+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don’t like being stared at, but you can suffer through it. |Tour_kitchens3][$newpeople2 to $newpeople2+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You try to hide. |Tour_kitchens3][$newpeople2 to $newpeople2+4]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $choice is 1>>\ You stare at her for a long time, while she seems to fidget a bit in place. Then you remember you need to nod. She smiles, relieved. She keeps doing that... smiling at you. Like Havard. You are still confused about how much you get smiled at. You are not sure what to do with all these smiles. Smiles are good, right? At least.. At least the ones like these. Your internal sense tells you, there are many types of smiles. You saw your own smile in the mirror and it was very different from how Lexia and Havard do it. Maybe eventually you will learn too. <<elseif $choice is 2>>\ You feel odd under all her scrutiny and feel like hiding from her. Why is her stare so intense? <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ Not much to hide in here though, sitting in this wheeled chair thing. You are too short to stick your head over the backrest of the chair thing properly. <<else>>\ Not much to hide in here though with Lexia carrying you. You try sticking your head behind her back. <</if>>\ You squirm a bit in place. Lexia tilts her head, then smiles brightly. "Adorable." She says eventually, and her intense stare breaks. You sigh in relief. Then register what she said. Adorable. She called you adorable. Are you? You have no idea. But your ears feel hot. <<elseif $choice is 3>>\ You are fine, and happy to keep this tour going. So you gesture enthusiastically while <<if $nonverbal>> you nod. <<else>> you say "I am fine! Can we go?" <</if>> You point into random directions, imagining all the places you could go on this tour. Isn't this orphanage huge? <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ You almost fall out of the chair thing in your lively gesturing. <<else>>\ You almost fall but quite don't, she wasn't expecting your lively gesturing. Her other hand comes to support you, and she adjusts you. <</if>>\ Lexia laughs, and the awkwardness or intenseness breaks immediately at the happy sound. A sound that make you want to smile too. Maybe you are smiling? You have no idea what your face does after all. Is it still creepy if you don't know it is happening? <<elseif $choice is 4>>\ <<set $AskedAboutCommunicator to true>>\ "The pin?" Lexia tilts her head. "Oh, this pin?" She pulls out the necklace where the odd pin thing she held and talked into earlier is hanging from. You nod, and peer at it. "This is called a communicator pin. Every Protector and Custodian has one." She says. "Hold out your hand." You consider for a moment... and hold out a bandaged hand. Lexia takes off the necklace and drops it into your hand. You inspect the pin... It seems to be a small stick made of some metal. Except it is covered in tiny grooves, forming patterns you can make no sense of. "It's magical." Lexia whispers. "I can talk to any Protectoror or Custodian with it. Inside my mind!" She leans in close to you to whisper it to you, like it is a secret. Your eyes widen. Magic? That's so cool! You are not sure you face shows the appropriate expressions, but Lexia seems happy. "Yep, magic." She ponders. Then touches a finger to the pin in your hand and focuses. "Try speaking to it, kid." "Uh... hello?" You ask uncertainly. Nothing happens. "Darn... It did not work." She says. "Well, I figured. Havard says hi, and wants to know if you are well and that you actually wanted this tour." Lexia says. You stare at her... Did she just talk with Havard in her head? She must have, though... You narrow your eyes at her. She could be playing a trick on you. Still... she could be telling the truth. "I know, I know. But I am really talking to Havard in my head." Lexia says. <<if ndef $choice2>>\ <<set $choice2 to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You decide to agree with her request, you after all are here willingly.|Chapter 3_5_tour5_communicator][$choice2 to $choice2+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You decide she is probably playing a trick on you, and you will not play along!|Chapter 3_5_tour5_communicator][$choice2 to $choice2+2]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\ <<if $choice is 1 or $choice is 2 or $choice is 3>>\ "Ok, good. Now, kid. Let's see.... where should we head now?" Lexia looks around the garden with the fountain. "There are tons of places to check! The kitchens, the baths, the walls..." She starts chattering at you. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Meanwhile elsewhere in the orphanage.|HavardPOV2 C3]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

<<if $choice2 is 1>>\ "Fine..." You say, still a bit suspicious if she is playing a trick on you. "Thanks." Lexia says, and focuses on the pin again for a bit. "Or you know what." She suddenly says. "I can just talk out loud so you don't have to guess what I say." Right, earlier she talked out loud, but sometimes she just focuses on the pin. Maybe she can do both? Assuming she is not tricking you. <<elseif $choice2 is 2>>\ "No." You say, looking her in the eye, suspicious that she is playing a trick on you. "Aah, come on, kid." Lexia says. "I am telling you the truth....Hey, you know what!" She suddenly says. "I can just talk out loud so you don't have to guess what I say." That doesn't prove anything! Though... Earlier she talked out loud, but sometimes she just focuses on the pin. Maybe she can do both? But it all still seems like a trick! You have no idea why she woudl try to trick you, but still. <</if>>\ "Sorry Havard, decided to talk out loud sot he kid can hear. Even if $heshe can't hear you." She beams at you. "So the kid was bored so we decided to go on a tour! Though there was a... thing, but it's all ok now! The kid is fine! Sort of squinting at me, looking skeptical." She says cheerfully. "No, I think that's Because $heshe thinks I am tricking them with the pin." Lexia says. "We'll visit a few places. Yes, yes, we will be careful." <<if $choice2 is 1>>\ She listens to Havard for a while, or so you assume. <<elseif $choice2 is 2>>\ She pretends to listen to Havard for a while, or so you assume. She is putting on an act, you are almost sure... It is a pretty convincing act. <</if>>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ "Yeah, the kid is in the wheeled chair thing." Lexia says, looking at the contraption you are sitting in. "There are no hills inside the orphanage Havard so we can't do that. It does sound fun though!" What is she on about? Hills? Like... going downhill with the chair contraption thing. You assume it could do that. It seems sturdy. Why though? Is Lexia already tired of pushing you about? Is the chair really heavy? You feel like she is strong so maybe the chair is super heavy. <<else>>\ "Nah, the kid didn't want to use the chair thing. So I am carrying $himher." Lexia says, smiling down at you. "No, Havard. I am not going to drop the kid! Though, maybe I could throw $himher into the air and catch $himher.... That sounds fun!" What is she on about? Throwing you? Why? Like... into the air? She did say that... You suppose that is better than being thrown at a target. Assuming she catches you after throwing you up. No idea why she would do that, but still. <</if>>\ "Ok, we will keep going now. The kid looks confused again. Best return to the tour." Lexia says. You are confused! You often are. Still, you are not sure you appreciate her pointing it out. You stare at her dubiously. "Oh, gotta go. The kid is looking fierce." She says. "Bye." She puts the necklace holding the pin back around her neck and grins at you. "See, told you, I could speak to Havard." She says. You have doubts... But oh well, does it really matter. Though.... Should magic not be more exciting? <<if $choice2 is 1>>\ You have doubts... But oh well, does it really matter. Though.... Should magic not be more exciting? That pin thing is boring! <<elseif $choice2 is 2>>\ Your eyes narrow further... It is really hard to tell if she is trying to trick you... Why? You have no idea. But you are pretty sure, magic would be much more awesome than that pin thing! <</if>>\ "Anyway." Lexia seems done with the topic. She looks around. "We should keep up the tour! Let's see.... where should we head now?" Lexia looks around the garden with the fountain. "There are tons of places to check! The kitchens, the baths, the walls..." She starts chattering at you. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Meanwhile elsewhere in the orphanage.|HavardPOV2 C3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h2>Havard POV</h2>\ Havard found Alessa sitting and writing surrounded by piles of books. Havard had tracked her down. It was not hard; he had simply asked where she was through the communicator pin. She had needed some time to prepare lessons for the twins and had gone to the orphanage library. Therefore, Sandor had been left to care for the twins, set on solving some mystery. The details were not clear all clear to Havard but he knew that the twins were unknowingly trying to find the newest resident of the orphanage.<<if hasVisited("Chapter 3_5_tour5_communicator") >> Aparently Lexia was taking $MCname out on tour, they had just finished talking with Lexia... He hoped it would all be well. And he trusted Sandor to handle the twins.<<else>> He trusted Sandor could handle it, $MCname should be resting again with Lexia watching over $himher.<</if>> In a way, Alessa was doing pioneering work here. The orphanage would eventually provide lessons for all their orphans, and she was preparing a lesson plan for the twins that would provide a basis for a general plan. She had worked as a librarian, in the Spire no less, before becoming a Custodian. She knew books, and her expertise was one of the things Havard wished to make good use of. They would need to adjust the education and the plan depending on the background of the children, but this was a good starting point, even if book knowledge was not everything they needed to impart. Whatever plans she made would be discussed among all Custodians at a later date but for now, she was in charge of the twins and their learning. “Custodian Alessa? May I have a word?” Havard asked, stopping to stand in front of her desk. “Head Custodian.” Alessa set down her pen and rose to curtsy at him. “None of that, Custodian Alessa. Simply Havard is fine. Did I not tell you that once today already?” He asked, smiling. She stopped halfway through her curtsy and rose back up. “Ah it is easy to forget considering the chaos at the time, Havard. I do believe I also mentioned that I am just Alessa.” “You did.” Havard said and gestured for her to sit back down. “I should probably take my own advice.” Alessa sat back down. “It would set a good example.” She said, smiling kindly. Havard took a seat as well. “How are the twins? Clear of flour?” Havard asked. Alessa chuckled. “Yes. Clear of flour and happily off to investigate the mystery.” Havard nodded. “I am sorry for the trouble this causes you and Sandor… If you think telling them would be better, you may do so.” Alessa smiled, eyes twinkling. “They just noticed that people kept glancing a certain way. They are quite happy and excited about the whole thing. It would be a shame to tell them now. Even if they do cause chaos…” Her eyes narrowed. “Though I would say Lexia did not exactly help.” Havard chuckled. He had noticed how Alessa was hard on Lexia. Apparently Alessa, Lexia and Sandor had all grown up in close proximity and had been friends for at least a decade. Not that one would be necessarily able to tell. Alessa and Sandor were clearly figuring things out between them, it almost reminded him of Mara and himself back when… Havard pushed away the memories. Lexia was friendly with everyone, so it was hard to tell when she was actual friends with people. “She rarely does…” Havard said sighing, but rather fondly. “But that is not why I needed to talk to you.” Alessa’s sigh was also fond, but a lot more tired than Havard’s. “What can I help you with?” “I need to ask you about your oaths.” Havard said. “Oaths? We all swore oaths to be here, did we not?” Alessa asked. “Not those oaths. I mean the oaths sworn to the twins… assuming you did that?” Havard asked. It was not an accusation. It could be an oversight or something else, but Havard would think that Alessa or Sandor would mention hearing the Ancients accept their oaths. It had certainly been memorable for him. “The oaths we swore to the twins…” Alessa’s brows drew together. “Oh…” She looked… embarrassed. A light blush colored her cheeks. “What about those oaths?” She asked, hesitantly. Havard eyed the younger custodian. “Did anything… odd happen? During the swearing process, I mean.” Alessa did not meet his gaze. “No.” She said. Is she blushing? “Alessa. I am going to need to insist.” Havard said calmly. She was clearly lying, and embarrassed. However… why she would be embarrassed was a mystery. Sure, the Ancients were intimidating but why would it be embarrassing? Unless something else happened. Alessa refused to meet his gaze for a long time. Havard waited in silence. People often had a problem with silence. He himself often found silence discomforting, but he had learned enough through interactions with children that silence was a conversational tool. People felt the need to fill the silence, some more than others. Soon enough, Alessa sighed. “That day, I told the twins a story. The Lord and Lady of Joyful sorrows.” She said. Havard knew that story. That was not a tale for children. A story of two immortals in love, a mature tale about how pain and happiness are intertwined in intricate ways. No sorrow could exist without joy, and joy was all the more profound because of sorrow experienced. The story encouraged celebrating life lived, not life lost. It was a tale he had heard long ago… and he knew that the story contained detailed scenes of the acts performed in the bedroom. “Why would you tell the twins such a tale?” He asked, calmly. Jumping to conclusions would not do. Alessa seemed confused. “Why wouldn’t I? It is a great story for children full of adventure and love.” Havard really hoped there was a miscommunication here. Or there would have to be talks about what was appropriate. “Alessa… the tale I know is filled with adult themes and acts. Not at all suited for children.” Alessa looked confused. That was good at least… She pondered for a while, then froze. Her ears turned red, and she was blushing hard. “Oh…” She said as something occurred to her. “The story has multiple versions….” She said shyly. “I suppose you must have read the…” She hesitated. “The version where the Lord and Lady share their bed with many many people.” Havard said dryly. “Oh…” Alessa had a hard time meeting his gaze. It was really reminding Havard of the old days back in Dahim. He let Alessa have time to gather her thoughts. Which she did… eventually. “Well, the story has several versions and editions. The one I read to the twins focuses on simple adventure and love.” She said eventually. “The version you have read is… rare. Considered largely erotica.” Alessa gave him a look, as if asking why the Head Custodian would read that version. Had Havard been a decade younger, he might have gotten embarrassed or blushed. Now he just smiled calmly. “I see. Please make sure to not cause confusion about that if you recommend the book to anyone in the future.” He said with a hint of dryness. Alessa seemed flustered for a moment, but Havard pushed on. “What does the story have to do with your oaths, Alessa?” “Well, as I said. I told the twins that story earlier in the day, during naptime. It made them… thoughtful. Well, it made Azha thoughtful. Atru showed no outward signs of it, though now knowing him a bit better, I think he was just as lost in thought.” Alessa sighed. “At bedtime, Sandor and I both got to our knees and said we had something important to do. But… I was halfway through the oath when Azha interrupted.” Alessa blushed. “She… she asked if we were in love with each other. Like the Lord and Lady from the story.” Havard did his best to keep his face calm. “And her question… distracted you two?” He asked calmly, hoping the amusement was not detectable. Oh, how had Mara been so patient with him back when… well best not focus on that. Alessa nodded. “We… forgot the oaths in the… confusion of assuring the twins that we most certainly were not in love.” She was again refusing to meet his eye, and her blush was quite pronounced. Havard could not help the raised eyebrow. Even if Alessa was so interested in her books right now, she probably did not see it. Oh, how easy it would be… but it was not his place. Even Lexia did not interfere with this, as far as Havard knew at least. “Thank you, Alessa.” Havard said standing up. “I ask you to swear your oaths to the twins as soon as you can. Today.” He said. “Today?” Alessa looked up. “Why?” Havard pursed his lips. Should he tell them? Perhaps… no. He should not let it be a surprise. He had received no instructions from the Ancients so he would be honest. “The Ancients accept those oaths. You will hear their voices after swearing.” He glanced at Alessa. “They accept them? Why? How do you know this?” “I know because Lexia and I swore our oaths earlier.” He said. “You did!” Alessa jumped up, delighted. “To the new $child?” Havard smiled and nodded. “Yes.” “That’s wonderful! When can we introduce the twins?” Alessa was smiling widely, clapping her hands together. “They really could use a friend. They are about the same age right?” Her smile was hopeful. Havard hesitated. “Alessa… it might be a little while. I am not sure $MCname is ready for… the twin experience. So for now my orders are to keep the twins away.” Alessa smile dropped. “Oh…” She slumped back down into her chair, her happiness deflating. It did not last long. In a moment she was composed and calm. “Tell me everything you can… Please.” Her back was straight again. A professional demeanor. Havard locked eyes with her. Her gaze was determined. He did not have to tell her about $MCname, but she was the twin’s Custodian. She would likely interact with $MCname more than most. So, Havard sat back down. “Earlier today, $MCname woke up for the first time….” <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Havard POV|Tour_main]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $crowds_trauma to true>><<notify 3s>>You are afraid of crowds due to past trauma.<</notify>>\ <<addLexia -20>>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ You grip the wheeled chair as hard as you can in a panic, ruined fingers bending against the wood. <<else>>\ You grip Lexia's arm as hard as you can in a panic, ruined fingers bending against the silver metal. <</if>>\ Not that you pay any attention to that. Your mind is filled with fragmented images. Strangers in masks, grabbing you. Large hands leaving bruises on your flesh as they squeeze to stop you from squirming. Impossible to resist as you are carried. <<nobr>> Your breathing turns shallow. <<if $blades_trauma>> But your force yourself to breathe. This is not like the haircut thing. It's just people. People who are just watching you. You can deal with that... can't you?<</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <<FeatureIndex "wings">> Your wings, shift and almost wrap around you, as if shielding you from view. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <<FeatureIndex "tail">> Your $Feature curls up around you, making you seem as small as possible. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>> <<FeatureIndex "eyes">> Suddenly Everything looks different, sharper, more sinister. You think your $Feature changed on their own. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<FeatureIndex "pointy ears">><<else>><<FeatureIndex "animal ears">><</if>> There is so much noise, your $Feature twitch as you shuffle in place. Too many people, too much noise. You can hear everything, every clink of cups and every sound laughter makes you cringe back. Your bandaged hands cover your ears, as you try to not hear everything. <</if>> <<if $HeritageRace.includesAny("beastkin", "kitsune")>> The smells of people, food and drink all mix together . It smells overwhelming, you can smell what feel like... everything. <</if>> <</nobr>> It's all overwhelming. Too many people, Too much... "Hey, kid? Kid?" "The $child needs somewhere quiet." A firm voice says. Your shoulder hunch, and you flinch at the voice. You barely register what is happening. "Ok.." <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ You vaguely note the wheelchair is moving very fast, back the way you came. <<else>>\ You vaguely note Lexia is holding you a lot tighter. She is running... You vaguely think. <</if>>\ Your eyes are wide, scanning the sea of unfamiliar faces with unease. Your shoulders hunch, making you a smaller target. You want to be invisible amid the overwhelming noise and motion of the dining hall. They might flinch at sudden laughter or the brush of a stranger passing too close. Words come slowly, if at all, and their voice is barely a whisper. Often, they seek corners or quiet spots, pressing against walls or hiding behind furniture just to escape the press of people. To them, crowds aren’t just gatherings—they’re storms of unpredictability, noise, and pressure. /*<div class="choice-item">[[Your breathing turns shallow under their gazes. Fragmented memories well up. Masked rtrangers, groping and grabbing.|Tour_kitchens_trauma_of_crowds][$newpeople2 to $newpeople2+1]]</div>*/

<<if $newpeople2 is 1>>\ <<addLexia -10>>\ You don't like this... They are staring at you. Strangers... You don't want them to stare at you. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ You grip the wheeled chair as hard as you can, ruined fingers bending against the wood. <<else>>\ You grip Lexia's arm as hard as you can, ruined fingers bending against the silver metal. <</if>>\ <<nobr>> Your breathing turns shallow for a moment. It's all so much. The gazes, the smells, the noise. <<if $blades_trauma>> But your force yourself to breathe. This is not like the haircut thing. It's just people. People who are just watching you. You can deal with that... can't you?<<else>> You try your best to breathe. It's only people. There will be lots of people at the orphanage... You need to deal with them...<</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <<FeatureIndex "wings">> Your wings, shift and almost wrap around you, as if shielding you from view. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <<FeatureIndex "tail">> Your $Feature curls up around you, making you seem as small as possible. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>> <<FeatureIndex "eyes">> Suddenly Everything looks different, sharper, more sinister. You think your $Feature changed on their own. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<FeatureIndex "pointy ears">><<else>><<FeatureIndex "animal ears">><</if>> There is so much noise, your $Feature twitch as you shuffle in place. Too many people, too much noise. You can hear everything, every clink of cups and every sound laughter makes you cringe back. Your bandaged hands shoot to cover your ears, as you try to not hear everything. <</if>> <<if $HeritageRace.includesAny("beastkin", "kitsune")>> The smells of people, food and drink all mix together . It smells overwhelming, you can smell what feel like... everything. <</if>> <</nobr>> It's all overwhelming. Too many people, Too much... everything. "Hey, kid? Kid?" A familiar face appears in front of yours, covering up the scene. "Breathe, kid." She says, and rubs your back gently. "Like this." She shows you how to breathe, short but efficient breaths. <<if $blades_trauma>> You are already breathing much better than you were. Practice with the haircut thing made you better at this. <<else>> Lexia is helping. You follow her demostration and breathing is much easier. <</if>> "There we are. Sorry... I suppose this place might be a tad overwhelming." Lexia says, sheepishly. "But I promise, no one here wants to hurt you! They are all good people. I swear it on my armor." You glance at her armor... It is very shiny. Does that help her words be more true? Maybe? <<if $HeritageRace.includes("dragon")>> You do like shiny things very much. So if she is anything like you, this is a serious thing. But...<</if>> You are not sure about this. <<if $trustLexiaC3>> \ You chose to trust her... So maybe it's ok to trust her in this. <<else>>\ You don't trust her. Why should you trust her in this? Why should you take her word for it? There is no reason to. The unfortunate truth however is, that right now you are dependent on her. You cannot walk on your own. You are tiny. Trust? It does not matter one bit. You have no power to change reality, and your circumstances mean you need her. You don't like it... but there is nothing you can do about it right now. <</if>>\ "You good?" Lexia asks. You can breathe... That is good at least. No one is attacking you. That is also good. <<if $trustLexiaC3>> And you already chose to trust her, so her presence helps too. <<else>> And you don't really have a choice, do you? <</if>> <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod. What else is there to do? <<else>>\ "Yeah.." You say. <</if>>\ "Good. Now how about we take another look." You both turn back to the dining hall. <<elseif $newpeople2 is 2>>\ <<addLexia 5>>\ <<addinnocence 2>><<addfriendly 5>>\ You don’t mind the curious gazes on you. Why should you care if people are looking at you? As long as they only look, at least. You are curious too, after all. <<elseif $newpeople2 is 3>>\ <<addLexia 5>>\ <<addinnocence -2>><<addfriendly -5>>\ You can suffer through being stared at. You glare around too. If they are going to starea at you, you will stare right back! <<elseif $newpeople2 is 4>>\ <<addLexia 5>>\ <<addshy 5>><<addinnocence 3>>\ Hiding time! Nope, you are not having a room full of strangers stare at you if you can help it! <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> Your wings, shift and almost wrap around you, as if shielding you from view. <<else>>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ You try to hide behind Lexia, though the wheeled chair is not exactly making it easy. <<else>>\ You try to hide behind Lexia, though being carried by her does not make it easy. <</if>>\ Pretty sure only your face is hidden, while the rest of you is visible. But... you can't see them, and therefore they cannot see you! That is how it works, right? "Kid? You good?" You are good. You can't see them, they can't see you! "Good... You can probably peek a bit safely." Lexia whispers.... After a while, you decide she is probably right. <</if>> <</if>>\ Lexia is chattering about something, but you are not really listening to her anymore. Instead, you watch the people… and you see that a few are watching you. <<if $newpeople2 is 1>> You try to avoid their gazes, and make yourself as small as possible. It seems to make them look away, and you are happy about that. <<elseif $newpeople2 is 2>> You peer back, curious about the people.<<elseif $newpeople2 is 3>> You glare at them in response, even if you are a bit curious about them. <<else>> You observe the people, peeking out just a bit. Whenever anyone catches your gaze, you hide again! For some reason, a lot of the people are smiling when you peek again... Is the food that tasty? You sort of want some food now....<</if>> In your very limited ability to estimate, they are all bigger than you are, closer in size to Havard and Lexia. That means they must be Custodians and Protectors? That is what Havard told you… and some are shiny like Lexia, wearing similar silver armor. That would support your thoughts. The rest are mostly in robes, though there is more variety there. Still, they could be custodians. You look around. People... It is really hard to tell them apart, isn't it. Though... you can tell Lexia and Havard apart, so is it just because there are so many of them. Are people more distinctive if there are less of them? It must be so. Right now you can tell apart the people wearing silver armor, and the people not wearing armor. That is about it. It is only natural, you suppose. It is hard to pay attention to any specific person here... Yet, you start to notice details. People who wave at you. Or perhaps Lexia. Most of the people here are smiling, or at least have pleasant expressions. They do not seem angry or cruel. None are pointing at you, or trying to grab you. You hope Lexia would stop them if they did, but still. It is a good sign, or so you feel. Perhaps these people are different from the bad people. Or maybe they are all pretending. One woman in particular is focused on you. She is watching you intently and waves briskly at someone, as if shooing them away. Her face is rather... wrinkly? Why? Did something bad happen to her. What makes people seem wrinklier than others? Was she also tortured so her face became like that? Her hair is a bit odd too, it seems sort of reddish brown at places, grey at others. More grey than the red-brown color... Auburn, you think the color would be called. Your internal sense of things informs you, that the wrinkling and grey hair is usually a sign of age..... So. you conclude she is older than anyone you have met so far. Old... what an odd concept. You are a child, so you must be young? You don't feel young... or do you? What does young feel like? <<if $HairColor is "grey">> Wait... isn't your hair $HairColor too? Does that mean you are actually old? You hope not... Aren't old people supposed to be wise. You don't feel wise, it would be wrong if you were actually old and... confused as you are. Your internal sense assures you that grey hair is possible without getting old too... At least that is good.<</if>> Still, how did she get so old? Is there some special trick to it? The old woman moves, her gaze fixed on you. Her eyes.... They seem intense. In fact, she is walking over towards Lexia… Wait… she is walking over. She is walking over! <<nobr>>\ <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <<FeatureIndex "wings">> Your wings twitch behind you uncertainly. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <<FeatureIndex "tail">> Your $Feature wraps around your own waist, as if offering support. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("horns")>> <<FeatureIndex "horns">> You become very aware of the $Feature atop your head… Are people staring at them? <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>> <<FeatureIndex "eyes">> Your $Feature are not showing, are they? You have no way to tell without a mirror of some kind. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<FeatureIndex "pointy ears">><<else>><<FeatureIndex "animal ears">><</if>>\ You can feel your $Feature twitch at the attention. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("scales")>> <<FeatureIndex "scales">> You wonder if the scales on your face are attracting attention… <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>> <<FeatureIndex "feathers">> <<else>> <<FeatureIndex "nature features">> <</if>> Your $Feature is probably not helping any with not drawing attention to you. <</if>> <</nobr>>\ The approaching woman is looking at you. You are panicking a bit. Why is she looking at you? Well, a lot of the people are looking at you, but she is the only one staring at you like this. Why? Oh, she is pretty close now. Just a few more steps and she is here... What should you do? <<if ndef $EthelReaction >>\ <<set $EthelReaction to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Your tail wraps around Lexia’s arm, drawing her attention to you.|Tour_kitchens4][$EthelReaction to $EthelReaction+1]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Your wings cover you, allowing you to peek over them. |Tour_kitchens4][$EthelReaction to $EthelReaction+2]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare back at the woman, blankly.|Tour_kitchens4][$EthelReaction to $EthelReaction+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare back at the woman, glaring.|Tour_kitchens4][$EthelReaction to $EthelReaction+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You wave at the approaching woman. |Tour_kitchens4][$EthelReaction to $EthelReaction+5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You try to hide behind Lexia. |Tour_kitchens4][$EthelReaction to $EthelReaction+6]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[“Hello” you say.|Tour_kitchens4][$EthelReaction to $EthelReaction+7]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“Stop staring at me!” You say bluntly. |Tour_kitchens4][$EthelReaction to $EthelReaction+8]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

Lexia and you are just thinking about returning to your room... At least you think you are. She is thinking hard... "Was there anywhere else..." She says out loud. "Hmm, I feel like I am forgetting something..." You think you heard something while she thinks. Like running feet and some voices. You think you see a flash of silver but glancing around you think you just see one Protector walking away from you and Lexia. Is he holding something? You feel like something just happened and you missed what. Something about the movement in the Protector's arms... It is hard to say, he is only visible for a short time before disappearing into a hallway. Yet, right as he turns, you see it. A face over his shoulder. A tiny person? Do you see a tiny hand for a bit too on the other side of the Protectors head, almost as if there was another tiny person squirming about. It's too quick to be sure. You focus on the face you can see. Your eyes meet... and then there is a voice drawing your attention. <<if $fountainreaction is 6 or hasVisited("Chapter 2_12_tour3_selfharm2")>> “Really, Lexia? Did I not ask you to watch over $MCname while $heshe rested?” Both you and Lexia spun around to see Havard standing there, arms crossed over his chest. Where did he appear from? Oh, there is a hallway under the stairs you just came down. “Oh, hi Havard.” Lexia said brightly. Havard gives her an unimpressed look. Lexia just smiles. “The kid was not sleepy, not tired at all. It was very boring, so we went out for a tour.” She says, beaming. “We had fun, didn’t we, kid?” She smiles down at you, before looking back up at Havard with a wide-eyed look of… something. <<else>>\ "I assume there has not been any more issues?" Havard appears from somewhere, peering at you and Lexia. "Hello." He says at you and smiles that comforting smile he so often directs your way. "Nope!" Lexia says. "We have been touring the orphanage! Been to lots of places." She says, beaming. “We had fun, didn’t we, kid?” She smiles down at you, before looking back up at Havard with a wide eyed look of… something. <</if>>\ <<if ndef $TourDone>>\ <<set $TourDone to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Stare blankly. |Tour_done2][$TourDone to $TourDone+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Nod vigorously.|Tour_done2][$TourDone to $TourDone+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Shake your head. In hindsight, you did not like the tour..|Tour_done2][$TourDone to $TourDone+3]]</div> <<if hasVisited("Tour_kitchens_yes")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You know that eye trick! It’s the puppy dog eye thing Lexia taught you. You decide to do it too. |Tour_done2][$TourDone to $TourDone+4]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice-item">[[Try to imitate the eyes Lexia is making.|Tour_done2][$TourDone to $TourDone+4]]</div> <</if>> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[“Yeah, fun!” You exclaim.|Tour_done2][$TourDone to $TourDone+5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“No” You say and look away. You did have fun, but you are not admitting that.|Tour_done2][$TourDone to $TourDone+6]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“No” You say. In hindsight, you did not like the tour.|Tour_done2][$TourDone to $TourDone+7]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $MCmetEthel to true>>\ <<if $EthelReaction is 1>>\ <<addshy 3>>\ Your tail shoots out to wrap around Lexia’s arm. You doubt she can feel it with her armor, but she looks down at you. Then follow your gaze to the approaching older woman. The woman stops in front of you and Lexia and inspects you. You have the urge to squirm a bit under her scrutiny. Her gaze notes your tail wrapped around Lexia’s hand, and you think she approves. <<elseif $EthelReaction is 2>>\ <<addshy 3>>\ Your wings spread out and wrap them around yourself as best you can, covering you from sight. You slightly lower them to peer at the woman. You think Lexia gives you a mildly amused look, but you are not focused on her right now. The older woman is not deterred by your wing barrier, she stops in front of you and Lexia, inspecting you with her gaze. You are not sure how much she can see and hide behind your wings again… She seems scary. You have the urge to squirm a bit under her scrutiny, even if you can’t see it hiding behind your wings. <<elseif $EthelReaction is 3>>\ <<addstoic 3>>\ The older woman is not deterred in the least by your blank stare. She stops in front of you and Lexia and inspects you. Your eyes meet for a time, but hers give nothing away. You have a feeling, that your have nothing to give away. <<elseif $EthelReaction is 4>>\ <<addfriendly -3>>\ The older woman is not deterred in the least by your glare. She stops in front of you and Lexia and inspects you, raising an eyebrow at your glare. You don’t think your glare is very effective… <<elseif $EthelReaction is 5>>\ <<addfriendly 3>><<addinnocence 2>>\ Your small wave does not go unnoticed. She does not stop to wave back at you, but you can see a small smile. When she stops in front of you and Lexia, she inspects you and gives you a nod. It’s not a wave, but it is pretty good, it takes a bit of the intensity out of her gaze as she looks you up and down. <<elseif $EthelReaction is 6>>\ <<addshy 3>>\ You try to hide behind Lexia as best you can… which is not possible since it’s not like you can step behind her with your legs out of commission. So, you sort of stick your head behind her. “Kid?” Lexia asks, but you are focused on trying to hide…. very badly. You can’t see the older woman approaching now, but you can hear the footsteps that soon stop. <<elseif $EthelReaction is 7>>\ <<addfriendly 3>><<addinnocence 2>>\ “Hello” you say as she gets close enough to you and Lexia. She stops in front of you and Lexia and inspects you. “Hello.” She says back. That went pretty well! You said hello, she said hello…. What now? <<elseif $EthelReaction is 8>>\ <<addfriendly -3>><<addinnocence -2>>\ “Stop staring at me!” You tell the older woman, as she stops in front of you and Lexia. She raises an eyebrow at you and inspects you despite your protests. You glare at her… it has no effect on the woman. <</if>>\ “Custodian Ethel” Lexia says, and gives a small bow. “Protector Lexia. I see our newest resident is well enough to be out.” <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ Her eyes linger on the wheeled chair you are sitting in. “Even in one of those contraptions.” <<else>>\ Her eyes linger on how Lexia is carrying you. “Even carried about.” <</if>>\ Why is she saying it like that? She makes it sound like a bad thing! Before you can do anything, the old woman smiles a small smile. Or are you imagining it? “Good. I told the brat… I mean the First Custodian to not keep the $child cooped up.” Did she just call Havard a brat? What is that? Your internal sense tells you it is not very nice… Lexia smiles rather widely. “Glad you approve! And Havard was not exactly asked before we went out for a tour.” She says. “Thinks we were gonna stay in the room, resting.” Ethel looks at Lexia for a while. Lexia just smiles… Is she fidgeting? You think she is. You ponder why… The old Custodian huffs and her gaze falls on you again. "Well too late now. That is your problem." She tells Lexia and bends down so you two are at face level. She is not smiling…. Though your internal sense seems convinced there is a softer glint in her eyes. “I am Custodian Ethel.” She says briskly. “I am pleased to meet you.” She looks at you, but it is not a look of hatred or disdain. Instead, her steady gaze is almost… expectant. As if she is waiting for something. <<if $sawHealingBaths is true>> Her gaze lingers on the splint on your hand. The one that you broke, but she says nothing. <</if>> You stare back at her for a while… You ponder if you should hide but it seems impossible right now. She is right there. You could poke her in the face if you wanted to but your bandaged hands are unlikely to move very fast. Still, you are wondering what does she want from you? You stare… and stare… “It’s your turn to introduce yourself.” Lexia whispers, leaning down. Right! That’s what the old woman wants, you are supposed to introduce yourself. You did it earlier with Lexia but you are not used to the whole process yet. <<if $nonverbal>> Well sort of. Not like you speak now any more than back then. <</if>> Wait… how much time do you have to spend on these “introduction” things in the future. Seems like a massive use of your time. <<if ndef $EthelReaction2 >>\ <<set $EthelReaction2 to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You attempt to hide behind Lexia. No way you are telling your name to the scary lady. |Tour_kitchens5][$EthelReaction2 to $EthelReaction2+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don’t feel like it… so you just stare blankly. |Tour_kitchens5][$EthelReaction2 to $EthelReaction2+2]]</div> <<if $nonverbal>> <div class="choice-item">[[You look up at Lexia expectantly. You don’t speak so she will have to. |Tour_kitchens5][$EthelReaction2 to $EthelReaction2+3]]</div> <<else>> <<if $MC_name_random>> <div class="choice-item">[[Well… you still don’t have a name. |Tour_kitchens5][$EthelReaction2 to $EthelReaction2+4]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice-item">[[You state your name bluntly. |Tour_kitchens5][$EthelReaction2 to $EthelReaction2+5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Intdocude yourself. You start with. “Nice to meet you.” |Tour_kitchens5][$EthelReaction2 to $EthelReaction2+6]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $MCmetEthel to true>><<notify 3s>>Ethel character profile updated.<</notify>>\ <<if $EthelReaction2 is 1>>\ <<addshy 2>>\ You do your best to push your face behind Lexia. This old lady is scary. You don't think you can manage Lexia smiles at you. “Don’t worry, kid. Everyone fears Ethel.” She whispers far too loudly. “No shame in it.” You stare at Lexia. Is she crazy? The old woman is right there, she can definitely hear this! “Oh, everyone fears me?” Ethel asks with a raised eyebrow. You push further behind Lexia, <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> nearly falling out of the wheelchair. <<else>> trying to push between her arm and side. <</if>> “I wonder why. What is it that makes me so scary?” She asks and folds her hands, staring unblinking at Lexia. It is a firm stare, even if she is kneeling. “Explain it to me.” Lexia smiles, a bit nervously or so you think. “Reputation.” “Reputation? So, have I ever given anyone here an actual reason to fear me?” Ethel asks, voice calm. You felt like this was a trap somehow. "No idea!" Lexia says in a sing song voice. "But I am just gonna avoid that. The kid seems to not wanna do introductions so I'll do it." She stands very straight, and gestures to you. <<if $MC_name_random>>\ "The kid has indicated no interest in a name yet." Ethels gaze flickers to you, but she just purses her lips. "I see. Well, remember $child, that one day the choice may be taken from you. Think on your name, not everyone will give you time to choose." <<else>>\ "This is $MCname." Ethel looks at you, and nods. "Good. You will need to learn to do introductions eventually... but it is your first day." She says firmly. <</if>>\ <<elseif $EthelReaction2 is 2>>\ <<addstoic 2>>\ You don’t feel like it… so you just stare blankly. Ethel raises an eyebrow at your stare. "I see there are lessons to be had. But it is your first day, so I will let it be." <<if $MC_name_random>>\ "The kid has indicated no interest in a name yet." Ethels gaze flickers to you, but she just purses her lips. "I see. Well, remember $child, that one day the choice may be taken from you. Think on your name, not everyone will give you time to choose." <<else>>\ "This is $MCname." Lexia says, gesturing to you. Ethel looks at you, and simply nods. <</if>>\ That went well. Turns out, ignoring things is a valid way of dealing with them! <<elseif $EthelReaction2 is 3>>\ <<addfriendly 2>>\ It takes Lexia a moment to realize what is going on, before glancing down at your expectant gaze. “Oh right.” She says. “The thing is $MCname here does not speak.” Ethels gaze observes you for a moment. “I see. I trust actions are being taken?” What actions? Why do actions need to be taken? Wait… didn’t Havard mention something about a magic communicator thing. “Yeah, I asked at the Spire. They had nothing at the moment but will get back to us.” Oh! That could be fun if you can have something that lets you speak. Even if you chose this, it could be useful at some point. Ethels nods. “Good. Options are important.” "Since the kid cannot do introductions properly yet, I'll do it." She stands very straight, and gestures to you. <<if $MC_name_random>>\ "The kid has indicated no interest in a name yet." Ethels gaze flickers to you, but she just purses her lips. "I see. Well, remember $child, that one day the choice may be taken from you. Think on your name, not everyone will give you time to choose." <<else>>\ "This is $MCname." Ethel looks at you, and nods. "Good. You will need to learn to do introductions eventually... but it is your first day." She says firmly. <</if>>\ <<elseif $EthelReaction2 is 4>>\ "The kid has indicated no interest in a name yet." Lexia says, gesturing to you. "So I fear proper introductions are a bit hard right now." Ethels gaze flickers to you, but she just purses her lips. "I see. Well, remember $child, that one day the choice may be taken from you. Think on your name, not everyone will give you time to choose." <<if $nonverbal>>\ You just stare at her. You don't even talk so you just shrug. <<else>>\ "Ok" you say, and shrug. It just seems pointless so far. <</if>>\ Though maybe if the choice will be taken from you... it would make sense to maybe choose one. Or just let someone else do it. <<elseif $EthelReaction2 is 5>>\ <<addfriendly -2>>\ “$MCname” You state bluntly, staring the old woman directly in the eye. You think there is a faint flicker of amusement in her eye, or so your internal sense tells you. “Direct and sufficient.” Ethel says. That sounds good to you. Direct is good. Sufficient is good. Greeting the old lady accomplished. <<elseif $EthelReaction is 6>>\ <<addfriendly 2>>\ “I am $MCname.” You say. “Nice to meet you.” You even throw in your best attempt at a smile. You think you see Ethel’s brow twitch a bit as you smile at her, but her face remains stoic. “Good introduction. The smile needs work.” Ethel says. You did it! Introductions success, even her critisism sounds good to you. Your smile needing work seems reasonable. You have smiled only a few times at most in your life… That you can remember. It makes sense your smile needs work. <</if>>\ “Now then.” Ethel rises back to her feet and brushes at her robes with her hands. "One more thing." She says and levels you a serious look. Even more serious than her usual look... You wait for whatever you have done wrong... It feels like you did something wrong. <<if $flowersbroken>>\ “I heard you broke the flower vase, you little rascal.” She says, staring down at you. “That won’t do.” You stare at her…. Flower vase? What is she talking about? You have to think hard…. Oh. The vase you tried to use as a weapon against Havard. The one that you stepped on and got a splinter in your leg. “I see you remember child.” Ethel says. “Now, I will bring you more flowers. Don’t break the next one. Understood?” You hurry to nod to her... You are not sure you understand anything but there is something about that look. "Good." She says and you could swear there is the ghost of a smile on her lips. "Have a good day now." You can only stare at her as she starts walking off. More flowers? Why would she do that? You are so confused. <<else>>\ “Did you see the flowers, child?” Ethel asks. Flowers? What flowers? You were in the garden earlier. There were flowers there, you did see them. <<if $flowers>>\ You ponder about it... Right, the flowers on the drawer in your room! You did see them after getting out of bed for the first time. You nod at Ethel. “Good. Remember to water them if needed. Havard can show you how.” <<else>>\ You ponder about it for a good while… You have nothing. No flowers. “They are in your room, on the desk.” Ethel says, starting to walk away. “Remember to water them.” <<if $SawTheSea>>\ In your room…. which one? You switched rooms. Now you have a view of the sea! <</if>>\ Maybe Havard knows the details of these flowers. Not that you have much time to ponder about it. <</if>>\ You peer at the old woman, who is still looking at you. You swear there is the ghost of a smile on her lips.... but it is hard to tell. "Have a good day now." She says. Then the old woman walks away, and you are left staring. <</if>>\ Lexia watches Ethel’s back for a short time, then turns to smile at you. "Well that's Custodian Ethel. She's scary, isn't she?" She smiles wide, and continues before you can answer. “But enough about that. Wanna see the kitchens?” She asks. The kitchens? The place where food gets made? Like the porridge and bread Havard helped you eat earlier. Then again… You glance at the hall full of people. There are a ton of people here? Will there be people in the kitchens too? What if they try taking you away? Or start carving into you? <<if $blades_trauma>>\ You shudder a bit at the thought. Lexia’s smile falters a bit. “Oh… Havard told me that the haircut… was hard for you. I should tell you; the kitchens contain tons of stuff like… knives.” She looks hesitant to say anything, and afraid you will make a scene. She’s worried about you, or so your internal sense tells you. “So, if you don’t want to go it’s fine. I can ask someone to quickly pop in there for a… special treat.” If this kitchen really has lots of things, that could be used to carve into you, do you really want to go? What is this treat thing about? <</if>>\ Then again, Lexia is here. <<if $trustLexiaC3>> You trust her so her presence helps a lot. <<else>> You don’t trust her but she is here... If that helps in any way.<</if>> <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to go to the kitchen and nod. |Tour_kitchens_yes]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don’t want to and shake your head. |Tour_kitchens_no]]</div> <<if $blades_trauma>> <div class="choice-item">[[You want the treat thing, and first shake your head, then nod. |Tour_kitchens_yes_no]]</div> <</if>> <<if $nonverbal is false>> <div class="choice-item">[[“We can go.” |Tour_kitchens_yes]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“Don’t want to.” |Tour_kitchens_no]]</div> <<if $blades_trauma>> <div class="choice-item">[[“I won’t go, but I want the treat thing.” |Tour_kitchens_yes_no]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<h2>An unexpected surprise</h2>\ You feel something odd in your stomach. A rumbling. An odd pressure. You are shifting in place without understanding why... You ponder on it for a while, silently. Your bandaged hands come to clutch your belly, almost automatically. What could it be? <<nobr>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <<FeatureIndex "wings">> Your wings shift a bit uneasily, as if knowing something is wrong. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <<FeatureIndex "tail">> Your $Feature is curled tightly. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>> <<FeatureIndex "eyes">> Suddenly Everything looks different, sharper, more sinister. You think your $Feature changed on their own. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<FeatureIndex "pointy ears">><<else>><<FeatureIndex "animal ears">><</if>> Can you hear a faint rumbling sound? Your $Feature twitch as you try hard to hear. <</if>> <<if $HeritageRace.includesAny("beastkin", "kitsune")>> The smells of people, food and drink all mix together . It smells overwhelming, you can smell what feel like... everything. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes( "elemental")>> <<FeatureIndex "elemental">> Your $Feature seems to almost flicker a bit. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("sea")>> <<FeatureIndex "sea">> The $Feature on your face are very eye-catching, you feel them twitch a bit as you observe the two adults. <</if>> <</nobr>> You idly tug at your $clothes. You don't think it's pain. You know pain very well. Still there is a... A vague, discomfort you can’t quite place. Worse, it seems to be growing. You start to feel some urgency, can feel it building quietly. Odd.... You don't think you should ignore this. But what is it? You hope you don't blow up. "Hey, kid. You are squirming a lot." Lexia says, drawing your attention to her. Are you? You suppose you must be. "Ok, time for a break from the tour... or maybe an unexpected part of the tour." What is she on about. "You need the bathroom, kid." Lexia says. <<if not hasVisited("Tour_bathroom")>>\ You blink... The bathroom? You don't need a bath, do you? What else do people do in the bathroom? <<else>>\ You blink... You have already been to the baths during this tour thing. Why are you going back there. <</if>>\ Lexia glances at you, and smiles a bit awkwardly. "You haven't connected the dots have you?" Dots? What dots? Your face must show your confusion because Lexia sighs. "Kid..." She seems to consider what to say very carefully. "You know that people.... All people have to... do stuff every once in a while after eating or drinking." Do stuff after eating or drinking... Wait, you were thinking about this earlier... Oh! OH! You need to poop! Or pee? You have no idea which. But that is what this is all about! Ok, that makes sense... Even if the logistics of the act are somewhat lost on you for now. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod at Lexia to indicate you understand. <<else>>\ "Ok" You say, nodding. <</if>>\ "Good. It is all natural, kid. No need to worry:" Lexia says, sounding relieved that she does not need to explain in more detail. You peer at her. You might still have questions. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Like why is the bath needed?|Tour_bathroom2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

It's not the baths! A bathroom for some confusing reason does not necessarily have a place for baths! Words are hard. So is using the bathroom as it turns out. You have had more unpleasant experiences of course, but none quite so... awkward. You think that is the word. Of course, Lexia needed to help you with your $clothes and the sitting. The bits where stuff was coming out was not all that fun either, and when the sitting ended, Lexia needed to help you again. Turns out your hands are not very good at this thing either... It is rather annoying. Lexia said it's best not talk about it. You are not sure why, but the word awkward keeps popping up in your head. <<if $nonverbal>> You don't even speak, but you do agree with her after some thought. <<else>> You agree with her after some thought. <</if>> Lexia keeps mumbling about asking for an "enchanted toilet" while washing her hands. She makes you do it too, even though the bandages will get wet. She says, the sun will dry them out soon enough. You wonder what an enchanted toilet would do? Toilet is the thing you were sitting on, or so you believe. Isn't it already magic when all the stuff disappeared somewhere? You are not sure but it sure seems like magic. Still, as a whole you can say the whole experience was not much fun. Better than the void but not still fun. Lexia takes you away and you do your best to forget the whole thing. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[And the tour goes on.|Tour_main]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

“Ok.” She smiles widely at you. “Since we are going to the kitchens, that means I should teach you a secret technique for getting treats!” Treats? That sounds interesting. You have no idea what treats are, but she seems excited about it. That’s a good thing, right? You don’t know her all that well… which makes her the person you know second best. After Havard. You are not even sure where you, yourself, belong on the list of people you know. Your personhood is after all questionable at best. Still… best make sure what treats are first before you agree to this. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You stare at Lexia silently and tilt your head. <<else>>\ “What’s a treat?” You ask. <</if>>\ “Treats are tasty things, that you can eat.” Lexia nods seriously. “Therefore, we always want treats.” One bandaged hand idly pats your belly. You look down at your $clothes in thought. That does sound good… Even if somehow this whole orphanage thing does not work out, and you end up on your own, if this thing Lexia wants to teach could help you get things to eat. Now that you know eating is good, you do want to do that again. That porridge stuff was good and the bread… fluffy and tasty. Treats are probably something like bread, you decide. That would make sense. You definitely want more of that. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod at Lexia. Learning this method to acquire treats for eating seems wise. <<else>>\ “Ok.” You say. Learning this method to acquire treats for eating seems wise. <</if>>\ “Excellent! Now, tilt your head up a bit and stare up at me. Then make your eyes wide, and round.” She shows how to do it. You do your best to do it. It’s hard, you can’t really tell what your face is doing at any given time. Lexia looks at you, and nods. “That’s good. Try to remember that. It’s not the traditional version, but you have really pretty $EyeColor eyes that make up for the…” She rubs the back of her head a bit awkwardly and coughs. “I mean you did really well.” She says, smiling brightly at you. You ponder what she could have meant. Probably the fact your eyes are so oddly… dull. But she also called your eyes pretty! So did Havard earlier. If two people say it, could it be true? Pretty is a good thing… You think. Lexia says this will work, so you are content to try it… You hope it is not too scary in the kitchens and that you remember how to do the eye thing. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ Lexia pushes you towards a door at the back of the big hall. <<else>>\ Lexia carries you off, towards a door at the back of the big hall. <</if>>\ As she walks, you peer around at the people, but no one stops you and Lexia. Soon you arive, and Lexia opens the door into a unfamiliarworld. The kitchen is a flurry of chaos. So much movement and sound, the space is alive with the clang of pots and pans, a sizzling sound from meat being cooked on massive grates over open fires built into the space. Smoke rises from fires, some escaping the chimney holes to remain inside, and curling upwards towards a vaulted ceiling. It escapes from little windows built into the ceiling. You had no refence for kitchens, or buildings in general, but was that normal? There are a lot of people in the kitchens, wearing odd things that cover their fronts. Aprons you vaguely recall. Bundles of plants hung from wooden beams that the cooks plucked parts of to drop into pots and pans. There are a whole lot of people working on long wooden tables, scarred from what you assume is a lot of use. There are a lot of bowls on top of the tables and the cooks wield an assortment of knives and cleavers, chopping vegetables, and meat. <<if $blades_trauma>>\ You recoil away from the sight. For a moment your breath turns shallows and you an back, strapped to a table, a dark figure looming above you. No... You don't want anymore pain, you don't want to be carved up... Not again. Never again. Through your hazy mind, you hear a single word. "Breathe." Haven't you been here before... Earlier. Yes. Haircut. Havard... Havard. He helped you through it. "Kid?" You hear a worried voice, but instead focus on breathing. Just that. In and out. In. Out. One breath at a time. You think hard... A kitchen. A place to prepare food, or so your internal sense and what Lexia said keeps reminding you. Lexia is also here, your Protector. In. <<if $trustLexiaC3>> You trust her to keep you safe. <<else>> You don't trust Lexia, but she has to at least keep up appearances? Unless they are all in on the scheme? The scheme to do what? Carve you up again?... You are not being carved up right now, are you?<</if>> It does not seem you are in danger, despite the presence of knives. Out. Your breathing evens out, and you calm down. Lexia even warned you that there would be knives here. It is fine... Isn't it? Only now, you notice Lexia is kneeling in front of you, looking worried. You take a moment to gather yourself, and decide what to do. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[ You decide that you want out of the kithens... You can come back later. Maybe.|Tour_kitchens_yes_turn_back]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[ You just turn your attention back to the room, and keep going.|Tour_kitchens_yes_keep_going]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ You are slightly distracted byt he knives for a moment, but pusth that out of your head. You were fine having your hair cut without a second thought, and those knives are clearly not aimed at you. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[ You just turn your attention back to the room, and keep going.|Tour_kitchens_yes_keep_going]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

Lexia smiles at you. “That’s fine, kid. There is lots of time later to visit the kitchens.” She says. “Then, come on. Let’s go visit somewhere else.” She takes you out of the main hall, and you stop to ponder your choices. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[And the tour goes on.|Tour_main]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if ndef $gate >>\ <<set $gate to 0>>\ <</if>>\ The treat thing sounds great, so you want it. How odd, now you have things you want. You suppose you had things you want in the void, but it was mostly... well for it all to end. <<if $nonverbal>>\ How to communicate to Lexia what you want? You decide to first shake your head, then nod. Lexia considers your response. "No and yes? You won't go, but want a treat?" You nod. Good that she understood that. <<else>>\ “I won’t go, but I want the treat thing.” You say. <</if>>\ Lexia smiles at you. “That’s fine, kid. There is lots of time later to visit the kitchens.” She says. “Then, let me see who I can rope into this.” She peers around the busy hall with narrowed eyes. What does “rope into this” mean? Does she have a rope somewhere? Will she tie someone up? Why? You feel like you don’t like rope that much for some reason… You think you were bound up at some point but that is all too hazy, so it was probably before the void and torture and you are pretty sure you were chained in the void. Not sure the distinction is important but still. “Hey, Hybert!” Lexia calls out. “Come here for a moment.” She also clasps her pin thing in her hand as she calls out. You wonder why? <<if $AskedAboutCommunicator>> Did she tell the man something with the communication thing? Assuming that is a real thing.<</if>> A man in silver armor, much like hers, looks your way. He seems to have just finished eating, and is carrying a tray towards a strange area where people seemed to go once, they were done. He leaves his tray there, depositing things into different spots, like his bowl and the spoon thing. Oddly he also takes something off his waist, a belt with stuff and leaves it against a wall. There seems to be some long thin thing on the belt but then he jogs over to you two, giving you a curious glance and a smile. He is so quick that you barely have time to react, and you forget about his belt at his presence. “Lexia, what do you need?” <<if $gate is 1>>\ "Hybert, say hi to our newest resident. Again." She smiles. Oh right, you did see this person earlier. He is one of the gate guards. " But that crowd sort of interupted the first time so let's pretend is the first time." Lexia says. <<else>>\ “Hybert, meet our newest resident.” She gestures to you. <</if>>\ Another... Introduction situation, and this man is wearing armor. It feels like you are doing this a lot. <<if ndef $HybertReaction >>\ <<set $HybertReaction to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Hide behind your wings!|Tour_kitchens_yes_no2][$HybertReaction to $HybertReaction+1]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <div class="choice-item">[[ Wrap your tail around yourself for support. |Tour_kitchens_yes_no2][$HybertReaction to $HybertReaction+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[ Wrap your tail around Lexia’s arm for support. |Tour_kitchens_yes_no2][$HybertReaction to $HybertReaction+3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[ Try to hide behind Lexia. |Tour_kitchens_yes_no2][$HybertReaction to $HybertReaction+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Stare at him blankly. |Tour_kitchens_yes_no2][$HybertReaction to $HybertReaction+5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You wave at the man. |Tour_kitchens_yes_no2][$HybertReaction to $HybertReaction+6]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["Hello!" You say as the man comes over. |Tour_kitchens_yes_no2][$HybertReaction to $HybertReaction+6]]</div> <<if $MC_name_random is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You are getting annoyed with the introductions, and decide to get ahead of this thing. By introducing yourself before prompted.|Tour_kitchens_yes_no2][$HybertReaction to $HybertReaction+7]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $HybertReaction is 1>>\ Your wings spread out and loosely wrap around you, hiding you from view… mostly. You peer at the man from behind your wings. <<elseif $HybertReaction is 2>>\ Your tail wraps around your own waist. It feel comforting if a bit unfamiliar. You stare at the man, feeling a bit braver now. <<elseif $HybertReaction is 3>>\ Your tail wraps around Lexia’s arm, touching her silver armor. She glances at you and smiles reassuringly. <<elseif $HybertReaction is 4>>\ You try to hide behind Lexia though it is hard. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> It’s not like you can actually move from the chair with wheels you are in so you stick your head behind her. <<else>> She is carrying you so you press your face to her armor. <</if>> <<elseif $HybertReaction is 5>>\ You just stare at the man. Hybert gives you a wave, undeterred. “Hello, I am Hybert.” He smiles at you brightly, and your internal sense seems to think, he means you no harm either…. How does it know that? Can you trust it? Why do these odd people keep smiling at you? <<elseif $HybertReaction is 6>>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You wave at the man. <<else>>\ "Hello!" You even give a small wave. <</if>>\ Hybert immediately smiles at you. “Hello, I am Hybert.” He even waves back. <<elseif $HybertReaction is 7>>\ "$MCname" You state bluntly as the man approaches. Then you stare at Lexia as if telling her that you did the thing. "Good job, kid." Lexia says, sounding amused. Hybert gives you a wave. “Hello, I am Hybert.” He smiles at you brightly, and your internal sense seems to think, he means you no harm either…. How does it know that? Can you trust it? Why do these odd people keep smiling at you? <</if>>\ “Sorry to cut this short, but can you go and ask Bruna if she would be willing to part with some tasty snacks for our newest resident.” Lexia asks. “Something easy to eat.” She gives this Hybert a meaningful glance, and you see the man’s gaze flick to your bandaged hands for a bit. Is life outside the void really this easy? You can just… ask people to do stuff? Or will this Hybert person now scream at you? Hit you, or Lexia? Or demand something in return, like… You have no idea. Maybe a piece of your flesh? A finger? Or is it Lexia who has to bear the consequences of whatever he does? To your surprise, Hybert smiles. “Sure, I can do that. Wait a moment.” He just… takes off, and disappears into the kitchen, leaving you very confused about how the world works… You peer at Lexia, who smiles. “That is Hybert. He is one of two people who usually guard the main gate of the orphanage.” She seems a bit apologetic. “Sorry about the short introductions, but he probably needs to get back to the gate.” A gate? Like a big door. You think it’s a big door. But is it a door for really big buildings or a big door for normal buildings… Does it matter? You idly nod at Lexia amidst your pondering of doors. Soon enough, you are interrupted by the Hybert person being back, handing Lexia a small bag. “Here, should be full of goodies in there.” The man gives you another wave and a smile and takes off jogging. You eye him a bit balefully… Your legs are not working right now and this Hybert goes jogging off. Still, you don’t have much time to worry about it. Lexia drops the bag into your lap, having already loosened the string tying the thing together. Something smells really nice! You briefly consider if this bag could be some trick or a trap… but your nose is telling you there is something tasty in there, so you decide it is all good. Your bandaged fingers dip into the bag and grab the first thing they come across. You pull out some kind of a disk… It seems crispy, the sort of golden brow. “Oh, someone got lucky.” Lexia says and leans closer to whisper. “It’s called a cookie.” A cookie…. You lift it to your nose and sniff it… It smells…. delightful. You move it down a bit and lick it thoughtfully. Lexia chuckles, but you ignore that and instead stuff the cookie into your mouth. It is crunchy and soft, crumbling in your mouth, releasing a warm, rich flavor of… something. Something you have been missing your entire life… It’s so good. Your hands shoot back into the bag, and you stuff another cookie in to your mouth with gusto. Your eyes close as you munch down… So good. When your mouth is empty and you open your eyes, you find Lexia staring at you with a smile. “That good?” <<if ndef $CookieReaction >>\ <<set $CookieReaction to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[“Yes!” You exclaim.|Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“Yes…” You mutter reluctantly.|Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“No…” You mutter as your hand dips into the bag for a third cookie.|Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod enthusiastically.|Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod reluctantly. |Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod blankly.|Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head, while getting a third cookie.|Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare at her, then hold up the bag, offering her to take a cookie.|Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $CookieReaction is 1>>\ <<addinnocence 3>><<addstoic -3>>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod enthusiastically, crumbs dropping onto your lap. <<else>>\ “Yes!” You exclaim, crumbs dropping onto your lap. <</if>>\ Lexia laughs. “That's good. Cookies are great." She looks at the crumbs on your lap. "Hmm... when we pass by the garden again, let's... "clean" those up. If you are lucky, maybe you can get a bird to come close with the crumbs." You just eat another cookie with gusto, making a mess. <<elseif $CookieReaction is 2>>\ <<addinnocence -3>><<addstoic 3>>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod slowly, reluctantly. <<else>>\ "Yes..." You mutter reluctantly. <</if>>\ Lexia laughs. “That's good. You know, you are allowed to enjoy things.” She winks. “Though that grumpy way about you is rather adorable too.” You huff indignantly at her.You are not grumpy or adorable.... Probably. You have no comparison for either of those things so as far as you know, you are neither! Instead, you stuff your mouth with more cookies. <<elseif $CookieReaction is 3>>\ <<addcareful -3>><<addshy -3>>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You shake your head, while stuffing your hand back into the bag and getting a third cookie. <<else>>\ “No…” You mutter as your hand dips into the bag for a third cookie. <</if>>\ Lexia laughs. “Or course not. Nothing to enjoy about cookies. I will just ignore your hand.” She closes one of her eyes. You think it is called a wink…. You munch on the third cookie and stare straight into her eyes. She has no proof of anything. <<elseif $CookieReaction is 4>>\ <<addstoic 5>>\ You nod blankly, munching on the cookie. She smiles at you. “That’s good. You should enjoy the small things in life.” She says. You have no idea what to say to that so you reach back into the bag, and munch on another cookie. <<elseif $CookieReaction is 5>>\ <<addfriendly 5>>\ You stare at her, then hold up the bag, offering her to take a cookie. She beams at you, and picks a cookie from the bag. “Well, aren't you just the politest and most adorable little $child. Thank you for the cookie.” She says and makes a show of munching down with a blissful expression. <</if>>\ “Now… shall we go see someplace else?” She asks with a smile, and you leave the dining hall. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[And the tour goes on.|Tour_main]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $BrunaReaction is 1>>\ Your wings spread out and loosely wrap around you, hiding you from view… mostly. You peer at the shouting woman from behind your wings. <<elseif $BrunaReaction is 2>>\ Your tail wraps around your own waist. It feel comforting if a bit unfamiliar. You stare at the woman, feeling a bit braver now. <<elseif $BrunaReaction is 3>>\ Your tail wraps around Lexia’s arm, touching her silver armor. She glances at you and smiles reassuringly. "Nothing to worry about. It's me she is angry at." Lexia whispers. <<elseif $BrunaReaction is 4>>\ You try to hide behind Lexia though it is hard. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> It’s not like you can actually move from the chair with wheels you are in so you stick your head behind her. <<else>> She is carrying you so you press your face to her armor. <</if>> <<elseif $BrunaReaction is 5>>\ You just stare at the woman. The shouting woman is however not focused on you. <<elseif $BrunaReaction is 6>>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You wave at the woman. <<else>>\ "Hello!" You even give a small wave. <</if>>\ "Good job, kid." Lexia says, sounding amused. "Though I don't think she is after introductions right now." Lexia seems to be right, the shouting woman is not focused on you. <<elseif $BrunaReaction is 7>>\ "$MCname" You state bluntly as the man approaches. Then you stare at Lexia as if telling her that you did the thing. "Good job, kid." Lexia says, sounding amused. "Though I don't think she is after introductions right now." Lexia seems to be right, the shouting woman is not focused on you. <</if>>\ “You already messed up the pantry once today! Flour everywhere, so get out, you pest!” Bruna shouts at Lexia who just smiles a little awkwardly. “Oh, come on Bruna. We helped with the clean-up, didn’t we.” Lexia says. “It’s all good.” “It is not all good! It wasted time and ingredients!” She says and waves at Lexia. “Shoo. You are not welcome anywhere near the kitchens.” Lexia raises a placating hand. “Ok, ok. I get it, but I am not here for myself.” She gestures to you. Bruna’s head snaps to you… and her angry air goes out. <<if $BrunaReaction is 1>>\ You peer at Bruna from over your wings, lowering them slightly. <<elseif $BrunaReaction is 2>>\ She glances at your tail, wrapped around your waist. <<elseif $BrunaReaction is 3>>\ She glances at your tail, wrapped around Lexia’s arm. <<elseif $BrunaReaction is 4>>\ Her eyes find you, trying to hide. You peer at Bruna carefully from behind Lexia. <<elseif $BrunaReaction is 5>>\ She looks you over, and meets your blank gaze. <<else>>\ She looks you over, and seems to consider something... Perhaps she feels bad about ignoring you? Maybe not. Hard to say. <</if>>\ Your eyes meet, and her gaze turns rather soft for a moment. “And who’s this little brat?” Bruna asks but sounds different from earlier. Gentle though you have a vague suspicion that brat is not a nice word… Yet your internal sense is telling you this woman is not being mean. <<if $MC_name_random>>\ “This is our newest resident.” Lexia says. “We are working on a name.” She says and looks Bruna in the eyes. You think there is some communication between them. <<else>>\ Lexia smiles, and glances at you. “This is our newest resident, $MCname.” Lexia says. <</if>>\ “Hmm, well then. Nice to meet you and all that.” She stares at you. “Is there something specific you two are doing in my kitchen, or are you just looking around?” Bruna asks. “Yes, we did have something in mind.” Lexia beamed at the woman. "Come on kid, just like we practiced." Lexia whispers to you. "Unleash the puppy dog eyes, and we might get some treats out of this." Right. She promised you something tasty. You still only have a vague idea of these “treats” but tasty sounds appealing. You liked the stuff Havard brought to you earlier. You eye the Bruna woman, and wonder if this will really work as intended, but Lexia keeps smiling at you. You tilt your head upwards and try to make your eyes as wide as possible. Just like Lexia taught you. Innocent and pleading eyes, whatever all of that means. That is all you have. Bruna stares down at you. A moment, two moments. “Yes, what was it?” She asks eventually. “You know, we are rather busy. Behind schedule, since someone messed up the deliveries.” Oh no… it’s not working. You try making your eyes even wider, as wide as you can. Bruna keeps staring at you before turning to Lexia. “You really should have taught the brat what to ask for as well, instead of just the eyes.” She says, blankly. “You.” She points at a person stirring a pot who looks up. “Get the brat a bag of snacks. Some nuts…” Her eyes flick to your arms and bandaged hands. “Scratch that, get something tasty but easy to eat. Something that does not need too much precision. Whatever you can find, a little bag.” The person, a young man from what you can tell, nods at Bruna, smiles at you and takes off. You stare at Bruna confused… What did you do wrong. Lexia snaps her fingers. “Right. Should have probably taught the kid to do more than just stare… Oh well.” She smiles at you. “You did it, kid. Snacks incoming.” You did it! Snacks… You hope snacks are a good thing. Indeed, soon a bag is placed on your lap. You peer at it, but Bruna gives Lexia a look. “Now, out of my kitchens.” She waves a ladle at the Protector. “No number of cute brats will make me forget what a pest you are. You are banned for today." The cook glances at you. “You can come back, brat. If you need anything to eat or drink, just drop by once you are able. And welcome to the orphanage." She says. "Don't let this one." She points at Lexia. "Teach you her bad manners and we will get along just fine..” Lexia laughs, and you two leave the kitchens as you ponder about Lexia and her supposed bad manners. What does that mean? After you are outside the ktichen, Lexia takes the bag from your lap, and loosens the string tying the thing together. Something starts smelling really nice! You briefly consider if this bag could be some trick or a trap… But your nose is telling you there is something tasty in there, so you decide it is all good. "Here." Lexia deposits the bag back int your lap. "Have at it, kid. You deserve it." Your bandaged fingers dip into the bag and grab the first thing they come across. You pull out some kind of a disk… It seems crispy, sort of golden brow. “Oh, someone got lucky.” Lexia says and leans closer to whisper. “It’s called a cookie.” A cookie…. You lift it to your nose and sniff it… It smells…. delightful. You move it down a bit and lick it thoughtfully. Lexia chuckles, but you ignore that and instead stuff the cookie into your mouth. It is crunchy and soft, crumbling in your mouth, releasing a warm, rich flavor of… something. Something you have been missing your entire life… It’s so good. Your hands shoot back into the bag, and you stuff another cookie in to your mouth with gusto. Your eyes close as you munch down… So good. When your mouth is empty and you open your eyes, you find Lexia staring at you with a smile. “That good?” <<if ndef $CookieReaction >>\ <<set $CookieReaction to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[“Yes!” You exclaim.|Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“Yes…” You mutter reluctantly.|Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“No…” You mutter as your hand dips into the bag for a third cookie.|Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod enthusiastically. |Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod reluctantly. |Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod blankly. |Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head, while getting a third cookie.|Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare at her, then hold up the bag, offering her to take a cookie.|Tour_kitchens_yes_no3][$CookieReaction to $CookieReaction+5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $fountainreaction2_s is 1>>\ <<addLexia 5>>\ You can't risk it right now. She would probably stop you. She is really fast after all, you remember her catching you falling from across the room. No, you don't think you can do anything while she is so close. But won't she be close to you now all the time? How will this Protector business work? You have no idea. "You good, kid?" You don't really register the question, too lost in your own head again. How are you supposed to end yourself if she keeps watching you all the time? You are still lost inside your head. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Lexia keeps trying to get through to you.|Chapter 3_5_tour32]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<elseif $fountainreaction2_s is 2>>\ <<addselfharm 10>>\ You need to make Lexia move again. There is no point, if the wheel is not turning. So you start paying attention, smile and nod at Lexia, pretending everything is fine. She eyes you for a good bit... but eventually goes back to chattering about the garden and pushes you along. You choose your moment... and stick your hand into the inside of the wheel, hoping one of the things on the inside will break your hand as they spin. <<if $Lexia_love < 100>>\ <<addLexia -10>>\ Lexia catches your hand out of the air. As if she had been expecting this. Your gaze snaps to her face and... She looks absolutely heartbroken. "You'll have to be faster than that, kid. Or hide your intentions better. I was already worried about you." Her voice is calm but so sad you suddenly feel ashamed. <<else>>\ <<addLexia -20>>\ Lexia seems surprised by your actions, and her hand is a tiny bit too slow. Just an eyeblink perhaps, your fingers make it to the wheel before her hand catches yours. Or so you think. Instead of catching your hand, hers blurs and plunges into the wheel, stopping the movement in an instant by grabbing the center of the wheel. You hear a faint cracking sound from the chair under you... She lets out a sigh, then her gaze finds yours. She looks absolutely heartbroken. "You almost got me, kid. But..." Her smile is sad. "But it's not gonna be that easy." Her hand graps yours and pulls it out from the wheel, uninjured. <</if>>\ <<elseif $fountainreaction2_s is 3>>\ <<addselfharm 10>>\ You are not sure this will actually do anything. But you are pretty sure, the white stone underneath is hard. So you start paying attention, smile and nod at Lexia, pretending everything is fine. She eyes you for a good bit... but eventually goes back to chattering about the garden and carries you along. You choose your moment... and suddenly lean back and to the right, as far as you can. For a moment you can feel yourself sliding off from her hold... <<if $Lexia_love < 100>>\ <<addLexia -10>>\ For barely any time at all, Lexia catches you before you can even tilt significantly. Your gaze snaps to her face and... She looks absolutely heartbroken. "You'll have to be faster than that, kid. Or hide your intentions better. I was already worried about you." Her voice is calm but so sad you suddenly feel ashamed. <<else>>\ <<addLexia -20>>\ Lexia seems surprised by your actions, and her reaction is a tiny bit too slow. Just an eyeblink perhaps, as you start falling. Or so you think. Her whole form blurs and you are caught before hitting the ground. You really should have seen this coming, considering she could catch you falling from across the room. She lets out a sigh, then her gaze finds yours. She looks absolutely heartbroken. "You almost got me, kid. But..." Her smile is sad. "But it's not gonna be that easy." <</if>>\ <<elseif $fountainreaction2_s is 4>>\ <<addselfharm 10>>\ You pick your moment carefully. You will only have one try at this after all.... So you start paying attention, smile and nod at Lexia, pretending everything is fine. She eyes you for a good bit... but eventually goes back to chattering about the garden and carries you along. Picking a moment when Lexia is looking away, twisting subtly, you pull your head back and swing forwards as hard as you can. Towards her armored shoulder. <<if $Lexia_love < 100>>\ <<addLexia -10>>\ You are caught immedeatly after you start the movement forwards. A gentle but firm hand stopping your movement in it's tracks. Your gaze snaps to her face and... She looks absolutely heartbroken. "You'll have to be faster than that, kid. Or hide your intentions better. I was already worried about you." Her voice is calm but so sad you suddenly feel ashamed. <<else>>\ <<addLexia -20>>\ Lexia seems surprised by your actions, and her reaction is a tiny bit too slow. Just an eyeblink perhaps, as your head approaches her shoulder. Or so you think. Her whole form blurs and you are stopped by a firm hand between you and her shoulder. You really should have seen this coming, considering she could catch you falling from across the room. She lets out a sigh, then her gaze finds yours. She looks absolutely heartbroken. "You almost got me, kid. But..." Her smile is sad. "But it's not gonna be that easy." <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $fountainreaction2_s is 3 or $fountainreaction2_s is 2 or $fountainreaction2_s is 4>>\ You fidget in place, as Lexia looks at you. Really looks at you. She is not smiling right now. Her eyes are... not cold. Not wrathful. Sad and worried. That is what your internal sense tells you. Something inside you is odd. Tense. Fearful. What will she do? She's sad... Worried... What do sad and worried people do? "I would ask you why... but I don't think there is anything I can do about the why anymore...I... I saw you when you were brought in." She says, voice quiet. "So I have some... Faint idea." She saw? What did she see? You have no memories of that. What did she see. What did you do wrong? You need an end... Yet it feels wrong. Why does it feel wrong? <<if $nonverbal>>\ Perhaps the question shows on your face. Perhaps she is willing to tell you anyway. <<else>>\ "What..." Your voice is odd. So... tiny. Scared? Are you really scared of what she will say. <</if>>\ "Havard and I... We were the only ones there when..." She considers her words. "Let me back up." She sighs, and looks around. "Bench... Let's sit down." <<if $fountainreaction2_s is 2>>She glances at the wheeled chair. "Well, let me sit down so we can talk better." She pushes you towards the bench, settling you next to it and sitting down herself. <<else>> She carries you over to the bench and sits you down. Then sits down next to you herself. <</if>> She takes a deep breath. "Havard told you how you were saved?" She asks. <<if $q2>>\ You nod. You remember the explanation. The Ancient Lord Sheo, //something//, saved you, and left you here. Or so Havard claimed. <<else>>\ You think back. You must have blanked out on that part. //Something// saved you, and left you here. That seems to be a likely explanation. You shrug to indicate that you probably know. <</if>>\ "The gate guard told me that Lord Sheo had arrived, and I went that get Havard. Then we went to the healing baths." Lexia speaks calmly and quietly. "Inside we saw... Lord Sheo held you in the waters." Her eyes meet yours and you see.... something. Sorrow, sadness, anger, guilt. So many emotions swirl in those bright blue eyes. "You were hurt, kid. Really hurt." She says quietly. "Like... covered in scars from head to toe and..." She gestures to your arms. "Those were the worst..." You glance at your bandaged hands. <<if $sawhands_1>> Your hands... the twisted, ruined flesh full of grooves and odd lumps. Disgusting and wrong. She saw them? <<else>> <<if $drawer>> You saw dark, disgusting blood was from trying to open the drawer after waking up. She knows what is under the bandages? <<else>> You have not seen under the bandages. You haven't wanted to.... But she knows?<</if>><</if>> Lexia nods at your questioning look. "It was bad, really bad at the beginning." She says. "But... Lord Sheo healed you as much as he could.. Well I think the baths healed you but he... powered them up?" She ponders. "It was a lot of magic, more than I have ever seen any single person use..." She sighs. A lot of magic? //Something// did magic to heal you? You stare at your bandaged arms. Well, clearly he did not heal you very well. Yet... Your bandaged hands grab the neck hole of your $clothes, and you peer down at your torso... The countless scars and injuries are so faded now.... So maybe he did do a lot. Hard to say since you have very little idea about how bad it was. "The point is, you were saved, kid. Saved from a horrible place and situation. And I can't tell you how you should... deal with that." She says, looking lost, rubbing her neck. "I don't know how I can help. I want to.... but I have no idea how." But.. But you were saved, kid. Saved. Do you understand that?" Saved? Yes, you were saved. Probably, if this is not an illusion. What exactly is she getting at? You think hard about it. What does she mean you were saved? You try to remember back to the void... How did it go? You asked for help... Or you think you did. Then... //something// appearead. @@.emboss;"Do you wish to live?"@@ The clear and calm question you were asked. A question you answered. <<if ndef $fountainreaction2_s_r>>\ <<set $fountainreaction2_s_r to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You think you have it. What she means.|Chapter 3_5_selfharm2][$fountainreaction2_s_r to $fountainreaction2_s_r+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You have no idea what she means.|Chapter 3_5_selfharm2][$fountainreaction2_s_r to $fountainreaction2_s_r+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Something isn't quite adding up.|Chapter 3_5_selfharm2][$fountainreaction2_s_r to $fountainreaction2_s_r+3]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

Lexia stares at you for a moment. Her hand on your shoulder grips a bit tighter. “Hey, you ok?” She asks again. Her voice is soft and gentle, but firm. Insistent. She seems so calm right now. A voice firm enough to pierce the fog of your mind, and register as her hand grips your shoulder. Not hard, but enough to be noticed. You don’t really answer, but you do look at her. Whatever she sees in your face, your eyes, your expression, is answer enough. You do not know what kind of a face you are making, you rarely can tell what your face is doing. Her calmness shatters. “Oh crap, I need Havard for this. I am not qualified for this part!” Lexia is clearly panicking, even drawing her hand back from your shoulder as if burned. “Am I even allowed to touch you? What if I make it worse?" <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ You don't really see the point, she already touched you after all. <<else>>\ She is already carrying you, why is she worried about touching you now? You don't really get it. And she already touched you. <</if>>\ What harm could she do that hasn't been done to you a thousand times already? The fog in your mind that consumed you, and left you to your thoughts starts to recede as she panics. "You are my first charge; I was trained to fight things and follow you about… I don’t know what to do!” She fumbles with a pin on a necklace. “Havard! I need you!” She speaks to the pin in a panicked rush. You can only stare at her reaction, her panicked face and wide eyes. The worry in her expression. Why is she speaking to the pin thing? You saw Havard hold one earlier but... What are those pins? Both Havard and Lexia have one. It starts to calm you down. Why is she in such distress? Over your feelings? Your internal sense confirms it. She is panicking because she is worried about you, and has no idea what to do. Why? Why does she care? How can she tell from just seeing your face? What was your face doing to make her panic? You have no idea.... She is an adult. A Silver Protector... Why is she as lost as you are about something as normal as this? That's silly. She is strong, and has such shiny armor. Yet, she is panicked. She's silly. Why does it also make you feel odd? Why should she care about a thing like you? The darkness fades somewhat seeing her distress over your mental state. How odd? The distress of someone else is easing your own. Or perhaps it is just easier to pay attention to her panic rather than your own dark thoughts, out here under the sun. Suddenly it all feels rather... odd. It is so nice and warm out here. This panicked worry Lexia exhibits feels different from Havard worrying about you. Regardless of if you trust him or not, Havard worries about you. The vague sense inside you is certain of that, even if you do not know if that sense itself can be trusted. Yet, Havard in your limited experience has never seemed lost to you, never doubted that he could help you. Or if he has been lost, then even the sense inside you cannot tell because his determination shines true. The woman in front of you, dressed in gleaming silver armor, is fast enough to move faster than you can comprehend. A Silver Protector. An elite warrior. This woman who smiles at you widely, and who stares at you as if you are something interesting, something worth something. This woman who chatters at you about the orphanage, seems lost right now. She does not know how to ease your suffering, but she clearly wants to. She is so worried right now, talking to a pin. Is she all right? Maybe you are not the delusional one? Or is she some manifestation of your own delusions? Is talking to pins normal? Maybe it is something people just do? The absurdity of it all... You look at the fountain. The water is clear and looks inviting. The sun shines brightly above you. Why were you lost in your mind again? It is so hard to remember right now... “We are in the fountain garden nearest to $hisher room. I think seeing the fountain triggered something…” Lexia is talking into the pin in a hurry, restlessly glancing at you. The sense inside you is screaming at you right now. Telling you that this woman wants to help you but has no idea how. <<if $trustLexiaC3>> You trust her and she wants to help you. She swore it, yet now she seems so clueless. <<else>>You don't even trust her... but she wants to help you. You think she does anyway. Yet, she is lost.<</if>> Something in your chest feels warm for some reason. Are you getting sick? Some more damage from the void, cycle and captivity? You have no idea, but the dark thoughts have fled you and the warm feeling is… odd. You are not sure what to make of it. Maybe it's nice? Maybe it's annoying? Maybe the delusion is breaking, and soon you will wake up in the void. Who knows. You certainly don't. Still, your supposed Protector is panicking over normal things, and seems to need you to calm her down. <<if ndef $fountainreaction2>>\ <<set $fountainreaction2 to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You reach out to touch her shoulder.|Chapter 3_5_tour4][$fountainreaction2 to $fountainreaction2+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Just tug on her hair.|Chapter 3_5_tour4][$fountainreaction2 to $fountainreaction2+2]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[“I am ok”. Your voice is pretty calm.|Chapter 3_5_tour4][$fountainreaction2 to $fountainreaction2+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“I am fine!”. You snap, feeling annoyed by her panic.|Chapter 3_5_tour4][$fountainreaction2 to $fountainreaction2+4]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[Make a vague annoyed sound and wave at her to indicate everything is well.|Chapter 3_5_tour4][$fountainreaction2 to $fountainreaction2+5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You just stare at her blankly, no idea what to do. |Chapter 3_5_tour4][$fountainreaction2 to $fountainreaction2+6]]</div> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You smack her with your wings.. |Chapter 3_5_tour4][$fountainreaction2 to $fountainreaction2+7]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You smack her with your tail.|Chapter 3_5_tour4][$fountainreaction2 to $fountainreaction2+8]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $fountainreaction2_s_r is 1>>\ You answered //something//. @@.emboss;"Do you wish to live?"@@ <<if hasVisited("NoEnd1") and not hasVisited("Ending prologue 2")>> \ Had you not been uncertain? Had you not said, that you are uncertain if you seek death? You had not wished to live... Yet you had not wished to die. <<else>>\ You had answered yes. You wished to live back then Why? To end yourself now when things seem much better? Have you changed your mind? What changed? Things were horrible in the void? Much worse than now. Now there is porridge, and milk. Buttery bread. Why do you want to die now? <</if>>\ Unclear. Confusing. Everything is so confusing. You are trying to find an end now. That must mean you want to die now? Why? What changed? At what point did you make that decision? You don't know. Why have you made that decision? You don't know. Or is it not death you seek... Yes. You just want the parts of you that are wrong to be broken, to be torn away. Is that so wrong? Why is it wrong to try and end a wretched thing like you? Why do you know it is wrong? Memory? Your internal sense that seems to know odd things? You are not sure. @@.emboss;"Do you wish to live?"@@ The question //something// asked you still echoes in your mind. However, before you can consider it more, Lexia speaks again. <<elseif $fountainreaction2_s_r is 2>>\ You have no idea what Lexia is on about. What does being saved have to do with erasing the filthy existence that is yours? You remember //something// asking you that thing. @@.emboss;"Do you wish to live?"@@ You don't think that has anything to do with your current situation. That was back then. You were in the void. Everything sucked. Now you are out here, and you might ruin this place. So you should not be. It really is a simple concept. You are wrong, therefore you should end... Or so it feels like at times. However, before you can consider it more, Lexia speaks again. <<elseif $fountainreaction2_s_r is 3>>\ You might have it... but... Lexia should not know, what //something// asked you in the void. Unless //something// told her? Havard did not mention that. Why would //something// have told her? You don't think this is about what //something// asked you. Lexia should not know that. Unless she magically knows things? Does she have her own internal sense of things that tells her things she does not know? Yours does not tell you things like... what happened to Lexia a week ago? That would be... useful? Would it? The point is, that her question about being saved, likely has nothing to do with the question //something// asked you. It is relevant to your own state of mind, and you may ponder on that later. Right now... What did Lexia mean? Luckily she starts speaking again. <</if>>\ "You were saved..." She seems to consider her words carefully. "So wouldn't it be shame to waste this chance? You should at least try living before doing anything... drastic." She says, giving you a hopefull look. "It's not so bad here... If you just give it a chance... Please." <<if $fountainreaction2_s_r is 1 or $fountainreaction2_s_r is 2 >>\ Oh.. that's what she meant! <<else>>\ You were right! She did not mean what //something// asked you. She had a whole other point for you to consider! <</if>>\ You consider her words... Does she have a point? Is trying to end yourself a drastic measure before you have any idea what life outside the void is like? So far you have... however long it has been worth of experience. "That's all I wanted to say." Lexia says, and gives you a weak smile. "You don't have to know right now, but please just... Just try to enjoy life first." She gets up from the bench, and looks at you from the corner of her eye. "Give it some thought. I do think that we should keep up with the tour... Where should we go next?" <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Meanwhile elsewhere in the orphanage.|HavardPOV2 C3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $Walls is 1>>\ <<addinnocence 5>>\ You lean your head against her armored shoulder, and keep watching the sight of the city sprwaling out in front of you. You think you feel her look at you, but you don’t see her face. You don't need to see her right now. Her shoulder is cold, yet you feel safe. You feel right in trusting her. You have no idea what to say. No idea if you are all right. <<elseif $Walls is 2>>\ <<addstoic 3>><<addinnocence 1>>\ You just nod and keep your eyes on the expanse of space in front of you. Are you awestruck by the sight of the city sprwaling out in front of you. Afraid of it? Unphased by it all? Only you know that. But that sure is a sight you have never seen before. A sight you could never have even imagined. <<elseif $Walls is 3>>\ <<addfriendly 5>>\ You try to smile at Lexia… It comes out wrong you think but without something to see how it looks, you can’t be sure. Lexia still beams at you, brighter than the sun above. You can be satisfied with that, and turn your gaze back to the view in front of you. It's huge, beyond your comprehension really. The sight of the city sprawling out in front of you is something you could never have imagined. It all feel very unreal. <<elseif $Walls is 4>>\ <<addstoic 4>><<addinnocence 2>>\ You have no idea what to do so you just keep watching the view in front of you. The sight of the city sprawling out in front of you is something you could never have imagined. What are you supposed to do with that? You have no idea about anything. Maybe you never did. <</if>>\ You are lost in thought. Or perhaps lost in the view. Lost in life. Whatever it is, it feels... odd. Such an unreal sight. “That’s the Spire of Firgrat.” Lexia says, drawing you out of your gazing. A hand appears in your field of vision, Lexia is pointing at the tower that dominates the view. “Probably the largest building in the world. Definitely the oldest. That Spire is the headquarters of the Ancients. The place where they gather, and rule and do… whatever they actually do.” You glance at Lexia. She seems a bit forlorn. “That is what the place is mainly known for at least. Of course, it is so massive that there is tons of stuff in there. The center of the continent, maybe the world. Hundreds of levels, and people. Hell ,I spent a decade in there for training and believe me, I tried getting everywhere I could.” She smiles, lost in thought. “And I barely made a dent. Still have no idea how to get to the top, or even the upper levels.” Lexia used to live in that thing! That thing is so huge! Even the orphanage wall, that is really tall, is so tiny compared to the Spire. <<if $nonverbal>>\ Lexia peers down at you. “You probably have some questions… Let’s see if I can think about them.” <<else>>\ "You have any questions, kid?" She asks. <</if>>\ <<if ndef $Walls2 >>\ <<set $Walls2 to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal>> <div class="choice-item">[[“You are probably wondering how I ended up in there?” She says.|Tour_walls2_q1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“I should tell you what it is like in there?” She says..|Tour_walls2_q2]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice-item">[[“How did you end up in there? “|Tour_walls2_q1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“What is it like in there?”|Tour_walls2_q2]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have nothing to ask.|Tour_walls3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $nonverbal>>\ “You are probably wondering how I ended up in there?” <<else>>\ “How did you end up in there?" You ask. <</if>>\ "Hmm, let me think where to start... Well, I was a street rat. Do you know that that is?" A rat? She was a rat? How did she become a person? That sounds good, if a rat can become a person, you probably can too. Actually... That does not sound quite right, or so you feel. You may not know what a "street rat" means. After some consideration, you shake your head. "It means I was a homeless orphan on the streets. I won't get into why, but I used to sleep in alleyways and survive off scraps. Pulled some scams... Stole a lot." She smiles sadly. "Got into a lot of fights." Huh... You are not sure what stealing means. Fighting your internal sense has a lot of information on. Like find the weak spot. Why that in most circumstances translates go for the eyes, and if you can't reach, go for the crotch. You can unpack all of that later, but stealing? The only thing that comes to mind is "Don't get caught." Which is not very useful! "That sort of thing. Back then this place." She gestures to the orphanage behind you too. "Was not a thing. It's barely a thing now... but soon. Soon it will be a real functional haven for orphans." <<if $q6>>\ Right, Havard did mention that, did he not. That the orphanage is ne and not officially open yet. <<else>>\ So the orphanage is new... Did you know that already? Hard to remember. <</if>>\ "I don't know when the ancients started planning this place. Could have been a long time ago, they could have made it up as they went. But... nearly 11 years ago, my fortunes changed suddenly." Lexia watches the city but you are not sure she is really seeing it. "One day, I tried to steal from the wrong person..." Aha! So stealing is bad or at least getting caught doing it is bad! These things are good to know. Still no idea what stealing is but you are too busy listening to ask. "See, I saw this.. elf. You know what elves are?" She asks you, peering at you. <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") >>\ Weren't your pointy ears a mark that you have elven blood? <<if $HeritageFeature.length>1>> That in total you were part <<HeritageRaceList>>. <</if>> So having elven blood makes you part elf? <<if $HairLength is "short">>\ She can surely see your ears due to your $HairLength hair. <<else>>\ You push your $HairLength hair to the side to let her see better, in case she missed them. <</if>>\ Lexia smiles. "Right, your ears. Havard must have mentioned something about elves then." What did Havard say... Something about them being old and fancy? What does fancy even mean? Havard mentioned something else too... That they like trees and grass and stuff? Is that why you felt so nice in the garden? <<if $nonverbal>>\ You sort of nod and shrug to indicate you know something. "Ah... I think I can sum it up, just to be sure." <<else>>\ "Old and fancy?" You say tentatively. She lets out one of those bright sounds. Laughter. You think it is called laughter. "Sort of.. Well some of them." She smiles widely at you. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ You have no idea. <<if $HeritageFeature.length>0>>You are part <<HeritageRaceList>> but there was no elves included. <</if>> <<if $nonverbal>>\ You shake your head at her. <<else>>\ "No." You say, shaking your head. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ "Elves are... well immortal I suppose. That means they live forever. I think that is the most defining characteristic of their entire species. That and the pointy ears." <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") >>\ She points to your ears, and you clap a hand on one, trying to feel the pointy tip. Your bandaged hands don't do you favors, and you can't feel much. <</if>>\ They live forever? Is that not boring? How long is forever? "That means, they have a lot of time on their hands." Lexia says. "And the chances are they are really good at something. At least the older ones.... Too bad there is no real way to tell since they don't age." She sounds amused. "The elf caught me immediately." She says, lost in memories. "He was called Enlon." She shook off the memories. <<if $blades_trauma>>\ She hesitates, looking at you. "Uh... maybe brace yourself? I am gonna say a word you might not like..." She says weakly. You stare at her. A word you don't like. Like void? Cycle? How would she know about either. You give a small nod, and prepare just in case she does know them. "Swordmaster Enlon," She says slowly, watching your face. You tense at the word "sword", and for a moment you panic, thinking of blades carving and cutting. Then you hear Havard's words. "Focus. Breathe in and out." His words spoken to you not so long ago are helpful. He told you to just breathe and you do. Slowly. It's not so bad... You can breathe fairly well. Besides, your internal sense tells you swords are quite different to the blades used on you. Bigger and not used for such purposes. "You good, kid?" Lexia asks, hovering worriedly over you. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod. <<else>>\ "Yeah." You say, happy with how steady your breath is. <</if>>\ "Good... I am sorry but.. But I don't think you can avoid all such things or mentions of such things." Lexia says. "So I thought I should just say it. with a bit of warning." You accept this explanation. <<else>>\ "Swordmaster Enlon." She says without hesitation. <</if>>\ A swordmaster... Your internal sense knows a swormaster is someone who is really good at fighting with it. At least usually, it seems to think there can be frauds, peeople who are not actually masters but say they are. Why your internal sense knows about this and not other things... You have no idea. "A swordmaster has mastered the sword, and being an elven swordmaster... Well it means more than being a human one. or.. I don't know. A beastkin one? Since elves are immortal, being called a master means..." Lexia considers. "It means he is ridiculously good with a sword." Your perception of what is good and bad is well, bad. Even if your internal sense seems to have opinions. At least without actually seeing people fight with swords, you cannot say what being good means. Maybe not even then, who knows if this internal sense thing can be trusted. "So this guy caught me... and then just decided to take me with him to the... "authorities:"" Lexia says and grins. "He was a bit out of touch on how these things work, having lived the past... who knows how long in seclusion. So he dragged me right into the Spire." She laughs. "I was terrified. That old bas..." She glances at you. "Enlon was in Firgrat for a job, you see. From the council of Ancients themselves." She grins. You stare at her. The elf took her to the Spire because he caught her stealing? What was supposed to happen in the Spire? You glance at the massive tower in the middle of the city. Would she have been punished there? Strung up and beaten? You are not sure what stealing means so you imagine it must be serious if Lexia was taken to the Spire... Or maybe everyone who gets caught, gets taken there? How should you know. "The job being..." She leans in close to you, not apparently noticing your confusion. Either your face is not doing stuff right now, or she is too caught up in telling her story. "Sword instructor for a new elite group of warriors. The Silver Protectors." Her laughter is bright and plentiful. "Imagine that. Instead of me being punished, I was offered a position as a trainee. Once they explained what it was all about, I of course accepted." She winks. "Should have seen Enlon's face during the first lesson. He was... unhappy. But turns out the Ancients don't care and accept no complaints. He could quit or deal with it" She cackles, sounding a bit deranged. Soon her expression morphs into a fond smile. "I should visit that old bas..." She glances at you again, and clears her throat. "I should visit Master Enlon some time. We did end up getting along." She leans against the crenelations... Why does your internal sense of things know complicated words you definitely can't say out loud? <<if $nonverbal>> Assuming you spoke in the first place, of course. <</if>> "So, that is the short of it. That's how I ended up there." She gestures the Spire. "Dumb luck at the right time. Tells you something about the world, eh?" Her smile fades as her gaze settles on your bandaged hands. "Things like that happen too, you know. Good things can come out of bad things, kid. Sometimes." You have no ide about that... Maybe you will get it eventually. After you have enough time to get used to life outside the void. "So anything else?" She asks after a bit of silence. "You wanna know about, I mean?" <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal>> <<if not hasVisited("Tour_walls2_q2")>> <div class="choice-item">[[“I should tell you what it is like in there?” She says..|Tour_walls2_q2]]</div> <</if>> <<else>> <<if not hasVisited("Tour_walls2_q2")>> <div class="choice-item">[[“What is it like in there?”|Tour_walls2_q2]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have nothing to ask.|Tour_walls3]]</div> </div><</nobr>> /*The elves are renowned for their eternal youth, and grace. Usually considered close to nature and have an easier time with magic than most other races.*/

<<if $nonverbal>>\ “I should tell you what it is like in there?” She says. <<else>>\ “What is it like in there?” You ask. <</if>>\ "Hmm, hard to say. There are tons and tons of floors. I don't even know how many. Lots of people too. It is easy to forget where you are, since pretty sure people could live their whole lives inside and never need to come out." She ponders, watching the Spire. "There were basically two levels... no wait, three levels I spent all my time on." She says. You eye the Spire. It is very tall... taller than anything you have ever seen. Which is not much. How many levels are there? What is in them? Secrets? Food? Treasure? "First, the dormitories. That was where all the recruits who had nowhere else to go stayed. Some of the staff live on that level. It was nice enough, I had a bed and some room. Even if I had to share it with a few others." She says, smiling. "Pretty sure they would have had room to give us all rooms... but I think they did not have enough people to watch us. The custodians were not a thing yet, after all and we were recruits for them. Different relationship." A dormitory? No idea what that word means, but you sort of get it from her story. A place to sleep. Like your room. "Then here was the... let's call it training level. We had lessons and training there." She taps her armor. "About all things Silver Protectors. We learned how to fight and did all sorts of exercises. A lot of running and lifting things." She tries to remember. "Learned about magic... Well some magic. Some tactics and strategy... I was not all that good at that." You mostly hear one part of that. Magic. Lexia knows magic. You peer at her expectantly. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You have no idea how to indicate your interest in the magic without speaking. So you poke her and stare intently. Really intently. She stops talking, and stares at you. You do your best to communicate telepathically.... Not sure it is working. "Kid? Not sure what you are after.." Lexia tilts her head. Thinking hard, you start making swooshing motions with your hands through the air. Like the rivers of light that appeared when Lexia and Havard swore their oaths in your room. Magic. You let out some vague noises, whatever you can really. This is a special circumstance. Not words, words would likely not be possible. But something, as you gesture about. "Hmm... I am going to guess... The Eternal Flow?" She slaps her forehead. "Magic." She says. "You want to know about magic?" You nod, stopping your swooshing. <<else>>\ "Magic?" You ask. "Oh? Of course, everyone is curious about that." She says, and grins. <</if>>\ She ponders for a while. "Every Silver Protector knows some magic. It a requirment to wear this." She gestures to her armor, and smiles wide. "So yeah, I know magic. Imagine that, a street rat learned magic, and I don't mean just my hair." Her hair flashes bright red to demonstrate. "I suppose living here." She gestures to the city. "Makes it somewhat more believable. You know, the instuctor told us that magic is not really taught anywhere. " At your confused expression, she elaborates. "Even nobles, you know rich important folk, in other far away places, might not have the chance to learn magic. Not many people know how to properly do it, and most of the ones that do are old and grumpy." She laughs. "And I mean, not many humans. Pretty sure all elves, dragons and kitsune know some magic. Or at least, I would like to think so." You have only what Havard said to go on about those races, but you agree. They should all know magic. Seems only right. "But for humans, even for the ones with heritage from other more magical races, magic is hard. We learn to use their inherited blood at most. Like my hair." She flashes her hair again. <<if $HeritageType.includes("elemental")>> You try to copy her, flashing your own hair, but you have no success. <</if>> She turns you instead of watching the city. "So... you curious what awesome magic I can do?" She waggles her eyebrows. "I bet you are, no need to tell me." She laughs. "Well... I am sorry to be boring kid, but I learned nothing fancy looking." She says. "But I bet I can show you something..." She looks around. "Not much to work with here..." For a moment, she considers you.... She is carying you... "Nah, Havard would be really mad." She mutters to herself. "You mind if I set you down for a bit?" To see magic? No, you do not mind and nod your agreement. Lexia sets you to sit on the wall walk gently, making sure you are good before turning the merlons, the solid bits of wall between the crenelations... Why do you know that? Why does your internal sense know weird things. Luckily, you have no time to consider the why or this mystery as Lexia places a hand on the merlon. No, not a hand. A finger. A single finger. Then her legs leave the wall walk. Her hand is straight and her legs are off the ground. Lifting higher and higher. Until she is doing a one fingered handstand... <<if ndef $Walls3 >>\ <<set $Walls3 to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You can only gape at her.|Tour_walls2_q2_2][$Walls3 to $Walls3+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You have the urge to clap.|Tour_walls2_q2_2][$Walls3 to $Walls3+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare blankly.... It that impressive?|Tour_walls2_q2_2][$Walls3 to $Walls3+3]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["That so cool!"|Tour_walls2_q2_2][$Walls3 to $Walls3+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“How?” you ask, bluntly.|Tour_walls2_q2_2][$Walls3 to $Walls3+5]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

For a while, all is silent. Or so it feels like. Lexia clears her throat. “So in short, yes. I was an orphan in the city before this place was a thing. Then one day, I was taken into the Spire and offered a chance to become something more.” She beams at you. “Now, here I am. A silver Protector. A decade spent training in the Spire. Well... I am skipping over a lot of details and that training includes all sorts of things. But to put it simply.” With all the things she has told you, you now know more about Lexia than you do any other person. More than you know about yourself since the void ate so much of you. It is odd to know so much about someone, and she is just telling you this? Why? How can she just do that? Tell you about herself so easily. You don’t know this much about Havard either, he didn’t talk about himself. Yet, Lexia just... did it? Is that allowed? Can you one day go about, telling people about you. Will there be enough of you to tell people about? What is up with her? Your internal sense has very little to say about this, aside from that she seems sincere. Lexia lived in the Spire for a decade… that is a long time right? It’s odd, you think it is a really long time! Longer than even your stay in the void. Or so you think, but the sense inside you seems to think that a decade is not that long. Odd how your thoughts and the internal sense seem to be in conflict about time of all things. Lexia smiles at you. “You know, there was some talk of even having the orphanage inside the Spire.” She whispers to you, as if this was some secret. She does that a lot. “But in the end, it was decided that a compound like this with plenty of nature and a dedicated area just for this purpose was better. So here we are.” Wow. The orphanage, what you have seen of it, is really nice. All the gardens. Your room, and your bed. Yet, the Spire. The Spire seems incomparable to anything else you can see. It's so... big? How can anything be that big? “Still, this compound the orphanage is housed in or will be when we actually open, is very good. Now... look that way.” Lexia points and you turn to look. Your eyes widen. There, just on the other side of the orphanage, the city meets an ocean bay of crystal-clear water, its surface shimmering in the sunlight and reflecting the grandeur of the city. Water as far as the eye can see, merging with the sky at the horizon. Water so pure you can see the bottom, sand, corralled reefs with so many colors. A mosaic of blue and green, each shade more vibrant than the last. <<if $SawTheSea is true>> You of course saw the sea before when you were running away from Havard. Your room have a view of the sea. Still, seeing it twice does not make it any less magnificent. <</if>> “Firgrat bay. That is this city, three sides surrounded by mountains, and one by sea.” Lexia smiles widely. “The largest and oldest city in the world, as far as we know at least.” She spreads her free hand wide, as if encompassing the impossibly wide view. She walks along the wall, carrying you along. Eventually all that spreads out in front of you is the bay with it's clear waters. <<if $CurrentRaces.includes("merfolk")>>\ "You know, merfolk live in the sea." Lexia says as you ´both watch the ocean. They do? Didn't Havard tell you that? You think her did. Focusing on the ocean, you try to see if there are any merfolk visible. "I don't see any." Lexia says after a bit. Apparently, she was doing the same thing. You don't either. A shame... <</if>>\ “So how does it look like? Do you like the view? Was coming up here worth it?” Was it? You had to be carried up here. You saw a lot, the sky and the city. The Spire. Lexia talked at you a lot. Told you lots of things. Even if it was worth it… do you have to tell her that? <<if ndef $Walls4>>\ <<set $Walls4 to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[“Yes!” You exclaim.|Tour_walls4][$Walls4 to $Walls4 +1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“No.” You mutter…. and keep looking around. It was totaly worth it, but no need to tell her that.|Tour_walls4][$Walls4 to $Walls4 +2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[“No.” You say deciding you don't like all of this.|Tour_walls4][$Walls4 to $Walls4 +3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod enthusiastically. |Tour_walls4][$Walls4 to $Walls4 +4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You nod blankly.|Tour_walls4][$Walls4 to $Walls4 +5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head… and keep looking around. It was worth it, but you are not going to admit that.|Tour_walls4][$Walls4 to $Walls4 +6]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You shrug.|Tour_walls4][$Walls4 to $Walls4 +7]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You shake your head, deciding you don't like this.|Tour_walls4][$Walls4 to $Walls4 +8]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h2>A garden</h2>\ "We should find a garden. Relax a bit." Lexia says. You have no complaints about that. There is a lot to see after all, and despite the incident in the fountain garden, you are rather curious about all the greenery. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ Lexia pushes the wheeled chair you are into a lush paradise. <<else>>\ Lexia carries you into a lush paradise. <</if>>\ Much like the ones you have seen so far, this one is full of greenery. Trees and bushes, grass and flowers. The sunlight is warm, the breeze is refreshing. A small, living world of its own, hidden from the world. Well.. mostly by the walls of the orphanage but still hidden. The trees stretch their branches towards the sun, leaves rustling softly in the breeze. Bushes in shades of greed, some with flower blossoms or even round little things... Berries, your memory vaguely recalls. You are not done looking around, when Lexia draws your attention. She waves at some Protectors walking by. They keep their distance, letting the two of you have lots of space. Then she looks at you with her usual smile. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ She picks you up from the chair and sets you down to sit in the grass. <<else>>\ She sets you down in the grass. <</if>>\ She looks huge from down here! For a small bit, she does not remain standing. Instead, she sits down next to you in the grass. It's thick and lush under you, creating a gentle pressure against your $clothes. "Here we are. Grass, flowers..." She looks around. "It is a garden all right. You know..." She picks up a flower and stares at it. And stares. "Nope, I have no idea about plants. Can't tell you which flower this is." She says breezily and offers you the flower she picked up. <<if ndef $Garden >>\ <<set $Garden to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Accept it silently.|Tour_garden2][$Garden to $Garden +1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Accept it, and thank her.|Tour_garden2][$Garden to $Garden +2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Stare blankly until she drops the thing. |Tour_garden2][$Garden to $Garden +3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Accept it, inspect it, and eat it. |Tour_garden2][$Garden to $Garden +4]]</div> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Try to take it with your tail.|Tour_garden2][$Garden to $Garden +5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Try to take it with your tail. Then eat it.|Tour_garden2][$Garden to $Garden +6]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $Garden is 1>>\ <<addstoic 3>><<addfriendly 3>>\ Your bandaged hand reaches out to take the flower from her silently. Lexia deposits the flower into your open hand. Observing the plant, and tilting your head, you have no idea what to do. "Hmm, actually. Here." Lexia says, picking up the flower again, and putting it into your $HairLength hair. "There. It looks good there, compliments the $HairColor." She inspects your hair closer. <<nobr>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("feathers")>> "The feathers really make it stand out." She smiles. <<elseif $HeritageType.includesAny("elemental")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("elemental")>> <<if hasVisited("Tour_elementail")>>\ "You'll have to keep your hair from glowing too much to overpower it." She smiles <<else>> "Though the glow from your hair can sort of overpower it. Still nice." She smiles. <</if>> <<else>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("nature features")>> "More nature for your hair. Can barely tell it is there. Still nice, though." She smiles. <</if>><</if>> <</nobr>> "It looks very nice." She concludes. Well... You can't see it so are you supposed to know that. Maybe if you find a mirror thing? <<elseif $Garden is 2>>\ <<addstoic -3>><<addfriendly 3>>\ Your bandaged hand reaches out to take the flower from her silently. Lexia deposits the flower into your open hand. Somewhere in the recesses of your mind you feel something... You have an idea about what to do. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You bow at her as thanks. <<else>>\ "Thank you." You say. <</if>>\ There, you did well. "Well aren't you polite." Lexia beams. "Such a good kid!" Are you a good kid? She says so... You have no idea. <<elseif $Garden is 3>>\ <<addstoic 3>><<addinnocence 3>>\ You just stare... What are you supposed to do with that? What is it? Why is she giving it you? You have no idea. Lexia clears her throat. "Right." She does still smile at you, but it's not quite as bright. "Let's forget that happened!" She says, and lets the flower drop. "Don't worry, not everyone likes flowers. Or plants and stuff." That must be true. Not sure what it has to do with your current situation, but stil.. <<elseif $Garden is 4>>\ <<addcareful -3>><<addinnocence 3>>\ Your bandaged hand reaches out to take the flower from her silently. Lexia deposits the flower into your open hand. Observing the plant, and tilting your head, you think about what to do with such a thing... The plant... flower. Whatever. It is colorful... After some consideration, your decide to taste it! You take a bite, and much thoughtfully.... It does not taste very nice. "Damn it, it was not for eating." Lexia says from."Kid, you should not be tasting random things as a first resort." She shuffles, soon kneeling in front of you. You look up at her, and munch some more. You have no idea what is edible though... but the flower is not very tasty. Nothing like the bread or porridge. <<if hasVisited("Tour_kitchens_yes_no3")>> Certainly nothing like the cookies. <</if>> Lexia raises an eyebrow. "Kid, spit out the flower. Later are talking to Havard. He can try to explain what is edible and what is not." You consider this... and slowly spit out the flower. Only because it is not tasty though. Lexia lets out a breath. "Thanks, kid. Was worried there for a moment. Havard would be mad if you like... get sick from eating random flowers... " She looks at the surrounding greenery with suspicion. "Would there be anything here that could make you sick..." She ponders. "But you have... special circumstances. Your stomach might be upset if you eat something... <<elseif $Garden is 5 or $Garden is 6>>\ <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("tail")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ <<addcareful -2>>\ Your $Feature reaches out towards the flower, and you focus hard. Lexia's eyes go to your tail and she smiles, likely guessing what you are trying to do. She holds her hand still as your tail tries to take the flower. You have to focus hard, it's not easy and your tail grasps at nothing several times... You feel something... Hah! You have it! The flower is grasped in your tail. "Good job, kid!" Lexia beams at you. You focus on your tail... and slowly bring the flower closer to yourself... It drops almost immediately. Both you and Lexia stare at it for a while. "Don't worry, kid." Lexia says, picking it up and giving it to you. "All you need to do is try again. Don't feel bad if the first time doesn't succeed." The flower is now in your hand... <<if $Garden is 6>>\ <<addcareful -3>><<addinnocence 3>>\ Observing the plant, and tilting your head, you think about what to do with such a thing... The plant... flower. Whatever. It is colorful... After some consideration, your decide to taste it! You take a bite, and much thoughtfully.... It does not taste very nice. "Damn it, it was not for eating." Lexia says from."Kid, you should not be tasting random things as a first resort." She shuffles, soon kneeling in front of you. You look up at her, and munch some more. You have no idea what is edible though... but the flower is not very tasty. Nothing like the bread or porridge. <<if hasVisited("Tour_kitchens_yes_no3")>> Certainly nothing like the cookies. <</if>> Lexia raises an eyebrow. "Kid, spit out the flower. Later are talking to Havard. He can try to explain what is edible and what is not." You consider this... and slowly spit out the flower. Only because it is not tasty though. Lexia lets out a breath. "Thanks, kid. Was worried there for a moment. Havard would be mad if you like... get sick from eating random flowers... " She looks at the surrounding greenery with suspicion. "Would there be anything here that could make you sick..." She ponders. "But you have... special circumstances. Your stomach might be upset if you eat something... <<else>>\ You have no idea what to do with it. It's just there. Lexia consider the flower for a bit. "Hmm, actually. Here." Lexia says, picking up the flower again, and putting it into your $HairLength hair. "There. It looks good there, compliments the $HairColor." She inspects your hair closer. <<nobr>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("feathers")>> "The feathers really make it stand out." She smiles. <<elseif $HeritageType.includesAny("elemental")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("elemental")>> <<if hasVisited("Tour_elementail")>>\ "You'll have to keep your hair from glowing too much to overpower it." She smiles <<else>> "Though the glow from your hair can sort of overpower it. Still nice." She smiles. <</if>> <<else>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("nature features")>> "More nature for your hair. Can barely tell it is there. Still nice, though." She smiles. <</if>><</if>> <</nobr>> "It looks very nice." She concludes. Well... You can't see it so are you supposed to know that. Maybe if you find a mirror thing? <</if>><</if>>\ Lexia looks around, and lays down in the grass on her side. "Come on, kid. Try laying down. The grass is nice, at least if you are not atop a stick or something." You consider her suggestion for a bit, and decide to follow her example. <<if $trustLexiaC3>> Lexia is trustworthy so it is an easy choice. <<else>> Even people you don't trust could have good ideas. Though you will be upset if this laying down thing is bad. <</if>> Laying down next to her, you note that grass is softer than stone. You thought as much, but nice to confirm it. Is that all grass? Or is this vibrant lush stuff an exception? It still feels odd, you try rubbing your bandaged hand against the grass. Sort of... cool and springy beneath your hand. Then you lean in and sniff the green field. Hmm... smells fresh. No idea what else. "Really, kid? You sniffing the grass out here?" You just did it, so you must be. Instead of answering, you keep investigating the grass under you. You test your fingers by tearing out some grass... It works. Not well, but you get some grass. Odd how it just... tears even from your weak grip. You try rubbing some grass together... It's odd. Is it alive? Did you just kill the grass? You didn't mean you... Probably. Then you note some movement amidst the green. Tiny creatures are present.... You watch them... Lexia glances at you. "Bugs. Those are bugs." Bugs? You glance at her. Huh... What should you do? <<if ndef $Garden2 >>\ <<set $Garden2 to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Try laying down like she is.|Tour_garden3][$Garden2 to $Garden2 +1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Try to grab a bug.|Tour_garden3][$Garden2 to $Garden2 +2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Sit there, perfectly still, watching the bugs.|Tour_garden3][$Garden2 to $Garden2 +3]]</div> <<if $Garden is 4 or $Garden is 6>> <div class="choice-item">[[Grab some green stuff, bugs and all, and start the taste test. Again. You forgot what that flower tasted like.|Tour_garden3][$Garden2 to $Garden2 +4]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice-item">[[Grab some green stuff, bugs and all, and start the taste test.|Tour_garden3][$Garden2 to $Garden2 +4]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>> /* laying under a massive blue sky... For several moments, nothing happens. You just exist and watch the sky. The white things floating about draw your attention, as does the big yellow ball. Clouds and the sun, your internal sense inform you. You try starting at the big ball.. The sun, but that hurts your eyes. So you just watch the sky and the white things. You sort of wonder what they taste like... Looks fluffy... Wait.... You are under the sky... and endless open thing above you. Can you fall in? How does falling work? You have lots of experience falling onto the ground, but can you fall upwards? You glance at Lexia. She does not seem worried, staring up at the sky and seeming lost in thought, hands behind her head. Is that comfy? Hands under your head like that? Should you try it? */

<<if $Garden2 is 1>>\ <<addLexia 5>>\ You try settling your bandaged hands behind your head, like Lexia is doing. The position is... not a comforting one. Very open. Very odd. You feel vulnerable. Not that being all wound up and curled up ever saved you in the past. You have never had the strength to resist, no matter how tightly you tried holding onto stuff. Best stop thinking about that before you have another incident. You shake your head vigorously, pushing away the thoughts. "You good, kid?" It seems your actions have drawn Lexia's attention to you. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod., <<else>>\ "Yeah." You say. <</if>>\ Lexia stares at you for a while, but accepts your answer. You try turning to your side instead, to shake off the thoughts. Your hands go under your head your head you stare at Lexia. And the bugs? What if the bugs like... eat you? Lexia does not seem worried. <<if $trustLexiaC3>> If she is not bothered, then you are probably fine. <<else>> You should keep an eye on the bugs... Lexia might be trying to get you eaten. You narrow your eyes at the woman. "Hmm, what is it, kid? Do you have a stomach ache?" She asks. You just narrow your eyes more... Until you get tired of it. <</if>>\ It's not nearly as comfortable here as in your bed. Much more confy than in the void. Nice smells and sounds... And at least your bandaged hands make for an ok pillow. Eventually Lexia gets up. <<elseif $Garden2 is 2>>\ <<addLexia 3>>\ Your eyes trace a bug... One of the bigger ones. Lexia takes an interest in your interest and starts talking about the bugs. You watch in quiet fascination as the big bug, it's called a beetle apparently, marches up a bent blade of grass. It pauses near the top, its antennae twitching. Your eyes narrow... and you reach out! Your fingers try to grasp the bug from it's perch... and the bug just escapes your clumsy fingers. Darn... Your bandaged digits are really not good at this. Still, you try again a few times. You fail every time... Your fingers are too clumsy for this. However, you make a discovery! If you leave your hand in the grass, some kinds of bugs will climb it! Not all of them, but some. You slowly lift your hand in front of your face and stare at the bugs... Ants, Lexia tells you. What are you supposed to do now? You have ants.... and what is one supposed to do with ants? You just stare at them. Eventually they start going for your sleeves, and you wonder if that is fine. Lexia interferes before you can decide. "Ok, I think we don't want ants in your clothes." She sits up and starts plucking off ants with gentle fingers... How is she doing that so quickly? After she is happy with the state of your sleeves, Lexia gets up. <<elseif $Garden2 is 3>>\ <<addLexia 5>>\ You are as still as a statue. You think statues are still at least. Your eyes are focused on the bugs. The grass is soft under you, the trees rustling in the breeze. Sunlight filters through from above, creating spots of gold in the garden. Lexia takes an interest in your interest and starts talking about the bugs. You watch in quiet fascination as something called a beetle, one of the bigger bugs, sort of armored, marches up a bent blade of grass. It pauses near the top, its antennae twitching. Then runs off while you watch. Nearby, two ant things, or so Lexia says, are dashing about, before disappearing into the earth through a small crack. You sit there, still as a stone, watching. Listening. Wondering if the bugs notice you too. Would you notice if a giant was observing you? That is a thought. Perhaps you should keep an eye out for giants... <<elseif $Garden2 is 4>>\ <<addLexia -5>>\ It is hard, grabbing things with your bandaged hands. Luckily for you, grass and tiny flowers are not very hard to deal with. Some of them break, some come up with bits of dirt. For a bit you watch the grass you grabbed out, thoughtfully. The brows stuff is dirt? Soil? There seems to be some of the bug things in there.... Maybe bugs are tasty. How should you know without trying it. You sniff your hand. Smells sort of like the garden does. A little black bug runs across your bandaged knuckles. So a taste test it is! You munch down on the grass and bugs, just stuffing them all into your mouth. Munch. Munch. Crunch. <<if $Garden is 6>>\ <<addLexia -2>>\ "Didn't we just talk about this, kid?"Lexia sits up and looks at you... You think she thought you just ate another flower. But no, you mouth if full of grass, flowers and bugs. And some dirt. <<else>>\ "Kid, why do I hear chewing?" Lexia asks, sitting up to look at you. She stares for a moment... at your mouth. That is full of grass, flowers and bugs. And some dirt. <</if>>\ "Did you just eat a bunch of stuff off the ground." You nod. Munch. Munch. Lexia stares... Then jump us, startling you. "Ok, spit all of that out." She says and kneels in front of you. Why? It's not that bad... Ok, it is not very tasty. Not tasty at all... Still you keep munching. Maybe you will like it in a bit. "Kid, spit it out." You stare at Lexia. She stares at you. The taste of dirt, bugs and grass is not improving... So you open your mouth and let the glob of... green mush drop out... Right onto your lap. You stare at it. Lexia stares at it. You know... It really does not look that tasty like that. Lexia silently reaches out and flicks it off your lap, then gets up to wash her hand in a little fountain. Ah... You wanted to see the bugs in there. Or did you eat them all? <</if>>\ "Ok, I think it's time to go." Lexia says. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You leave the garden.|Tour_main]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $spire to true>><<notify 3s>>Firgrat codex updated.<</notify>>\ <<if $Walls4 is 1>>\ “Yes!” You exclaim, full of enthusiasm. Lexia chuckles at your answer. “That is good.” <<elseif $Walls4 is 2>>\ “No.” You mutter…. and keep looking around. You are not going to admit it was worth it. Why would you? Lexia gives you a look, and smiles. “Hmm, is that so? Why don’t I believe you?” You are tempted to make a huffing sound but suppress it. <<elseif $Walls4 is 3>>\ "No." You say after thinking about it. Lexia looks at you for a while. "I see. That's a shame... But that is fine." <<elseif $Walls4 is 4>>\ You nod enthusiastically. Lexia chuckles at your answer. “That is good.” <<elseif $Walls4 is 5>>\ You nod blankly. Lexia smiles softly at your answer. “That is good.” <<elseif $Walls4 is 6>>\ You shake your head… and keep looking around. You are not going to admit it was worth it. Why would you? Lexia gives you a look, and smiles. “Hmm, is that so? Why don’t I believe you?” You are tempted to make a huffing sound but suppress it. <<elseif $Walls4 is 7>>\ You shrug, having no strong feelings on the matter. How are you supposed to decide these things? You have no idea. Lexia tilts her head at your answer. “It’s ok to not know yet. You have time. <<elseif $Walls4 is 8>>\ You shake your head after some time. Thinking about it, you don't feel like all the hassle was worth it. Lexia looks at you for a while. "I see. That's a shame... But that is fine." <</if>>\ You both turn to stare out towards the city. Your gaze flits from one thing to another. The Spire is the obvious thing, but there are so many things you have never seen before. You see countless people, little more than little dots in some places too far away, and some clearly people shaped but too far to make out any details. So many people... Can they all exist at once? Is there enough space for all of them? Enough tasty food? There must be, since you think people die without food... Probably. You focus more on the places, since the people are mostly too small to see all that well. <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>>\ <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("eyes")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ Even if you change your eyes into your $Feature... Nope. You don't have much luck seeing much better... Maybe you will get better at it? At least you think you changed your eyes, you have no mirror to tell. Perhaps you should practice with the eyes... <<if $AskedHavardHeritage>>\ Wait... Havard had cat eyes. Maybe he could help. <</if>>\ Anyway, back to the places in the city. <</if>>\ Lexia follows your gaze often to explain what you are looking at. Streets that are the things that people walk on to get to places. Markets where people apparently buy things, whatever buying things is. A library that is apparently full of books, the things full of the squiggly things that you can’t understand. A big elaborate building that is something called a brothel, that Lexia says gives special massages to people... You wonder what massages are, but there is too much to see to focus on that for too long. Though apparently, this one is "upper class", whatever that means? Lexia eyes the city, looking for things you have not yet seen. “You know, from here it is hard to tell, but over time, the city has grown so vast that it has begun to build upon itself, since the mountains limit how much Firgrat has expanded. So, the Ancients gave orders to create layered levels that rise one atop the other.” You turn your gaze back to the city and squint your eyes, trying to make out these levels. Lexia chuckles. “It is hard to tell from here. This is the top level currently and the orphanage is a bit special. It has its own platform, so people need to use bridges to even get here. It is basically an isolated fortress with the walls and limited pathways.” She points out some bridges that lead to the Orphanage. Three bridges all combining into one, and then approaching the wall. Are orphanages supposed to be like this, you wonder? Those bridges however give you a peek at the other layers. The levels are not cramped things, there must be 300 feet between the layers! How many layers are there? How can such a thing exist. There are streets that wind upwards in intricate spirals, bridges crisscross between towering buildings even in the middle of a layer, and entire districts are perched on elevated platforms just like the orphanage. The lower levels teem with life, their bustling markets, workshops, and homes casting long shadows beneath the towering structures above. As one ascends, the air grows thinner and the architecture more opulent, until finally reaching the uppermost tiers, where only the wealthiest and most powerful reside. Or maybe just the more recent… The city must be a nightmare to navigate. “You know, rain and snow are odd. Only some of it can pass through the different levels, and sort of dribble down into the lower levels.” Lexia says. You stare at her… Rain? Snow? You have to ponder… what are those again? Water from the sky? You glance at the big blue expanse up there. “What water makes it down there, forms these little balls called oozelet things that roll around to find bigger bodies of water.” You have no idea what she is talking about, but you listen to her talk. It seems like the thing to do. “There are these lights down there, called street lamps since there is so little natural light once you go down far enough.” Lexia gestures vaguely with her free hand. “Nowhere as fancy as the magical lights here at the orphanage, but I used to watch them a lot when I was little.” You are still wondering about the water things… Little? She used to be little? Well, you vaguely know you are a tiny person… Or maybe a tiny thing? A child, you think. So will you one day become a big person? Maybe? If you survive however long that takes. It is something to ponder. How does it happen? Will it hurt? How long does it take? How is time measured anyway? There is so much you don't know. Yet.... You glance at Lexia. What an odd woman, talking at you so much. Then you look back at the city. At the sea, and you try to peek to see these other levels of the city. You don't have much luck with that last one. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Eventually Lexia carries you down from the walls.|Tour_main]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $Walls3 is 1>>\ <<addinnocence 3>>\ You gape and stare. Your mouth might be open. How is she doing that? Lexia seems happy with your reaction. <<elseif $Walls3 is 2>>\ <<addstoic -3>>\ You had the oddest urge to clap... Why? Who are you to ignore the urge... Seems harmless. You bring your bandaged hands together a few times. It does not really sound like anything. Lexia still seems happy. <<elseif $Walls3 is 3>>\ <<addstoic 3>>\ You stare blankly... Is that impressive? You are not sure. Pretty sure you can't do that, but can other... people? How should you know. You have no idea what to do. How are you supposed to react to things? Lexia looks at you, almost hopefully... Her upside down smile does not drop, but instead she laughs. "Knew I should have learned elemental magic." She laughs. <<elseif $Walls3 is 4>>\ <<addstoic -3>><<addfriendly 3>>\ "That so cool!" You exclaim, waving your hands about. How is she doing that? Can you do that? You can't do that? Can you learn to do that? How do you learn to do that? Lexia still seems happy with your reaction. <<elseif $Walls3 is 5>>\ <<addfriendly -3>>\ "How?" You ask bluntly. Lexia seems happy with your reaction. "Magic." She waggles her eyebrows. <</if>>\ She stays there, only on one finger for a bit, legs tightly together towards the sky. Then lowers herself so her face is almost touching the merlon thing... She pushes a bit into the air, changing to using a whole hand. Then pushes much harder, getting some airtime and landing gracefully on the wall walk. "Physical enhancement. Makes me... Well fast, strong, durable, really good at hearing or seeing. Not all at once, unless I really strain myself... Not that much could get through this stuff." She pats her armor. "Still. That is my chosen magic." She smiles. "It doesn't look flashy... but it suits me. I think." She says. Does it? She has armor. So her being strong and fast makes sense in your mind. Though your internal sense keeps insisting armor does not automatically make her those things. Your argue that she is so shiny! Your internal thing seems to think shiny does not automatically mean much...<<if $CurrentRaces.includes("dragon")>> For some reason, you really like shiny things. Maybe you should try gathering some....<</if>> "Ok, where was I." Lexia pulls you out of your ponderings. "I told you about the dormitories and training. So, that leaves the library!" Library? What is a.... Oh, your internal sense knows something useful. Library is a place that contains many many books. The things with the weird squiggles in them. The ones you can't make any sense from.... Why does your internal sense only know useless things? What are those squiggles good for? They make no sense. "Now I know how that sounds!" Lexia hurries to say. "But I have to admit, I was not there a lot to read books." She says, rubbing the back of her head. "I was there to see a girl!" She grins at you, as if expecting you to react to this revelation. "And a boy!" She adds... Ok? So what? You don't see what the big deal about that is. Yet, Lexia leans close to your and whispers. "I made friends." She nods seriously. Friends? You have only the vaguest idea aboutwhat those are. Still, the way she says it makes it sound important. Lexia nods again seriously. "One of my friends. Alessa, was a librarian's daughter, eventually a librarian herself. Until she became a Custodian. Right here." She gestures off the wall, at the orphanage complex. "She's the Custodian for the twins. Isn't that cool? And that boy? A Silver Protector recruit, the son of a merchant that did business with the Spire. Now he is here too... Working as Alessa's partner." She chatters on, picking you up again so you can see the city. "It is really odd, where life takes us. See, when I was a street rat, I had no friends. No people to trust. Even in the Spire, it was not so easy to make friends. I was an orphan, a street rat. It made me... different from most of the kids training there. Not all of course, but the ones with backgrounds like mine did not... Well trust was hard for people like us. And to make matters worse, as I have already told you, one of our instructors had a bit of a grudge against me. Not that he ever acted on it, but he did glare at the beginning." Her smile is brilliant, and nostalgic. "Alessa and Sandor though... They were nice to me." You listen to her talk. It feels odd. She is telling you so much about herself. "Even if they are rather hopeless with each other." What does that mean? "We hung out in the library a lot since Alessa was there a lot, and Sandor and I were running about most days, between training, lessons and whatever else we had to do. Lots of odd things really, from shopping for rare stuff, to helping people..." She smiles. "Those were the days." She shakes her head. "You might be wondering what this has to do with anything? Well... friends are good, kid." She adjust you, and looks at the Spire. "I hope you'll make some." Her voice is soft, her eyes on you for a moment, lips curled up. Then she looks back at the city. "That was my point..." You are not sure what to say to that... You barely know what friends are. Are friends something a thing like you could ever have? You don't know. There is so much you don't know. So you stare out at the city in silence, wondering what the future holds. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[If you had more questions, her longwinded explanation wiped them from your mind. You can probably ask later, she clearly likes to talk.|Tour_walls3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Lexia pushes you along towards the walls. You arrive at the base of a staircase. “This leads up to the walls.” Lexia says. “The view is nice!” She smiles at you. “You can see the city, the mountains, and the bay.” She gestures with her hands, pointing in directions… Of course you can’t see anything but the wall from down here. “We will have to dump the chair, I don’t think it will go up the wall stairs with any level of comfort.” She smiles. “But don’t worry! I will carry you up… if you let me?” She looks hopeful. So you must either abandon seeing the view from up there, from seeing this city and whatever hides outside these walls. Or you can let her carry you. "We can go somewhere else if you are not ok with that?" Lexia says, yet she does look very hopeful about being allowed to carry you. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Let her carry you. She beams at you, as she picks you up.|Tour_walls]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Do not let her carry you. If she feels disappointment, she hides it rather well as she pushes you away from the stairs.|Tour_main]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $Baths is 1 or $Baths is 3>>\ <<if $Baths is 1>>\ Lexia notices your stare. <<elseif $Baths is 3>>\ “What that mean?” You ask. <</if>>\ “Did that go a bit over your head?” She asks. What does that mean? You look up. Is there something over your head? You see only the roof. Lexia giggles, drawing your gaze back to her. “I am asking if you understood what I meant?” Oh...OH! Why didn't she just say so. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod at her, indeed you did not understand what she meant. <<else>>\ "I did not." You state with a nod. <</if>>\ "It means to change your clothes. People usually bathe without their clothes." She points at your $clothes. "Usually there is a separate room for undressing before your bath and dressing after your bath." Hmm.... <<if ndef $BathsQ >>\ <<set $BathsQ to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You would like that. Getting naked out here seems... uncomfortable.|Tour_baths_2_question][$BathsQ to $BathsQ+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Why not just change here?.|Tour_baths_2_question][$BathsQ to $BathsQ+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are still not sure why you need to wear clothes in the first place.|Tour_baths_2_question][$BathsQ to $BathsQ+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You don't really care, one way or the other.|Tour_baths_2_question][$BathsQ to $BathsQ+4]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<else>>\ You don't need to know, you are already getting far too much information today. You might explode if you try to remember it all, and your brain is already all leaky. It can't store all of this. So you stare at the clear waters of the bathing pool. The marble is pristine, even though the shimmering water. Clear white sheets occasionally veined with something silver. You let your gaze roam the room, from the pool to the sides with shelves with some kind of pieces of cloths and bottles. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Lexia draws your attention to her.|Tour_baths_3]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>

<<if $BathsQ is 1>>\ <<addshy 3>>\ It sounds uncomfortable, changing out here. The door is right there... anyone could walk in. See other people in the middle of this...changing thing. The thought makes your cheeks feel warm for some reason. Wait... if you are supposed to bathe naked... that still applies! <<elseif $BathsQ is 2>>\ <<addfriendly -3>> Seems pointless, doesn't it? If one does this bathing thing nude anyway, why is there a need for a separate room? <<elseif $BathsQ is 3>>\ <<addinnocence 3>>\ Why do you need clothes anyway? If you take them off for these bath things anyway, why bother wearing them in the first place? This world outside the void really makes very little sense. <<elseif $BathsQ is 4>>\ <<addstoic 3>>\ You don't care either way. Wearing clothes, not wearing clothes? Taking them off here, or somewhere else? None of it makes any real difference to you. People make such a fuss about the oddest things. <</if>>\ "Of course, you may have noted the fact that if you bathe naked, why should there be a separate room for changing?" Lexia says. "After some thought... I came to the conclusion it is to store your clothes, and to keep them dry!" She announces, and looks a little smug. "Maybe. Or people are weird about nudity." You stare at her for a bit... and decide that seems as plausible as anything else. "You can always ask Havard. He might know better." Lexia says. <<if $nonverbal>>"Well, you can ask after the communicator thing comes." She winks at you. Not much you can do about that right now, you just need to accept it.<</if>> Still Havard does seem to know lots of stuff. Maybe he will know. If you remember to ask. You might not. You look around for a bit, seeing the shelves with some kind of cloth on them, and lots of bottles. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["Hey kid" Lexia draws your attention to her.|Tour_baths_3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $sawHealingBaths is true>>\ "Since we are here, you should soak that hand of yours. The one with the splint." Lexia says, casually. Your gaze snaps to her... Does she know? She is not looking at you however. "You should soak your hands anyway so it all works out." <<else>>\ "Since we are here, you should soak your hands in the bath. It heals, you know." <<if $got_injured_c1 is true>>\ You did know that... The healing water stuff. Havard used it earlier to heal you after you got hurt. <<else>> \ <<if $nonverbal is not true>> \ You drank some of that stuff to be able to talk. So it must do something. <<else>>\ Havard mentioned it at some point, did he not? It is hard to keep track of these things. <</if>><</if>><</if>>\ "The real question is... Do you want to take a proper bath? Or just soak your hands?" Lexia asks. "We have the time." Lexia turns her head to peer at you. A proper bath? What does that include? <<if hasVisited("Tour_baths_2_question")>> apparently you need to be naked for that... But that is really the only thing you know about a "proper bath?"<</if>> These bath things are something people do during their lives... Or so you gather from Lexia. So should you try and learn now how to do this thing? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to try this bath thing.|Tour_baths_3_yes]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are not trying this bath thing.|Tour_baths_3_no]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

You want to try this bath thing properly and indicate so to Lexia. She just nods. "Ok, then let me help you a bit." She ponders. "The bandages I think can stay on... They will dry or can be changed later. There is magic in them, and I don't wanna mess with them. But your $clothes will have to go." <<if $Baths is 1 or $Baths is 3>>\ You knew that already since you asked about the changing thing. <<else>>\ They do? Is that what the changing thing was about? Changing... out of your clothes? That makes some sort of sense. <</if>>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ Lexia pushes you to one end of the room where there are lots of shelves. <<else>>\ Lexia carries you to one end of the room where there are lots of shelves. She sets you donw on a bench. <</if>>\ "Let's set this aside form now." She takes your cloak and sets it into one of the shelves. "It will be right here the entire time." You can see your cloak, so you suppose it is fine to leave it there. Only for a bit though. You want it back. It's your cloak. <<if $clothes is 'shirt and pants'>>\ "Now lift your arms as high as you can!" She says cheerfully, helping you out of your shirt. Then your pants. <<elseif $clothes is 'dress'>>\ "Now lift your arms as high as you can!" She says cheerfully, helping you out of your dress. <<elseif $clothes is 'robes'>>\ "Now lift your arms as high as you can!" She says cheerfully, helping you out of your robe. <</if>>\ You think Lexia hesitates a moment after helping you undress. But it is over so soon, you can't tell. You glance down at your body. <<if $checked_scars>> Maybe it's the scars? You think you used to have a lot more, and these ones seem faded. Really not bad at all. <<else>> You are rather covered in scars. Wait... Isn't that a lot less than you used to have? It's all so foggy... Where did they go? Assuming you did have a lot more? <</if>> Soon Lexia is carrying you to the pool. She takes a few steps into the water, armored feet surrounded by the shimmering lights. She does not go in deep. At this point, you realize that you will soon be lowered into a big pool of water... and you vaguely think there is something you should remember about these things. Luckily, you don't have to remember much, since Lexia interrupts your thoughts before they can go any further. "Now, don't worry about sinking or anything like that, kid. This pool is safe, can't drown in here unless something is really wrong. I think it's the pool itself that is enchanted so people always end up head above water after a bit... Don't ask me how it works. It's probably complicated. Or at least beyond me." Oh, it was sinking into the water that you vaguely recalled! Would that be bad? You feel like that could be bad. But Lexia says it is all fine so... <<if $trustLexiaC3>> You trust Lexia so it's fine. <<else>> You don't trust her... but it seems too late to back out now.<</if>> Lexia gently lowers you into the water but does not let go. You sink, and sink... Lexia is still holding onto you. "Do you want me to let go? You will sink below water for a bit, then pop back up soon enough." She smiles. "But if that is scary, then I can stay here and hold your head..." She is crouching down and it must not be very comfy. But she is offering. The shimmering waters surround you, faint trails of light surrounding your body. How are you feeling about the experience so far? <<if ndef $Baths_like >>\ <<set $Baths_like to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You want out of this wet hell!|Tour_baths_3_yes2][$Baths_like to $Baths_like +1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[This is nice. She can let you go.|Tour_baths_3_yes2][$Baths_like to $Baths_like +2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[This is nice... but you want her to support your head. |Tour_baths_3_yes2][$Baths_like to $Baths_like +3]]</div> <<if $HeritageRace.concatUnique($HeritageRace2).includes("merfolk")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You feel odly at home in the water.... Feels very welcoming. You think your face fins are making odd happy twitches. |Tour_baths_3_yes2][$Baths_like to $Baths_like +4]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You don't have any strong opinions on this, and just lay there completelly still.|Tour_baths_3_yes2][$Baths_like to $Baths_like +5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are too busy trying to drink the glittering water to really care about that.|Tour_baths_3_yes2][$Baths_like to $Baths_like +6]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

No, you don't want to try this bath thing. Who knows what a "proper" bath includes and your day so far has been too full of new things. Besides, you might not be a person and therefore you might not need baths. "That's fine for today:" Lexia says. "Still, you should soak your hands but let's leave the bandages on. The sun will dry them soon enough." <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>>\ Lexia extract you from the wheeled chair thing gently, and sets you down right next to the pool. <<else>>\ Lexia carries you to the edge of the pool and sets you down gently. <</if>>\ "Just dip your hands in for a good bit." She says, while she peels up your sleeves. You do as instructed, sinking your hands into the glimmering waters... You expect to feel something... but you don't feel much. The shimmering lights swirl around your hands, but they are just pretty. You don't feel anything when the lights touch you, though it is hard to say if that is your messed up senses, or if that is just normal. <<if $sawHealingBaths>>\ Was it like this before? You suppose it was. <</if>>\ It almost feels disappointing, that the magical healing waters do not feel like much. Gentle and soothing... Actually that is good. If it felt bad or something, would anyone use this bath? Probably not. You watch the shimmering lights around your hands, and try moving your fingers. They move... not well but they move. Wait... can't you just soak your legs in the magic water? Would you be able to walk if you did? You turn your head to Lexia. <<if $nonverbal>>\ Of course, just staring at her is not doing much... but how to ask. "What is it, kid?" Lexia asks. "Maybe... point?" She suggests. That could work. You pull one bandaged hand out of the water. Water drips from the bandages and your sleeve but you just point at your legs. <<else>>\ "Would this work for my legs?" You ask. <</if>>\ "Your legs?" It takes her a moment. "Oh, you can soak them, but I don't think it's gonna work. It's... not like a wound. Or something like that. I think it's just... not using them that's made them all weak.." She ponders. You don't really get the difference. Magic water is magic, why would it not work if it can heal things? <<if $HavardMeetingReaction is "escape">>\ <<if $SawTheSeaC1 is true>>\ "And I heard you ran away from Havard in a panic... which probably did not help in the long term. So the bath might help in case anything happened while you were running. So sure, you can soak them." <<else>>\ "You did go out a window in a panic... but panic is a really amazing motivator to do things. But sure, you can soak them." <</if>>\ <<else>>\ "Not sure if you did any walking before they stopped co-operating... but I suppose soaking them could not hurt at least." <</if>>\ Lexia seems to ponder your $clothes for a bit. "You might be uncomfortable if you get your clothes wet, but we can just do a quick fix" <<if $clothes is 'shirt and pants'>>\ "Let me just peel up the pant legs." She helps you sit up on the floor and peels up the pant legs above your knees gently. "There. You should be fine now." <<elseif $clothes is 'dress'>>\ "Let's just lift up the hem of your dress so it does not get wet." She helps you sit on the floor and folds the hem, so it is a bit above your knees. <<elseif $clothes is 'robes'>>\ "Let's just lift up the hem of your robes so it does not get wet." She helps you sit on the floor and folds the hem, so it is a bit above your knees. <<else>>\ "Let my just get the relevant bits out of the way." She says, helping you sit on the floor, and uncovers your legs from the clothes covering them. <</if>>\ Lexia helps you sit on the edge of the pool, your feet in the bath. "There we are. Feeling good?" You wiggle your toes under the water... they seem a little sluggish but you have no idea if that is normal or not. You are just fascinated they actually move.. It does feel pretty good, just having your feet in the water. Soothing, much like your hands. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You look up at Lexia and nod. <<else>>\ "Yeah." You say. <</if>>\ Lexia smiles. "Just don't be disappointed when you can't still walk. That will take some work Actual work, but Havand and I will help you with it.." Work? You will have to work? What kind of work? What does working mean? It would be nice to walk again. There seems to be a lot to see. You suppose you will eventually find out what she means. Right now your feet feel pretty good. Maybe you can walk now? You want to try it. As it turns out, Lexia is right. You cannot walk withou significant support from Lexia. You start fallling almost immediately if she is not supporting you. That's stupid. Magic healing baths should be able to heal your legs. Everything is so complicated... Lexia takes you out of the baths to dry your bandages in the sunlight. At least that feels nice, being out and about. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[And the tour goes on.|Tour_main]]</div> </div><</nobr>> /*Why wont fix legs? Legs have not been used and muscle atrophy. Bath does not bring back muscle*/

<<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''Interlude -- In between'' </font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'First timeskip 1'>><</cont>>

<h1>Interlude -- In between</h1>\ <h2> Your POV</h2>\ <<set $chapter = 'Interlude: In between'>>\ The days following meeting the twins are a blur. Every day, Havard comes into your room come morning. You are dressed and fed. Due to your hands and alegs being bad, Havard has to do most of it for you, but he encourages you to do what you can. If you want to. That seems to be a big thing for Havard. You can try things, if you want to but it is fine to leave them for later too. It's all very odd. Breakfast is served in your room most mornings.Some days you go to the main hall too. There is a lot of people there. A lot by your recknoning though Lexia says eventually there will be a lot more. Once the children start coming in, after the orphanage officially opens.

<<if $TourDone is 1>>\ <<addstoic 5>>\ Fun? Was it fun? You have no idea. So, you just stare. "Really, kid? You are killing me here." Lexia exclaims, but she is smiling. Are you? How do you stop killing her? That sounds bad. Havard just smiles softly at you. "I see." What does he see? Is there something to see? <<elseif $TourDone is 2>>\ <<addstoic -5>>\ You nod vigorously. The tour was fun! You saw lots of places! Learned a lot too. Lexia beams at you and Havard smiles too. <<elseif $TourDone is 3>>\ <<addfriendly -5>>\ You shake your head. In hindsight, it was all... overwhelming. It does not feel fun anymore. Too many things, too many places. Lexia droops a bit. "Oh..." She says, then smiles. "Well that is ok. Next time, we will have fun!" She declares. You are not sure what to make of that. That means she means to take you on anther tour? Plans to force you to have fun? "You will have time for fun later." Havard says. <<elseif $TourDone is 4>>\ <<if hasVisited("Tour_kitchens_yes")>>\ This is that puppy dog eye thing! You widen your eyes, thinking back to what Lexia taught you before you visited the kitchens. <<else>>\ You try to mimic Lexia, the way she widens her eyes and stares at Havard. <</if>>\ Havard looks at Lexia and raises an eyebrow. Then his gaze stops on you... and softens. He smiles and takes a step in your direction. "That is a rather devastating level of cuteness." He says gently. "Well done." You feel rather smug! Your face may even be doing things. It feel great to manage something! <<elseif $TourDone is 5>>\ Yeah, fun!” You exclaim, waving your hands enthusiastically. You saw lots of places! Learned a lot too. Lexia beams at you and Havard smiles too. <<elseif $TourDone is 6>>\ <<addshy 3>><<addfriendly -3>><<addinnocence -3>>\ "No." You mutter and look away. You can feel the gazes of the two adults on you. Is your face hot? That is stupid. Why should you tell them if you had fun... but why is your face hot too? "Sure, kid. Not fun at all." Lexia says eventually. Why is she smiling like that? <<elseif $TourDone is 7>>\ <<addfriendly -5>>\ “No” You say. In hindsight, you did not like the tour. It was all... overwhelming. It does not feel fun anymore. Too many things, too many places. Lexia droops a bit. "Oh..." She says, then smiles. "Well, that is ok. Next time, we will have fun!" She declares. You are not sure what to make of that. That means she means to take you on anther tour? Plans to force you to have fun? "You will have time for fun later." Havard says. <<elseif $TourDone is 8>>\ <</if>>\ Havard looks up.. “It is getting late. I think it is time to go back to the room.” He says, and smiles at you. “Unless…Are you hungry? I will get you some food from the kitchens. Would you like that?” Food? More food? Of course you want more food. You still remember the porridge, and the buttery bread. <<if hasVisited("Tour_kitchens_yes")>> And the cookies!<</if>> You hardly have to think about this. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod and stare intently at Havard. <<else>>\ “Yes.” You say, and stare intently at Havard. <</if>>\ “Good. I will go get the food then. Lexia, escort $MCname back to the room.” “Hey! I want food too. Bring enough for me too.” Lexia whines. Havard just leaves to pick up food, not answering her with nothing more than a nod. "Thanks!" Lexia shouts after him. Then she turns to you. "Let's head back to your room, kid. We are getting food!" She cheerfully starts taking you back. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Right around the same time....|AtruC3POV]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h2>Your POV</h2>\ Lexia settles you back onto your bed, and settles the pillows so you can sit comfortably on there. "Havard should be here soon." She looks around your room, then beams. "You know what, lets do something fun while we wait!" <<if hasVisited("Tour_kitchens")>>\ “Remember how the dining hall has those magical lights?” You do remember the fancy lights in the big hall and indicate so. “Your room has something similar.” <<else>> "Your room has magical lights! Other places in the orphanage too." It does? You stare at her questiongly. "Yes, it does. Right there." <</if>>\ She says, indicating a spot next to the door. Some kind of symbol? “Not as fancy in terms of the… well yours are just symbols on the roof, not chandeliers. Still plenty pretty. You just touch this and focus on what you want.” She presses her finger against the symbol, and suddenly there is light. Floating balls of it appear from symbols on the roof! Then they change color, and shape as Lexia keeps pressing on the symbol. “Bet I can make them into rivers.” Her brow brunches up and the lights start to flow instead of remaining as balls. You stare at the roof of your room. Are you dreaming? Can those things really be real? You watch the lights break apart and come together, then break out into countless little lights… “Cool, isn’t it?” Lexia asks, watching you intently. “It’s amazing how much magic the Ancients put into this orphanage. This city is supposed to be one of the most magical places in the world, but… Well, it feels different when it is all so… within reach.” She beams at you. Is it cool? As in cold? Or does cool mean something different? You vaguely think, it does. It has been a long day, and your eyelids feel heavy. Imagine that. Your eyelids, not your hands due to the chains, or your torso from thrashing on the table, tied and helpless. Your eyelids feel heavy because the day has been full of new things. Like the lights Lexia is playing with. You are not sure you get what cool means so you have no real opinion. “All right.” Lexia says, and lets out a deep breath, letting her hand drop away from the symbol. “You can play with it later, I think. Remember." She presses a finger to her lips. "Don't tell anyone I showed you this. Just i...." The door opens, and Havard walks in with dinner on a tray. No, two trays, a tray with legs and one without. Lexia stops talking immediately, and closes one of her eyes at you… a wink. You remember it is called a wink. You attention is immediately however on Havard. He has food! Even your heavy eyelids don't feel so heavy anymore! And your stomach makes odd sounds, and you feel something... "Here." He hands Lexia the tray without legs so you assume that was for her. "Thanks!" Lexia says, drawing a chair next to the table where Havard worked with the odd squiggles earlier in the day. Your attention is drawn to Havard again, as he walks over and sets the tray with legs over your lap again. His smile is gentle but you are busy looking over the tray... There is milk, you remember the white liquid stuff. There is the buttery bread and you snatch a piece as soon as you see it, munching down. On the big plate in the middle is... what? It's more a bowl than a plate... Is it the porridge stuff again? You think the color is different and it's more liquid... "It's a herbed grain broth." Havard says, sitting down on the edge of your bed, and takes a spoon. "Your stomach is new to foods, and eating something heavy might upset it." He explains, as he takes a spoonful and brings it to your mouth, just like earlier. <<if hasVisited("Tour_kitchens_yes_no3")>> He glances at Lexia. "Though Bruna tells me you have had some snacks today as well. Hopefully there will be no issues." Lexia glances at Havard... And pretends to have heard nothing. You are focused on the spoonful hovering near your mouth.<</if>> You eat it without protest. It's tasty.... Herby? Green? Hot? You have no idea, but you eat every spoonful Havard gives you. Sometimes you also stuff your mouth with the bread. And dip some bread in the bowl and eat that... Eating is nice... Your stomach approves. Your bandages don't but that's fine. Havard said he will change them again if needed. Lexia is helping you drink the milk, having already finished with her food. You gulp it down, feeling very content right now. Sort of sluggish. Full. You are not used to feeling like this. Havard lifts the tray off you, and sets it down on the table. You barely notice when Havard changes your bandages again. You feel oddlly floaty... Content. Is that the word? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["Hey, kid?"|Tour_done4]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h2>A lesson in hair management</h2>\ ”Oh, didn’t I promise to teach you how to control that hair of yours.” She beams, and points at your hair. Your glowing hair. Right… did she promise that? Maybe she did… It would be nice to control it, no matter what. So, you should probably go along with it. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod. <<else>>\ “Ok.” You say. <</if>>\ “Good. Let’s…” She looks around, then heads for a bench with you. "We can do it right here!" She announces. You look around skeptically, but... it's a hallway. You suppose there is no one here at least. “Now, it’s really simple. Try to feel your hair.” She considers her own advice, as you lift a hand to feel your own hair. Even though the bandages, you can feel you have hair. This is surprisingly easy. Lexia spends a moment staring at you… “Ok… Let’s try again.” She says. “You can let your hand down. Close your eyes, and see if you can sort of sense your hair… not touch it.” You let your hand drop down back to your side, disappointed it was not that easy. You do as instructed, shifting your sitting position a bit. Closing your eyes you focus on sensing your hair. After a bit, you figure out you can move your scalp just a tiny bit, and therefore determine your hair exists! Or maybe it’s because you are moving the things above your eyes? Brows, they might be called brows. It does not help you with whatever she wants… Still, you keep sort of moving them up and down, up and down… Sort of funny, you think you can feel your ears by moving your brows.Why? “Kid, can you sense your hair? Why are you wiggling your eyebrows?” You open your eyes and stare at her. She told you sense your hair! You are doing your best… For a moment you two just stare at each other. “Ok… try three.” Lexia said eventually. “Let’s see… it’s not so much about sensing the hair, as sensing the mana that helps it glow.” She gives you a hopeful look. “Does that make sense?” <<if ndef $HairLesson >>\ <<set $HairLesson to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Yes|Tour_elementail2][$HairLesson to $HairLesson +1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[No|Tour_elementail2][$HairLesson to $HairLesson +2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[How should you know?|Tour_elementail2][$HairLesson to $HairLesson +3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Just stare at her blankly. |Tour_elementail2][$HairLesson to $HairLesson +4]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $HairLesson is 1>>\ Makes sense… still no idea how to do it. Regardless, you don't know how to feel or control any mana. <<elseif $HairLesson is 2>>\ No, that does not help you. You have no idea where to even start doing that. <<elseif $HairLesson is 3>>\ How should you know? Why can’t she explain better? <<elseif $HairLesson is 4>>\ You just stare blankly. You have no idea what she is going on about… <</if>>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ So, you give her a shrug. <<else>>\ "I don't know how to sense mana." You say. <</if>>\ Lexia seems to consider some more, fingers cupping her chin. “Ok, kid. I think I am making it too hard, thinking too much about this. “Let’s try slowly, step by step. Close your eyes again.” She says. You do as requested, closing your eyes. “Now, imagine your hair, all glowy as it currently is.” You try to imagine it, remembering the mirror earlier. How your $HairColor $HairType hair glowed while you stared at yourself… “Once you have a clear image in mind, imagine the glow slowly dimming. “ Dimming? That means not as bright. Your thoughts turn to imagining what your hair would look like glowing less brightly. Then what your hair would look like without any glow. “Good try.” Lexia says. You open your eyes. Did you do it? You can still see the shadows from your glowing hair… It did not work. “It is not that easy. Don’t be disappointed, no one gets these things on their first try. <<if $MC_headpats is 'like'>>>>She pats your head gently and you automatically lean into the touch. <</if>> “It just means we try again. Now, go through the same process again.” You do. Then again, and again. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Many, many more times. |Tour_elementail3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1>Interlude – In Between</h1>\ <h2>Lexia</h2>\ <h3>A little while ago</h3>\ Once she was out of the room, she rested against the wall holding the tray of dirty dishes in front of her. It was a long day… Full of uncertainty, and new experiences. She let out a deep sigh of relief. The introduction had gone pretty well, the oaths… All of that went well. Even if the damn Ancients had appeared out from nowhere. That had been rather surprising even if only because they just popped up from nowhere? Who does that? The dammed Ancients apparently. Was cursing them some kind of a crime? No... She was sure plenty of people cursed the Ancients all the time. At least in their heads. Still, putting all of that aside. <<if $named_by_Lexia>>\ Lexia smiled widely as she remembered something. She named the kid! $MCname! She did it! It feels good. Naming another person is not something she thought she would do, unless she ever became a mother... Which she has given exactly zero thought so far in her life. She has always been far too busy to consider that sort of things. <</if>>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>>\ Sure, the kid had not wanted to go on the tour, but that is fine... At least she hoped it was fine. An unfamiliar place, with unfamiliar people. It was no wonder the kid did not want to go, even if it ended up being super boring. Perhaps boredom is not such a bad thing to someone like the kid after all. It had to be better than whatever hell the kid had been in before Lord Sheo had found $himher. <<else>>\ Then there was the tour... In her mind, the tour had gone mostly well. <<if $fountainreaction is 6>>\ At the start she had thought something was off, at the gardens. But somehow it had worked itself out rather well. Still, she had a feeling she had missed something. She would need to pay closer attention in the future, obviously but her gut was telling her that <<elseif $fountainreaction is 3 and ($fountainreaction2_s is 2 or $fountainreaction2_s is 3)>>\ Well, not all of it. She had not expected the kid to try and hurt themselves... That had been bad. She had managed to stop the attempt, but it was still not good. What could she do? Talk with Havard? Always be on guard against that sort of things? Could she be a Protector to such a $child? Was she qualified? Could she even succeed? She was not Havard, she did not know how to help $MCname through their trauma. She was good at hitting people, and… and… Not much else. She was good with her sword. <<if $blades_trauma>> That was her greatest skill… And the kid was deadly afraid of blades… So what good was she to $himher?<</if>> Could she actually do this? <<else>>\ The tour… She slapped her face. Hard. How could she do that! A complete breakdown, a freakout, $MCname had needed her back in the fountain garden, and…. And she had panicked! Instead of helping the child in clear distress, she had had no idea what to do! She was not Havard, she did not know how to help $MCname through their trauma. She was good at hitting people, and… and… Not much else. She was good with her sword. <<if $blades_trauma>> That was her greatest skill… And the kid was deadly afraid of blades… So what good was she to $himher?<</if>> Could she actually do this? <</if>>\ Be a Protector to such a $child? She had sworn the oath, been so sure of her ability to keep $MCname safe… Yet she stumbled at the first hurdle. What did that make her? She was a warrior, was she not? She was supposed to be a Protector, but she had also been a street rat… Did a decade of training really change any of that? Talking about the past with $MCname had reminded her of that. She had been less time on the streets than in the spire… Yet a street rat she remained? Of course, in her mind that was not a bad thing. Not fully at least. One learned a lot on the streets. Lessons from the a cruel world, but lessons that stuck with you. Sure, she had experience from the real world during her training too. All Silver Protectors had to serve for real before they were sworn in. Be adventurers or Grey Protectors first simply as a part of their training... But none of it prepared her for this. Could she help a child now, when she had been unable to help herself for so long. No. None of that self-pity shit. She had survived and had grown strong. A decade of training, both body and mind stood between her weakness and the current day. A decade of living. “Accept your failings, do better, and move on.” Swordmaster Enlon had told them all that once. Then again, the man clearly did not practice what he preached. Perhaps he had heard it somewhere else? That sounded like something Ethel would say. He had also wanted them to practice one swing for a decade… Pure blooded elves were really bad at adjusting their expectations for mortal students. She drew in a deep breath. No dwelling. She failed once… Now, she needed to make sure she would not fail again. <</if>>\ She took off at speed towards the kitchens. She was technically banned, but she could return the dishes to where they normally did in the great hall. <<if $blades_trauma>>\ Later she would need to check where her sword ended up in. She had handed it to Kathil, so either the woman still had it, or had stored it in either Lexia's room or her own. <</if>>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>>\ Perhaps she should have thought of some game to play with $MCname... It had been a boring day. But the kid was supposed to rest.... At least she had played with the lights at the end. That had been good, the kid clearly was fascinated. Who wouldn’t be? <<else>>\ <<if $newpeople is 1>>\ There had also been that thing in the main hall. The kid was not a fan of crowds. She should have known, should have considered that. But ultimately, there would be no avoiding people in life completely. This was Firgrat, and the orphanage would likely get very busy at some point. Here she had managed fairly well, she thought to herself. Not panicking but calm. And then meeting Ethel distracted the kid. That had been good. <<else>>\ The visit to the main hall, meeting Ethel... That had all been overall fine. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ She should talk to Alessa. Or Sandor. Maybe annoy the twins. Well, the last one was a given, but Alessa and Sandor might be interested in her day. <<if hasVisited("Tour_gate")>> And she should tell them about what Madam Vonn had said too. Just in case. <</if>> She arrived at the main hall and headed towards the corner for dirty dishes. Leaving the glasses and bowls there, she looked around. No signs of Alessa or Sandor right now. They must be putting the twins to bed. <<if $blades_trauma>> No Kathil either to ask about her sword. She felt naked without it. But if the kid was afraid of it, she had to leave it behind. Maybe she should consider another weapons, but she did love the sword. <</if>> She decided to head towards the twin's rooms. Havard would be putting $MCname to bed, and she would stand guard after. Perhaps, discuss the day with Havard but for now she had a bit of time. <<if hasVisited("Tour_walls")>>\ Her thoughts wandered to the visit atop the walls of the orphanage. That had gone rather well in her mind. Had she talked too much? Perhaps. But it felt important that $MCname knew about her. Easier to trust someone you know, right? She remembered what it had felt like when she was brought into the Spire for training. Those early days. Knowing no one, trusting no one. She didn't want the kid to feel alone here, didn't want them to feel they were surrounded by strangers. That was something she could do! She knew a bit what it felt like being in a new place. It could be scary and weird. <</if>>\ Lexia arrived at the twins room and stopped to listen. She enhanced her hearing, just in case. She didn't want to walk in on anything private. Well mostly didn't want to disturb story time or wake up the kids if they had fallen asleep. Much to her surprise, she heard something rather familiar. Oaths. The same oaths she had sworn just earlier in the day. //"I am Alessa, a Custodian of Firgrat Orphanage, swear to guide, love, and cherish you from this moment onwards. To provide you a home and family in this orphanage, that you always feel loved and wanted."// Oh... Havard must have considered the Ancients sort of showing up during their own oaths and wondered why Alessa and Sandor never mentioned it. So, they must not have properly sworn their oaths. Hmm, so Havard and Lexia had been first! She would have to tease the two about it later. For the next thirty or so years at least. Anyway, it sounded like Alessa was going first. //"I am Sandor, A Silver Protector of Firgrat. I swear to guide and protect you from this moment onwards. To protect this orphanage, that is to be your home that you may always feel welcome and safe."// She heard a gasp. Probably Azha... and felt tingling. Mana. The Eternal Flow must be manifesting. She held her breath... Would it happen again? Lexia heard two more gasps. Alessa and Sandor. So, it would happen every time the oaths were sworn then. Consistency was good, even if they had no idea why the Ancients were doing this. @@.emboss;"A word is given, an oath witnessed and sealed. From this moment forth, so shall it be."@@ The voices were not as overwhelming to her now, as they were earlier. Not directed at her. They still echoed all around, coming from everywhere and nowhere. Lexia stood still, waiting for something to happen in the room. The Ancients must be gone by now. "Irosia!" The jubilant shout nearly made her wince. Azha sounded over the moon. Right, the twins had their own savior. Irosia Elazor, the //Friend of the Unfortunate//. Though some called her //Queen of the Unfortunate// or the //Queen Most Kind// due to her regal looks. Probably the Ancient that was known best in Firgrat since she went around the lower levels, doing things like healing the sick and making sure prostitutes were treated well. It made sense Azha had recognized her from amidst the voices of the ancients. What Lexia did not expect was the sound of small footsteps, and a surprised yelp. The creak of armor, and Sandor letting out a little grunt... "I am not really here, Azha. Atru." An older woman's voice. Was Lady Irosia actually speaking to them? "Thank you, Protector Sandor." Lexia felt a bit of sweat running down her back... What was it with today, and the Ancients just showing up? Why? She had spent a decade in the Spire and seen one of the Ancients twice! As far as she knew. "Azha, Atru? Are you all right?" Alessa. The sound of footsteps. "Fine!" Azha said cheerfully. The twins must have rushed to hug the Ancient... And what? The Ancient was not really here so it was some kind of a magical projection? So, Sandor had caught Azha and Atru when they passed through... That seemed likely. There was a bit of a silence. "Are you doing well? Have you gotten used to the orphanage?" Lexia had to suppress a smile. Then realized that there was no need to suppress it, so she just smiled. The Ancient sounded like a grandmother, asking after the grandchildren she had met only once or twice due to living far away from them. Or so she assumed, she honestly did not know any grandmoms... But she was asking after them. An Ancient asking after children. It felt good to know they cared. Some of them at least. Azha launched into an enthusiastic, and largely incomprehensible explanation of their current lives and how awesome everything was. Lexia listened to a while, smiling. Poor Alessa and Sandor... They were getting praised to the Ancient with the honesty of a child. Lexia started turning away, she should not interrupt this. She had just taken a step when the voice stopped her. "A moment, Protector Lexia." There she stood. Irosia Elazor. Or a faintly transparent version of her. Lexia had seen her once before during her time in the Spire, though apparently the Custodians had all met her during their interviews. The Protectors all met Lady Elri and Lord Vismay for their interview, and it had been... a little different from what Alessa said hers had been. Right now, she was staring. Just as she had done the first time when she had seen Irosia. To put it succinctly, the woman was gorgeous in a regal way. That presence some older women had about them when they were used to commanding every room they stepped into, and though Irosia had no wrinkles or marks of age, Lexia knew this woman was old. It showed in her eyes a brilliant faintly glowing violet. Her posture was perfect, like a statue brought to life, all stillness and precision Lexia doubted could be achieved within one lifetime. Her face was stone, unreadable and unyielding. Perhaps not quite cold, but distant, emotions locked under centuries of discipline. Her hair was kept up in twisted loose braid, held in place with a silver hairpin. Not a wisp of hair was out of order. The cut of her dress was immaculate, covering the Ancient from head to toe, yet it hugged her torso closely. Embroidery traced the hem and sleeves in shimmering thread, catching the light like starlight on water. No wrinkle dared to mar that dress, no stain dared to trespass on it. Everything about Irosia Eleazor spoke of time, patience, and knowledge of exactly what beauty demanded. A price the Ancient was willing to pay. Or perhaps it was just magic… It did not matter in the end. Lexia could understand why she was called a queen, even if no one knew if she had ever been one. Lexia dropped to kneel. "Lady Irosia." She said, hoping the slight shaking in her voice was not detectable. All these surprise appearances… She was rather rattled but trying not to show it. She could still hear Azha chattering on inside.... Did that mean this was a second apparition or projection? Whatever the Ancient was doing to appear here. "None of that, Protector. Do not bow." Lexia swallowed and rose. No bowing. Got it. She met that violet gaze... And felt shivers down her back, but Lexia tried not to show it. It was always like this, in her experience. Meeting the gaze of something that looked so human, but was probably not. All the Ancients she had met were off in their own ways. But with Lady Irosia, it was definitely her manner of fine controlled movements and perfect stillness. She could pick up on that easily enough. Lord Sheo had moved much like people do, bur Lady Irosia seemed too controlled. There had been something off about Lord Sheo too, but Lexia had not been able to place what the one time she had met him. She had been to worried about $MCname at the time. Not that she had time to pinpoint what even now. "Earlier, you swore to the $child Sheo brought here recently." The Ancient drew her attention to her. Lexia swallowed. "Yes, Lady Irosia. Myself and the Head Custodian, Havard." She nodded. Then her chin lifted just enough to command but not condescend. Shoulders square, hands still by her sides. The very picture of poise. "Describe the injury." That one was not hard to figure out. She meant the hands. How did she know? Perhaps Lord Sheo told her? Or did she just... knows things? "From what I saw they were black and... twisted. Lord Sheo said..." Lexia thought back. "That mana was used to keep $MCname alive. That too much mana began to both mutate and kill the flesh. Or something like that." The faintest twitch of distaste flickered on Lady Irosia's face but it could have just been Lexia's imagination. "And does $heshe seem... Sensitive to any stimuli?" Lexia had to think about that... "I have no idea?" She admitted. <<if $C3_ending is 1 or $C3_ending is 2 or $C3_ending is 6 or $C3_ending is 5>>\ Just then Lexia's communicator pin spoke to her mind. "Lexia? After eating, and bandage chance, $MCname fell asleep. We should meet up. I also want to talk to Alessa and Sandor if they are free." Lady Irosia tilted her head. "Please inform Havard, I will be coming too." How did she hear. No, there was no point in thinking about such things. Instead, Lexia just nodded at the Ancient, and grasped the pin. "Hey, Havard. I will be there soon." She said. "Alessa and Sandor are still putting the twins to bed. But afterwards they can probably meet up. And... Lady Irosia wants to join." Best to just say it. Havard did not answer for a while. Eventually what came back to her was. "She's here?" "At least two apparitions of some sort." Lexia thought back. The Ancient did not say anything to contradict her. "I... see." Havard's thoughts were halting. "Do you know why she wants to attend?" Before Lexia could answer, Lady Irosia's voice rang out in her mind. "I wish to discuss the new $child. Sheo was... painfully vague in his message and is already far away from Firgrat." Could the Ancients not just communicate by magic? The orphanage had the communicators, so surely the Ancients themselves could. Still, it was not Lexia's place to question such things. If Havard was surprised by the intrusion into the discussion, it did not show. "As you wish, Lady Irosia." Havard said. "I also wish to talk with Custodian Alessa and Protector Sandor? Are they free." "Just done putting the twins to bed." Lady Irosia answered. "And I have a question for them too." Lexia focused on hearing the room... and Lady Irosia was right. The twins were just being tucked in. "All warm and comfy?" Alessa was just asking. "Yeah." Azha said, sounding a bit sulky. Perhaps she is upset at not figuring out the mystery. Lexia suppressed a smile. "Then ask someone to stand guard for the twins and come meet me near $MCname's room. The garden outside should work." Then Havard seemed to remember that Lady Irosia was also present. "If that is fine with you, Lady Irosia." "That is fine, Head Custodian." "For me too!" Lexia thought into her pin. <<if hasVisited("Tour_gate")>> She did also want to tell Irosia about the missing people Madam Vonn mentioned. Was this Ancient not famous for caring about such things after all? <</if>> Soon, she grabbed Alessa and Sandor as they excited the twins room, and the three of them headed towards $MCname's room. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Azha POV|AzhaPOV_C3_2]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<elseif $C3_ending is 3 or $C3_ending is 4>>\ The conversation was disrupted by a scream. A scream coming from the direction of $MCname's room. Lexia did not wait for permission or explanations. She started sprinting, as fast as she could, while grabbing the communication pin. Fuck... She had been gone for just a few moments... What had happened? Then she arrived at the room... and Havard told her what had happened. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[She had never felt so wretched.|LexiaPOVC32]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

It took you… you have no idea how many attempts. But you succeeded! The glow from your hair faded away and you no longer glow like a flame! It feels good to succeed at something. Your memories are so full of... well nothing and torture. “Good job, kid!” Lexia ruffles your hair. “Now, let’s see if you can turn it back on. Imagine your hair lighting up.” You stare at her for a moment… You probably should have seen this coming, you think as you close your eyes and focus. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Here you go again. |Tour_elementail4]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Lexia claps her hands as you control the brightness of your hair. “Good job, kid.” She says. “You can not turn it on and off and even control the brightness a bit.” You are feeling pretty good about all of this. Like you… how do you say it? Accomplished something? Yes, that sounds correct. Your internal sense thinks so too. You finally have some control over yourself. Your hands may be a mess, your legs may not work right at the moment, but you can control the glow of your hair. <<if ndef $CHair >>\ <<set $CHair to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[It feels good. |Tour_elementail5][$CHair to $CHair+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Yeah… life sucks. |Tour_elementail5][$CHair to $CHair+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Yeah… life sucks. Except eating. Eating was awesome. |Tour_elementail5][$CHair to $CHair+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[It feels good, great even that amidst the turmoil of your life, you have this tiny bit of control. Control feels important, every little bit of it, when you have so little. |Tour_elementail5][$CHair to $CHair+4]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Lexia is sitting on the edge of your bed, staring at you. You try your best to pay attention, perking up a bit. "We did a lot today, kid." She says, smiling. "I had fun showing you around." She winks at you. "There are still some places we should visit, but I think it will have to wait." You glance at Havard who nods too. "I am gonna go take the dishes to the kithcen now. But I suspect you might be asleep soon, so I wanted to say." She leans in. "Good night." She whispers. "Sleep well, kid." You blink at her. Has anyone ever said good night to you? Perhaps before the void... but it feels odd. <<if $MC_headpats is 'like'>>She pats your head gently and then she is gone.<<else>> She is gone already. <</if>> Lexia winks at you as she leaves the room. You remember her saying not to tell Havard about the lights… <<if $nonverbal>> Of course, you don't talk so it is probably not a huge concern.<</if>> You still have to wonder why? Is there something bad about playing with the lights? “Did you have a good day, out with Lexia?” Havard asks as he checks the window. Didn’t he already ask that earlier? No wait, he asked if you had fun and Lexia left so now it is just you and Havard. <<if not $trustLexiaC3>> After all, you don’t trust Lexia so is your answer any different? <</if>> Left alone, you stare at the roof and imagine all the things you saw. The kitchens, the baths and the city from out on the wall. <<if $nonverbal is not true>>\ You could tell Havard about your day, something specific perhaps. <<if $named>> Or you could take this chance to introduce yourself to him properly, with the name. <<if $named_by_Lexia>> Lexia gave you a name after all. <<else>> You never did do it in the manner Lexia taught you. <</if>><</if>>\ <<else>>\ Though, there is not much you can do. You don't talk, after all. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $nonverbal>> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to tell him, but you don't talk so you can't.|Tour_done4_nonverbal]]</div> <<else>> <<if hasVisited("Tour_kitchens")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Tell him about the great hall. |Tour_done4_kitchen]]</div> <</if>> <<if hasVisited("Tour_baths")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Tell him about the baths. |Tour_done4_baths]]</div> <</if>> <<if hasVisited("Tour_walls")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Tell him about the view from the walls. |Tour_done4_walls]]</div> <</if>> <<if hasVisited("Tour_garden")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Tell him about the garden. |Tour_done4_garden]]</div> <</if>> <<if hasVisited("Tour_bathroom")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You are not sure you want to ever discuss the bathroom visit.|Tour_done4_bathroom]]</div> <</if>> <<if hasVisited("Tour_gate")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to tell him about the gates, and the crowd there.|Tour_done4_gates]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("elemental") and hasVisited("Tour_elementail")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You tell Havard about learning to control the glow of your hair. |Tour_done4_elementail]]</div> <</if>> <<if $MC_name_random is false>> <div class="choice-item">[[Introduce yourself, name included|Tour_done4_introduction]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You wonder if there is some way to use your eyes better, and try to change them while Havard works.|Tour_done4_eyes]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You are tired. Best not prolong this stuff. You stay quiet.|Tour_done4_silent]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addstoic -5>>\ <<if $named_by_Lexia>>\ You got a name from Lexia. And you never did introduce yourself to Havard. You feel like you should. <<elseif $named_by_Havard>>\ Sure, you got a name from Havard and he knows it. But you never did introduce yourself to Havard properly. You feel like you should. It can be practice at least. <<else>>\ You never did introduce yourself to Havard properly. <</if>>\ You should do it... But how? Earlier, Lexia started it. How did she do it? Just said it... Will that work? If you are going to do this, you need to start somewhere. Havard is not scary... <<if $trustHavardC3>> You know he isn't. He's Havard and he is nice. <<else>> Though... How can you know that? You don't even trust the man. <</if>> Still, nothing to do but go for it. "Havard..." Is that the first time you have said his name. It feels odd. His gaze comes up from your hands, he is almost done. "What is it?" He asks softly. You take a breath, and go for it... "Hi...:" You start. That is a good start. What are you supposed to do next.... It's hard to remember all the steps. Didn't you do this earlier? It's hard to remember the specifics... and your eyes are heavy. How can my eyes be heavy? Havard tilts his head and smiles. "Hello?" He says. Oh... That sounds like a question. You were probably supposed to use your name with the hi... It's probably not too late now. You nod. "Hi,.." You repeat. Talking is hard. "I... I... I am $MCname." You manage to say it. There! Introduction thing done. <<if $named_by_Lexia>>\ Havard eyes widen. "You remembered?" He asks softly. You shake your head. "Lexia named me..." Suddenly you feel bad... Didn't Havard offer to name you too? What he is mad? His smile wipes the thought from your mind immediately. "That's wonderful. I suppose Lexia also taught you introductions. That's good. You are doing well." <<elseif $named_by_Havard>>\ He smiles, and lets out a delighted little laugh. "I do know that, $MCname. I did name you." You squirm a bit. "Yeah... but... but I didn't introduce myself." His smile turns soft. "I see. I suppose Lexia taught you introductions. That's good. You are doing well." <<else>>\ He smiles and lets out a delighted little laugh. "I do know that, $MCname. You told me." You squirm a bit. "Yeah... but... but I didn't introduce myself." His smile turns soft. "I see. I suppose Lexia taught you introductions. That's good. You are doing well." <</if>>\ "Well, then. I should do it properly too." He sits straight in front of you. "Nice to meet you, $MCname. As you know, I am Havard" He smiles. "And you did very well with your official introductions." You feel a bit proud at that. Doing a thing that a real person would do... Probably. Not like you know what people are like that well. You have an excess of bad experiences and a few good ones... "All right. I think it is time for bed." Havard has finished with your bandages. "You seem sleepy." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Your mouth does a weird thing right then. Opens and head tilts back. It feels odd... Your eyes even water.|C3_bedtime]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"See, you are yawning." Havard says, standing up. "So, it is time for bed." He stands up and starts arranging your pillows and the duvet thing. He goes to a cabinet by your bedside and takes out a bottle of something. He pours some in a cup. "This is called mistspray tonic. Drink about a mouthful and hold it in your mouth for a while." Before you can ask, Havard explains. "It is for cleaning your mouth and teeth. It will feel... bubbly. Like little pops in your mouth. Please don't think it, you will spit it out in a bit." Oh... does your mouth need cleaning? What makes things need cleaning? Havard brings the cup to your lips, and you drink. Immediately, something odd happens. You don't think it is a liquid anymore but rather a mist, like a thousand little pops in your mouth. It feels just... odd. It does not hurt, and the feeling is maybe even pleasant. Also... herby? You keep the stuff in your mouth for a good while... Just long enough to start wondering how long this will take. Havard brings the cup in front of your mouth. "Spit it out... Just open your mouth and let it out more like." You open your mouth... and the stuff turns into a liquid and falls into the glass... Most of it anyway. You do notice the liquid is not as clear as before... So, something got stuck to it from your mouth. Havard pours the cup out of the window, and smiles. "Well done. Didn't spit any on my face." Do people usually spit the stuff at Havard? "Apparently Azha, one of the twins, spat hers straight at Alessa the first time." He winks at you. "Alessa is the Custodian of the twins." Oh... Why would she do that? "Azha likes speaking." Havard says by the way of explanation while walking over. "Do you want to wear your $clothes to bed?" He asks. "You can, or I can help you take them off if you would like." <<if ndef $Sleep_nude>>\ <<set $Sleep_nude to false>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to sleep without clothes.|C3_bedtime2][$Sleep_nude to true]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to sleep with your clothes on.|C3_bedtime2][$Sleep_nude to false]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addstoic -5>>\ You decide to tell Havard about the visit to the great hall and meeting Ethel. <<if hasVisited("Tour_kitchens_yes_no3")>> Of course, the most important part about that visit is the bag of cookies that you describe to the best of your ability.<</if>> "I see. It is good you to hear you liked cookies." He seems amused. "And that you met Ethel. You know, she is the oldest Custodian here. And in a way, she was a mentor to me." A mentor? What does that mean? Wait, your internal sense knows. Someone who teaches you stuff... What did Ethel teach Havard? Custodian stuff? That seems plausible. Old people teaching seems... likely. "I've know her for over half a decade." Havard says workings on your bandages. "And I know she might seem scary, but she is actually rather nice." Is half a decade a long time? You don't know. But wait... didn't Ethel mention something about flowers... <<if $flowersbroken>>\ You remember now! "She.... she said not to break the next flowers." You say. Havard smiles. "Ah, yes. You better be careful when she delivers the new ones." He winks at you. "I'll teach you how to change the water. Don't worry. And even then, the flowers will not last forever." <<else>>\ <<if $flowers>>\ You remember the flowers and how you are supposed to ask Havard about them. "How to water flowers?" You ask. Harvard looks up. "Ah, the vase." He glances at the flowers on a desk. "I will show you how to take care of them. It is mostly about changing the water. And even then, the flowers will not last forever." He smiles "But don't worry, that is fine." <<else>>\ You remember the flowers and how you are supposed to ask Havard about them. "Where are the flowers? And how to water them?" You ask. <<if $SawTheSea>>\ Havard looks up from working on your bandages. Then glances at the desk. "Hmm, I wonder if they got left at your first room. We will have to get them." He smiles. "I will show you the rest. It is mostly about changing the water. And even then, the flowers will not last forever. But don't worry, that is fine." <<else>>\ Havard looks up from working on your bandages. Then points at the desk, where indeed a vase of flowers awaits. " I will show you how to water them. It is mostly about changing the water. And even then, the flowers will not last forever. But don't worry, that is fine.." <</if>><</if>><</if>>\ You nod along idly... Your eyes feel heavy. How can eyes even be heavy? "All right. I think it is time for bed." Havard has finished with your bandages. "You seem sleepy." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Your mouth does a weird thing right then. Opens and head tilts back. It feels odd... Your eyes even water.|C3_bedtime]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addstoic -5>>\ You tell him about your visit to the baths. <<if hasVisited("Tour_baths_3_yes")>>\ "So, you had a bath. And how was it?" Havard asks. <<if $Baths_like is 1>>\ "Wet hell." You respond. He chuckles. "Perhaps you will get used to it. " What if you don't want to get used to it? <<elseif $Baths_like is 2>>\ "Liked it." You say. He smiles. "That is good to hear." <<elseif $Baths_like is 3>>\ "Fine... but Lexia held my head above the water." Havard nods. "That is fine. It's fine to take it slow with... new things. Unfamiliar things, perhaps." <<elseif $Baths_like is 4>>\ "I really liked it! The water feels... familiar somehow. Right." Havard smiles. "It could be your merfolk blood coming through. They do love water." You nod, that seems likely. <<elseif $Baths_like is 5>>\ "It was.... ok." You say, shrugging. Havard nods. "A neutral experience then. That is good." <<elseif $Baths_like is 6>> "The water is not very tasty. All plain." You report to him. He stops working on the bandages to look at you. "You tried to drink the bathwater?" You nod. "I only got a bit. Lexia stopped me..." You say. "Aah... Did she mention that bathwater is not meant for drinking?" You nod. "I see." Havard goes back to working on your bandages. "You should be careful with tasting everything you see. We will need to discuss what is meant for consumption at some point." Really? You don't really see the point. He looks at your face, and sighs. You think he can tell you don't understand his point. "Let's not worry about it for now." <</if>>\ <<else>>\ "We can worry about proper baths later, but I am glad you soaked your arms and legs. Even if it will not heal either one it likely helps keep both from any further damage." He says gently. It will? No he said "likely". Your internal sense tells you that is like maybe. So it might or might not. Still better than nothing. <</if>>\ "Perhaps next time, we shall see about a bubble bath." He says. A bubble bath? What's that? What do the bubbles do? You ponder about that and feel your head droop. Your eyes feel heavy... what an odd feeling. Havard catches you with a gentle chuckle. "It has been a busy day for you." He makes sure your head is not about to hit something and goes back to the finishing the bandages. It only takes a short time now. "There. I think it is time for bed." Havard has finished with your bandages. "You seem sleepy." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Your mouth does a weird thing right then. Opens and head tilts back. It feels odd... Your eyes even water.|C3_bedtime]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $Baths_like is 1>>\ You don't like this. Being surrounded by something so wet and alien. All those lights surrounding you. Yet you don't feel anything. And you just... float there? What is that about? You don't like it. But you can also sink? Like, under the water? What happens then? Does the water eat you? You start squirming, then thrashing a bit. You might make some distressed sounds too. Lexia lifts you out immediately. "It's ok, kid." She says. "You don't have to bathe if you don't want to." She says, and her face appears above yours. "Not right now... We'll figure it out later." That seems like a good idea. Not right now seems like the perfect time for a bath. And she acted so quickly, you are fine. <<elseif $Baths_like is 2>>\ The water feels nice and soothing. Not too hot or too cold. Perfect really. The surrounding lights are pretty too. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You squirm a bit, and wave your hands under the water a bit to indicate you want her to let go. <<else>>\ "You can let go." You tell Lexia. <</if>>\ "Ok, remember, even if you sink for a moment, you will float soon enough." Lexia lets you go gently. "If you do sink, hold your breath. Meaning don't try to use your mouth or nose to breathe. It will only last a moment." You brace yourself just in case you do sink. Lexia let go of you and you are moving a bit further from the stairs. You do sink a bit, even your face is submerged. You do your best to remember what Lexia said and don't breathe. How long can you do this? Isn't not breathing bad? Indeed, you don't have time to panic as something gently pushes you back up, so that your face reaches the surface. You try peering back into the water to see what it was, but you can't see anything.... and you somehow end with your head above the surface again. How odd. You try again. The same thing happens. So you try again. And again. A few more times. You think you can hear Lexia giggle as you try to dive under the water. You learned to hold your breath, it works better if you breathe deeply before sticking your head under the water. It's still not possible to stay under the water for long. That does not stop you from trying again and again. You learn that you can move with your hands, even useless as they are, waving them about under water does do stuff. You also discover, you can move your legs a bit! That also helps you move under the water. At least they are not dead. Or rotting or something. You think you were worried about such things when you were in the void. Before the cycle took away your thoughts and broke your brain. Bad thought, best move on. You make some splashes as best you can, and just try to move. You sort of can... Not too well, but the water is not like walking that is impossible at the moment. All in all, you like this bath thing. Refreshing, floaty and you try to capture the pretty lights. You don't catch any. But you have fun! You think. At least Lexia laughs quite a bit. Eventually Lexia helps you out of the bath. Well, picks you up. <<elseif $Baths_like is 3>>\ It's... odd. Wet and soothing. The water is all around you. Not too hot or too cold. Perfect really. The surrounding lights are pretty too, you suppose. All in all... You are fine, but you don't want Lexia to let go of you. Who knows what could happen. You might float away. <<if $nonverbal>>\ Your bandaged fingers grasp onto Lexia's hand. making sure she doesn't let go. <<else>>\ "Don't let go." You say. <</if>>\ "I won't let go, so don't worry, kid." She says You wait for a bit... and she keeps holding you. Being stuck to the edge of the pool is better than floating off, you think. Probably. You wave your hands a bit under the water. You have a vague idea you would move if Lexia was not holding you. You also discover, you can move your legs a bit! They are slow, but definitely moving. Hard to say what floating int he water does... They seem rather sluggish so you suspect they might not work for walking. At least they are not dead. Or rotting or something. You think you were worried about such things when you were in the void. Before the cycle took away your thoughts and broke your brain. Bad thought, best move on. You try making some splashes, but Lexia is holding you and you end up splashing her. "Are you declaring a water fight on me, kid?" She laughs. You most certainly are not! <<if $nonverbal>>\ You shake your head. <<else>>\ "No." You say. <</if>>\ "Good. Because I would crush you!" She laughs. "Maybe once you can have a bath without me holding you, we can have a proper water fight!" You are not sure you want that... For now, you are happy just floating on the edge of the bath. Eventually Lexia helps you out of the bath. Well, picks you up again. <<elseif $Baths_like is 4>>\ It's an odd feeling. The water surrounds you, not too cold or too warm. Perfect. It feels vaguely familiar, and you have no idea why... It's nice and soothing. The surrounding lights are pretty too. You know you want Lexia to let go. The desire to swim freely fills you. For some reason, you know how. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You squirm a bit, and wave your hands under the water a bit to indicate you want her to let go. <<else>>\ "You can let go." You tell Lexia. <</if>>\ "Ok, remember, even if you sink for a moment, you will float soon enough." Lexia lets you go gently. "If you do sink, hold your breat. Meaning don't try to use your mouth or nose to breathe. It will only last a moment." You are not worried about it. Lexia let go of you and you are moving a bit further from the stairs, hands and legs working automatically as you try to swim. You do sink a bit, even your face is submerged. But it seems your body knows more than your brain does, not a surprise really. You fill your lungs with air without thinking about it, and sink. Indeed, soon something gently pushes you back up, so that your face reaches the surface. You try peering back into the water to see what it was, but you can't see anything.... and you somehow end with your head above the surface again. How odd. You try again. The same thing happens. So you try again. And again. A few more times. You think you can hear Lexia giggle as you try to dive under the water. It all comes very naturally for you. The only frustrating part is that you somehow know how your body is supposed to be moving... yet it doesn't. Both your arms and legs are bad at moving right now. They move, but fine control is hard. At least they are not dead. Or rotting or something. Well at least your legs don't seem to be. You think you were worried about such things when you were in the void. Before the cycle took away your thoughts and broke your brain. Bad thought, best move on. It's also not possible to stay under the water for long. That does not stop you from trying again and again. You make some splashes as best you can, and swim about as much as you are able. All in all, you like this bath thing. Refreshing, floaty and you apparentlyhave an affinity for the water. Might be that merfolk heritage now that you think about it... You also try to capture the pretty lights. You don't catch any. But you have fun! You think. At least Lexia laughs quite a bit. Eventually Lexia helps you out of the bath. Well, picks you up. <<elseif $Baths_like is 5>>\ <<addstoic 5>>\ You lay there, still and surrounded by the water. There are some lights in the water, and you suppose the water is not too cold or too warm. Neutral. Neutral is a good way to describe it. "Hey, kid? You good?`" Lexia asks you. Oh, you suppose being so still has her worried. You nod idly... and lay there in the water. Motionless. There is no point in moving. The lights surround you, but you feel nothing really. So... this is a bath. You suppose this is fine, does not feel particularly unpleasant or good. Eventually Lexia helps you out of the bath. Well, picks you up. <<elseif $Baths_like is 6>>\ <<addstoic -5>><<addLexia -3>>\ Your mouth is open, and you squirm in her grip. The water is all glittery. It must taste good... Does it matter you are in it? No, you don't see how that would matter. "Kid?" No time for talk, it is drinking time. You manage to sip some of the water and much to your disappointment, it does not taste like magic. Not that you know what magic would taste like but still. It is far too plain to be magic. A shame really. You try to drink some more, just in case that first taste test was a dud. Lexia lifts you up with a laugh. "Really, kid? Trying to empty out the baths." You give her an indignant look, you were not done! She laughs, but lowers you back into the water for a while... But keeps holding your head so you can't drink more of the glittery stuff. "Kid, bathwater is not meant for drinking. Even if it contains pretty colors." None of that stops you from trying to drink it. Lexia makes a bit of a game of it, in fact. Letting you try but interfering when you are close. How frustrating. And fun. It this what baths are like? You could get used to this. "Ok, I think that is enough." Lexia says. <</if>>\ She carries you back to the shelves with the fabric things. Towels, she explains as she wraps you in one. Then shows you that your cloak is fine. That is good. You need your cloak. No idea why, but you know you should not lose it. <<if $likes_cloak>> Of course, you like your cloak! That is reason enough. <</if>> Lexia dries you... It feels odd. Warm and soft... These towel things are pretty nice, aren't they. Of course, your hands are bandaged, and wet but Lexia says that is fine. They will dry out in the sun and can be changed later. She also helps you with your $clothes, and soon you are restored to your fully clothed state. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[And the tour goes on.|Tour_main]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addstoic -5>>\ You tell him about the view from the walls, about the sky and the Spire. "Yes, the city is quite a sight. The Spire can be seen even above the surrounding mountains at times." Wow... mountains are supposed to be tall, right? You think the things seemed tall. Not as tall as the Spire. You keep telling Havard about the sights. And that Lexia was a rat.... You are still confused about that part. "Street rat. Not an actual rat." Havard chuckles. "I am sure she explained it to you." Oh, right she did. Orphan living on the streets... That does not sound very nice now that you think about it. Assuming streets are what you think they are... "So, Lexia told you a lot about herself?" Havard asks while he works on the bandages. "Yeah... Lots." You say, looking at him. "She is your Protector now. It is good to know her." He says, nodding. A thought occurs to you. What about knowing your Custodian? Namely Havard. You observe him for a moment and then ask. "What about you?" Your voice is quiet. Tentative. Are you allowed to ask questions out of the blue? You almost regret asking. What if Havard takes it badly? What if you did something wrong? What if he throws you out because you asked... The spiral stops as Havard tilts his head and stops working on the bandages for a bit. "Me? You want to know about me?" You nod, glancing at him. He does not seem angry... "Well, I am flattered." He goes back to working on your bandages. "It is too late today to tell you everything... But I suppose I could tell you something." He ponders while rewrapping your hands. Your head starts nodding oddly in the silence. "Ah, proof that it is late." Havard says, and you perk up. He is smiling at you. Again. "I am from a little village called Dahim, in the middle of nowhere but on this continent. I came here some years ago, met Ethlel and became a Custodian of a sort. Before this orphanage was founded, I mean." He smiles, and you feel like he is skipping over a lot of details here. But he is not from Firgrat then? You suppose that is something. You don't think you are either. Even your broken head would not forget the Spire, would it? "All right. I think it is time for bed. I will tell you more another day." Havard has finished with your bandages. "You seem sleepy." You would object but... <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Your mouth does a weird thing right then. Opens and head tilts back. It feels odd... Your eyes even water.|C3_bedtime]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addstoic -5>>\ You tell Havard about the visit to the garden. About the grass and bugs. <<if $Garden2 is 4>>\ "I ate some... They were not very good. Lexia made me spit it up." You complain. Havard stops working on the bandages and looks up. "Please do not eat random bugs, or weeds. They are not meant for eating." You don't really get all these arbitrary rules! How are you supposed to know what things taste like if you don't taste them? Havard stares at your face... and sighs, probably seeing something there that will cause him worry in the future. "You should be careful with tasting everything you see. We will need to discuss what is meant for consumption at some point." Really? You don't really see the point. He does not seem very re-assured by whatever your face is doing but lets it go for now. <<else>>\ Havard listens to you, while working on the bandages. He smiles as you talk about the bugs, and the garden. "I am glad you had a good time in the garden. Perhaps we can have a picnic out there in the coming days`" A picnic? What is that? Havard must see the curiosity on your face. "We pack a basket of food and sweets, spread out a blanket in the garden. Then sit on the blanket and eat." You are on board with more food! <</if>>\ Havard keeps working on wrapping your hands anew. You start nodding off at some point. Why are your eyes heavy? "All right. I think it is time for bed." Havard has finished with your bandages. "You seem sleepy." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Your mouth does a weird thing right then. Opens and head tilts back. It feels odd... Your eyes even water.|C3_bedtime]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addshy 3>>\ Thinking on it, you feel like Havard probably does not need to know about that thing... Or if he does, Lexia can fill him in. You glance at Havard, who is focused on your bandages. Yes, Lexia can do it if that is important. Somewhere you cannot hear. The less you remember about that whole affair, the better. Not an experience you are eager to repeat... ' You are lost in thought, trying hard to not think about what happened in the bathroom place. A confusing name, and a confusing process. "All right. I think it is time for bed. I will tell you more another day." Havard has finished with your bandages. "You seem sleepy." You would object but... <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Your mouth does a weird thing right then. Opens and head tilts back. It feels odd... Your eyes even water.|C3_bedtime]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h2>Lexia POV</h2>\ She felt wretched. She was standing just outside of $MCname's room and knocking her head against the wall. Thump. How could she be so stupid? Thump. The light panel... Thump. The fucking light panel. Thump. She thought she had done... ok, not perfect. Thump. But not horrible. Thump. Of course, she had screwed it up at the end. Thump. On her first day... Thump. The fucking light panel. Thump. Was she qualified for this? Thump. She had inadvertently caused more damage... Thump. And the kid was already fucking damaged enough. Thump. She should be replaced. Thu.. "Lexia, stop that." Havared grabbed her shoulder. He must be done speaking with Lady Irosia for now. The Ancient had said to simply let $MCname rest. To not do anything for now... That made it worse? What kind of a Protector could do nothing? "Why? It's my fault." Lexia asked.... but allowed Havard to hold her shoulder and did not knock her head to the wall again. "You taught $MCname about the light panels then?" Havard asked. She smiled bitterly. "Yeah... Some protector. Harming the kid during the first day." Havard shook his head. "Not your fault. I didn't consider it either." <<if $C3_ending is 3>> He grimaces. "I even saw $himher touch the light panel and did not realize until the screaming started." <</if>> He looked about as wretched as Lexia felt... And he should not feel that way. Though he shook it off soon enough. How did he do that? Just...push through it? Out of the two of them, she would have imagined herself more used to dealing with all sorts of shit... But that shit was not usually her fault. What was Havard's deal? She didn't know much about him... Maybe at some point, she should ask. Havard placed both his hands on Lexia's shoulders. "I agree, we should have thought about this. We didn't. Perhaps Lord Sheo forgot to warm us. Perhaps he does not know everything about the orphanage. None of that matters now." He said firmly. Lexia was conflicted... It was her fault. But Havard was also right. "Right now, we need to know two things. Is $MCname fine and what can we do in the future to prevent this. Both can perhaps be answered only by someone very good with magic. I hope to have answers soon." Havard nodded towards the room they had just both vacated. "Lady Irosia said she would come in person. " He smiled at that. "That should help us figure out what is needed." That did make Lexia feel slightly better. Lady Irosia could help $MCname... Or at least so she hoped. She went back to banging her head against the wall though. No matter what Havard said, it was still her fault. Lexia should keep herself busy to avoid making things worse. Banging her head seemed a good way to do that. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Azha POV|AzhaPOV_C3_2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<div align="center"><h2>The Eternal Wanderer</h2></div>\ The legend of the Eternal Wanderer has taken many forms, most popularly in the form of a lullaby. Yet, no universal agreement has been reached about many parts of the legend. Not even the gender or appearance of the Wanderer. Indeed, the only thing all of the versions have in common is that the Wanderer walks the earth, pulling a flying ship, made of magic and dreams. The ship travels through the skies, bringing the children good dreams wherever the Wanderer goes. As the legend of the Eternal Wanderer has taken many forms throughout the centuries, so has the famous lullaby. Different bards have adopted their own versions, and made the legend their own. Gathered here, are some versions of the lullaby. <div align="center"><h3>Snow Vantele, The Songweaver Among the Thorns</h3></div>\ Famed bard of half-human ancestry. Although known for his love for stories and mischief, his past and origins are shrouded in mystery, being widely debated among faithful fans and interested onlookers. // He pulls a ship made of dreams Riding on silver moonbeams Ancient as the songs that dwelt in the wind Eternal as the deeds no man can rescind He remembers a time from ages untold When the stars were young and life did unfold When legends were born and the world opened its eyes To hear the birds sing and watch the sun rise Many has he witnessed, in the ages he has roamed Through storms and tempests where his ship creaked and groaned When the stars hid their light and the moon wept in sorrow Still he would carry on till the morrow Ever forward, ever onward His wish persists unaltered For after darkness, there is light An end to every long night The dawn will come The dawn will come He pulls a ship made of dreams Riding on silver moonbeams Whether it be magic or laughter Tales of faraway lands thereafter For you there is something To make your heart sing Stay, Until the end of the long night Stay, Until the dawn is in sight Stay, And the days will be bright Stay, And all will be right Close your eyes, dear child And let the stars be your guide Rest, dear child And the tears you have cried Will be quietly dried He pulls a ship made of dreams Riding on silver moonbeams Until the end of the long night Until the dawn is in sight And all will be right And all will be right // <div align="center"><h3>Vita Refelli, The Voice of Serenia.</h3></div>\ A cold and surly bard bearing a surprisingly haunting voice. Although she insisted to have no name, her claim was always foiled by her constant companion: a mute, elvish, and much kinder woman. Of unknown origins, the name in her title is actually the moniker of her confidant. //Little one with fancies abound, the world may seem so dreary when night time comes around But won’t you hear a story of a wanderer in a town, circling and circling without a sound They’re just a child, like you my little one, but they do remember, a time not found In the waving seas, they seek a place to be, one long gone yet still living on Stories of stories they’ll tell everyone, how they’ll grow up and journey the clouds Hearing these word, the other children, with little hands, helped their plans, to find a place so free They built a ship, with sticks and grass, the sails were leaves and the glue was sap. But the adults they came and said, go back home and get right to bed And as the sun fell and children placed to sleep, they feared the new day, the dark, the dreams. But the wanderer, they wandered every night, to every child’s house, telling each a tale of light From times of ages untold, when the stars were young and life did unfold Then each child would fall asleep, tucked in bed so gently. The night is so beautiful, the day is so bold, and the wanderer kept wandering even when cold Such things seemed to last, but the adults found out and the wanderer was outcast The children saddened, dreams steeped in sorrows, could only seem to wait for tomorrow But as they slept they see, the wanderer young and free Circling and circling without a sound The wanderer pulls a ship made of sticks and grass, with sails as leaves and the glue as sap. High in the clouds, ebbing and rising, flying with magic and running on dreams, telling you stories to put you to sleep A young child whispers so softly, “Nothing goes unchanging, sleep with no worries” Free and unbounded, they roam the skies, giving you good nights and dreams full of life So don’t worry about the dark, don’t worry of fright, don’t worry of changes that catch you by surprise The wanderer will come with a ship filled with hope, changing its shape with every new folk Yet the wanderer themself, as ever remains, but a ghost in the fog, forever the same. Eternally wandering for a world untamed. // ---- Vita Refelli has also been known to sometimes shorten the lullaby if hte situation calls for it. //Little one with fancies abound, the world may seem so dreary when night time comes around But won’t you hear a story of a wanderer in a town, circling and circling without a sound From times of ages untold, when the stars were young and life did unfold The wanderer pulls a ship made of sticks and grass, with sails as leaves and the glue as sap. High in the clouds, ebbing and rising, flying with magic and running on dreams, telling you stories to put you to sleep A young child whispers so softly, “Nothing goes unchanging, sleep with no worries” Free and unbounded, they roam the skies, giving you good nights and dreams full of life So don’t worry about the dark, don’t worry of fright, don’t worry of changes that catch you by surprise The wanderer will come with a ship filled with hope, changing its shape with every new folk Yet the wanderer themself, as ever remains, but a ghost in the fog, forever the same. Eternally wandering for a world untamed// <div align="center"><h3>Khatar Cryptsinger, the Hermit of Rhyme. </h3></div>\ Not much is known of this bard other than the songs and poems he writes. In fact, most of his fans just refer to him as 'the Hermit' for his reclusiveness and unwillingness to interact with anyone outside of brief performances // Prithee, lay down your heads and close your eyes, And hearken to me 'fore the sun may rise. For this tale I tell and lift up on high — 'Tis of the one who carries your dreams through the night. O Eternal Wanderer, gift me a dream; The sweetest delight you can make it seem! These cries do echo about each eve 'fore sleep, When folks shall bunker down to count their sheep. Their weary eyes close as they rest their heads Upon pillows, or bricks, or sacks of lead. The Wanderer treks across the vast lands, Pulling his ship of dreams in high demand. He remembers a time from ages untold, When the stars were young, and life did unfold. His ship in the sky still follows his own heart, And rains down his gifts from which he does part. Though the days may move on, some things never change; This man of dreams asks for naught in exchange. His pride and joy is crafting such beauty; To share with the world, he claims 'tis his duty. And the seasons change; and the days move on; And life does flourish; and night turns to dawn; Yet the wanderer himself, as ever remains But a ghost in the fog, forever the same. //

<<addstoic -5>>\ You tell Havard about the lesson you got from Lexia. "Ah, congratulations. Learning that skill early is likely a good thing." He smiles. "Will you show me?" You nod and close your eyes to focus. Havard stops working on your bandages for the demonstration, raising his gaze to look at your hair. After a bit, your hair lights up as bright as you can make it. Then dims. Turns of entirely... and then returns to glow like normal. A clapping sound. Havard is clapping? What does that mean? You have a vague idea it is not a bad thing; your internal sense tells you…. Wait, it might depend on the context of the clapping. Complicate. So, you open your eyes and Havard smiles widely at you, clearly happy. "Very well done!" He says. "So much progress after one lesson... I think you have already mastered the skill." He says, smiling widely at you, before returning to your bandages. You tell him more about the lesson, mainly that Lexia is not all that good at explaining stuff. How are you supposed to feel your hair without touching it. He chuckles as you speak. It seems that you have encountered something many “students” often feel. You have no idea what a student is… Havard says it is just a person learning something. That makes sense… In a way, you must be a student then. You are constantly learning stuff. It all feels so... normal. Is this what life is supposed to be like? Just… talking. You have no idea? Perhaps one day, you will know. "All right. I think it is time for bed." Havard has finished with your bandages. "You seem sleepy." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Your mouth does a weird thing right then. Opens and head tilts back. It feels odd... Your eyes even water.|C3_bedtime]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addstoic 2>><<addfriendly 3>>\ You would like to tell Havard something about your day. Isn't that hwat people do? If you want to be a person, you should try action like one. But you don't talk. So you cannot tell him anything detailed right now. Hmm, perhaps not talking is a bit inconvenient. You are not sure if it makes you less of a person or makes your less like a person perhaps... It seems like that on the surface but it seems implausible that there are no people unable to talk. While your personhood is questionable, there must be people who don't talk. Or are people unable to talk not people? If you could talk, you could ask. Is that called irony? You have no idea. Didn't Havard say something about some kind of a magical comunicator thing? You suppose that kind of thing might be useful at times. But how would you even use it? Would you need to learn magic? Can something like you learn magic? Havard works on your bandages while you get lost in your own head... Again. You have a feeling you do a lot of that. What would a magical communicator look like? You can't even imagine it. Wait... there was also some talk about gloves? When are you getting those? That seems like a lot of stuff coming your way. Is that ok? Giving stuff to something like you? Havard seems to think so. Your head is nodding... Why? What is happening? Have you developed new faults? It would not surprise you. You barely notice the time passing until Havard speaks. "All right. I think it is time for bed." Havard has finished with your bandages. "You seem sleepy." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Your mouth does a weird thing right then. Opens and head tilts back. It feels odd... Your eyes even water.|C3_bedtime]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<addstoic 5>>\ You don't really see the point in talking about today. It is what it is. <<if $nonverbal>> Assuming you spoke in the first place.<</if>> So, you sit there silently and let Havard work on your bandages. It's odd. Your head is nodding a bit... Your eyes feel heavy. What is going on. "All right. I think it is time for bed." Havard has finished with your bandages. "You seem sleepy." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Your mouth does a weird thing right then. Opens and head tilts back. It feels odd... Your eyes even water.|C3_bedtime]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $Sleep_nude>>\ Havard helps you out of your $clothes. <<else>>\ "Perhaps later we can consider specific outfits for bed. But for today, I think your $clothes will do fine." <</if>>\ Soon you are laying under the duvet, head on a pillow. Havard sits by your bed for a moment and arranges your cloak. It is in the bed with you. "Comfy?" You nod. It's all very soft and warm. It feels safe. "If you need anything, and I am not here you just need to call out. Someone will be close by." Havard looks around. "There is some light from the window. Would you like me to put the curtains on better?" You consider this... and decide that no. Light is good. Darkness is not something you want. The void lurks in the darkness... It might eat you up. The light is important to avoid being devoured. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You shake your head. <<else>>\ "No." You say, rather quickly. <</if>>\ Havard looks at you for a moment, almost asking for more... But instead smiles at you like always. "That is fine. You know, you can have more light if you want too." You consider this. Having more light might be good. Less change of the void sneaking up on you that way. The light might keep the void at bay… <<if $HeritageType.includes("elemental")>> Sure, you have your hair, but it would be even better if you had other light too. <</if>> "Or if there is anything you need before sleep?" Havard adds. Is there? Anything else, you mean? You look around while you think. You note there is one of those panel things right near the bed. Like the one Lexia used to show you the lights. You could possibly use that to adjust the lights yourself, assuming a broken thing like you can manage that. Lexia did show you how… Though she also asked you not to tell Havard she did so. You don’t really get why. On the other hand, you are sleepy. It has been a long day. Or so you assume. It is hard to know what is short or long… or a day. What should you do? <<if ndef $C3_ending>>\ <<set $C3_ending to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You are sleepy so you just want to sleep. You need nothing.|C3_bedtime3][$C3_ending to $C3_ending + 1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You do want more light. You tell Havard so. |C3_bedtime3][$C3_ending to $C3_ending + 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You do want more light. You saw Lexia do it. So you can probably too it too. |C3_bedtime3][$C3_ending to $C3_ending + 3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to try mess with the lights. Like Lexia did. But you should wait until Havard leaves if you plan to do all that... |C3_bedtime3][$C3_ending to $C3_ending + 4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You sort of want to investigate your cloak some more... but would prefer to do so without Havard. |C3_bedtime3][$C3_ending to $C3_ending + 5]]</div> <<if hasVisited("Tour_elementail")>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("elemental")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You do want more light.... but you can make more light with your hair. Lexia taught you how! |C3_bedtime3_hair][$C3_ending to $C3_ending + 6]]</div> <</if>><</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $C3_ending is 2>>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You point at the light panel thing. <<else>>\ "More light." You say. <</if>>\ "Of course." Havard says, getting up and going to the one by the door instead of reaching over you. To the light switch Lexia used earlier to show you how the lights work. He places his hand there, much like Lexia did. You wonder what kind of lights Havard will make… And small lights appear above you. Little dots of light... They are pretty. Tons and tons of little dots… Dozens, then hundreds. Soft pinpricks of silver, blue and gold, floating near the roof, and banishing the shadows above you. "There we are. Is this appropriate?" Havard asks, watching you with a smile. You nod, still staring upwards. You wonder what wonders Havard has seen to be able to imagine such a sight on the spot… For a while, you just… are. It is calm and nice. The bed is soft. Now that there is enough light to keep the void away, you come to a realization. You feel like sleeping. It does not take long. It was a long day. <<elseif $C3_ending is 3>>\ You saw Lexia do this, and there is one of those panel things right next to you. So, you reach out and press a hand to it. What kind of lights should you try to make? What kinds of lights are there? <<if $MC_name_random is false>>\ "$MCname, what are you doing?" Havard asks. <<else>>\ "What are you doing?" Havard asks. <</if>>\ He just sounds curious. Does this count as telling Havard that Lexia taught you about the lights? He is right there... No way. She asked you not to tell. You aren't telling since you are not speaking! How did it go? You need to just focus on what you want. You hope your bandages do not interfere. Focus... focus. "I should probably do that..." You hear the start of the sentence, but something is bothering you. <<elseif $C3_ending is 4 or $C3_ending is 5>>\ You decide that going to bed right now and waiting for Havard to go is the best option. <<if $C3_ending is 4>>\ Once Havard leaves you be, you can test out the lights all alone and in peace. <<elseif $C3_ending is 5>>\ Once Havard leaves you be, you can investigate your cloak in peace. <</if>>\ Then all you need to do is wait. No doubt Harvard will stick around for a while, but he should leave you eventually. Or so you hope. Or do you? Well, sure if you plan to do stuff you don’t want Havard to see. A soft breath escapes you, almost unwillingly. <<if $C3_ending is 4>>\ You really want to mess with the lights... but the soft bed is putting up a good fight. <<elseif $C3_ending is 5>>\ You really want to inspect your cloak... but the soft bed is putting up a good fight. <</if>>\ You might actually fall asleep at this rate.... Would that be so bad? <<if $C3_ending is 4>>\ But the pretty lights... You wanna make the lights do things... What kinds of lights could you make? <<elseif $C3_ending is 5>>\ But your awsome cloak... Is it magical? It has to be, right? Who knows what it can do? It looks nice at least, even if you have no idea if it can do anything else. It is also comfy. <</if>>\ You almost miss it. <<if $MC_name_random is false>>\ "Good night, $MCname." <<else>>\ "Good night." <</if>>\ Havard's voice is gentle. You think he stands up and retreats silently. Sleep almost takes you. But not quite. Your eyes open. Success! Probably... You are really tired. Best be quick about this. <<if $C3_ending is 4>>\ So just a little time with the lights and then you will sleep. You reach for the panel right next to your bed. How did it go? You need to just focus on what you want. You hope your bandages do not interfere. Pressing a bandaged hand to the panel, you close your eyes and focus. You hope the bandages do not interfere. <<elseif $C3_ending is 5>>\ You reach for your cloak. It is right there, in the bed with you. You sit up and grasp it, tugging it to you. <<if $likes_cloak>>\ It's still as awesome as when you looked at it earlier. With the symbols, intricate patterns and cool clasp. You pull it apart a few times, just to enjoy how the branch pattern comes apart and intertwines. You check out the symbol on the back, and the hem full of patterns. Your cloak is still awesome. Even if the magic only closes and opens the clasp... As far as you know. <<else>>\ You take your time to inspect the cloak. The intricate symbols embroidered on the hem and on the back. Patterns like tree-roots twisting and advancing cover every surface and edge. On the back there is a symbol that you do not know. A circle with several more circles inside it, intersecting in a confusing manner. In the center, it forms almost a square, but with slightly bendy lines. Because everything is intersecting circles? You try to trace and make sense of it. No luck.... So, you switch to the front. The circular clasp where the roots or branches from both sides intertwine comes apart when you pull on it, the pattern unwinding as you pull, the cloak opening. Your eyes widen. Magic! It must be! You put the edges of the clasp close by to each other and the tree roots intertwine again, keeping the cloak closed. Your cloak is awesome! You do that a few times. You have a magical cloak! Even if the magic only closes and opens the clasp... As far as you know. <</if>>\ Now... what should you do? Go to sleep? That is probably for the best. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End Of Chapter 3|Interlude_InBetween]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\ <</if>>\ <<if $C3_ending is 1 or $C3_ending is 2>>\ Your eyes are heavy, and the bed is warm. Nothing is needed, your eyes are already closed. A soft breath escapes you, but you no longer care about such things. Dreams... You wonder if you will dream? What are dreams really? You faintly hear Havard shift. <<if $MC_name_random is false>>\ "Good night, $MCname." <<else>>\ "Good night." <</if>>\ His voice is gentle. You think he stays for a bit, before retreating silently. Sleep takes you. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Chapter 3|Interlude_InBetween]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<elseif $C3_ending is 3 or $C3_ending is 4>>\ It is a faint feeling at first. A familiar feeling yet it takes you a moment to place it. How could you ever forget... The pain begins, radiating from the little panel into your arm, spreading from your fingers to your whole body and intensifying into blinding searing agony, that is oh so familiar. No... Why? This is not what you wanted... Why? Was it a trap? Why is it happening again? Are you screaming? Does it matter? Does anything matter? Was it all a lie? A delusion? A trap? All of it? How could it be? You know this pain... Will the cycle start again? Why? This familiar pain. Why are you feeling it again? Why did you ever believe you escaped? Why did you want to live in the first place? You think your hands are tearing off. Or are they? Everything hurts. Why does it hurt? Was it all a lie? The orphanage? Lexia? The food? Havard? Wasn't he just here? It does not matter. Oh... It was just a lie... A beautiful dream. You can no longer see. There is nothing but the pain... Soon the void will close in around you. You don't want to go back. What you wanted never mattered. The void is taking you home.... Yet, something unexpected happens. Like hands wrapping around you and pulling your hand away, holding you gently... Is that frantic shouting you hear? Why? There is no one in the void... The darkness takes you. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End Of Chapter 3|Interlude_InBetween]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

You wake up and sit up in bed... Did you actually fall asleep again? You must have. Looking around, you see Lexia is still in the room. Her eyes are closed, and she is just sitting there. There does not seem to be much to do but just stay in bed. So, you do. Just laying there… Starting at stuff. Time passes... and you start getting restless. The only thing that happens is Lexia opening one eye and looking at you... You have no idea what to do with that, so you just lay there... Didn't you already do the whole... introduction thing properly? It is all so.. so... boring! You know that when choosing this path, but still. Of course... You could still change your mind.... Ask Lexia to still go on the tour... Or just remain here. There is also the possibility of just remaining here... There will be time during your stay here, assuming this is real, to explore later. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Ask Lexia to go on the tour with the wheeled chair thing. |Chapter 3_5_tour][$orphanage_tour to 'wheelchair']]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You wanna go on the tour, but don’t trust that wheeled chair contraption. You would rather be carried by Lexia.|Chapter 3_5_tour][$orphanage_tour to 'carried']]</div> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You wanna go on this tour, and you have wings! You want to fly!|Chapter 3_5_wings][$orphanage_tour to 'wings']]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You have not changed your mind. No tour!|Chapter 3_5_no_tour3][$orphanage_tour to 'no']]</div> </div><</nobr>> //Note: Not going on the tour skips a significant amount of content.//

<h1>Interlude – In Between</h1>\ <h2>Havard POV</h2>\ <<if $C3_ending is 3>>\ Havard was not certain why watching $MCname reach for the light panel made him uneasy. Was he forgetting something? <<if $MC_name_random is false>>\ "$MCname, what are you doing?" Havard asked, curious but slightly uneasy. <<else>>\ "What are you doing?" Havard asked, curious but slightly uneasy. <</if>>\ What was he so uneasy about? He felt like he should know… There was no answer from the $child. Of course, $MCname needed to focus. How did $heshe know how to use the panel? It must have come up with Lexia. He was not sure that a child being able to control the lights would be good in the long term, mainly since the lights could take any shape… It was bound to be used for mischief at some point. Still, it was a small price to pay if it made $MCname smile. At first nothing happened. The $child touches the light panel for a while. Still, Havard could not help but feel uneasy. Why? "I should probably do that..." Havard said, and started reaching for the $child, deciding to trust his instincts. A bloodcurdling scream coming from $MCname halted his hand for a heartbreaking moment. For a brief moment, all he could do was stare, eyes wide, horrified as $MCname began convulsing and shaking, mouth agape with that horrifying scream. Then he sprang into action, cursing that moment of inaction internally. He should not freeze. Never. Freezing when it counted had cost him too much long ago. <<else>>\ Havard left $MCname's room, smiling a bit. They had seemingly fallen asleep easily enough. He had considered a story, or a lullaby would perhaps help, but it seemed the day had been tiring enough. Of course, the $child would need lots of sleep, a lot more than even normal children or so Havard imagined, to recover from whatever had been done to them. For a moment, his mood turned dark before he shook it off. He should ask the Spire about those gloves Lord Sheo had promised. <<if $nonverbal>> And the magical communication device. That would likely be useful. <<if hasVisited("Tour_done4_nonverbal")>> He had the vague feeling, $MCname may have wanted to tell him about $hisher day earlier but could not. <</if>><</if>> He should also ask Alessa or Sandor about their oaths... Check that everything went well with that. <<if hasVisited("Tour_gate")>> He should also make sure the Protectors were ready to search for those poor missing people. Lexia had done well to offer Madam Vonn assistance with that. Though Custodian Ethel would coordinate most of that. She had the right connections to the Grey Protectors to make it easy. <</if>> Havard had just decided to do all of those things, when a bloodcurdling scream came from behind him. From $MCname's room. He froze just for a moment, then ran back as fast as he could. Inside the room, the $child's hand was on the light panel next to $hisher bed. They seemed almost stuck there, screaming, convulsing and shaking. Havard dashed forwards, cursing himself for leaving so soon. Clearly $MCname had wanted to adjust the lights but something had gone wrong. Very wrong. <</if>>\ He grabbed the $child's hand, the one on the light panel, and pulled them off. He laid $MCname gently down on the bed and just inspected the $child, whose hole body was shaking. The scream stopped soon after he pried $himher off the panel. It was rougher than he liked, just pulling the $child back, but he had to do it. The door flew open, Havard spun around to face the door, and Lexia charged in, freezing upon seeing Havard cradling $MCname. He could hear footsteps... More Protectors were undoubtedly all coming this way. He turned his attention back to $MCname, setting the $child properly back onto the bed. Faintly, he registered Lexia telling the others to call for a healer, and to just guard the outside and check the orphanage for any signs of abnormality. Then she entered again, coming to stand by the bed, shifting uneasily from foot to foot. "What happened?" She asked, sounding worried. "The light panel.... $MCname tried to adjust the lights, I think. Then just... screamed in pain." Lexia drew in a sharp breath. "What?" She sounded panicked. Horrified. He glanced at her, and the horror on her face... Of course. She must have shown $MCname how to use the lights. How else would the $child have known… "Later, Lexia." He said firmly. "We can go over it all later. For now, focus. Help me figure out what is wrong." Lexia took a deep breath. Then another. Then startled looking the $child over. <<if $Sleep_nude>> It was easy, $MCname had wanted to sleep without $hisher $clothes. <<else>> It was not hard, even with $MCname wearing $clothes. <</if>> There were no visible wounds or anything else odd. Nothing new at least. But one thing stood out. The hands. Of course it was the hands. The bandages were moving on the hand that $MCname had used to touch the panel. Havard had just bound them again, tightly. Now he could clearly see the damaged flesh beneath twitching and twisting. His heart sank... What was going on under there? He was not sure he wanted to know… What had Lord Sheo said... //"With such a poor enchantment, there was too much excess mana not absorbed into the body. They poured so much power into the chains for so long, that the flesh began to twist and mutate. So much and so long that the flesh began to die. Simultaneous mutation and decay has led to what we see now. A twisted mess of flesh and muscle."// It was mana... Just mana. The light panel controlled the mana that formed the lights.... Havard held his breath, as he gently undid the bandages on the arm. As each layer was removed, twisted black flesh was slowly exposed. The grotesque sight makes Havard gulp, the flesh is pulsating, bulging and twisting. It smells like dead flesh, except it is clearly alive. The fingers were bulging and writhing, and the entire hand seemed to shift unnaturally, distorting moment by moment. Havard and Lexia stared both going pale. This was worse than it had been in the baths with Lord Sheo? How much had the Ancient healed before they had gotten there? A small sound drew Havard back to reality. A whimper. A whimper coming from $MCname. For a moment it broke through the haze of everything else. A whimper. Havard had no idea what to do. Lexia stood there, helplessly. They had to help. How could they help? What could they do? Mana had made $MCname's hands like this... Touching raw mana would make the condition worse? How had Lord Sheo healed the $child even to the degree they had? How... A second detail, a very important detail struck Havard. As much mana the Ancient had used, it had all gone into the healing waters, none of it had touched $MCname directly... Havard himself knew a bit of healing magic. <<if $Lexiareaction is 9 or $got_injured_c1 is true>> Hadn't he used some on $MCname? <<if $Lexiareaction is 9>>To check on $himher after the $child played dead?<<else>> After the $child had been injured after waking up?<</if>> But... he had not used magic on the hands. Not directly... Perhaps the bandages were meant to keep out magic from touching the flesh... How did they work? They suppressed pain... Or did they stop more magic from getting in to mess with the damaged flesh? He did not know... but he had a horrified suspicion that he was right. <</if>> What of the healing water? <<if $got_injured_c1 is true>>He had used that on $MCname, so had the Ancient...<<else>> The Ancient had cradled $MCname in the healing baths. <</if>> Why did that not cause a reaction, even from direct contact... The water from the baths made by Lord Abalf... The Archmage of the Ancients... Likely the greatest magic user to ever exist. Oh no... He could not think of the healing baths as normal magic, it was likely complex beyond his understanding by far. While the orphanage had received many things from the Ancients, how many things were actually directly from one of them? He doubted Lord Abalf had made the light panels. Another small whimper came from $MCname and Havard realized he was stuck in his own head. This was not the time to ponder, it was the time to act! However they could. "Get the healer here quicker... No. Actually, get the healer but make sure he does not use any magic directly on the hands." Havard said. "Contact the Spire. If Lord Sheo could not heal this... Our healer won't be able to. We need information. If... Ask... No let me." "Havard?" Lexia asked, worried but he was too lost in his head to answer. "Havard!" Lexia said, and grabbed his shoulder, pulling him to look at her. She pointed behind her. "Ask her." She said. In the doorway stood a faintly translucent version of Irosia Elazor, one of the Ancients. "Oh..." He said, and felt his shoulders slump as Lexia pulled him to the side, and Lady Irosia marched forwards. He watched in a vague sort of daze as the Ancient began to inspect the scene. Her gaze locked onto the hand Havard had unwrapped. She did not cast magic, simply observed. She asked a few questions. Havard answered the best he could in a daze. What a horrible first day $MCname was having. He knew it was not his fault, he could only deal try and deal with the aftermath of what had already come to pass. Still, right now he could not help but feel like a failure. And he was clearly not the only one, based on the agonized look on Lexia's face. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End of Havard POV|LexiaPOVC3]]</div> </div><</nobr>> /* Dull pain from being without bandages? From exposure to ambient mana. Lexia communicator? She uses her internal mana for it. All Silver Protectors have that, so that mana is not "neutral" it is Lexia, and therefore she would purposefully need to pour some into MC.*/

<<if $CHair is 1>>\ <<addinnocence 5>>\ Having control over your hair is nice. Like you know magic! Just a tiny bit of magic, but it is still magic. Hence, it is awesome! Or so you have decided just now. <<elseif $CHair is 2 or $CHair is 3>>\ <<addinnocence -5>>\ Thinking about it… and considering the ruin that is your life, a bit of control over your stupid hair does not matter. It does not undo all the horrors you have been through and is not all that helpful. All in all rather useless... Maybe you can use it to see if it ever gets dark? Still life sucks. Perhaps not all life, you have hardly decided on all of it yet. Your life specifically. <<if $CHair is 3>>\ <<addinnocence 2>>\ Except for the food stuff. Eating is great! Almost enough to make it all worth it. <</if>>\ <<elseif $CHair is 4>>\ <<addstoic 3>>\ It feels good, great even that amidst the turmoil of your life, you have this tiny bit of control. Control feels important, every little bit of it, when you have so little. You cannot control your legs right now. Your arms are ruined. You are in an unfamilair place, though any place would be unfamiliar. Yet, you can control your hair. Magical hair. The one thing you can control. It feels good. <</if>>\ “What’s got you so thoughtful, kid?” Lexia asks and rises. "No wait, probably pondering on my awesome lesson." She beams. “Now then, I think we are done here.” <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["Let's return to that tour, shall we."|Tour_main]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1> The Twins</h1>\ <h2>Azha</h2>\ <h3> Some time ago</h3>\ The whole oath thing was very confusing. Alessa had explained it to them. Why did the need to sweat oaths, they were already taking care of them? But apparently it was a whole thing. So, when Alessa, and the traitor.... Nah, she wasn't really mad at Sandor anymore. It had all worked out rather well. Anyway, when they started the whole oath thing, Azha watched and listened in silence. She almost exclaimed when lights appeared out of thin air, grabbing onto Atru's hand and pointing. Even Alessa and Sandor watched the light. No, lights. They danced in the air around room. More and more in different shapes, and different colors, until streams and rivers of light run through your room. The rivers of light surrounded Azha and Atru, swirling and dancing, circling closer and creating trails of vibrant color in the air. Whites, blues, violets, reds, yellows, countless colors and shades. Slowly, patterns formed, and the room was encompassed by the gazes of the Ancients. Alessa and Sandor glance at each other in wonder as the symbol of the Ancients takes shape and settles on them and the twins. @@.emboss;"A word is given, an oath witnessed and sealed. From this moment forth, so shall it be."@@ The voices echoed around the room, coming from everywhere and nowhere. Atru clasped his hands over his ears for a moment, though probably more from surprise than anything else. The voices were not loud, but they were everywhere. Yet, Azha could hear one voice that sounded familiar... And indeed, once the lights started to fade, and the feeling of being watched faded, a figure appeared. A familiar figure of a woman, really pretty and perfect. Azha jumped down from the bed, grabbing Atrus’s hand. "Irosia!" She screamed and dashed at the figure together with Atru. They went straight through, but luckily Sandor appeared to catch them, to prevent the twins from hitting a wall. Of course, Sandor was wearing armor... but they were sort of swept along into his arms without any incidents. "I am not really here, Azha. Atru." Irosia said calmly. Oh... It must be a magical version of Irosia! So cool! "Azha, Atru? Are you all right?" Alessa got up and hurried to check on them. Azha was fine herself but looked at Atru. Her twin gave her a nod, and Azha smiled. "Fine!" Azha said cheerfully to Alessa. Then beamed up at the Ancient. For a moment, there was silence "Are you doing well? Have you gotten used to the orphanage?" Azha launched into an explanation. About their days here and how awesome it all was. The food, especially the bread, and how nice Alessa and Sandor were, even though Sandor was a traitor, and how there was a mystery that they were really close to solving... <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>>\ Then she remembered. The mystery! The one they had not solved yet but wanted to! "There is a mystery! No one will tell us what it is, and we are trying to figure it out! But no one is helping us!" She hugged a bit and looked at Sandor. <<else>>\ Then she remembered. The new $child! She stopped explaining for a bit. "We saw a new $child today! But we were not allowed to go play!" She huffed a bit, looking at Sandor. "But we wanna go play!" <</if>>\ "Hmm, is that so. Have you considered there could be a reason for that?" Irosia asked. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>>\ Azha folded her arms. "We wanna know!" She declared. Atru gave a little nod too, which was huge for him. Irosia stared at them calmly, and Azha could swear there was an amused glint in her eye. "Then, you two shall have to figure it out on your own. Like the smart children you are." Azha felt a bit smug at the praise, her chest puffing out. They were smart! Like super smart, and cunning and awesome! <<else>>\ Azha folded her arms. "Playing helps!" She declared, nudging Atru to do the same... He did not, still clearly uncertain about the whole thing. "You wish to help this $child you saw?" Irosia asked. "Yeah!" Azha agreed with an enthusiastic nod. Even Atru nodded a bit, which was big for him. "Then, I am sure you will have the chance to. But helping is not always so simple, little ones. But your earnest desire is noted." She even smiled a bit. "A chance will come when you can help." Azha stared at the Ancient.... She was weird, more so than adults normally were. A chance will come? What does that mean? When? Azha turned to stare at Atru.... He was as confused as she was. Of course, only Azha could probably tell. <</if>>\ "Excuse me, Lady Irosia?" Custodian Alessa interrupted the conversation. "Yes, Custodian Alessa?" Irosia asked. "It is bedtime for the twins." Alessa said simply. Azha, Atru, and Sandor stared at Alessa. Bedtime? Irosia was here! Bedtime was meaningless! Or so Azha thought. Except the Ancient nodded. "Of course. Please prepare for bedtime." Azha's mouth fell open, as Alessa smiled and nodded. Bedtime was a thing, even with Irosia here? How powerful was Alessa that she could decide that? Or was bedtime really important enough to affect even the Ancient? They were supposed to be really important, right? They never had bedtime in the bad place... as long as they were quiet enough at least. They were sort of just shut into a room once they were done working. Azha realized too late, she had missed the chance to rebel against the tyranny of bedtime, as she and Atru were gently guided to change and get ready for bed. Even the mistspray tonic did not shake her out of her surprise. Irosia just stood there, still like a statue. She considered running away... but Atru would not go for it anymore. He did accept bedtime far too easily. Perhaps his greatest fault as a brother. "In you go." Alessa said, lifting up the duvet, and gesturing for the twins to get in. Which they did. <<if $C3_ending is 1 or $C3_ending is 2 or $C3_ending is 6 or $C3_ending is 5>>\/*No scream*/ Alessa sits down on the edge of the bed, and Sandor hovers nearby. Irosia simply stands there, like a statue still. "It is good to see you two are well. I shall be meeting with the head Custodian. Good night." Irosia says and nods. Azha has more to ask her... but the bed does feel really nice. The Ancient does not waste time, and disappears. Just... gone. Must be magic! Azha perks up a bit, trying to sit up to see if there is anything left behind. but Alessa's hand gently grabs her shoulder. "Azha, it is bedtime." She says softly. Azha pouts, but layes back down. "Good girl." Alessa said smiling. That made Azha feel a bit better. She was a good girl! Even if she sometimes broke the rules. But the rules were stupid. <<elseif $C3_ending is 3 or $C3_ending is 4>>\ /*Scream*/ Just as Alessa was sitting down on the edge of their bed, something happened. A scream, a horrible terrible scream that made Sandor immediately stand sharply and step in front of Alessa and the twins, made Alessa to sit in front of them, spreading her hands as if to shield them, made Atru grab Azha's hand, and made the slightly transparent Irosia frown ever so slightly. "What was..." Sandor started. "The new $child." Irosia said. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>>\ Wait what? There was a new $child? Here at the orphanage? Where? Since when? Why did no one tell them? <</if>>\ Outside their room, Azha faintly heard fast footsteps... Someone running. It sounded sort of like when Sandor ran, so it must have been a Protector. "I will go too." Irosia said... and the apparition disappeared. Alessa and Sandor looked at each other, clearly torn. Azha wanted to go see... But Alessa blocked her. As did Atru's hand, holding onto to hers. "I wanna go!" Azha whined. "No, Azha. You two are going to bed." Alessa said gently. "I know you are worried, we are too. But Havard and Lexia have it well in hand." Azha pouted... but was forced back into bed. "You two are going to bed." Alessa said gently. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[There was not much the twins could do.|AzhaPOV_C3_3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $chapter = 'Interlude - In Between'>>\ <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''Interlude - In Between''</font> \ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 200%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''Lexia'' </font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 200%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''The Twins - Azha and Atru'' </font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<if $C3_ending is 3 or $C3_ending is 4>>\ <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 200%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''Havard'' </font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <</if>>\ <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<if $C3_ending is 1 or $C3_ending is 2 or $C3_ending is 6 or $C3_ending is 5>>\ <<cont>><<goto 'LexiaPOVC3'>><</cont>> <<elseif $C3_ending is 3 or $C3_ending is 4>>\ <<cont>><<goto 'HavardPOV_C3_3'>><</cont>> <<set $LightSwitch to true>>\ <</if>>\

Sleep would not come, even after Alessa told them a story. It had a dragon! And a little person stealing from the dragon and.... and Azha could not sleep. <<if $C3_ending is 1 or $C3_ending is 2 or $C3_ending is 6 or $C3_ending is 5>>\/*No scream*/ Her mind of full of plans! <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>>\ Plans on how to solve the mystery! Obviously, they would have to sneak out of bed. That seemed the best way for the adults not to interfere. <<else>>\ Plans on how to meet the new $child. What would $heshe be like? Azha had only seen the $child from afar. But she knew she wanted to be friends! <</if>>\ <<elseif $C3_ending is 3 or $C3_ending is 4>>\ /*Scream*/ The scream she had heard still echoed in her mind. Was the new $child good? <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>>\ There really was a new $child at the orphanage? They could make friends! It would be so fun. But... <</if>>\ What had happened? They needed to get out of here. See what had happened. Maybe they could help. <</if>> Perhaps they could sneak away in a bit after Sandor and Alessa leave them be. Is there a Protector guarding their room? How to get past them... Or will Alessa and Sandor even leave today? Since both of them were still in the room? She would just have to wait and see.... She glanced at Atru. Her twin was still awake too. Probably lost inside his own head. Good. It would be harder if she had to wake him up. For now, she reached out to him under the covers. communicating without words that she had plans. Atru of course understood almost immediately and gave one of his imperceptible nods. Good, Now they just needed to wait for the room to empty. Then figure out how to sneak out. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>>\ The mystery was awaiting them! The question was where and how to get there unseen... <<else>>\ Then where the new $child was... and how to get there unseen... <</if>>\ Ok, her plan was a bit uncertain. The twins were good at sneaking, in her mind at least. Surely they could sneak past any Protectors or other adults. They had sometimes snuck about in the bad place! And sometimes they had regretted it... She suppressed a shiver. Azha did not understand all the things they had seen there, and she didn't want to. All the grunting and moaning... She wasn't sure what all that was about, but it sure made a mess! Anyway... She glanced about. Alessa and Sandor were whispering silently in one corner... Oh, they should pretend to be asleep! That way, Alessa and Sandor should leave sooner. She communicated this to Atru with a nudge and a look at the adults. Atru understood soon enough, and both twins closed their eyes. It was now only a matter of time. They would be able to sneak out soon enough! Probably. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>>\ Her mind wandered back to the mystery... What could it be? A new child! <<if $C3_ending is 3 or $C3_ending is 4>> Now that she thought about it, that would make some sense! It must be so! She was so smart, figuring it out. <<else>> She hoped it was a new child! That would be so awesome, making a friend! <</if>> <<else>>\ Her mind wandered back to the new $child. Would $heshe want to be friends with them? Play with them? Would $heshe attend these lesson things Alessa liked talking about. The answer to all of those things was naturally, yes. Azha would make sure of it! <</if>>\ Having Atru was great! He was the best! The greatest and most important person ever! To her, at least. But having a friend excited her too! All the stories, about adventure were also about friendship! Friends were important! Not as important as Atru, of course, but still very important. Having adventures was better with friends! Or so Azha had concluded from the stories Alessa had told them. So, her plan for life was currently, make friends and go on adventures. Get lots of snacks... and tasty bread, and.... and.... What else was there to get? Oh, right. Treasure! The good life! A smile spread on her face as she thought on her plans. Sure they might change tomorow, but right now her goals were set! <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>>\ Having a friend would be good. Even if she was not sure how friends were made, it seemed it was all very complicated. Though she had a great plan to make it less complicated! Not complicated at all in fact. <<else>>\ Atru and her were going to make friends with the new $child! Even if it was hard! And they would have to start tonight. The adults didn't get it. Sure, it had been scary coming here at first. But it had also been better, so much better, than the bad place. Alessa, Sandor, Lexia, and Havard and the others, were all really nice! The orphanage had been a haven of peace and safety for them, with adults that did not hate them. But it would have been even better if there had been friends here! But the twins had been the first, and that was fine. The new $child was second, and that meant making friends with the twins! It was not that complicated, in her mind. <</if>>\ She would simply have to be persistent and work through any troubles with the best way possible! Force! Not the mean kind of force, like kicking them or not letting them have snacks.... Those were terrible. But force in smiles and refusal to go away! That would work. Maybe bribes of the best snacks... That might be a good way to make friends.... In the adventure stories, there was often talk of treasure and payments and such things. So, it must be a part of making friends! It might not even come to that. Sometimes, friendships just happen! Or so the stories said. Like the story about the adventuring party called the Iron Children! Or was it a company... It was all very complicated, but they sounded super cool! All hard and disciplined but the best of friends! Though she would like her friends to like playing with her and Atru.... The Iron Children did not sound like they would like playing.... Were they really children made of iron? Azha should have asked a bit more about them... But the story about them fighting a troll had been too good! Azha barely notices as she curled up in bed, and started drifting off. As is entirely expected, both twins fall asleep in no time. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[There was not much the twins could do.|AtruPOV_C3_2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Lexia smiles at you. “That’s fine, kid. There is lots of time later to visit the kitchens again, once we have had some time to adjust.” She says. “Then, come on. Let’s go visit somewhere else.” She takes you out of the main hall, and you stop to ponder your choices. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[And the tour goes on.|Tour_main]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Another set of long wooden tables are piled with some kind of pliable mass that several cooks are pushing around. “It’s dough, the cooks are kneading it. It becomes bread.” Lexia whispers to you and you glance up at her in wonder. That stuff becomes the tasty bread you had earlier? Is it tasty now? It looks so soft and pliable. You look at your hands, bandaged up… you think you will not be allowed to touch the dough thing. There was so much to see! So many smells! It was also hot and loud. You are not used to so much movement, so much sound. The void had none after all. It is overwhelming and scary. All the sound, the chopping and searing. The heat from the fires… Yet it is also curious How do they know what they are doing? What tastes good? What goes with what? How long to leave things on the fire? How do they all know? One woman is especially scary and curious, ordering the others about, and wielding a ladle in one hand. Her apron is stained with all sorts of things that you can’t make out. “Don’t you dare spill that! Stop stirring like a maniac.” She bellows at a young man stirring a big cauldron of… something steaming. It smells tasty, making you lean a bit forward to inhale deeply of the aroma. “I smell something burning.” The woman shouted and everyone working with a fire checked their stuff. “That’s Bruna, the head cook.” Lexia whispered into your ear. “Don’t worry, she’s nice.” Bruna’s eye caught on Lexia just then. “You! OUT!” She screamed at Lexia, making you wince and want to hide. She woman is marching over! What should you do? This is the second time today a scary woman is approaching you and Lexia. <<if ndef $BrunaReaction >>\ <<set $BrunaReaction to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Hide behind your wings!|Tour_kitchens_yes2][$BrunaReaction to $BrunaReaction+1]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <div class="choice-item">[[ Wrap your tail around yourself for support. |Tour_kitchens_yes2][$BrunaReaction to $BrunaReaction+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[ Wrap your tail around Lexia’s arm for support.|Tour_kitchens_yes2][$BrunaReaction to $BrunaReaction+3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[ Try to hide behind Lexia.|Tour_kitchens_yes2][$BrunaReaction to $BrunaReaction+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Stare at her blankly.|Tour_kitchens_yes2][$BrunaReaction to $BrunaReaction+5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You wave at the woman. |Tour_kitchens_yes2][$BrunaReaction to $BrunaReaction+6]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["Hello!" You say as the woman comes over. |Tour_kitchens_yes2][$BrunaReaction to $BrunaReaction+6]]</div> <<if $MC_name_random is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[[You are getting annoyed with the introductions, and decide to get ahead of this thing. By introducing yourself before prompted.|Tour_kitchens_yes2][$BrunaReaction to $BrunaReaction+7]]</div> <</if>> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("eyes")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ You close your eyes and focus... then open them and stare around the room. Can you tell any difference? Is it even working? Without a mirror you can't tell if the $Feature is working properly? Havard is working on your bandages but looks up. <<if $AskedHavardHeritage>>\ Wait... Havard has cat eyes... You know this since you asked him about it ealier. <<else>>\ Oh... is he wondering about your eyes? Why you are using them? <</if>>\ "You are trying to use your eyes better? Currently, you have $Feature." He smiles, and his own eyes turn into catlike slits, that adjust to the light, widening and narrowing. <<if $AskedHavardHeritage>>\ You saw it earlier, and peer at his eyes for another look. <<else>>\ <<if $Feature is "slitted eyes">>\ They are not quite the same as yours. Or what you remember from your eyes looking like from the mirror. The pupils are not as long. The eyes are not as intense looking. Still plenty intense. "I am not part $HeritageRace like you. I am part beastkin. Probably a cat beastkin or maybe some other larger cat. I don't know for certain." Havard says. "These eyes are the only thing I received from my heritage. They let me see very well in the dark." <<else>>\ "I am part beastkin. Probably a cat beastkin. Maybe some other larger cat? I don't know for certain." Havard says. "These eyes are the only thing I received from my heritage. They let me see very well in the dark." <</if>>\ <<if $HeritageRace.concatUnique($HeritageRace2).includes("beastkin")>>\ Havard is part beastkin? Just like you? <<if $beastkin_tribe.includes("cat")>> He has even the same tribe as you! That is pretty cool.<<elseif $beastkin_tribe is []>> Though you don't know what kind of beastkin you are. <<else>> Even if he is not the same tribe, he said you were part <<BeastkinTribeList>>. <</if>> <<else>>\ Beastkin heritage? What is that? What does it mean? Once again, your internal sense is just as confused as you are. It does not know what to make of this. Havard's eyes go back to normal while you watch. He smiles at you, just like normal. "Beastkin is a general term, it does not refer to one specific people but a set of varied tribes. Each tribe takes traits from a specific animal." He explains. You ponder about this a bit. So, he is part cat? What are cats? You have a vague sense they are small animals, but you don't really know. <</if>>\ <</if>>\ "Eyes like ours do not really need much training. You just need to focus to use them." Havard explains calmly and returns to tying your bandages. "You should perhaps practice a bit in front of a mirror at some point, but it is very instinctive as far as I know." He stops again and looks at your $Feature, pondering something. <<if $Feature is "slitted eyes">>\ "I am not sure if your slitted eyes will do, but likely you may see better under some conditions. Or perhaps as you age." <<else>>\ "I have to admit, as far as I know, your eyes offer mostly... cosmetic effects." You stare blankly at him, no idea what that means. "Visual effect. They look different... Though there could be some other effects. You may see better under some conditions. Or perhaps as you age, something will become apparent. Or perhaps not." <</if>>\ You absorb this information... and nod. If you can do it sort of automatically that is good. The rest... will maybe show up one day. If there is anything there. Havard returns to working on your bandages. You stare around the room, trying to see a difference. You can't... Not that it stops you from staring at the lights intently. Time passes for a while, both of you busy with your own tasks. Sort of tasks. Weirdly, your eyes start feeling very heavy as you stare at stuff. "All right. I think it is time for bed. I will tell you more another day." Havard has finished with your bandages. "You seem sleepy." You would object but... <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Your mouth does a weird thing right then. Opens and head tilts back. It feels odd... Your eyes even water.|C3_bedtime]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $chapter = 'The Past: Havard'>>\ <h1> Havard -- The Village of Dahim </h1>\ <h2> Year 136 of the Age of Hope, the First Age of Wocdes</h2>\ It was a painful thing, not knowing what to say. How to ask. Havard suffered it in silence as they worked on the house during the coming days, and weeks as the new house took form. The snow was melting, and spring had arrived. Murklings... Oozelets were a plenty on the construction site where a new house rose. They kept forming from the melting snow. Mara had insisted on putting out a barrel, and with her newfound carpentry skills, build a little bridge up the side of said barrel for the oozelets to climb up. She had even included a little spring board right in the middle for the oozelets to jump off of. She liked watching the line the little balls of liquid formed, to happily jump into the water barrel, and fulfill their seemingly one true desire in life. As the snow banks melted and became smaller, the new house rose. They had all the walls up and a roof built. Even windows and a roofed porch outside as a part of the building. All in all, they had gone all out. The central hearth Mara had wanted had been built as one of the first things, both Havard's father and mother leading that project. They had apparently built the ovens in the bakery together once upon a time, though they had had more help back then. Havard was beginning to realize his parents might not have always lived a normal boring life in Dahim... though he knew his mother was from elsewhere. Or perhaps the ostracization from the village had forced them to learn how to be exceedingly self sufficient. Right now, they were inside the new house, finishing up the wooden floor. Of course, they had a floor. It had been made after a few layers of logs had been up. Now they needed to clean it, it was full of wooden chips from working on the walls. They luckily also had a hearth, so they were sweeping up all the loose wood, and just throwing it into the fire. It was just the two of them now. His parents were actually checking what old furniture they had up in the bakery attic, and were planning on making more. Havard was pretty sure his mother had been working on a crib for most of the past winter when she had a bit of extra time... He deliberately chose to ignore that he knew that. Havard was not opposed to the idea of having children, he rather liked the idea in fact the more he thought about it... but he and Mara were not there yet. Putting aside the... process involved in making children, he was currently worrying about asking her thoughts on marriage and trying to not be obvious about it. He did not need to bring children into it, especially since that incident in the baths, they had been so focused on building the house. They had spent all their free time working on it, and slept like the dead every night. "Hey, Havard." He felt a gentle poke on his cheek. "Stop daydreaming." Mara said, smiling at him. "We still have to clean the two rooms." He blinked, and smiled back at her. "Oh, sure." They made their way to one of the empty rooms in companionable silence. The only light was what came from the windows. They would have to find some candles later. Better yet, if they could find glowstones, that would be much better. There were certain types of stones that absorbed sunlight and would glow in the dark for a good few hours. They were not common, but could be found naturally. Other option was gathering lunablooms, the flowers that were everywhere where roads and forest paths were, and always glowed in the dark. It must have been due to the Eternal Flow but understanding all that was beyond Havard. However, the flowers, while naturally plentiful, were for some reason nearly impossible to grow by people. Magical flowers were a pain, after being picked, they would stop glowing within the day. There was enough light for now from the windows however, and they started sweeping the would be bedroom. It was all bare at the moment, but this would be their bedroom... in their house. In their house. Havard smiled and blushed a bit at thinking it. Mara peered at him and leaned on her broom. "Spill it, village boy." She said, tilting her head. "Thinking naughty thoughts?" Havard kept smiling despite the slight blush but shook his head. "Our house. Our future bedroom." He said, and gestured around them. Mara smiled too, but raised an eyebrow. "Thinking about "our bedroom" and it's not naughty? Not sure if I should be disappointed or not... and I don't buy that." Havard managed to laugh. Then he grew serious. This was a good chance wasn't it? To ask about her thoughts on marriage... or perhaps just the future. "Mara... about what my mother whispered about back when we started with the walls. You know about... marriage and... stuff." Admittedly, that was about the furthest away from subtle, but in all honestly.... he might take after his father. A straightforward question seemed the way to go. "Marriage?" She tilted her head. "Considering what your mother said. No, whispered oh so discreetly?" Mara asked, lips curling up. "Is that something you want?" Havard kept his gaze steady in this case. She had avoided the question, but this was important. He wanted to know, needed to know. "Yes." He said, voice gentle but firm. Mara's eyes widened a bit, then her lips curled up into a smile. A sad forlorn smile. "I figured as much." She said softly. Havard felt his heart sink. If that was her reaction, then she must not want the same thing. Why were they doing this then? Building a house? A home? What was it all for if they were just... what? His face must have shown his thoughts because Mara's sad smile turned into worry. "Havard, don't make that face, it makes me feel like I kicked a puppy." Her hand came up to grasp his, and he felt a bit of hope as their eyes met. "I am not saying I don't want those things too... It's just a bit more complicated..." She drew in a slightly shaky breath and took both his hands in hers. "Let's talk later. Properly." She said. "I need a bit of time, and we should sit down for this." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[What else could Havard do but nod. .|HavardRock21]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h1> The Twins</h1>\ <h2>Atru</h2>\ Atru woke up when something smacked him in the face. He sat up in bed, and found it was just Azha, waving her hands asleep. She must be dreaming about fighting monsters again... Like the Iron Children. She really liked the story of them fighting a troll. Atru was conflicted. They sounded cool, but.... cold. He was not sure he liked that. Shouldn't heroes be like Sandor or Lexia? They were nice! And Atru bet Lexia could laugh and drive off the bad guys like that. Sandor might not laugh, but he would drive away the bad guys... politely? Gently but firmly? Atru actually had a bit of a hard time imagining Sandor fighting baddies.... but he had cool armor and he was their Protector! Was Irosia cold? No, Atru decided she was not cold, she was regal! He still had a hard time believing she had been here just before bedtime. After Alessa and Sandor swore those oaths... It had made Atru feel all warm and nice. Oaths were a big deal from what little he understood. Irosia was like a hero too! Maybe even better. Not that he knew what was better than a hero.... Anyway, she was so cool. Maybe the Iron Children were like her too? Not cold but regal... or maybe calm? He was not sure what the right word was. Atru rubbed his eyes, looking around. It was their room of course. It had not been too long, or so he thought but Alessa and Sandor were gone. They must have both fallen asleep... Azha had that plan thing. A plan that required Alessa and Sandor not to be here, if Atru was any judge. He scooted a bit away from Azha as she waved her hand again, probably fighting some imaginary baddie or monster. It seemed it was up to Atru to decide if they would proceed with whatever plan Azha had. She had fallen asleep so he had a decision to make. He was not sure he could. Decisions were hard, Azha usually made most of theirs. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>>\ This whole mystery business was, well, a mystery. <<if $C3_ending is 3 or $C3_ending is 4>>`Of course, thinking on it, the mystery must be the new $child.... <<else>>How were they supposed to figure it out. <</if>> Still, where should they go? How to figure it out? He had to decide all these things, and it was hard. <<if $C3_ending is 3 or $C3_ending is 4>>\ He did wonder what the new $child was like? Would $heshe be nice? Be friends with the twins? Why were they here? Did the $child come from a bad place too? Did someone save $himher? More importantly, did the $child have enough snacks? If they went through with Azha's plan, should they bring snacks? There was some hidden in the drawer. A few cookies, some bread. It was not all tasty after a while, but still really good. Could they really go through with the plan? Sneak out of their room, Atru assumed, and find the $child? <<else>>\ What could the mystery be? Were they supposed to just wonder about, and figure it out? <</if>>\ <<else>>\ His thoughts turned to the $child they had seen earlier. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> Sitting in a strange wheeled chair... just looking around. <<else>> Being carried by Lexia, sitting on her arm, just looking around. <</if>> What could have caused that? Could that $child not walk? What happened? Wasn't the bath magical? Could it help? Havard and Lexia surely thought of that already... Did the $child come from a bad place too? Did someone save $himher? More importantly, did the $child have enough snacks? If they went through with Azha's plan, should they bring snacks? There was some hidden in the drawer. A few cookies, some bread. It was not all tasty after a while, but still really good. Could they really go through with the plan? Sneak out of their room, Atru assumed, and find the $child? <</if>>\ He glanced at his sister for assurance. She was slowly punching a pillow. Still, the sight of her reassured him. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>>\ <<if $C3_ending is 3 or $C3_ending is 4>>\ He did really want a friend, but Atru had never seen this new $child? What if $heshe thought Atru was weird? Or was mean or something? That would be bad? What should he do? He had no idea. He glanced at Azha... He really wonders what having friends is like... And made his decision. <<else>>\ Was this mystery really worth getting out of bed? Sneaking about? Who knew what it was? What should he do? He had no idea. He glanced at Azha... She would be really upset if they missed this chance... And he definitely, did not want to make her upset. He made his decision. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ He really wanted a friend. But... what if the new $child thought he was weird? For not talking. What if $heshe was mean? There were many things that could happen... Sandor had stopped them from rushing over earlier. What should he do? He had no idea. The image of the eyes that had met his as Sandor carried him away flashed in his mind. He really wonders what having friends is like... And he made his decision. <</if>>\ Carefully, Atru scooted closer to Azha, reaching out. He checked he is alone. Then gently shook her shoulders. "Azha. Alessa and Sandor left." His voice was silent but legible. They were alone after all. He could speak if it was just her. It took a bit of shaking, but eventually Azha too sat up in bed, yawning and rubbing her eyes... Then she perked up, and looked around. A broad smile spread on her face. She jumped out of bed. "Come on, Atru! Let's sneak off now. No adults to interfere!" She whisper shouted. Atru nodded and got out of bed too. Alessa and Sandor would not like them sneaking off... but they did not need to know. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>>\ Atru and Azha really wanted to figure out the mystery after all. <<if $C3_ending is 3 or $C3_ending is 4>> Especially if it was a new friend! <</if>>\ <<else>>\ Atru and Azha really wanted to make a friend after all, and despite all his doubts a out this, he did agree with Azha on one very important thing. Playing helped. <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[So they would need to sneak about in the night. .|AtruPOV_C3_3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

The twins snuck to the door and listened... Would there be anyone outside? "I hear nothing." Azha whispered, and Atru nodded. There should be a Protector somewhere, patrolling. Or just standing outside their door... but maybe it was safe? Or maybe it was not, and there was a Protector right on the other side... If they opened the door, they would know, but they could also be forced back into bed. Atru looked around and settled on the window to their room. He tapped Azha on the shoulder and pointed. She looked over and nodded. Windows were much easier. They could peek and climb out, and no one would be the wiser! If they were careful. But they were good at sneaking. They dashed over to the window, and looked around... There was a garden there. A real pretty one. More importantly, the Protector patrolling the area was just leaving the garden! Azha looks at Atru, and both twins nod. Then Atru helps his sister get a chair and open the window. Soon both twins were out of the window and dashing behind a tree. "Which way should we go?" Azha asked, looking around. Atru tried to remember.... "Which way was everyone looking at earlier? For the mystery? Maybe it was the new $child?" Azha stared at him. "Atru, you are a genius! That must be it! We solved the mystery!" She jumped up and down. Atru grabbed her and made a shushing notion. They were trying to be sneaky after all. Azha did get a bit too excited at times, which Atru both loved and hated at times. "Oh, right." Azha calmed down. "I think..." She looked around. "It was that way!" She declared and grabbed Atru by the hand, tugging him along with her as usual. They snuck off into the night, keeping an eye out for the Protectors patrolling as well as keeping an eye out for anything unusual. For a while, they failed to find anything. That is, until they noticed the Protector patrolling the area while hiding under a bush. "There she is again." Atru whispered, and Azha nodded. "She keeps circling back to our garden." Azha said. "But where does she go in between?" Atru asked. They looked at each other... and nodded. They were thinking the same thing of course. Very carefully, they started following the patrolling Protector. The twins would have to stay far away to not be noticed, but in the gardens, it was not that hard. It was the long hallways between the gardens. They had to wait until the Protector passed the almost the entire thing, then dashed after her... Atru thought they got really lucky a few times. It was sort of... odd. Atru thought he saw something... wispy that distracted the Protector a few times as they went. Right when the Protector was about to look back. It was all very suspicious, but it was all working out so well, he didn't really mind! Luck was a part of life! Like being saved by Irosia. That was the luckiest thing ever to happen to the twins. After a long time... Or so it felt like. Or maybe it was not that long? It was past bedtime, so it felt long. Maybe bedtime existed for a reason. Atru had suspected that was a thing for some time, but Azha hated bedtime with a passion. Still, Atru thought it had to be a real thing if Alessa said it was a real thing. She was so smart… And even Irosia had acknowledged bedtime! Therefore bedtime must be a real important thing. His ponderings on the nature reality came to a halt. They heard them. Voices. Familiar voices. The twins dashed into another bush, then peeked out to look at something very interesting. The Protector on patrol nodded at the two women, and one man. <<if $LightSwitch>>\ "Lexia, stop that." Alessa said. Lexia was banging her head against the wall. The twins looked at each other. Why was she doing that? Lexia was always a bit odd, but that seemed especially odd. "I screwed up." Lexia said. "I am just keeping busy, To prevent myself from making things worse." Thump. Thump. Alessa grabbed her shoulders. "Stop that! That won't solve anything." Lexia looked at her.... Her face was wretched. Atru felt worry flooding him. What could make Lexia make such a face? The scream? Was this about the scream... Atru thought it made sense. Had something bad happened? Why was Lexia banging her head? "Tell us what happened?" Alessa asked, trying to stop the other woman from pulling her head back, but was having no luck. Lexia was clearly much stronger than Alessa. Made sense, she had all that armor while Alessa did not. "Sandor, help me." Alessa called after it became apparent her grip was not nearly strong enough. Sandor nodded and went over to grab Lexia. He could stop her or so it seemed, although Lexia gave him a warning glare. Sandor raised an eyebrow. "You use magic, I will use magic" Sandor said and pulled Lexia away from the wall. “And then where will we be?” Wait… Magic? They could both use magic! Why hadn’t Sandor done that before? He should do all the magic! Atru looked at Azha and saw she was just as astonished! Maybe Sandor really was a traitor… A bad thought, but how could he keep such awesomeness to himself? No, Atru shook his head. Sandor must have a good reason. He would not keep it a secret otherwise. "Fine." Lexi said. "Just so you know, I am letting you do this." She glared at Sandor for a good while but eventually turned to Alessa. Atru had no idea if she was lying or not… Not all adults lied, but he knew Lexia did it… Sort of. In her own Lexia way at least. Not like the bad lies the owner had told them in the bad place. Lexia lies were different and silly. At least usually. "I fucked up. Havard is in there with Lady Irosia. She arrived in person a while back." Lexia said. "I mean.... I..." She rubbed her forehead and sat on the ground. "Lexia." Alessa went over to her again. "Explain from the start." She said, much in the same gentle tone she used when the twins were upset. Atru and Azha stared the scene, then at each other... Lexia was upset. Worrying. Very worrying. Atru wondered what they should do... Lexia, Sandor and Alessa were distracted. The twins might be able to sneak into the room, but if Havard was in there with Lady Irosia, for some reason, then what was the point? They could not get in there.... The new $child must be in there. That was pretty much the only thing that made sense. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'no'>> The new $child must be the mystery the twins have been trying to figure out. <</if>> Azha seemed to think they should just go for it while the adults are distracted. She was tugging on Atru's hand and pointing at the room. But before Atru could agree, the door opened and Havard came out. With Irosia! And she is no longer transparent. She's really here! Maybe. Atru wanted to dash to the Ancient, but held himself, and Azha, back. "The $child may be asleep for some time. Prevent $himher from using the light panels. Healing baths are fine, Lord Abalf’s work will not make $hisher hands worse, nor will magic not directly touching the hands. At least as long as the bandages protect the area." Irosia was saying as they approach the other group of adults. "Keep the bandages on at all times until the gloves Lord Sheo promised arrive. I shall make sure they are made with all haste. <<if $nonverbal>> As well as the communicators for Atru and $MCname. <</if>>" <<else>>\ Lexia, Alessa and Sandor were just standing there, talking. "Yeah, Havard is in there with the apparition right now." Lexia said. "But why is she here?" Sandor asked, scratching his cheek. "Something about inspecting the injuries, namely the hands." Lexia said. "Wait... do you even know about that?" "Only briefly." Alessa said. "We heard the basics, and Havard told me some of it today, but mostly focused on a summary of how today has gone. Sandor and I are rather busy already, so we did not have time for a detailed story." She said with a smile... Right, Sandor and Alessa were busy because they were the twins' Custodian and Protector! That was good. "OK, I should start from the beginning then." Lexia said, but stopped and looked at a nearby room. Azha seemed to think they should just go for it while the adults are distracted. She was tugging on Atru's hand, and pointing at the room just as the door opened with Irosia walking out with Havard! "You should prevent $himher from using the light panels. Healing baths are fine, Lord Abalf¨s work will not make $hisher hands worse, nor will magic not directly touching the hands. At least as long as the bandages protect the area." Irosia was saying as they approached the other group of adults. "Keep the bandages on at all times until the gloves Lord Sheo promised arrive. I shall make sure they are made with all haste. <<if $nonverbal>> As well as the communicators for Atru and $MCname. <</if>>" <</if>>\ "Go." Atru heard the gentle voice inside his head all of a sudden. He looked around.... and saw nothing. But the voice was familiar. "Inside. Be gentle." The voice spoke again. He looked at Azha and found her looking around too. Their eyes met, and she nodded. She heard it too. "I will keep their attention. Go." More speech inside their heads... But it sounded familair... Wait. Both twins turned to stare at Irosia, still taking about adult things with the four adults... It was her voice! She waw helping them! With magic! She was so cool. And nice for helping them. Why was she helping them? Thoughts for later. Atru looked at Azha and knew this was their chance. Irosia was giving them a chance. They took it, dashing amidst the bushes and trees. Towards the room Havard and Irosia had just come from. With a final glance at the adults, Atru and Azha slid inside the room, just as Irosia gestured for the adults to retreat somewhere they could sit down. Atru thought he saw a second very transparent Irosia wink at them.... but then she was gone. It oculd have been just his imagination. Soon they were in the room, much like their own. Expect the.... feeling was different. There in the corner, in a bed, lay a $child. A $child with $HairLength $HairType $HairColor hair. <<if $HairLength is "waist-long" or $HairLength is "mid-back" or $HairLength is "shoulder-long" >>Styled in a $HairStyle manner.<</if>> The $child had $SkinColor skin, and $hishers hands and arms up to the elbows were bandagaged... <<nobr>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("wings")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Atru's eyes went to the $Feature, tucked neatly under the $child. They were so cool! Atru wanted wings too! <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("tail")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> A $Feature? A real tail! He sort of wanted to touch it, but that would be rude... He also stopped Azha from dashing forwards to grab it. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("horns")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("horns")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> He eyed the horns for a bit... Those looked pretty cool! But what did one do with horns... He had to stop Azha from ever headbutting the new $child! That could hurt. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<FeatureIndex "pointy ears">><<else>><<FeatureIndex "animal ears">><</if>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> The new $child had $Feature! <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears")>> Just like the twins! They could maybe become friends easier! Having something in common helped... Or so Atru thought. <<else>> They looked fluffy! He really wanted to touch the $Feature.... but no. He had to be strong! To not make a bad first impression. <</if>> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("scales")>> <<FeatureIndex "scales">> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> Atru eyes the scales on the $child's face... A dragon? A dragon! That was so cool! <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>> <<FeatureIndex "feathers">> <<else>> <<FeatureIndex "nature features">> <</if>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> That $Feature is rather mesmerizing. Atru sort of wanted to tug on one.... <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("elemental")>> The soft glow of the sleeping $child's hair made shadows on the walls of the room. It was really pretty! Like Lexia when she became all glowy. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("sea")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("sea")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> The $Feature on the $child's face is very pretty too... Could $heshe breathe under water? <</if>> <</nobr>> Atru and Azha were frozen staring at the $child when it happened. A small whimper. Distress... Trashing. A nightmare? Oh no... Should they get Alessa? Wait... Havard? Should they go get an adult? Irosia? Irosia had to know what to do... But... then people would know they snuck out? Be mad at them... Atru did not want that but he did not want the new $child to suffer a nightmare either. What could they do? They were here... There had to be something. Atru did not know... But he did know nightmares were not nice. He hated them... But Azha made them better. But this $child did not have their own Azha.... But the twins were both here. Could they help? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End Of Atru POV|Chapter 4 dream fadein]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

It was later that night, they were sitting together back at the bakery. Soon, they would be moving into their new home... Assuming that was what she wanted. No, she had been so excited about the whole thing, after the initial shock. They wanted their own space, and clearly she liked him. It would be fine. Of course it would be. Right? Havard thought back to her reaction. She had said it was complicated. Maybe it was. He was a young man from a small village in the middle of nowhere that had met a young woman from a huge city by accident. She had left her home in search of a dream, to share the stories she loved. Her dreams would die in Dahim. He had never really considered how he wanted to spend his life before. Dahim was his whole world and it seemed that would always be the case. He was vaguely aware of the world outside, but even that was mostly due to his mother. His mother, who had not been born in Dahim. He knew something of the world, mostly from stories told to him when he was little and stories told to him by Mara herself. The wide vast world that she had wanted to see... Havard glanced at Mara out of the corner of his eye and found her already looking at him. Observing him, really. How long had she been doing that? She tilted her head, raven hair falling down across her face. She paid it no mind and instead smiled. "Lost in thought?" Havard felt fingers stroke his cheek. Mara peered into his eyes. "Something you want to say before we get into it?" "I... No. I think we should just talk it over." Havard said, his hand covering hers on his cheek. "Please, let's just... talk." She smiled gently at him. "Yes, let's talk." Her hand turned his head towards her, golden eyes meeting hazel ones. Her smile made him feel a bit better. "So..." Mara started. "Marriage..." Havard stared at her. She was thinking hard. Normally he would have enjoyed watching this process, her face focused, lips scrunched up a bit. It would have been a delight to watch her. Now it felt like torture. Still, he gave her time. It was best she formulated her thoughts properly. Time passed, Havard had no idea how long. Eventually, she just sighed. "Havard, there is no pretty way to say this so I will just say it. Before coming to Dahim, I always thought I would travel for my entire life. See the wonders of the world. We would tell stories, we would never be bound down. Always on to the next town or city. A bard's life, an adventure." Havard's shoulders drooped a bit. Of course... It was as he had thought. Dahim could never be enough for her. Why would it? The village was not a good place, she was too... different? Too special? Havard had trouble fitting in, he didn't really even want to, but Mara? Someone like her would probably stand out in big cities, never mind little Dahim. It could not be a true home for her, and she did not want it to be. His gaze dropped... He did not understand why she was going along with building the house. Perhaps it was boredom. He should have known... Gentle fingers coaxed his chin up. Mara hugged him gently, her mouth close to his ear. "I said before coming to Dahim." Mara whispered. Not like she usually whispered things. No, she sounded scared. Vulnerable. "Now..." It came out like a confession. "My dreams... No, our dreams. Mine and Kai's, they cost us. He is dead now because of them." Havard cannot see her face, and perhaps that is for the better. Her voice sounds wretched, and it is taking all his willpower not to squeeze her into a hug with all his strength. Her face would likely break this resolve to keep this hug gentle. He wanted to tell her that was not true, it was not their dreams that had killed Kai, but the ignorance of the... villagers. Villagers like Havard... No, the surface details may be the same, but they were nothing alike. He knew that. Mara knew it too. Could he even call such people villagers? Were they not monsters in human form? He did not know. He had no answers to the problems of the world. "And... And I... I met a stupidly kind man in a clearing who saved my life. Who cared for me, who blushes easily and who wishes to marry me. It so... wonderfully peaceful and easy. Being with you. Before coming to Dahim, I would never have thought it. Yet... " She lets out something like a very wet giggle. Or a sob, making Havard freeze, trying to figure out which. "I am terribly torn, Havard. My heart is being torn in two directions... Because I no longer know what I want from life." The admission sent a jolt of mixed emotions through Havard. "What am I supposed to do?" She whispered into his ear, her fingers desperately clinging to the back of his shirt. "Pursue my dreams? Ruined by the blood of my brother, and forever tainted by his death? Forget my dream, and stay with the man who I can see a future with in a village where the people hate me? Hate us? A village that may turn on us..." Havard gulped. "Mara... The way you frame those options." He started, but she pressed a gentle finger to his lips. "Shh... There is more." She said. "Let me say it all first." Havard nodded slowly. Mara drew in a breath, and closed her eyes. "Havard... I cannot stay here." His heart broke a little. His mouth opened to object, to say that she could stay here as long as she needed to... or wanted to, but she pressed a finger to his lips again. "You said it yourself. My parents... they deserve to know. About Kai. And I should be the one to tell them." Oh... That was true. He knew that... His feelings about their future were getting in the way of things he knew were rights. Mara had parents who had no idea one of their children was gone. They deserved to know. Havard eventually nodded. His throat felt dry. "So... Do you know when?" When she would have to go? His father had asked what he would do if this ever happened, had he not. Havard had said he would go with her. Even if she left him behind, he would follow... As long as there was a chance for a future together. Mara shook her head. "I have no idea... I..." Her gaze dropped, and she bit her lip. "I don't know. I doubt I can even make it back on my own... It's not safe. Kai and I were foolish, and... There is more unrest now, isn't there?" Havard nodded. He should say it. To her face. Yet, right now he hesitated... He should say it, but instead what came out was... "And our future? The house?" Mara smiled softly. "Your father really got me good with that... I suppose got us both." She said fondly. "Surprised me... and I got swept up in it. It is lovely and wonderful... Fun and rewarding to build. Fun to learn. The uncertain future is so easy to ignore with such a project. The dream of a future with you is so easy while working on it..." Her smile wobbled. "I've made a huge mess of it, haven't I. I... I should have spoken to you sooner. I should have said something immediately...I.." Her eyes were full of wretched despair, and it was too much. Far too much. Havard grabbed onto her and hugged her fiercely. "No, I don't think yo made a mess of things." His fingers rubbed her back, the other held her head. He heard a soft exhale, and she leaned against him. "I was afraid to ask... I knew you had to go back at some point.. I... I..." Mara's hand grabbed onto his shirt, and he went silent. "Havard, you have been nothing but annoyingly perfect." Mara whispered. "Aside from being a bit dense." Havard huffed. "Well sorry for growing up in the middle of nowhere." "What does that... No wait, don't answer that." Mara said. "Instead, just... here. Be silent and stay still." A quick, soft brush of warmth spread on his cheek. Gone as soon as it came... Did she just... kiss him on the cheek? Why did it linger? Why were his cheeks hot? They had done more, much more. Why was this making him blush? "Thank you." Mara whispered, voice full of affection. His cheek tingled faintly with warmth that stayed longer than it should have. He really wanted to see her face right now, but they were still hugging. Havard made up his mind in that moment. It came out in a rush, spilling out of him. "Mara... Let's take it one day at a time. Let's not worry about it. We have time. Let's... Let's live and when the time comes... When the time comes, I will go to Firgrat with you." The room was silent. Silent for long enough that Havard stated to question his choice. Then a wet sniffle near his ear. "Ok." Her voice was soft. "Are you... Are you crying?" Havard asked hesitantly. "No, you idiot." Mara said, clearly crying. "Oh... I see." Havard held her for a long time while she did not cry. Was she happy? Relieved? Overwhelmed? Havard had no idea. But he was assured very firmly, she was not sad. Still, he had time to make plans in his head. Even after Mara fell asleep and he gently carried her towards the bed. He laid Mara down on his bed, their bed reallya this point. Even if it was still small. Soon they would have a bigger one. He considered many things, marriage, oaths, and home. What he could offer her, and how could he prove it? <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He had a lot of thinking to do. But he did make a plan.|HavardRock22]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Havard had never considered himself to anger easily. He had very few memories of being angry, truly angry in his life. Sure, people like Omar annoyed him at times but he never really cared enough about the man to be angry at him. The man was what he was, and he was not worth Havard's time or his anger. Now however, he was angry. His fists clenched, and teeth ground together as he looked at the woman before him. The village head, Marget. He had never liked the woman, but she had always been pleasant enough. Cordial. When he was a child he had actually thought she was nice... but now he knew better. "Excuse me?" Havard asked through clenched teeth. "What do you mean no?" "Must I spell it out for you? I said no." The woman said, making a shooing notion. "Now begone. Your demands are upsetting the good folk of the village." Indeed, people were staring at Havard. He was in the village square. Not because he wanted to be here, but he had bussness with the villag head. "And I am asking you to explain yourself, village head? Am I not a part of this village? Born and raised here?" He asked, refusing to be brushed off. "I have never heard of the village head refusing to do their duty before." Marget pursed her lips. "My duty is to oversee the village. You... were born here, yes." She said it, clearly unwillingly. "But this...Mara was not. Therefore it is not proper." She smiled as if the matter was settled there. "That has never been an issue before." Havard said. Another purse of the lips. "Yes... well. With all these... people." She said the word with distaste. "From the elven border, settling near Dahim. I need to make sure every union is... appropriate." "Appropriate?" Havard narrowed his eyes. "What do the new people have to do with any of this?" The people were forming a new village within about a day's walk of Dahim. He had not visited but he assumed the place was like any other new village. "They are... different from honest Dahim folk." Marget said. The word different was said like a curse, and made Havard's eyes narrow. "And? People are different. What does any of this have to do with me and Mara?" "Must I really spell it out for you?" The village head sighed. "I would certainly appreciate it." Havard said. It took a lot of effort not to sound sarcastic. Marget looked around and then whispered. "Those... people, they have people like you, like your mother, among them." Havard stared blankly, it took him some time to catch her meaning... Of course. It always came down to that, did it not. "You mean, they have non-human heritage?" Marget glanced about. "Yes." She said then. "They are like you." "And that affects my request how?" He had a good idea of course, but he would make her say it. Her glare was icy. "Really, boy? Must you make me say more." She said. "I suppose you people are rather slow." She muttered, as if forgetting that he was here. "I will ignore that, but I will make you spell it out loud. I will not leave before you state your reasons for ignoring your duties, plainly and without any illusion of decency on your part." Havard said, voice cold. "Excuse me?" Her voice rose. "How dare you imply..." "Your reasoning." Havard said firmly, speaking over her before she could build momentum to rant. "Now." "Who do you..." "Your reasoning." Havard repeated over her. "Now." She eyed him, glaring really. She liked to pretend but he would make her say it out loud. She glanced around for a good while and then hissed at him. "Begone." "Your reasoning, village head." Havard said, raising his own voice. "I have all day." The woman glared at him, all pretense of friendliness gone. "Fine. You want the reason. Have it your way. The woman gave him a cruel smile. "I won't let you marry that demon spawn, because only people can marry. If I let you two freaks do it, the other freaks might start getting ideas. About moving closer to the village. About official unions. I won't have it!" She said, every word full of venom. She still smiled at him, smugly. Probably wanting a reaction out of him. Havard did not recoil, he had expected it. Not the amount of venom in her voice, or the clear disgust and hatred in her gaze, but the reason was not surprising. So, he smiled at her. "Thank you, village head. For being honest for the first time in your life. I shall pass your reasoning on to my family." He said, and walked away. The woman's smug look did drop a bit. It seems she had forgotten, in her honesty, that his parents did own the best, and only, bakery in the village. It was a small victory for him, or not really a victory. They would lose some business over this, but his parents would never allow Marget to buy anything of their making again. Assuming he told them... which he would. After sorting out his head. It was an inconvenience to the village head at best, but it was better than nothing. He walked towards the new house and thought furiously. Then changed direction. Going home now would probably end in him telling Mara... and that would cause a scene, in more ways than one. He had to think carefully now. She did not know what he planned yet. After their talk about the future, he had come to a decision and this had seemed the easiest way to go about it. Yet, Marget had refused... So he would need to think on the matter. There was one place where he always went to think, so he headed for the forest clearing. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[The one with the rock. |HavardRock23]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"So, that the whole story. I want to ask her to marry me, but the village head won't accept the union, assuming Mara even said yes." Havard explained his troubles, leaning against the rock. "What should I do, rock? It’s all so complicated, but I am sure, I want to be with her…" He asked idly, tearing weeds and throwing them as he pondered. Once again, the rock did not answer. Yet, Havard did feel better. It was rather amazing how laying out his troubles like this always helped. Having gotten the issues explained, he could start to think about how to solve them. He kept talking to the rock, since it made him feel better that way. "I suppose by the standards of Firgrat, being married by the village head would mean nothing though. Dahin is just some backwater village." Havard imagined a marriage here lacked legality no matter what. "So, why do have to be married by the village head then? What I want is just prove to Mara I want a future together, no matter what. Even if we have to leave Dahim or something else happens. She's unsure about the future... I don't want her to be alone... Marriage is the symbol of that commitment... assuming she would agree. Yet... what would a few words said to the village head, a woman who hates people like us, prove?" The answer was obvious. "Nothing." He sighed. "Absolutely nothing. It has no more meaning than speaking to the air, does it? Not to me, and definitely not Mara, at least. I could just as easily ask one of my parents to marry us, and that would have more meaning." "Should I ask dad? Or mom?" He pondered out loud. "It doesn't feel quite right. It has meaning... but only because mom and dad are important to us. They would be there anyway when we get married... is it any different from having them as guests? But if it's not different... does it matter who marries us?" If the person who married them had no actual meaning, then what was the point of it? It was the commitment to each other, of course. That had been his whole motivation for this. But how to signify that? He picked up some more grass and tore it up idly in his hands, lost in thought. "So, how is the commitment signified? By having someone bear witness.... Oaths. Aren't oaths the thing that signifies the commitment marriage represents." He sat up. "Oaths. The point is for someone to witness our oaths!" He stood up. "So, swearing the oaths and having someone bear witness.. But we are rather short of people... Just my parents... and they will be there no matter what." He leaned backwards, and thought about it... An oath... A promise. Something that they both knew held weight. Was meaningful for them, even if it was not meaningful to anyone else... Oh. That wasn't so hard. Havard slowly turned to the rock. "Hey, rock? I have a good idea." He smiled. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He scrambled up and started running towards the village. |HavardRock24]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Havard hurried to the bakery, their new home would still take some time but his father had taken over to put the finishing touches on the inside of the house. And they were still waiting on some furniture. "Hey Mara?" He called out immediately after entering. "Yes, Havard?" She asked idly. She was sitting by the window, trying to mend one of her rare dresses with a needle and thread. She was not doing a perfect job, but her stitching was neat, even if the thread did not match the color perfectly. Out here, one had to make do with what they had. "Wanna come with me for a walk?" He asked her, smiling. "A walk?" She asked, and looked at the window. "Are the stars out?" She asked. "They are." Havard smiled. It was a good day for a walk and what he had planned. Mara stood up and yawned. Her wings spread out and shivered during her yawn, catching his attention. She was wearing one of his former shirts with a hole in the back for her wings, and a simple pair of pants. She stretched a bit, causing his thoughts to wander as he stared at her. Ancients, she was beautiful. "I am a little sleepy." Mara said. "But sure." She sauntered over. Then poked him in the cheek. "So, stop thinking about how good I look in your clothes, and lets go for that walk." He blinked. "Oh... right. Let's go for that walk." He took her hand in his and they went out into the darkness. "My, so bold." Mara teased him with a smirk as he lead her by the hand. "Dragging me by the hand out into the dark... My, my, whatever are you planning? And what will the villagers say?" He blushed. How did she keep doing that to him so easily was a bit furstrating. "I don’t really care," he answered, despite feeling the heat blooming on his face. Her laughter made him smile, and his insides do weird things. And he knew he was doing the right thing. More so than anything he had ever known in his life. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["So rebellious." She teased him.|HavardRock25]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"Ah, back here again. You know, you are rather predictable at times." Mara said, sounding amused as she gazed at the rock. Havard stood behind her, smiling like he had never smiled before as he knelt down to one knee when she wasn't watching. "Of course. This was my favorite place as a child. We met here... we even kissed here for the first time." He said softly. "After I pretended to be the rock." She presses a hand against the smooth surface. "A very wise rock" He could not see her face, but Havard knew she was smiling. "You know, we really should talk about your habit of talking to it, you know. You do realize anyone could overhear you?" She said turning around. Havard's hands shook. This was the moment... He had a whole speech planned about how she had come into his life, and made him aware of just how little he knew of the world. About how brave she was, how her smile was a tiny bit crooked and how her wings shivered when she was excited. How her laughter was his favorite sound, how her teasing made him afraid his heart might burst, and how she hogged the blankets while they slept. About how much he loved her... Even if the future was uncertain, even if there were issues. He loved her. As soon as she turned, blinked at him, slowly looking down at his kneeling form, tot finding him where she expected, he forgot all of it. Except the last two words. "Marry me." Havard blurted out as she turned. He was on one knee there, in the grass. Havard held his breath. Mara stared into his eyes, her golden eyes meeting his hazel ones. She did not smile at him. She did not grin, nor tease him right now. She stared. "Are you sure?" She whispered. "You want to marry a woman like me... out here?" Her voice was so soft. Almost... afraid. "Even knowing what the future will hold? That we'll have to leave at some point? You know, I won't hold you to that promise you made... You can..." Her voice trailed off, seeing his face. "Are you certain?" Havard gulped. Of course she would have some reservations... He had some too. This village that was his home hated them. Especially her. They would have to leave at some point. She was not sure what she wanted in life... Still looking into her eyes... Havard found himself smiling. "More sure than I have ever been of anything." He said and found it to be true. “I know it’s all complicated, and I said to take it one day at a time… but I know I want this. More than I have ever wanted anything. So, this is what I chose to do today.” She kept staring at him... then threw herself at him, her lips finding his as they landed in the grass. His focus was stolen by her lips, though he was pretty sure her wings were spreading out behind her. He figured that meant yes, though he had a hard time thinking of much anything as she rained kisses on him. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Eventually, he remembered to kiss her back. |HavardRock26]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

"So... was that a yes?" He finally managed to ask after a long while when she took a break from kissing him. She gave him a look. "If you don't know, then I am reconsidering this whole relationship." She said, and pokes his chest, while sitting on his stomach. He shivered a bit, closing his eyes. "I would still like to hear it." He whispered. "Some things are best said out loud so there are no misunderstandings." Mara rolled her eyes. Havard could not see it of course, but he knew she did. "Yes Havard. That was a yes." He smiled wider than perhaps he ever had. Havard felt giddy and happy, so ludicrously happy, he might burst from how overwhelming it felt. So he kissed her again, gently and sweetly. Their faces met, tongues intertwined and they were both lost to bliss for a little longer. Mara pulled slightly back from him after a while, and whispered into his ear. "You know... that thing we have been talking about. The one about naked things... We have now set a date... well not an actual date. An event." Havard blushed a bit. "And... what is that?" Mara gave him an unimpressed looks. "You just asked me to marry you. Take a guess." "Oh.... OH." Havard blushed hard. It seemed fairly obvious now, giving it even a second of thought. It was not his fault, thinking clearly was hard around her. He supposed their wedding night would be rather memorable. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["The wait better not be too long." Mara whispered, and kissed him again. |HavardRock27]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Havard was smiling like an idiot as he looked at the rock. That wonderful, rounded rock that had been at the center of the most important event of his life. Then he looked next to him. At Mara. She was wearing a form fitting dress in a deep blue shade and had a bouquet of wildflowers. Flowers he had given her earlier. Her wings were folded gracefully behind her back, almost a shimmering midnight hue, elegant and graceful… They were among her most attractive features by far, and she had many. “Why are you smiling like that?” She asked. “You look like an idiot, smiling at a rock.” She said with a smile. He loved how she smiled. A little crooked, and teasing. It contrasted in such an attractive way with her face, a slightly imperfect smile from such a delicate face. He loved her eyes, a deep gold that shifted with the light, full of warmth and mischief. He loved how sharp her tongue was, yet how she softened it with a smile. Well… he loved everything about her. “Why wouldn’t I smile at the rock?” He said, smiling back at her softly. “You know, I like this much better than having the village head do it.” He turned to admire the rock. His mother had decorated it with whatever had been available. Somehow, she had managed to carve spiral shapes into it, brought over flowers to throw over it, and wrapped rope around the rock. It looked… festive. A bit chaotic but that was his mother. It fit them, the bit chaotic and festive look of his favorite rock. Him and Mara both. The occasion was supposed to be festive, but their whole relationship had been more than a little chaotic at times. From meeting by this very rock to her taking over his bed, and teasing him endlessly about it. She scoffed in amusement. “Swearing our wedding oaths to a big rock. I suppose we are both insane.” She said, but she was smiling too. “It is where we met. Where we had our first kiss. It feels right.” He said. Besides, the village head had refused to marry a dirty beast and a demon spawn. Or something like that. Freaks? He did not really care to remember. Tensions were higher now, hatred towards those with non-human heritages had gotten worse. It was due to all the people who had moved to the nearby from the border. Something about needing to escape. There had been… incidents with the elves or so the rumors said. “We did.” Mara said. “This is where you panicked when I passed out. This is where you saved my life.” Her voice is soft. “Did I ever thank you for that?” “No. I believe when you woke up in my bed, you screamed something about me being a fool by bringing you to the village.” Havard said smiling. “It was stupid. Could have gotten both of us killed…” Mara muttered, her expression dark. He cupped her cheek. “But it didn’t. Luckily our little village has some people with heritage features. You are not so odd as you think. Certainly not odd enough for people to kill you on sight.“ Except she had been attacked, just a few hours earlier before their meeting. Still, it had not been anyone from his village. They had kept a low profile though.... Mostly. No need to attract attention. His mother might have also chased away Omar and his ilk a few times. It was very hard to sneak up on his mother, and he was glad for that. She huffed and leaned into his touch. “You and your mother, you mean. You two are the odd ones, living out here alone. Your father is even odder.” She said with fondness. “It takes a special kind of idiot to marry someone with such clear beastkin heritage out in the middle of nowhere where everyone fears anything different.” She looked at him pointedly. “Even a bigger idiot to marry someone with strong demonic heritage in a village that hates demons.” She said dryly. Yet her eyes were full of affection. “Guilty.” Havard said, smiling widely. “Guilty!” his father shouted from somewhere behind him. “Shh. Don’t interrupt them, dear.” Havard’s mother hissed at his father. “This is important. Knowing who is the smart one before the marriage.” Havard glanced at his parents. They were the only two here to witness this. They were all that Havard and Mara needed for now. He wished he had met her parents too but… Well, it was not possible. Some day he would meet them. But today was about Mara and him. He turned back to Mara. “Shall we get to it then?” He adjusted his own shirt and trousers. The best clothes he had. He thought he looked shabby next to Mara in her deep blue dress, a gift to her by Havard’s mother who had apparently secretly been making it based on the dress Mara had worn upon arrival. Mara seemed to not care in the least about his clothes. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[For the briefest instant, Havard felt as if the rock approved. |HavardRock28]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Later that evening, Havard and Mara danced in that clearing with the rock. It was just them now. His parents had left a little while ago, saying the newly married couple should take some time alone. The evening and night were theirs and theirs alone now. Especially since their new home would be finished in just a few more days, but the wedding had taken precedent for now. And what a night it was. The light of the moons was bright, illuminating the clearing in silver hues. Yet none of it compared to Mara, how she smiled and laughed. Havard had no time to look up at the sky, not when he had something far more beautiful in front of him. So, they danced, happily and freely in their own little world. The small world outside of this clearing, the village and the surrounding area, might be cruel and hate people like Mara. Dislike people like Havard. But in the clearing, none of it mattered. They were alone, with only the night sky as witnesses. Around the rock they went. They had no music; they didn’t need any. Havard was sure his heart was beating loudly enough to be heard like a drumbeat. In the end, they just needed each other, and the knowledge that they were now married. At least in the eyes of the people who mattered. Each other. Even his parents were just a bonus, as much as he loved them. When Mara got bored of dancing and pushed Havard against the rock, smirking and wrapping her fingers in his hair. Leaning in and capturing his lips with hers, Havard saw stars for the first time that night. When her wandering hands mapped out every detail of him, he responded in kind. He felt freed by the vows they had said, felt that there was no more need to shyness on his part. Perhpas it would return at some point, but right now he was happy. He was married, and his wife clearly had a plan. So, he traced the arc of her lower back, the curve of her wings, the swell of her hips. When they threw down some blankets onto the grass in front of the rock, and soon followed themselves in a mess of limbs and loose clothing. Soon after they finally managed to lay down together, free of their clothing, fully free for the first time, Havard saw stars for the second time that night. The two of them fulfilled the promises they had made about their wedding night in the clearing, and he did have cause to blush due to his own awkwardness a few times... It was perfect. He saw the stars many times from those blankets that night. When Mara’s wings were not in the way at least. She did so like spreading them out behind her in certain moments when she felt particularly good. And he did so enjoy the sight in those special moments, especially the little shivers throughout her wings. Not that the shivering was limited to just her wings. Apparently he was learning quickly, or so Mara said. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Apparently he was learning quickly, or so Mara said. |HavardRock29]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Two days after their wedding, their new home was ready. Mara was ecstatic about it. "Come on, let's go." She tugged on Havard's hand with a grin. "I need to put on shoes, Mara." Havard said, trying to stay still. "Do you really?" Mara asked. "Unless you want muddy footprints all over the new place, then yes." Havard said. Mara stopped tugging. "Good point." So Havard was allowed to put on shoes. It had been an odd two days. He had probably not stopped smiling since the wedding. Was being ludicrously happy a state that could be kept up? "Hurry up!" Mara was rather impatient. She had been a bit fidgety in the past two days, and it had something to do with their new home. He had not asked, since he would likely figure it out today. They got out of the bakery door, Mara leading the way, tugging him along. Soon they arrived at the new cabin. It was now days a much nicer sight than it had been early in the spring. There was a little fence around the house, a porch outside the main door, and a little paved path to the door. It was needed; the ground here was mostly grass and would be slippery when wet. The house itself had only one floor, but it had all they would need. Including the central hearth Mara had wanted. Mara dashed along the little path, still dragging Havard after her. Havard's parents were already waiting for them inside. As soon as they entered, Mara went silent. He stepped next to her to see, and saw her eyes were wide as she looked around. Was she overwhelmed? He decided to stand by her, hand on her hip for moral suport, and looked around too. The inside was familiar... and not. Furniture they had agreed on, some his parents had probably decided to add. Everything was wood of course. The scent of fresh timber and smoke hung in the air. The walls were made of smooth, hand-hewn logs with minimal weathering. "Hey, mom and dad." Havard said, smiling. His mother waved and father nodded. Mara dashed to investigate the fire place. The floor was made with polished wooden boards, unmarred by soot or age. They creak only lightly underfoot as Mara dashed towards the fireplace, still firm and dry. No wear and tear but that would come with years of use. If they lived here that long, but Havard did not think about that. Mara crooned over their newly stoned fireplace. Clean of soot, the stones carefully placed and mortared under his parents’ gaze. The fire was small yet since it is not that cold anymore, but it burned steady, letting a bit of heat spread into the room. A new iron pot, unblackened by use, hung from a fresh hook above the flames. The smoke from the small fire leaked neatly into the chimney, essentially none got back into the room. "I love it." Mara said. His parents chuckled a bit. "Good to hear, dear." His mother said. No one mentioned Mara did not even greet them, she was clearly over the moon. She had been unsure before but now she was fully in for this marriage... Havard supposed knowing that he would stand by her had relieved a lot of her worries. Things did not seem so bad when one did not have to face them alone. Havard smiled softly at her, then turned his attention to the furniture. A large wooden table with clean, sharp corners. Sturdy chairs with simple carved backs. One bigger bench, polished and smooth. Shelves along the walls, currently holding only a few possessions. A few bowls, clay cups, a knife or two. Mara was now speaking with his mother, talking about the new house. The women even went for a hug. It all made Havard smile. He walked towards the windows, just to check on them. They were shuttered shut with sturdy bars, a necessity considering the kind of winters Dahim had. He removed one now and opened a window. Fresh air mixed with the scent of wood as he did so. For a moment he peered out, towards the forest. Then he heard Mara exclaim from somewhere in the house, closed the window, and went to find her. It was not hard. His mother was beaming, his father was face palming and Mara was looking uncharacteristically bashful. The thing that had made her exclaim. A crib, just waiting for an occupant. Havard felt his own ears heat up, and glared at his mother. His mother just winked. "Very subtle, mother." He told her in a flat tone. She huffed. "Subtle? It ain't meant to be subtle, it's meants to tell you to get to it, kids. None of us are getting any younger." She said. "Unless of course." She peered at Mara's stomach. "Hmm..." Her eyes narrowed. "Time to go." Havard's father grabbed his mother and carried her away. She struggled for show only a bit and cackled. "Enjoy your new home." His father called out and Havard and Mara waved. "Your mother is... rather direct with her wishes." Mara said eventually. "She just outright said it." Havard said. "So... I would have to agree." They looked at each other. Then burst out laughing. It took a while to recover, but eventually Mara grabbed his hand. "Come on, let's look over the whole place." She said, and Havard agreed. Everything felt ready, as if the house was waiting for them to move in. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[It was not yet a home, but it had been prepared well, with passion, care and love, to become one.|HavardRock30]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Havard paced worriedly outside the door to their bathroom. Mara had felt ill during breakfast. “Love? Are you alright?” He called out. “Oh, I am great. I love throwing up!” Came the annoyed voice of his wife. Right… She was a little cranky right now. He kept pacing, best not annoy her more with his worry right now. She would tell him if she needed him. Eventually, he heard a groan and a sigh. Soon Mara emerged. She looked dead tired and just plain uncomfortable. That was a new look for his wife… and it was odd. She stopped in front of him and leaned on his shoulder. “Havard. Get me a glass of milk and lemon bars. Please.” She whispered “I want some for later. I am tired… I’ll take a nap.” Then in a much quieter voice. “And sorry. For snapping at you.” “Don’t worry about it, love. You just go rest.” He pecked her on the cheek and rubbed her back with his hand. “I will be right back. My parents will have baked the goods for the day already.” “Thank you.” Mara whispered and pecked his cheek in turn. “I will be in the bedroom.” Havard nodded at her and watched her disappear into their bedroom. He dressed and hurried over to his parents’ bakery. It was not a long trip, and he walked very briskly. “Mom, dad? Mara is feeling off, can I get some lemon bars and milk?” He shouted as soon as he was through the bakery door. “Sure, sweetie. Your father just took some bars out of the oven, and we have plenty of fresh milk.” His mother called out from the back of the bakery. “I will make you a basket!” Havard waited by the door, and soon his mother emerged, wiping her hands on her apron, walking to meet him with a basket. “They are fresh and best eaten today, hurry ba….” Her nose twitched. Then she leaned in, her fluffy ears twitching as she sniffed him. Havard had been raised by the woman, who had an acute sense of smell. So, he stood still and let her sniff him. She had always been able to tell when he had eaten extra snacks as a youth. “What did you say was wrong with Mara?” She asked, her eyes wide and tail swaying back and forth quickly. Excitedly? “She felt unwell during breakfast and threw up. Then said she was tired and to get her snacks and milk for later.” His mother raised one eyebrow at him…and sighed deeply. Then took off with the basket in a full sprint towards the new house Havard and Mara now lived in. “Get your father! Tell him to close the bakery for today! We have more important things to do!” Confused as he was, Havard did as she asked. His father made no fuss, just washed his hands and made sure nothing would burn before accompanying him back. Listening to one’s mother was generally a good idea in moments like this. His father attested to that with a firm clap on his shoulder. "Son, it's just best to do as she asks when she smells something off." He said as they rushed towards Havard and Mara's newly built house. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[That seemed true enough to Havard.|HavardRock31]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

By the time Havard arrived back at the new house, with his father in tow, he could hear the voice of his mother speaking to Mara in the bedroom. Heading that way, he strained his ears a bit to hear. “I am sure. I can smell it.” His mother was saying. “Don’t underestimate a cat beastkin heritage as strong as mine. I can smell it.” “Ok, fine. I believe you.” Mara said in a muffled voice. “How do you think…” Then cut off as Havard knocked and entered the bedroom. Mara was sitting up in bed, munching on a lemon bar. His mother was sitting on the bed, rubbing Mara’s back, between her wings. “How are you, love?” Havard asked his wife. “Fine.” Mara said… She looked to be struggling with something. Usually, she just told him things bluntly, so Havard was getting a bit worried. But his mother was smiling, so it could not be too bad. “You should just do it. Should I…” His mother glanced behind Havard, at his father peeking in. “We will leave you two be?” Mara nodded and Havard’s mother stood up and walked past him. She grasped his shoulder for a moment. “Don’t worry.” She mouthed as she passed him “It is good news..” He could hear some whispering as his parents closed the door. “Shh. Not yet.” His mother was saying. “Let’s get a bit further away in case Mara chickens out for a while. Honestly, that girl is shy at the oddest times.” Havard hoped Mara had not heard that and suppressed a smile. He went to sit on the bed, with his wife. “Love. Tell me.” He took her hand into his and rubbed little circles onto it, hoping to offer some degree of comfort. Mara looked at him, golden eyes meeting hazel ones. She took a deep breath. Hesitated... and blurted it all out. "We will have use for that crib your mother made..." She said in a rush. Did she blush a bit as she said it? Havard stared at her. "You mean..." His gaze dropped to her stomach. “I am pregnant. Or so your mother claims.” It took a few moments for Havard to process. Then he smiled the widest smile in his life. “You aren’t worried?” Her wings shifted nervously behind her. "With... everything?" “Of course not!” Havard exclaimed, smiling from ear to ear. “We are going to have a child!” Impossibly his smile got even wider when Mara smiled at him, relieved and excited. He saw the small flicker of fear in her expression too... Of course, a child was a lot. But he knew, he wanted it with all his being, unexpected as it was. They hugged, overjoyed and excited. A bit scared too, but they could do it. Together. It was a day of celebration after that. They let his parents back in soon after, and Havard could not remember seeing his father smile so widely. His mother of course, started planning baby clothes, names and what sounded like a full play-yard. Mara just smiled and nibbled on lemon bars. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[And so, time passed.|HavardRock32]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

“I hate this village.” Mara said as she walked next to him, belly noticeably swollen. “Look at how they gape at us as if we are beasts not people.” Havard could not blame her. The villagers were unfriendly at the best of times, and this was the first time she showed signs of her pregnancy while visiting the village market. “I know, love.” Havard said and tightened his hold on her hand slightly. “But their opinions hardly matter.” He tried smiling. “Let’s just get what we need and head back.” Mara glared at some villagers, whispering while glancing their way…. “Fine. Let’s get his over with.” They headed for the butcher’s place. Mara had been craving meat recently so they would get some. They did not make it far. “Well, well. If it isn’t the freaks.” Came a loud voice, causing Havard to sigh and Mara’s grip on his hand tightened into a painful squeeze. They turned to look. There was Omar with his hangers on. The woodcutter’s son was well built but always had an unpleasant expression. At least as far as Havard had seen him. He had to wonder, was did the man always wear that sneer, or was it reserved for only them. “Omar.” Havard said neutrally. “Did you actually have business with us, or are you just being unpleasant?” He asked. Mara scoffed. “His existence is unpleasant to those around him, I doubt he can turn it off.” Havard had to suppress a smile. Omar was all hot air in his experience but if they were too rude… well who knew. Omar narrowed his eyes at them. “Watch it, freaks. You don’t wanna pick a fight with actual people.” He gestured around him. To the villagers who were watching. “Would end badly for you.” He wasn’t wrong. Havard and Mara were alone here, surrounded by unfriendly villagers on all sides. And they were not fighters. Of course, neither were the villagers, but they had the numbers. Though, the villagers certainly enjoyed the bakery’s products well enough. They just liked to pretend Havard’s father was the only one running it, and that his mother did not exist. “What do you want, Omar?” Havard asked neutrally. It was best to get whatever this was out of the way quickly. Omar eyed him with clear hatred, considering. Then probably decided to just go for it. Omar’s eyes settled on Mara’s stomach. “Is the demon bitch getting fat or are you freaks actually breeding?” It took Havard a moment to process that sentence. That was… blunt. When had the man gotten so brave? Havard was too stunned to react in time. So, he was too late to stop Mara who had no such troubles with comprehension. In fact, she seemed to be relishing the opportunity. “What’s it to you? Asking for tips how to get someone to touch your little man parts?” Mara shot back. “You should probably stop spending so much time talking, it is not doing you any favors. Nor is the smell. You know, there are these wonderful things called baths.” Oh… that was not so bad. Havard had expected much worse. Even Omar seemed to just sort of be waiting for more, even angry as he clearly was. “Stopping to be a complete waste of life would also help. You are creepy with that constant sneer of yours. Is that why you always need to have so many people around you? Because none of them are comfortable being around you alone? It’s probably the way you eye the pigsty, with such longing and a visible tent in your trousers. It puts people off. The pigs too, probably.” She slowed her speech, as if talking to a child. “They are afraid you will try to mount them if they are ever alone with you.” Ok, she was not stopping, she was getting quite a bit nastier, and they were surrounded by people. All of whom could hear her rant, even if it was much less explicit than Havard had expected. Not in implications, just... language. It was still clearly working. Omar was getting red. Worse, there were some giggles from the crowd. Omar spun around, trying to locate the gigglers. His supposed friends were keeping very neutral faces, making sure to suppress any amusement they felt. Or so Havard assumed, why else would they keep such blank faces when usually they were sneering. “Who dares!” Omar roared, still spinning around, trying to catch who was making fun of him. No one answered. Well, no one except Mara. She clicked her tongue. “You know, they all hate me and still none of them disagree with what I have said.” She clicked her tongue, looking around the crowd. “So, an angry, creepy, smelly pigfucker that no one feels comfortable around confirmed by public opinion.” She let go of his hand, and clapped, applauding the crowd. “Well done, taking a stance!” She drawled sarcastically. Havard reached for her hand again, before she could insult the crowd too much. Their faces were turning darker at her tone. Omar predictably did not take it all well, and decided to lash out against the obvious easy target. “You fucking bitch!” Omar predictably dashed towards Mara. Havard had no idea what the man was planning to do, but Havard pushed between them as Mara’s wings flared, spreading out behind her. An arrow buried itself into he ground between Havard and Omar. “Enough.” Said an unfamiliar voice. A man in some kind of forest green armor jumped down from a nearby tree of all things, holding a bow. The people stared, confused. Long golden hair and a lean build, the man was a stranger to Dahim. Or at least Havard had never seen him. “Who the fuck…” Omar started but was cut off. “I am Ilbor. A Green Protector of Firgrat assigned to the region.” The man bowed to the crowd. “Pleased to meet you.” The man did not sound like it was a pleasure. He sounded like someone restraining his annoyance and trying to be polite. Barely. A Green Protector? Havard had heard of Grey Protectors, the guardians of Firgrat city from Mara, but never a Green Protector. It seemed most on the villagers shared his confusion, based on the expressions of the people now all focused on the man. Havard could swear the man’s eyebrow twitched at the confusion. At least before Mara smiled which caused his expression to go back to neutral. “So, one of the Protectors of the… countryside, has finally arrived in Dahim?” She asked, eyeing the man. “Thought you were all just a rumor that was going around a few years back.” The man eyed her back. He sounded a bit more sincere when responding. “Yes, miss…” His gaze glanced to Havard. “Mistress. Finally after nearly six years after our founding, there are enough of us to start spreading out in Anwol.” They had existed for six years? That was a long time of basically no activity or rumors about them. Though… Dahim was remote. They barely got a few merchants each year with news of the larger world. Those news were always dominated by Firgrat and rarely touched on the rest of the continent of Anwol, let alone the rest of the world. Hell, Havard only knew what the continent was called since his mother had traveled in her youth before settling down here. Perhaps it was not a surprise that so much time could pass with nothing on these Green Protectors. He had no sense of the scope and distances involved here. “What the fuck are you two on about?” Omar pushed into the conversation. “The Green Protectors have been deployed to the rural regions of the continent now. We will bring safety and judgment to the regions far too long neglected by the powers that be.” He bowed. “Consider me an enforcer of the law in this region to some extent. I will adapt to suit local customs, but my purpose is to always act fairly and leave no voice unheard.” His eyes focused on Omar, then Mara and Havard. “Free from bias and prejudice.” “On whose authority?” Asked a voice from the crowd. “The Council of Ancients.” Ilbor said. “I have already introduced myself to your village head, and the few… guards this village has.” Calling them guards was generous. Dahim was a small village, and the guards all also had other jobs. For some reason, they had never had problems with monsters in here, though apparently some of the further villages had plenty. This announcement sent murmurs through the crowd. Everyone knew of the Ancients to some degree but they were far too distant in a place like Dahim. Stories people told to each other about mages so powerful they could make cities float or cruel and capricious gods striking down anyone who challenged them. The details were all over the place, but the Ancients were not something real that interfered in their lives. Yet here was Ilbor, saying that was exactly what had happened, at least on the arbitrary degree of an order given. The Green Protector ignored the muttering and walked between Havard and Omar. The man knelt and picked up his arrow. “I trust I do not need to… interfere again. That whatever was happening here is resolved, at least for now?” Ilbor asked, looking at Omar, then at Havard and Lexia. “I am new here so if you have… an unresolved feud, I will ask you to be patient for me to be caught up on all the details.” Omar eyed the man. The bow, the knives strapped to his armor. Havard could not tell if the armor was metal or some kind of leather… How odd. Omar scoffed. “Whatever.” He turned and marched away, leaving his supposed friends to stand around awkwardly. Havard looked at Omar’s back for a moment. “No wonder Mrs. Erin nearly took out an eye from that pigfucker.” Mara said next to him. “Too bad she missed a bit.” Havard sighed. “Love, could you not call him that in front of Mr. Ilbor. I fear we may not be making the best impression.” Even if his mother agreed and secretly lamented that she had not blinded Omar. Mara gave him an unimpressed look. “Your mother agrees with me!” “Besides the point, love. This is not about my mother.” He nodded towards Ilbor, who was watching the two of them. Mara looked over. “Are you offended?” She asked. The man shrugged. “I have heard a lot worse. I will assume the matter settled for now.” He said, and eyed Mara. “You are not from here, are you Mrs….?” “Mara. Just Mara.” She offered Ilbor her hand. “This is my husband, Havard.” She gestured to him, and he shook hands with the Green Protector too. “And no, I am not from Dahim.” Mara said. Ilbor nodded. “Easy enough to tell.” He eyed Havard next, who had no outward signs of his heritage, and therefore by appearance alone would have fit in rather well. “Born and raised in Dahim.” He said. Ilbor just nodded. “I see.” They stood around awkwardly for a moment. Ilbor looking around idly. “I am not standing around here for the whole day until something falls out of me.“ Mara said and indicated her swollen middle. “Come Havard. We are getting that meat and heading home. I am thinking venison if they have it.” She took his hand and started tugging him along. “Nice to meet you Mr. Ilbor.” Havard said to the Green Protector. “Just Ilbor.” He said. “We will no doubt meet again.” <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[ The next time Havard glanced back; the Green Protector was gone. |HavardRock33]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

It was a beautiful evening as Havard was returning home from making some deliveries to the farms outside of the village. The moons were shining brightly, casting a beautiful sheen of silver light upon the forest path. He had walked down this path many times and knew it well. Which is probably why he noticed the man sneaking from the village along the path. The man found a large tree, and then climbed up it with fluid grace. Havard stared for a bit… then headed over. It was on the way after all. He stopped under the tree and peered up into the branches. “Good evening, Ilbor.” He said. “Shh…. They are still looking for me.” A whisper came from the tree. “Do not give away my position.” “Who’s looking for you?” Havard asked. “The…. Hide.” A hand came down from the tree, grabbed Havard by the arm, and pulled him up the tree. He was so stunned, he didn’t even protest. How strong was Ilbor? He did have enough presence of mind to grab a branch and perch on the tree. Ilbor slapped a hand over his mouth before he could ask what was going on. The Green Protector's eyes were stuck on a spot near the edge of the forest just a short distance away. Specifically on a group of young villagers mostly made up of women, with a few men in there, that seemed to be searching for something. Or someone. “Where did he go?” One asked the others, as they were all looking around… Havard stared at the group, confused. Why would they be looking for Ilbor? He turned to stare at Ilbor whose eyes were full of… annoyance? Ilbor still had his hand over Havard’s mouth so he could only really just… sit in a tree with the Green Protector, and watch the group of people. “He couldn’t have gotten far,” someone said. “Come on, let’s spread out! Whoever finds him, gets first crack at him.” What were they doing? First crack at what? He eyed Ilbor and raised an eyebrow in question. The Green Protector’s mouth was drooping in displeasure. As the group spread out and none were in the immediate vicinity of the tree they were in, Havard pulled Ilbor’s hand off his mouth. “What is going on?” He whispered. Ilbor eyed him. “They are... seeking my affections. Persistently.” His voice was strained, teeth clenched. Was that a bit of red around his cheeks? Havard stared at the man for a good while. It took all his willpower not to laugh, not to smile. To treat this seriously. The Protector was clearly uncomfortable about this after all. Havard might have been too but somehow, he had married Mara and found, these things were much funnier than they used to be... Oh no, was he turning into his mother? Best not consider that... Ever. “I see.” Was the best he could manage. He hoped his voice sounded normal. Ilbor grimaced. “When they came to me, I though they had a dispute for me to solve. Perhaps a monster sighting... They kept asking me about my… preferences. I thought they meant my weapon.” He patted his bow. Havard nodded along, trying to keep his face serious. They were hiding in a tree from a group of... Well unmarried horny villagers who had had limited options for all their lives. And Ilbor was new and exciting. Much more than anyone else in the village... Well perhaps aside from Mara, but Havard may have been biased. “Then they kept asking about my sword.” Ilbor grumbled. “I don’t even carry a sword. Several knives, yes but no sword. They seemed… disappointed by my answer.” “You told them, you have no sword?” Havard asked. “Yes.” “I... see.” It was really hard not to smile. Havard had to know though. Had to ask. “So... when did you figure it out?” Ilbor grimaced again. “I didn’t. I kept thinking they were not of sound mind, insisting on wishing to see me “wield my sword.” I kept insisting I have no sword, and that if they have no real business with me, to move along.” He says. “Until finally one of them got tired of the game, and just said it out loud.” “You mean, like... shouting it out?” Havard’s face was working very hard. He must not laugh, or grin. “As in “We mean your cock!” Shouted in the middle of the village.” His cheeks were definitely a little red. “The people stared...” “And?” His face was breaking, he must have been smiling by now. At least he was not snickering. “And I informed them, I have no interest.” He said, face darkening. “Still, they keep insisting on...” He chewed on his lip. “Spending time with me. To... change my mind.” The man said, full of contempt. Havard’s unwanted smile dropped. Objectively speaking, Ilbor was gorgeous with his fit build, pronounced cheekbones, forest green eyes and golden locks. If one could get past the scowls and somewhat brusque manner. “I told them three times, I have no interest. Yet, still they hound me.” Ilbor turned to stare at Havard. “How do I make them stop? Without killing them, I mean... I believe that would violate my oath...” He asked, clearly lost. Ilbor glanced at Havard, and back at where the villagers had been... Then his head slowly turned back to him, gaze intense. He kept staring intently at Havard. “You do not seem to be... seeking my affections. What am I doing to repulse you away?” Havard had to struggle to not smile at that. “You are not Mara.” He said simply. Ilbor considered this. “Hmm... Can I apply this against the others in some manner?” Havard suppressed another smile. “No... It's probably a requirement for them, in fact.” Ilbor frowned, confused. “Why?” Now Havard was confused. He had thought the man realized earlier in the town market how the villagers treated those with non-human heritage. “Because she has demonic heritage…” He said slowly. Ilbor’s confusion grew. “Why does that matter?” “Because... Ilbor, let me ask you something. That scene in the market. Why did you think that was? How much did you see?” Ilbor nodded slowly. “I arrived around the pigfucker part. I assume there is a feud because Mrs. Mara is not from Dahim and has a sharp tongue.” He nodded to himself. “Villages such as this are often wary of outsiders, are they not? I have just gotten my assignment but all the villages in the region have been wary of me.” Havard did not hide his smile at that. “I see.” He patted Ilbor on the shoulder. “I see. Thank you.” Ilbor looked confused again. “What are you thanking me for?” “For confirming what Mara and my mother have told me. That it is not like this everywhere.” “Like what?” Ilbor was getting frustrated. Havard thought that was a good sign. Clearly, Ilbor had no idea what he was talking about. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[ So, Havard smiled, and leaned against the tree. “Let me tell you about the entire encounter from the market.”|HavardRock34]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

As he talked, Ilbor’s frown grew. The man was odd, both stoic yet wore his heart on his sleeve. “But that’s...” Ilbor chewed on his lip. “It’s so stupid!” He threw up his hands, forgetting they were in a tree and hit a branch. “Fuck!” The volume of his voice had increased significantly. “Are you alright?” Havard asked. Ilbor inspected his hand and nodded. “Apologies for my... outburst.” “It is fine. As long as you are alright.” Havard said, smiling. “How about, we get down and head towards my house for now.” Havard said. “I bet Mara would love to be a part of this conversation... Though I must warn you, she will laugh at the story. “ Ilbor tilted his head, considering. “Would coming to your house... help me evade my pursuers.” Havard could not suppress the chuckle. “Definitely. They won’t come there.” Ilbor nodded and took a look around. Then jumped down the tree, landing easily. “I will deal with Mrs. Mara’s laughter then.” Havard was not nearly as graceful, but Ilbor grabbed his waist on the way down and helped him. “Thank you.” Havard said, straightening his shirt. “This way.” He started leading Ilbor towards his and Mara’s house. It was late but Mara would hopefully find the whole situation far too amusing to be angry. “Havard… I have a question.” Ilbor said as they walked. “Go ahead.” “In your story, this Omar said “freaks”. If the villagers dislike Mrs. Mara because of her heritage, then…” “Yep. Only family in Dahim.” Havard said, turning to look at Ilbor and let his eyes change slitted. It was dark but the man nodded, clearly having seen it. “Ah, I see.” “My mother is obvious; she has the ears and tail.” Havard said idly, stepping over a tree root. Ilbor nodded along, deep in thought. “Hmm... I have a conundrum, Havard. May I ask for your opinion.” “Of course. Though we are nearly there, if you want to hear Mara’s opinion as well.” Ilbor considered this, before nodding. “All right.” Soon they arrived at the house, and entered. “Love, I am home!” Havard called out. “And I brought a guest.” Ilbor stood back a bit awkwardly as Mara stomped out of the bedroom in her nightgown, looking very unimpressed with him. “It’s late. Why would you bring a quest?” She asked, sounding… annoyed. Havard smiled at his wife and walked over to peck her cheek. Which she allowed. “Because Ilbor needs a place to hide from the singles of Dahim.” He said. Mara blinked at him, narrowing her eyes. Then took in their guest, standing awkwardly near the door. “Ilbor needs a place to hide from the singles of Dahim?” She asked very slowly. Havard nodded. Mara looked deep into his eyes. Such beautiful golden eyes she had… He tried communicate without words how she would like to hear this. “Come sit down Ilbor. Havard, get us something to drink and eat.” Mara said. Havard smiled brightly. “Of course, love.” Ilbor hesitated near the door, before walking over to Havard while Mara sat down in her favorite chair. “Are you sure this is... appropriate. She is underdressed, is she not?” Havard had no chance to answer. “I can hear you.” Mara said. “It’s not like I am naked, and I wear these all day at home. You try gaining all this weight, and carrying around a lump that kicks you all the time, and makes you need to pee constantly. We will see how much you like normal clothes.” She muttered. “Now stop fussing, and sit down, Mr. Green Protector.” She patted an empty chair. “I need details.” Ilbor looked at Havard, got no help whatsoever, and went to sit down as ordered. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Soon everyone had some milk and leftovers from the bakery. |HavardRock35]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Soon Mara spat out her milk, and started laughing. “Oh… stop, stop! I might pop the baby out by accident.” The managed, bending over double in her chair. Havard rubbed her back while Ilbor seemed panicked. “Can that happen?” He asked, sounding worried. Havard smiled calmly. “No idea.” Ilbor looked horrified. Mara glanced up at them, and then kept laughing. "Ah... Ok, ok." Mara said, calming down. "That is the best thing I have heard in a while." She patted Havard on the cheek. "Good call, bringing him here." She said, and smiled at him. He smiled back, and for a moment they forgot about Ilbor, sitting awkwardly just a bit away. But they did not have guests all that often, so they really should pay attention to Ilbor. "So, what was this conundrum of yours?" Havard asked. "You wanted our opinion?" Ilbor nodded. "Yes. Will revealing this make my duties too hard?" He asked, pushing his long hair back to show his ears to them. His pointed ears. Havard was surprised, but Mara just nodded. "Much more difficult. It will probably get rid of the unwanted suitors, though..." Mara looked him up and down. "Are you... How much elf is in you?" Mara asked, and Havard looked at her? How much? Wasn't it just a heritage... "My father is elven. My mother human." Ilbor said, shrugging. "But why does that matter?" Mara sighed. "Ilbor, right now you are like a pond of water in a desert to the singles of Dahim. Revealing your ears will make you more akin to a muddy pond of water... Some will definitely leave you alone, but the really thirsty ones probably will not. I doubt they wanted to marry you in the first place... just a brief tumble, and it's not like you are a demon or a filthy beast." She smiled dryly. "Elves are known for their... attractiveness to put it bluntly. But your duties will be a lot harder. Your authority questioned a lot more if you reveal your ears. Especially with all the trouble at the border with the elves that has caused a bunch of refugees to move near the area. I doubt those people will look kindly on you." Ilbor frowned. "But... why?" He seemed frustrated. "I do not understand why it is like this?" Mara looked at Havard, he gaze questioning? How much did Havard trust Ilbor? And Havard found, that he did trust him more than anyone in the village, save for his parents and Mara. How odd, he barely knew the man. But Mara nodded at him. "I don't know. But Ilbor... Let me tell you a story. It begins with two foolish siblings, a sister and a brother..." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[ And so, Mara shared her story with Ilbor.|HavardRock36]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Later that same night, Ilbor left. His face was grim. Determined. It seems Mara's story had disturbed him. At their door, he stopped and spun around. "Mrs. No. Mara." He said, and bowed slightly to them. "I am sorry... I... Our order seems to have failed before we even began." "Not really. It's not your fault, you were not there. Something like the Green Protectors need time." Mara said, smiling faintly, and leaning heavily against Havard. It was late, and she was tired. Both physically and mentally. "But..." Ilbor wanted to argue but didn't. Instead he stood upright. "I will find them." He said instead. "I will find that village who wronged you and your brother, and pass judgment. I swear it." He said instead, determined. Mara stared at him... then nodded. "Thank you." She whispered and let her head fall against Havard's shoulder. Ilbor nodded, and turned to go. After two steps he spun around. "If you need help... Call for me. I have a large area to patrol, but I will be here at least every few days... I know it is not much but..." He looked pained. The Green Protectors were still few, they had not the manpower they needed. Each Protector needed to patrol a large area. "Thank you." Havard said. "That is much more than we have had here in my lifetime, Ilbor." Ilbor looked pained again, but nodded. "I will not reveal my ears to the villagers. I will avoid their... affections by some other means." He said.. and then he was gone. Disappeared into the night. Havard smiled, and helped Mara inside. They went to bed. However, over the coming weeks, something new happened. Often in the evening, at least once a week, there was a knock on their door. Each time, it was an awkward Ilbor, handing them something he had picked up, or hunted. Then coming in to talk. It became a habit. That is how Havard and Mara made their first real friend in Dahim. Not counting each other of course. For Havard it was the first time he had a friend, really. Mara was a special case, but he found he rather enjoyed when Ilbor came to visit. Life was very good. He had a wife, a child on the way, and a friend. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[ The End of Part 3|PastEnding]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

No, you are staying right here! You lay in bed, limbs tangled, face smushed sideways into the pillow. Above, the ceiling is boring, unmoving and unremarkable. You stared at it for a long time. Now it is the wall's turn... It is just as boring. A breeze makes the curtains sway a bit at the open window, but even that seemed half-hearted. You wondered if the wind had nothing better to do too. You sigh — loudly — for the fourth time in a minute. Not that you know that, but Lexia does. She is still sitting there, clearly just as bored as you are. The room is quiet. Too quiet. You’d chosen this. You have to remind yourself of that as time stretches to eternity. Eventually, your thoughts wondered to the one thing you are sure about... Maybe. Food is tasty. That is it... You wonder, will there be more food. More food would be pretty nice. What kinds of foods are there out there? Are all foods tasty? You do not know, but you are rather eager to find out. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Right around the same time....|AtruC3POV]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h2>Your POV</h2>\ You are still in bed... just staring at the wall. It has been approximately forever... You never thought boredom could be so.... boring! But finally, it seems Lexia has had enough. "Your room has magical lights! Other places in the orphanage too." She suddenly says, getting up. It does? You stare at her questioningly. "Yes, it does. Right there." She says, indicating a spot next to the door. Some kind of symbol? “Not as fancy in terms of the… well yours are just symbols on the roof, not chandeliers. Still plenty pretty. You just touch this and focus on what you want.” She presses her finger against the symbol, and suddenly there is light. Floating balls of it appear from symbols on the roof! Then they change color and shape as Lexia keeps pressing on the symbol. “Bet I can make them into rivers.” Her brow brunches up and the lights start to flow instead of remaining as balls. You stare at the roof of your room. Are you dreaming? Can those things really be real? You watch the lights break apart and come together, then break out into countless little lights… “Cool, isn’t it?” Lexia asks, watching you intently. “It’s amazing how much magic the Ancients put into this orphanage. This city is supposed to be one of the most magical places in the world, but… Well, it feels different when it is all so… within reach.” She beams at you. Is it cool? As in cold? Or does cool mean something different? You vaguely think, it does. Words are really complicated.... All this talking business is making you a little dizzy. Still at least the lights Lexia is playing with offer some entertainment. No more boredom! You are not sure you get what cool means, so you have no real opinion. “All right.” Lexia says, and lets out a deep breath, letting her hand drop away from the symbol. “You can play with it later, I think. Remember." She presses a finger to her lips. "Don't tell anyone I showed you this. Just i...." The door opens, and Havard walks in with dinner on a tray. No, two trays, a tray with legs and one without. Lexia stops talking immediately and closes one of her eyes at you… a wink. You remember it is called a wink. You attention is immediately, however, on Havard. He has food! You thought about food a lot while bored! And your stomach makes odd sounds, and you feel something... "Here." He hands Lexia the tray without legs, so you assume that was for her. "Thanks!" Lexia says, drawing a chair next to the table where Havard worked with the odd squiggles earlier in the day. Your attention is drawn to Havard again, as he walks over and sets the tray with legs over your lap again. His smile is gentle, but you are busy looking over the tray... There is milk, you remember the white liquid stuff. There is the buttery bread and you snatch a piece as soon as you see it, munching down. On the big plate in the middle is... what? It's more a bowl than a plate... Is it the porridge stuff again? You think the color is different and it's more liquid... "It's a herbed grain broth." Havard says, sitting down on the edge of your bed, and takes a spoon. "Your stomach is new to foods, and eating something heavy might upset it." He explains, as he takes a spoonful and brings it to your mouth, just like earlier. You eat it without protest. It's tasty.... Herby? Green? You have no idea, but you eat every spoonful Havard gives you. Sometimes you also stuff your mouth with the bread. And dip some bread in the bowl and eat that... Eating is nice... Your stomach approves. Your bandages don't but that's fine. Havard said he will change them again if needed. Lexia is helping you drink the milk, having already finished with her food. You gulp it down, feeling very content right now. Sort of sluggish. Full. You are not used to feeling like this. Havard lifts the tray off you, and sets it down on the table. You barely notice when Havard changes your bandages again. You feel oddly floaty... Content. Is that the word? "Hey, kid?" You look to the side. Lexia is sitting on the edge of your bed, staring at you. You try your best to pay attention, perking up a bit. "I know today was kind of boring. We will have to do something more exciting in the future. But resting is good too.." She says, smiling. "I am gonna go take the dishes to the kitchen now." She leans in. "I wanted to say good night." She whispers. "Sleep well, kid. Or try to, if you can." You blink at her. Has anyone ever said good night to you? Perhaps before the void... but it feels odd. <<if $MC_headpats is 'like'>>She pats your head gently and then she is gone.<<else>> She is gone already. <</if>> Lexia winks at you as she leaves the room. You remember her saying not to tell Havard about the lights… <<if $nonverbal>> Of course, you don't talk so it is probably not a huge concern.<</if>> You still have to wonder why? Is there something bad about playing with the lights? “Did you have a good day with Lexia?” Havard asks as he checks the window before coming over to redo your bandages. They got dirty again while you ate. You nod idly at him. There is not much to say. It was boting, but it was not the void. No torture or anything. He just smiels briefly, and focuses on your bandages. Left alone for a moment, you stare at the roof and feel boredom overtake you once again. You need to do something. Anything. Then a thought occurs to you. The lights that Lexia showed you. You could play with the lights at least. Havard is busy with the window for now.... Lexia asked you not to tell him about the lights. But you are not really telling him, are you? Maybe you should consider this... But you have a free hand, don't you! So, why not. <<if ndef $C3_ending>>\ <<set $C3_ending to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You wanna play with the light. You saw Lexia do it. So you can probably too it too. |C3_bedtime3][$C3_ending to $C3_ending + 3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<h2>The gate</h2>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> \ Lexia pushes you through several gardens and hallways to get to this entrance. <<else>>\ Lexia carries you through several gardens and hallways to get to this entrance. <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Tour_walls")>> It must be the same one you saw from the wall, or so you think. <</if>> You vaguely remember someone saying that there was only one gate that served as an entrance. Maybe it was Havard. Or was it Lexia? Does it matter? Soon enough you arrive at what you assume is the gatehouse. There are two figures, both wearing the silver armor of Protectors standing on both sides of a large hole in the wall... Well not quite just a hole. More like twin towers flanking a central archway, there were odd patterns decorating the entire archway, with a heavy portcullis of some odd metal bars hung suspended. You don't question how you know the word portcullis, nor that it is there, ready to crash down at a moment’s notice in case someone tries to get in. Your internal sense knows weird things like this. Like front a glance, you know that there is a heavy gate Just beyond on the other side of the gatehouse, there is another portcullis. There are also thick wooden doors bound in blackened metal, one for each portcullis. From what you could tell, the doors had similar patterns on the surface as on the hem of your cloak, and some more structured patterns. Sort of circles, you think. That you are not sure about. But it looks nice! <<if hasVisited("Tour_walls")>> \ From the wall you saw earlier that there is a walkway suspended in the air on the other side of the gatehouse. That would serve as a sort of moat, or so your internal sense tells you. <</if>>\ Next, you peer up at the two towers. The walls are tall, the gatehouse is taller, but the two towers are even taller than that! <<if hasVisited("Tour_walls")>> Not nearly as tall as the Spire of course, but normal tall. <</if>> You narrow your eyes, trying to see better. <<if $HeritageType.includes("eyes")>>\ <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("eyes")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> \ You change your eyes into your $Feature... to see if it helps. At least you hope it works. <</if>>\ At the top of each tower, you think you can vaguely see the glint of silver. It is hard to see up there, you are too close to the gatehouse and the towers. But you have a feeling there are two more silver protectors at the top of each tower. Yes! You see one peer down at you, and wave at you. Or maybe at Lexia. Then they return to watching the bridge on the other side. "Well, kid. This is the main gate to the orphanage." She smiles. "Why it is fortified like a castle gate is odd, but hey, it is awesome!" She gestures. "There are six Protectors on guard at all times here. Two here in the courtyard." She gestures to the two figures in silver standing by the gatehouse. They both wave, and Lexia waves back. "Those are Hybert and Kathil... I think. Hard to say with the helmets on." Right, helmets are sort of like metal hats. Except you only have a vague idea what a hat is... Something to put on your head? Your internal sense is so confusing sometimes. "Anyway, there are two more on the other side of the gatehouse, on the bridge leading here. And two more up in the towers. One in each tower." Lexia leans into whisper. "Ok, since right now we have a lot of free Protectors since the orphanage isn't open, there are usually at least two in each tower. Mostly for company." She winks at you, like this was some kind of secret. Is it? You have no idea. Normal interactions are hard enough, how are you supposed to know what is a secrets. Hey, you know what secrets are! Interesting... <<if $nonverbal>> Anyway, not like you could tell people in any event. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> \ You feel your wings twitch a bit as you stare up at the towers. Will you one day be able to fly up there? Maybe... Assuming you even learn to fly. That should be a priority, you feel like. Especially if your legs are useless now. <</if>>\ "Do you wanna go say to the gate guards? We can't leave the orphanage right now, but we could say hi, maybe peek inside the gatehouse?" Lexia asks you. "Or we could maybe even peek a bit outside? There are bridges there!" Inside the gatehouse... You stare at the building and know what is in there. Not what anything looks like but your internal sense knows about gatehouses. It is so odd. Arrow slits and murder holes. Perhaps some magical defenses like barriers or a... pit trap? You feel less sure about those, you are not sure about all the things magic does. Your internal sense is really fuzzy on details. Could the gate talk? That would be pretty nice... But then, why would the guards be needed? Anyway, even if you know what is there, you could take a look. Or do the introduction thing with the Protectors standing guard. <<if ndef $gate >>\ <<set $gate to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to say hi to the guards.|Tour_gate2][$gate to $gate+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to see inside the gate house.|Tour_gate2][$gate to $gate+2]]</div> <<if hasVisited("Tour_walls")>> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to peek at the other layers of the city you saw from the wall.|Tour_gate2][$gate to $gate+3]]</div> <<else>> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to peek at the city outside, even if you can't really go outside.|Tour_gate2][$gate to $gate+3]]</div> <</if>> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("wings")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ The movement immediatelly draws the gaze of both twins. They stare at your $Feature... "Can you fly? Can we touch them? How do you sleep with them? Sit? Do they get in the way? Can you carry us?" The more animated one starts asking question after question. "Could you fly to the sun? How fast can you go?" And they seem to be escalating in scale. The more stoic twin just stares, and you have the vague sense that he wants to know all those things too. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You don't even talk! How are you supposed to answer all those questions. <<else>>\ You can speak, but the sheer volume of questions is overwhelming. Your brain is broken, you can't remember all those questions! Or can you? <</if>>\ Deciding what to do fast seems prudent. Pretty sure at least the loud twin looks like she is ready to reach over to touch your wings... <<if ndef $Twins_reaction>>\ <<set $Twins_reaction to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Wrap your wings around yourself to hide from them.|Chapter 4_2_wings][$Twins_reaction to $Twins_reaction+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Your wings flare out, almost threataningly.|Chapter 4_2_wings][$Twins_reaction to $Twins_reaction+ 2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You figure there is no harm in letting them touch them. You offer your wings to them.|Chapter 4_2_wings][$Twins_reaction to $Twins_reaction+3]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You give a series of vague shakes of the head and nods to answer every question.|Chapter 4_2_wings][$Twins_reaction to $Twins_reaction+ 4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Just stare blankly.|Chapter 4_2_wings][$Twins_reaction to $Twins_reaction+ 5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("tail")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ The movement draws two curious gazes immediatelly. The twins stare at your $Feature... "Can you grab stuff with it? Can we touch it? Is sitting weird? Does it get in the way? Can you hang upside down from it?" The more animated one starts asking question after question. "Oh, could you stand on it? Jump up and down? Climb?" And they seem to be escalating in scale. The more stoic twin just stares, and you have the vague sense that he wants to know all those things too. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You don't even talk! How are you supposed to answer all those questions. <<else>>\ You can speak, but the sheer volume of questions is overwhelming. Your brain is broken, you can't remember all those questions! Or can you? <</if>>\ Deciding what to do fast seems prudent. Pretty sure at least the loud twin looks like she is ready to reach over to touch your tail. She keeps slowly scooting closer. OPTIONS Your tail curls up around you, as if to hide. Your tail starts waving back and forth, as if saying hi. It's fine for them to touc it. Your tails shoots forward.

<<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("horns")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ Not like you can move your horns, but it does not seem to matter to the twins. They stare intently, as if waiting to see if your horns will do anything suprising. "Can you do anything with them? Can we touch them? Are they heavey? Do they get in the way?" The more animated one starts asking question after question. "Oh, can you do magic with them? Make them glow? Make them longer?" And they seem to be escalating in scale. The more stoic twin just stares, and you have the vague sense that he wants to know all those things too. <<if $nonverbal>>\ You don't even talk! How are you supposed to answer all those questions. <<else>>\ You can speak, but the sheer volume of questions is overwhelming. Your brain is broken, you can't remember all those questions! Or can you? <</if>>\ Deciding what to do fast seems prudent. Pretty sure at least the loud twin looks like she is ready to reach over to touch your horns. She keeps slowly scooting closer.

<<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("animal ears")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\

<<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>>\ <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("feathers")>>\ <<elseif $HeritageType.includesAny("elemental")>>\ <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("elemental")>>\ <<else>>\ <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("nature features")>>\ <</if>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\

<<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("scales")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\

<<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("pointy ears")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\

<<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("eyes")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\

<<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("sea")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\

You might be smiling. Then close your eyes and focus... Focus... Remember the lesson with Lexia. Your eyes fly open. A radiant glow drives back the shadows of the room. Havard lets out a small surprised "Oh." There is no pain. No cycle. You look around your room in wonder. Your hair... your hair can drive back the dark. Your hair can drive back the dark! Well, you sort of knew that already but now you can see it... It is so cool! The darkness cannot claim you ever again. The void can't creep up on you! Because there is light in the void! Your light. You look at Havard, feeling... good. You did that. Your light keeps the shadows at bay. His smile is... full of pride? Huh... You made Havard proud. That is what your internal sense is telling you. That's new. "Well done. Lexia has reason to be proud too. We will have to tell her later." He says, sitting down next to your bed. "But perhaps this is a bit too bright." He says softly. "Can you sleep with this much light?" You consider this... and he might be right. Your hair is really bright. But luckily your hair lessons included controlling the light! You settle on the bed. Your soft nice bed. You nuzzle a pillow and focus. The glow fades but does not disappear. A soft gentle light still emanates from your hair. It is enough. The dark is not so scary with a little light, the shadows not as deep. "Very good." Havard says softly, but you barely hear him. You drift off, safe int he knowledge you never have to be alone in the dark again. You can make your own light. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End Of Chapter 3|Interlude_InBetween]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Myrr’therel tree..." I say. Meaning a tree, that grows in one place, across all realms... If one were to go to another realm, the tree would remain. To say they are rare is an understatement. They are mythical.

<<if $gate is 1>>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You gesture to the guards, and Lexia understands. <<else>>\ "Say hi to the guards." You say, and point at the guards <</if>>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> \ The wheeled chair is pushed forwards, and you approach the guards. Lexia gives them a cheerful nod, but nothing more. <<else>>\ Lexia gives the guards a cheerful nod as you two appoarch them. <</if>>\ "Hey Kathil, hey Hybert! Meet our newest resident!" She gestures in your direction. <<if hasVisited("Tour_kitchens_yes_no2")>> Wait, didn't you mee the one called Hybert before? He got you snacks! Or was that a differnt Hybert? Can people share a name? <</if>> <<if $MC_name_random>>\ "The kid is still pondering about a name, but don't let that bother you!" Lexia says cheerfully. <<else>>\ "This is $MCname!" Lexia says, gesturing to you. <</if>>\ <<if hasVisited("Tour_kitchens_yes_no2")>> \ "Oh, and thanks for getting the kid snacks earlier, Hybert." You nod in agreement with Lexia. That was very nice of him. The snacks were not even fouled in any way. Those cookies were so good. "No problem." Hyberst says, reaching up to take off his helmet. "Nice to see you again." He says, tanned face spreading into a pleasant smile, his brown hair tied back at the nape. He gestures to the other guard, who is also taking off their helmet. "This is Kathil". "Hello." The woman called Kathil waves at you, though her smile is very subtle. Her black hair is cropped close, and your internal sense tells you it is practical for helmets. <<else>>\ The two guards remove their helmets. "Hello." They say in unison, and wave at you. "This one is Hybert." Lexia says, pointing at a man with a tanned face spreading into a pleasant smile, his brown hair tied back at the nape. "And this one is Kathil." she point at the woman. Kathil's smile is very subtle, and her black hair is cropped close, and your internal sense tells you it is practical for helmets. For a moment, there is just a lot of staring and smiling between you and the two gate guards, while Lexia waits for something to happen. Oh, this is the time for introductions, isn't it? But... Lexia already introduced you to them? What should yo do? How do people know what is appropriate in different situations? Your default is... nothing. <</if>>\ You are deciding what you should do about these new introductions, but the choice is taken from you. <<elseif $gate is 2>>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You gesture to the gatehouse, and Lexia understands. <<else>>\ "Gatehouse." You say, and point at the structure. <</if>>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> \ The wheeled chair is pushed forward, and you pass the guards. Lexia gives them a cheerful nod, but nothing more. <<else>>\ Lexia gives the guards a cheerful nod as she carries you past them. <</if>>\ Inside the gatehouse, you two peer around. It is much as you expected. A narrow and tall hallway with a vaulted ceiling. There were arrow slits, narrow windows in the walls were spaced periodically high up. Above the vaulted ceiling displayed the murder gallery. Places to rain down liquids, rocks or magic were plentiful from the ceiling. You know all this due to your odd internal sense. "So, if the bad people get in here, we can drop stuff on them!" Lexia says. She had been speaking for a while now while you were looking around. "Why we need a gatehouse for an orphanage is a bit of a mystery, but it is rather cool to have one." Lexia chatters as you observe the inside of the gatehouse. At first glance, it was all very familiar, not to you but your internal sense of things. It is weird like that. Yet now you observe something new. It is the faint feeling of pressure in the air that makes you look carefully. The moment you and Lexia crossed the threshold of the gatehouse, the air shifted, as though stepping into a place where magic pressed against the walls. It¨s all coiled and waiting to be used. The stone was not ordinary even disregarding the murder holes and arrow slits, but the surfaces are etched with faintly glowing sigils that are almost invisible to the naked eye. This warrants some investigation. Is there something up with the roof too? You peer up, narrowing your eyes... Yes! There are odd things in the ceiling too! Lexia decides to weigh in at this point. "Not sure about all the things they do, but magical defenses are also in place here. And pretty much all around the walls too." She says with a grin. "Should stop anyone from just flying in or climbing over. Just don't ask me about the details." Whatever you want to know the details or not is irrelevant, as a sound draws your attention. <<elseif $gate is 3>>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You gesture to the gatehouse, and Lexia understands. You will gesture some more inside to indicate you want to see the outside. <<else>>\ "Outside." You say, and point at the gatehouse. <</if>>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> \ The wheeled chair is pushed forwards, and you pass the guards. Lexia gives them a cheerful nod, but nothing more. <<else>>\ Lexia gives the guards a cheerful nod as she carries you past them. <</if>>\ Once outside, you stand on a bridge suspended in the air. Below you, there is a drop of at least three hundred feet <<if hasVisited("Tour_walls")>> That must be the next level, like Lexia talked about back on top of the wall. <<else>> You don't really question why. Cities are strange and new to you. <</if>> . Looking forward along the bridge, after some time the single bridge splits into five more. Those five then connect to the surrounding city. Everything looks so huge from here. <<if hasVisited("Tour_walls")>>Much bigger than it did from atop the wall. <</if>> The bridge, the buildings on the other side of the odd opening that separates the orphanage from the world. <<if hasVisited("Tour_walls")>> Just like you saw from atop the wall. <<else>> Are orphanages supposed to be like this? So separated from everything? Well, this is the first one you have been to, so they could all be like this for all you know. Your internal sense seems neutral on the whole matter. <</if>> Lexia smiles as she looks around. "Wanna see something cool?" She asks and takes you to the edge of the bridge. "Look down." You do as instructed, feeling Lexia hold your shoulder to make sure you don't lean too far. For a moment, you ponder what is so odd, but then your internal sense notices the oddity. The wall of the orphanage goes all the way down to bottom. Nothing breaks it.... but on the other side of the gatehouse, the wall is maybe forty feet high... High, but not nearly as high as from this side. But what does that mean? What is under the orphanage? Lexia smiles by your side. "You get it? The platform is much taller. So, the orphanage has a... basement, so to speak. A really, really big one." Really? Staring at the wall, you try to imagine what is down there... Treasure? Monsters? Snacks? Porridge? Who knows... But you hope it’s not anything too bad. Like... the void? That would be bad to have right underneath the orphanage. Focused on your thoughts, you barely notice the odd sounds before Lexia draws your attention. "We should back inside the walls, kid. There is a crowd gathering." You tilt your head, and see she is right. On several of the bridges, people are all walking towards the orphanage. <</if>>\ "Crowd of people approaching!" Someone calls from the walls. <<if $gate is 1>>\ Behind the walls as you are, you can only take their word for it. <<elseif $gate is 2>>\ Lexia glances up, and immediately starts bringing you back within the walls. "Sorry, kid. The gates are closing soon." She says. "We can come back later to investigate more." <<elseif $gate is 3>>\ Lexia starts taking you back towards the wall, through the gatehouse and back inside the orphanage. Murmuring from the crowd reaches you, but they are too far away to tell what they are saying. Several gazes follow you for a moment from the approaching crowd, but Lexia shields you from any gazes before you can turn to see. <</if>>\ "Gates closing." Someone shouts, and the outer and inner gates of the gatehouse close, followed by the portcullises. Layered defenses sliding into place with almost ominous finality. Within seconds, the gatehouse is sealed. Impassable. The crowd outside cannot enter. Should you be glad for that? Who knows what kind of people they are... but you are sort of curious about why they are here. And so is Lexia, based on how she is in no hurry to take you away. She seems relaxed... and from what you know about gatehouses, you have to agree. Or your internal sense does. You are rather safe with such high walls and a gatehouse between you and the crowd. It feels nice that your internal sense can do more than just know weird things. "State your business." Someone calls from the walls. Both you and Lexia listen... And indeed, there is a responding shout soon after. "What is this place?" "The orphanage of Firgrat, not yet opened. State your business?" A shout from the wall’s answers. A brief silence. "Why does an orphanage need walls like a prison?" "State your business." The voice from the wall’s answers. It seems the Protectors are not willing to answer without knowing why they are being asked... You glance at Lexia, who seems relaxed enough, and smiles at you. "No worries, kid. Everything is fine here." There is a longer silence. Then a different voice. "Will you not answer the question?" You turn to stare at the gate... The voice is low and velvety, with just a faint rasp. It is a very distinctive voice though you have no idea who it belongs to. But you get the feeling some of the Protectors do. There is some shifting among the gate guards, and Lexia tilts her head. "Is that Madam Vonn?" Someone shouts, and Lexia lets out a little "Oh" sound. Your internal sense tells you, that means she knows this Madam person. "Yes, darling. Would you tell Madam why this place needs such security?" A pause. Hesitation. Is this Madam person important? She must be, since everyone is considering her request. "Because the Ancients order it." Someone eventually shouts back to the crowd after several protectors conferred on the wall. Silence follows. Perhaps it is the turn of the crowd on the other side to ponder about that revelation. Well almost, silence. "Hey, kid?" Lexia whispers. "Wanna go to see this crowd from the wall? I sort of want to say hi to Madam Vonn, but I won't if you don't want to." Do you want to go up and see these people out there? <<if hasVisited("Tour_walls")>>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> \ Of course, Lexia would need to carry you again then. The chair still can't go up the stairs. <<else>>\ Lexia is already carrying you after all. It is not hard for her to get up there. Just like before. <</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> \ "The wheelchair would have to stay here. But I can carry you! If you let me." Lexia says, smiling. <<else>>\ Lexia is already carrying you after all. It is not hard for her to get up there. Or so you imagine. <</if>><</if>>\ <<if ndef $gate2 >>\ <<set $gate2 to 0>>\ <<else>>\ <<set $gate2 to 0>>\ <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[You want to see this crowd.|Tour_gate3][$gate2 to $gate2+1]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You have no interest in seeing this crowd.|Tour_gate3][$gate2 to $gate2+2]]</div> </div><</nobr>> /*She points out some bridges that lead to the Orphanage. Three bridges all combining into one, and then approaching the wall. Are orphanages supposed to be like this, you wonder? Those bridges however give you a peek at the other layers. The levels are not cramped things, there must be 300 feet between the layers! How many layers are there? How can such a thing exist. There are streets that wind upwards in intricate spirals, bridges crisscross between towering buildings even in the middle of a layer, and entire districts are perched on elevated platforms just like the orphanage. The lower levels teem with life, their bustling markets, workshops, and homes casting long shadows beneath the towering structures above. As one ascends, the air grows thinner and the architecture more opulent, until finally reaching the uppermost tiers, where only the wealthiest and most powerful reside. Or maybe just the more recent… The city must be a nightmare to navigate. “You know, rain and snow are odd. Only some of it can pass through the different levels, and sort of dribble down into the lower levels.” Lexia says. You stare at her… Rain? Snow? You have to ponder… what are those again? Water from the sky? You glance at the big blue expanse up there. */

<<if $gate2 is 1>>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You nod at Lexia, indicating your willingness to get up there. <<else>>\ "Let's go up." You say. <</if>>\ "Great!" The smile she flashes at you is bright. <<if $orphanage_tour is 'wheelchair'>> \ Lexia settles the wheeled chair by the wall and informs the gate guards that she is taking you up there to see. Then she picks you up, and up the stairs you go. She really is strong... Or are you just light? Maybe a bit of both? <<else>>\ Up the stairs you go. <</if>>\ Once on top of the wall, you both focus on the bridge. There a group of people stands a bit away from the gate, huddled together, whispering amongst themselves There are not so many... Your internal sense says around a dozen, but you don't really get what that means. You are close enough to see some details, and so you observe. In the middle stands a darkhaired woman, wearing a red dress, or so you think. It is a very bright red, which is why your eyes went to her first. Though her dress seems a bit different from the one Havard offered you. <<if $clothes is 'shirt and pants'>>\ Not that you took it. You are wearing your $clothes_color $clothes. And your cloak! <<elseif $clothes is 'dress'>>\ The one you are in fact wearing now. The $clothes_color $clothes. Of course, you also have your cloak! <<elseif $clothes is 'robes'>>\ Not that you took it. You are wearing your $clothes_color $clothes. And your cloak! <</if>>\ The woman, who might be this Madam person, is wearing a dress that seems to leave the upper part of her chest bare, or so you think. That looks like skin to you... Though of course, you cannot be certain. But something is odd. There is a sort of... top of a crack there. It is sort of far to see too well, but that is what it looks like to you. Why is there a crack? What is up with that? Some kind of lumps on her chest? Is that normal or is she sick? Havard does not leave the upper part of his chest bare, nor does he seemingly have odd lumps there. Your internal sense tells you that yes, it is normal. And that Lexia probably has some degree of those lumps too, but they are hidden by her armor. But why are hers hidden and this Madam person seems to be showing hers off? It is all very weird. Perhaps you should ask someone about it... but there are many people here. <<if $nonverbal>> And you don't talk.<</if>> As you watch and ponder on the nature of chests, one of the other people, a huge man with a halberd notices you... Another weird word you know, and you even know that is the weapon the man has, a polearm of a sort. He leans down, to whisper... but you can hear the deep words. "Ma'am." He points at you and Lexia. The woman turns, her head tilts...And Lexia waves at her from atop the wall. "Hi, Madam Vonn. And is that Grath?" Lexia shouts down the wall, shifting you to fit more securely against her. "It is good to see you both again" The woman gives a smile you think is very charming but seems a bit confused while the big man just stares at Lexia. And you by extension. <<nobr>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> The wings on your back shift a bit at the stares, almost as if being ready to shield you. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> Your tails swishes a bit uncertainly behind you, as the crowd stares at you and Lexia. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<FeatureIndex "pointy ears">><<else>><<FeatureIndex "animal ears">><</if>> Your $Feature twitch a bit, listening to any sounds, but the muttering among the crowd has stopped. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("nature features", "feathers", "elemental")>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("feathers")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("feathers")>> <<elseif $HeritageType.includesAny("elemental")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("elemental")>> <<else>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("nature features")>> <</if>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> You feel a faint wind rustling your $Feature. It feels nice. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("eyes")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("eyes")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> You try changing your $Feature, and look at the crowd to see if you notice anything different... Huh, that halberd the man, Grath, is holding might be a bit... brighter? It is hard to tell. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("scales")>> <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("scales")>> <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>> The sunlight feels warm on your $Feature. <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("sea")>>\ <<set $FeatureIndex to $HeritageType.indexOf("sea")>>\ <<set $Feature to $HeritageFeature[$FeatureIndex]>>\ The $Feature on your face are waving a bit, as if tasting the wind. Or perhaps curiosity about this crowd. <</if>> <</nobr>> The Silver Protectors from the towers all seem willing to let Lexia talk with this Madam, since she is up here. Maybe she is the only one who knows this Madam well? "Well met, though I fear I do not know you..." The Madam says, then her eyes shift to you, and her smile changes from charming to genuine. Or so your internal sense tells you. "Oh, hello there you lovely $child." Lovely? She called you lovely? Why? How does she know that? You don't know that. Lexia chuckles by your side. "Madam Vonn. As lovely as $MCname here may be, please focus. I am not surprised you do not remember me." She places a hand over your chest and bows slightly. Oh, the hand is to stop you from falling. That is nice of her. "I am Lexia, now a Silver Protector of Firgrat." Her smile is a bit rueful "And we met about eight years ago, during my training. As did many other recruits. We came in as a group once." Madam Vonn thought for a moment, then her smile widened. "Ah, the group of youths all bruised up and sore, coming in with no idea what they were in my establishment for." She lets out a little giggle. "You were all so miserable when you arrived, and yet half tried to run away when you were told massages had been paid for all of you in advance." Lexia chuckled too. "Well half were not sure if that meant one of the special massages or not. Inside the Spire, your establishment is rather famous." What does that mean? "Anyway, mind sharing why you are here. The orphanage has high security, Even if it is not open at the moment." The Madam sighs. "Is there any chance of getting inside to talk?" She asks and gives a charming smile. Yet, your internal sense tells you it is a strained smile. "Nope. Sorry." Lexia says. "Even for a... esteemed figure like yourself, unless you have permission to enter, it is a no go." The madam sighs again, and the crowd starts muttering. She seems to consider something, and her gaze snaps to you. "If the orphanage is not open yet, what about the lovely $child in your arms." The Madam shouts back. "An early arrival." Lexia shouts back." Then whispers at you. "Wanna wave? She at least used to be very nice. I think she has her reasons to be here, though I am not sure what." You consider if you should wave at the crowd or not? Or is there not something more important to ask about here? <<if ndef $CrowdReaction >>\ <<set $CrowdReaction to 0>>\ <<else>>\ <<set $CrowdReaction to 0>> <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <<if $HeritageType.includes("wings")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Hide behind your wings instead of waving. It is embarrassing, all of them staring at you.|Tour_gate4][$CrowdReaction to $CrowdReaction+1]]</div> <</if>> <<if $HeritageType.includes("tail")>> <div class="choice-item">[[Wrap your tail around yourself for support and give a little wave. |Tour_gate4][$CrowdReaction to $CrowdReaction+2]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Wrap your tail around Lexia’s arm for support and give a little wave. |Tour_gate4][$CrowdReaction to $CrowdReaction+3]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[ Try to hide behind Lexia. |Tour_gate4][$CrowdReaction to $CrowdReaction+4]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[Shake your head, face impassive.|Tour_gate4][$CrowdReaction to $CrowdReaction+5]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You wave at the crowd, full of enthusiasm. |Tour_gate4][$CrowdReaction to $CrowdReaction+6]]</div> <<if $nonverbal is not true>> <div class="choice-item">[["Hello!" You say and wave, full of energy. |Tour_gate4][$CrowdReaction to $CrowdReaction+6]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[["No." You say, a bit grumpy. They all keep staring at you.|Tour_gate4][$CrowdReaction to $CrowdReaction+7]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare at the Madam's chest. "Lexia, is the lady ok? She has a crack on her chest?" You ask, peering up at Lexia.|Tour_gate4][$CrowdReaction to $CrowdReaction+10]]</div> <</if>> <div class="choice-item">[[You stare at the Madam's chest intently, trying to see better. Why is there a crack?|Tour_gate4][$CrowdReaction to $CrowdReaction+11]]</div> <div class="choice-item">[[You are far too focused on staring at the city and down the deep drop from the bridge to wave at the people. There are sights to be seen!|Tour_gate4][$CrowdReaction to $CrowdReaction+8]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <<elseif $gate2 is 2>>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You shake your head at Lexia, indicating that you don't really want to go up there. <<else>>\ "I don't wanna go up." You say. <</if>>\ "That is completely fine." Lexia says, and smiles at you. Even when you chose not to do what she wanted? Like your choice matters... It is so odd. "Is there any chance of getting inside to talk?" A shout from that same distinctive voice comes from the outside. "Security protocol exists for a reason, Madam." Someone answers. "No one gets in without permission." <<if $gate is 3>>\ "Yet, we saw an adult carrying a child just enter before us." Comes from the crowd. "Two of our own." The walls answer. Silence. <</if>>\ "Is there... nothing to change your mind?" The voice asks. "Nothing, Madam." The voice from the walls now sounds a bit cold... Like the Protector did not like that last bit. "Now, we ask for the last time. State your business or remove yourselves." "You do understand how suspicious this looks?" Someone else from the outside asks. "Some of us are influential people, we can...." What they can do is cut off. "Please state your business or remove yourself from the premises. Now." One of the Protectors easily spoke over the person, her voice echoing far louder than the opposition... Unnaturally so. "How dare..." The same voice starts answering, but the sound changes into a muffled sound right in the middle of it. "Good work, Grath." The Madam says. <<if $HeritageType.includes("pointy ears") or $HeritageType.includes("animal ears")>>\ <<if $HeritageType.includesAny("pointy ears")>><<FeatureIndex "pointy ears">><<else>><<FeatureIndex "animal ears">><</if>>\ You think it is a faint sound, followed by rather quiet words, but you hear it anyway. It sounds like the woman. The Madam person. <<else>>\ You barely hear the sound and the words, but you think it is the woman. The Madam person. <</if>>\ You think someone called Grath just muffled whoever was talking. <<if ndef $CrowdReaction >>\ <<set $CrowdReaction to 0>>\ <<else>>\ <<set $CrowdReaction to 0>> <</if>>\ <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["This is really not a discussion to be had shouting over the wall, but I suppose we must."|Tour_gate4][$CrowdReaction to $CrowdReaction+9]]</div> </div><</nobr>> <</if>>\

<<addstoic -5>>\ You tell him about the vitit to the gatehouse. <<if $gate is 1>>\ About meeting Hybert and Kathil briefly there. Havard smiles at that, looking up at you. "It is good for you to meet some of the people you may often come across. Currently Hybert and Kathil guard the main gate. So, you may pass by them often, or eventually you will pass through the gates to visit the city." Wow... Visit the city? That seems so... daunting. Impossible at the moment really. <<elseif $gate is 2>>\ You chatter about the inside of the gatehouse. About the defenses... Havard frowns a bit. "Did Lexia teach you all those words? Murder holes? Arrow slits? Portcullis?" You tilt your head.... Did she say any of them? Probably, but it was mostly your internal sense that just knows odd things. <<if $trustHavardC3>>\ Since you trust Havard, you shake your head and point at your head. <<else>>\ But since you don't trust Havard, you just nod. He smiles a bit. "I see. I do not think you need to know all that about how to defend a gatehouse yet." You don't? Yet you do... But you don't trust him, and if he thinks you should not know, then you should know. Which you do. Good. <</if>>\ <<elseif $gate is 3>>\ You tell Havard about the bridge, and the big drop. And how the orphanage has a "basement", though that last bit is more a question. A basement is probably a building under the ground… or under other buildings? Based on what you saw on the bridge at least. Havard smiles. "I assure you; the basement is rather boring." He says. "It contains backup rooms, a big shelter and lots and lots of storage." Havard says. You peer at him, waiting for more. "Lots of beds, drawers, clothes and such things. We have hundreds in storage. For when we actually start operating as the orphanage. Everything we need to provide for all sorts of children, and even for when they grow up." Wow... That has to be a lot of stuff! Your room alone has so much stuff. Like the bed. So soft and nice. Or the... desk thing. They take a lot of room, much more than you do. It is good there is no void down there at least. Stuff is much better... Though you are a bit confused about the shelter bit... <</if>>\ Havard is changing your bandages when the discussion turns to Madam Vonn. You tell Havard what the crowd was here about, and the disappearances in the city. Havard already knew about them anyway; Lexia already told him. When? <<if hasVisited("Chapter 3_5_tour5_communicator")>> The communicator pin! She must have used it during the whole conversation. <</if>> "Are there... bad people in the city?" You ask. Havard stops wrapping your hands and looks up. "Yes." He says softly. "The city is full of people. Some of them bad, some of them good. Most are good, but bad people do exist." He smiles. "But you saw our gatehouse. Our walls. Our Protectors. Bad people will find the orphanage a very difficult target. Do not worry, it is safe here." You stare at him... And nod. <<if $trustHavardC3>> Even if you trust Havard, it is still hard. But the orphanage is well fortified at least. That makes it better. <<else>> Even if you don't trust Havard, the orphanage is well fortified at least. That makes it better.<</if>> "Don't you worry about those disappearances." Havard says, gently squeezing your hands even amidst wrapping them up again. "We will send people to find them too. Protectors. They will do all they can, as will the Grey Protectors. They are to the city what the Silver Protectors are to the orphanage. But since children are involved, the Silver Protectors will be involved too." He briefly puts a hand on your shoulder. “We have plenty of Protectors who are not busy yet. Since we are not open. It will be good for them to do something good.” You nod along with this… not sure how you feel about all of that. But it is true you have no way to do anything about it anyway. And your eyes feel oddly heavy too.. How can eyes even be heavy? Wait… Is Lexia going? You glance up at Havard, and it is like he reads your mind. “Lexia is now your Protector. She is not leaving the orphanage for things like this. Might not be leaving at all before you are well enough to out into the city too.” The city? That huge thing… What will be there? People? Snacks? Why are your eyes so heavy? "All right. I think it is time for bed." Havard has finished with your bandages. "You seem sleepy." <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Your mouth does a weird thing right then. Opens and head tilts back. It feels odd... Your eyes even water.|C3_bedtime]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<if $CrowdReaction is 1>>\ <<addshy 5>>\ Your face feels a bit warm. All those stares... Your wings spread out and loosely wrap around you, hiding you from view… mostly. Lexia's arms a bit in the way. You peer at the crowd from behind your wings. Lexia looks at the crowd. "The kid is a little shy. No wave for you all." She says, and you feel even more heat. Are you? Is that why your face feels hot? "Ah... Well." Even the Madam seems to be a bit at a loss for words at your impromptu wing shield. "That is fine. Come now everyone. Let us stop starting at the poor $child. No matter how cute $heshe <<is>>." Oh, she is being nice. That is good. <<elseif $CrowdReaction is 2>>\ <<addshy 2>><<addfriendly 2>>\ Your tail wraps up around your waist securely, giving you strength as you gather courage for the task ahead. You give a little wave at the crowd. "Good job." Lexia whispers at you. Yes, you feel like you did well, managing a wave. The Madan, and the big man called Grath wave back at you. As does some of the crowd. Maybe half. That does not seem nice, don't they realize how hard waving is? By the slight scowl on Lexia's face, she seems to agree. "Such a cutie." Madam Vonn smiles, and your cheeks feel a bit hot. "But I fear we should get back to the topic at hand." Her gaze shifts from you to the Protectors. <<elseif $CrowdReaction is 3>>\ <<addshy 2>><<addfriendly 2>>\ Your tail shoots up to wrap around Lexia's arm. The one holding you. The cool metal of her armor is very grounding. It feels like you are more secure now. She smiles at you, and you gather your courage for the task ahead. You give a little wave at the crowd. "Good job." Lexia whispers at you. Yes, you feel like you did well, managing a wave. The Madan, and the big man called Grath wave back at you. As does some of the crowd. Maybe half. That does not seem nice, don't they realize how hard waving is? By the slight scowl on Lexia's face, she seems to agree. "Such a cutie." Madam Vonn smiles, and your cheeks feel a bit hot. "But I fear we should get back to the topic at hand." Her gaze shifts from you to the Protectors. <<elseif $CrowdReaction is 4>>\ <<addshy 5>>\ No, not doing any of that. You don't like all these people staring at you. Luckily you have a potentially shiny shield. You stick your head behind Lexia as best you can. Which is not really well, she is carrying you, but it makes you feel much better. Lexia looks at the crowd. "The kid is a little shy. No wave for you all." She says, and you feel even more heat. Are you? Is that why your face feels hot? "Ah... Well." The Madam seems a bit surprised at your reaction.. "That is fine. Come now everyone. Let us stop starting at the poor $child. No matter how cute $heshe <<is>>." Oh, she is being nice. That is good. <<elseif $CrowdReaction is 5>>\ <<addstoic 5>>\ You shake your head at Lexia, face impassive. You don't really want to wave at the crowd. They keep staring at you, and the most you will do is stare back. Which you do. "Ok, that is fine." Lexia says. "Sorry, the kid does not feel like waving at you lot." She shouts at the crowd. "I see." The Madam seems more amused than angry. <<elseif $CrowdReaction is 6>>\ <<addinnocence 5>><<addfriendly 3>>\ <<if $nonverbal>>\ You wave, full of enthusiasm. <<else>>\ "Hello!" You say and wave, full of enthusiasm. <</if>>\ Waving is nice, you can do it even with your damaged arms. Just flap it around a bit and it works. You get some waves back too! The Madan, and the big man called Grath wave back at you. As does some of the crowd. Maybe half. That seems plenty to you! Even if Lexia frowns a bit at the crown when they don't wave back at you. You are pretty happy. "Such a cute and brave $child. Polite too." Madam Vonn smiles, and your cheeks puff up a bit at the praise. "But I fear we should get back to the topic at hand." Her gaze shifts from you to the Protectors. <<elseif $CrowdReaction is 7>>\ <<addfriendly -3>><<addinnocence -2>>\ "No." You say, a bit grumpy. They all keep staring at you and you don't like it. Why do you have to be stared at? You glare at the crowd a bit. "Ok, that is fine." Lexia says softly, so only you can hear. Maybe some of the Protectors on the wall too. "Sorry, the kid does not feel like waving at you lot." She shouts at the crowd. "I see." The Madam seems more amused than angry. <<elseif $CrowdReaction is 8>>\ You are staring out into teh city, not really noticing that Lexia asked you a question. The city is so big! Especially the Spire thing in the middle. <<if hasVisited("Tour_walls")>> Sure you saw it before from the walls too, but seeing it twice does not reduce the impact all that much. <</if>> "Hey, kid." Lexia asks. "You distracted by the city or something else?" <<if $nonverbal>>\ You look up and raise a hand towards the Spire thing. It is so big! <<else>>\ "It's big!" You say, raising a hand towards the Spire thing. <</if>>\ Lexia smiles that smile of hers. "Yeah, the Spire is huge. So is the city. A lot tot take in." Both of you silently stare out into the city for a moment. Before there is a small cough from the crowd in front of the gates. "As true as that is, and as adorable as that $child is, we are veering off topic." Adorable? This Madam is calling you adorable? You think that is a good thing... <<elseif $CrowdReaction is 10 or $CrowdReaction is 11>>\ <<if $CrowdReaction is 10>>\ <<addinnocence 5>>\ You stare at the Madam's chest. "Lexia, is the lady ok? She has a crack on her chest?" You ask trying to whisper but you are pretty sure everyone hears you. You peer up at Lexia, who has frozen. Her face is doing an odd thing, her lips pressing into a thin line before her free hand comes up to cover her mouth. She even coughs. Then just... laughs. "Kid, you are the best." She says between chuckles. Are you? Why? What did you do? That seems like high praise. Still, nearly all the Protectors chuckle... And you hear a musical giggle. Madam Vonn is chuckling at your question. Lexia stops laughing and smiles widely. <<elseif $CrowdReaction is 11>>\ <<addinnocence 5>>\ You stare at the Madam's chest intently, trying to see better. Why is there a crack? Your internal sense said it was normal, but is it really? Is a crack there something big people, adults, have? Do most of them hide it? Why? Or is she special. You peer up at Lexia, and ponder her armor... It could hide a crack, like your internal sense says... Armor is metal clothing, this your internal sense knows well. So under it... "Hey, kid? You good? What's got you so thoughtful?" Lexia asks. Right, she asked if you wanted to wave, didn't she? You were distracted by the crack on the Madam person. But how to communicate that to Lexia... After some pondering, you reach out and pat her chest. Her armor specifically. She watches, tilting her head. Then you pat your own chest. All very even. No cracks or lumps here. The next step takes a bit of effort from you, if only since you watch that your fingers are actually doing what you want. Lifting your arm and pointing at the madam with a finger. Everyone stares at the Madam. Then looks back at you. Lexia glances at the Madam too, then at your chest... Then her own. Her brows furrow a bit, before her face splits into a grin. "Oh, boobs!" She says loudly. Everyone stares at her, but she ignores the stares and just smiles at you. <</if>>\ "Those are called boobs... Well breasts might be the more proper word. See women can have different sized breasts. I have some too." She knocks on her armor around her chest. "But they are bound up tight so it's easier with he armor. But some women, like Madam Vonn have big ones." She nods sagely. <<if $gender is 'girl'>> You might grow some too, once you are bigger.... Older. Older is the better word here. Or you might not." <</if>> She smiles at you. "In any case, it is perfectly fine and normal." "Someone is certainly not shy." Madam Vonn says, and Lexia seems to realize everyone heard her explanation. And is staring at her. The Protectors on the wall, and the whole crowd down there by the gate. Did she do something bad? Is boobs or breasts one of those profanity things Havard mentioned? "Whoops..." She seems a bit abashed, but just gives and awkward grin. "What? The kid was curious." She says. <<if $CrowdReaction is 10>> "You all heard $himher. What was I supposed to do?" <</if>> "And you decided an explanation here was appropriate." The Madam asks with a raised brow. It feels like there is a lot of nodding among the watchers too. "Yeah." Lexia says with a shrug. "Hey, I am a Protector, not a Custodian." She says it like it should explain everything... And to the Protectors it probably does. The crowd looks confused though. "I have no idea what that means." The Madam says with a sigh. "But we are veering off topic." You are still wondering about why the Madam is showing the top of these breast things to the world... Does she not understand clothes too? Are there adults who don't like clothes? But you have learned about boobs.... Breasts. Why are there multiple words for the same thing? As much as you would like to think more about these mysteries, , the others are moving on already. <<elseif $CrowdReaction is 9>>\ Silence follows that statement. You look at Lexia who seems to be listening carefully now. So, you do too. <</if>>\ Madam Vonn sighs. "We are here because... There have been a lot of disappearances in the city lately. Some even from the top level. Most from the lower levels." You feel Lexia tense, her hand dropping to her belt. <<if $blades_trauma>> Why? There is nothing there? <<else>> To the handle of her sword. <</if>> "That is unfortunate, but a matter for the Grey Protectors." One Protector from the wall answers. "Yes... But the Grey Protectors are stretched thin. They are trying. Everyone knows that but..." <<if $CrowdReaction is 9>> You think she sighs deeply, but it is hard to hear everything that is not shouted at the walls from here. <<else>> The Madam sighs deeply. <</if>> "We are desperate." A soft voice. Tired. <<if $CrowdReaction is 9>> You barely hear it.. <<else>> The wind carries it to your ears, ruffling your $HairColor gently. <</if>> "Everyone here knows someone who has disappeared. One of my girls went missing... She lived two floors down." Her voice is so sad... <<if $CrowdReaction is 9>> There is a bit of silence<<else>> The man, Grath, puts a hand on her shoulder. <</if>> I know there are millions of people in the city. It is really hard to find a few ones that have disappeared.. The Grey Protectors are adding patrols around the areas where the disappearances happened but are having trouble... It seems to never happen twice int he same spot. This sounds bad to you. Are there bad people in the city? Like the ones that took you? What if you get taken again too? What if they are locking the kidnapped people in the void? Lexia promised to protect you... You look up at her. Her brown is drawn, and her free hand is gripped around the pin thing she carries around. <<if hasVisited("Chapter 3_5_tour5_communicator")>> The communicator pin! Is she talking to Havard while she listens?<</if>> "We are sorry... but that does not explain why you are here." One Protector from the wall calls. And your internal sense seems to think he is actually sorry. The Madam lets out a bitter laugh. "This building is not inconspicuous. It's like a massive fortress. Yet, no one seems to know what it is. And we are desperate. We thought could this be the base? This massive compound covers at least two levels, maybe more." <<if $CrowdReaction is 9>> You don't see what happens, but you feel like there is some gesturing. <<else>> The Madam gestures off the bridge she is on, to the massive drop. <</if>> "The Grey Protectors we asked did not know what this building was for, but were forbidden from investigating by their Captains... So we thought..." You don't understand. What did they think? That the bad people are here? You hope not... Or if there are, they are different from the bad people you know. Since you haven’t been carved open yet. "That there is corruption among the Grey Protectors, or that some of them are being blackmailed?" Asks a Protector from the wall. <<if $CrowdReaction is 9>> Silence follows. You assume something happened during it, but you cannot see. <<else>> The Madam nods, seeming a bit lost. She looks... tired and sad. Worried. <</if>> "As I said, we are desperate." <<if $CrowdReaction is 9>>From the way she says that, you feel like it is very true. <<else>> You wonder what their plan was if they had found this place full of bad people. Then your eyes shift to the big man. Grath. He is carrying a halberd... And you suddenly don't really want to know.<</if>> "Are there children among the missing?" Lexia asks all of a sudden. <<if $CrowdReaction is 9>> Her voice is loud. You two are after all, inside the walls. <<else>> The crowd stares at Lexia, and by extension you. <</if>> There is a silence from the crowd, but every Silver Protector looks at Lexia intently. At the pin still clasped in her hand. "At least two that we know of. Less than fifteen summers on both... A few more below twenty." The Madam calls. "Why?" "Because.. You may have inadvertently found something good. Not as good as the missing people perhaps... But something that might be able to help." Lexia says, and looks around. At the other figures clad in Silver armor. They all stand on attention. Lexia straightens up too. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[["An order sword to defend the future of Firgrat... In the form of it's children." Lexia says.|Tour_gate5]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

Silence follows the declaration. You look at Lexia... She is not smiling like she smiles at you. This smile is fierce, not bright or soft. The smile of someone ready for a fight, or so your internal sense says. Madam Vonn stares at Lexia, before the crowd descends into whispering among themselves. But soon Madam Vonn stomps her foot down, and silence reigns. She straightens her back, and stares at the Protectors, gaze flitting from one to another. "Can you..." The Madam does not get to finish the question. Whatever it was. "Give us a day. We are not open yet, so we have extra Protectors just standing about. We will coordinate with the Grey Protectors. Get people on board." Lexia looks around at the Protectors around us. They all give nods or point their thumbs to the sky for some reason. All shiny in Silver. All eager to search for these bad people... <<if $CrowdReaction is 9>> \ Some more shouting happens between the walls and the crowd. Details you don't really understand. You think you did really well following the conversation so far. <<else>> \ You watchi idly as more shouting happens. Details you don't really understand. You think you did really well following the conversation so far. The city seems peaceful, but you suppose with so many people, bad things happen. The internal sense agrees. <</if>>\ "Thank you." That is the last shout you hear. It sounds like more than just one person shouting at the wall. but you think the Madam is among them. Lexia beams at you. "Sorry, kid. That got a bit heavier than I meant.... but it was important." Her smile turns serious for a moment. "I hope you can understand that." You nod seriously. This you do get. Bad people should be stopped from hurting little people. Like you. "But let's put all that aside for now! Let's see if there are still places to visit. The others will take care of the rest." You can agree with that. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[And the tour goes on.|Tour_main]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<div align="center"><h1>Madam Vonn</h1></div> Marelith Vonn, commonly called Madam Vonn, is the proprietess of the Velvet Veil, the premium bathhouse, massage parlor and brothel in Firgat. She is a dark haired woman wtih generous curves. She wears only dresses, always cut low enough to reveal the upper swell of her bosom. She was once a courtesan herself, but unknown events lead to her taking over for the whole place. There are rumors she manages the place for a silent owner, but the truth of these rumors is not widely known. What is known, is that she has complete control over the day-to-day operations of the Velvet Veil. Her voice is low and velvety, with just a faint rasp. It is a very distinctive voice. Something not widely known is that she has a child. <<button 'Close Characters'>><<run Dialog.close()>><</button>>

<div align="center"><h1>Grath Morrow</h1></div> The head of security (the "veilguard") at the Velvet Veil. A towering, broad-shouldered with stone-colored skin, long dark braids, and gold rings piercing each ear. Grath is exeedingly calm, and rarely speaks to the customers, but when he does, even the rich listen. He has however ripped doors off their hinges on several occasions when someone tried to do things not allowed to the courtesans. Worst come to pass, and Grath carries a halberd with him.

<<if $Twins_reaction is 1>>\ Your wings spread out and wrap around you to hide from the two tiny intruders. Or maybe just the barrage of questions. You hear a gasp from the girl, and amost feel two pairs of eyes boring into your wings. "That's so cool!" The girl exlaims, and you hear a faint scuffle. Lowering your wings a tiny bit, you see the boy holding the girls hand and giving her a look. <<elseif $Twins_reaction is 2>>\ Your wings flare out behind you, and sitiing in bed as you are, they must seem threatening. The twins both stumble back one step.. Good, you scared them away. "That is so cool!" The girl exlaims and takes two steps forwards, soon followed by the boy. "Do it again? Can you fly?" This... did not work as planned. They were detered for a bit, and now seem more excited. Or the girl does. The boy jus... stares at you. At your wings. <<elseif $Twins_reaction is 3>>\ <<elseif $Twins_reaction is 4>>\ <<elseif $Twins_reaction is 5>>\ You jus stare blankly, not reaction in any way. How are you supposed to react to that barrage of questions? The twins stare at you for a while... Then the boy. The silent one suddenly moves to grab the girl's hand. Why? Wait... Was she about to touch your wings? She thros the other one a brief glare, to which he... does nothing but the smalles tightening of his eyes. Yet, your internal sense says he is scoldng her... It is such an odd thing. "What? $Capitalheshe did not say no!" She says that, but she also seems a bit guilty. As if she knows you did not say yes either. It is all very... confusing for you. "Sorry." The girl says with a sigh after the boy keeps staring at her.. Oh, was that directed at you? You think so.... <</if>>

“So… wanna see the best place in the world?” Azha asks in a loud whisper. The best place in the world? What’s that? Is it like… full of porridge? Milk? <<if hasVisited("Tour_kitchens_yes_no3")>>Snacks? You have already been to the kitchens. Got some nice cookies to eat. They were tasty.<</if>> <<if hasVisited("Tour_walls")>>Lexia said the top of the wall had the best view. Is this best place better than that? Or are they planning on dragging you atop the walls?<</if>> What could the best place be? You… have no idea. Do you want to see it? Can you trust this tiny person enough? Or can you trust the two of them? Should you not remain here? In your room? Besides, your legs do not work. Are you allowed to leave? Should you not ask Havard? Lexia? <<if $LightSwitch>> Though... Images of touching the light switch flash in your mind... Were you tricked? Did Lexia want to hurt you? To kill you? To make you suffer? <<if $trustHavardC3 and $trustLexiaC3>>You trusted them both... Was it all a lie? <<elseif $trustHavardC3 and $trustLexiaC3 is false >> You trusted Havard but not Lexia... That seems to have been a good enough decision. But can you trust Havard either? <<elseif $trustHavardC3 is false and $trustLexiaC3 is true >> You trusted Lexia but not Havard... Were you wrong? Is Lexia malicious towards you? <<else>> You trusted no one and that seems to have been the correct option. Trying to make you suffer with a light panel... <</if>> You will have to think about all of this later. For now... You should consider if you want to go with these two... Yet, your thinking time is cut short. Your thoughts are interpreted as your bandaged hand gets grabbed. Looking up, you see the girl has you by the hand is trying to tug you to come with her. She is not doing it hard, not yanking at you... But she is being very firm. Oh… tiny people are different from Havard and Lexia, tiny people don’t wait for you to mull over options while ignoring them. How inconvenient. You have a vague feeling that most people would not grab a bandaged hand like this, but it seems this tiny girl has not thought of that. “Come on!” She says, grabbing both you and her twin. Your legs could not support you earlier. Falling is inevitable Or so you think as she pulls on your arm, making you stand up from the bed. Or least you try to… It goes surprisingly well. Two hurried steps in, you are falling again. You will drag her with you, won’t you? You hope she won’t be mean even if falling down hurts. Falling… falling. You do that a lot in this world outside the void, don’t you? Except once again, you don’t fall. Something is in the way. A tiny body, a blank face and eyes full of panic. The other twin got underneath you to catch your fall. The girl is now turning to look why you stopped and why her twin let go of her hand. “Atru!” She immediately dashes to your side, and slides under your shoulder to take some of your weight off her twin. The boy, Atru, nods at her and moves your other shoulder. You are not really asked for your opinion as the two support you. “You can’t walk?” The girl asks. <<if $Sleep_nude>>\ Then she seems to look at you... "And you're naked! Well under that cloak thing... " She peers at your cloak... "Nice cloak!" <<if $likes_cloak>>\ You do have a nice cloak! You almost feel glad she noticed! How did it get on you though? Pretty sure it was not on you when you went to bed... Oh well. <<else>>\ Cloak? But you went to bed naked.... Huh, you are indeed wearing a cloak. <</if>>\ Honestly, she does not seem too bothered by you being naked under the cloak. More like.. just stating a fact. The other twin looked too... and you feel like he was more focused on the cloak rather than you... <<else>>\ "Perhaps later we can consider specific outfits for bed. But for today, I think your $clothes will do fine." <</if>>\ You stare at her for a bit. What should you do? It’s… complicated. OPTIONS “Not right now.” You say. “I can! Just… not now.” You grudgingly admit. You just nod. You stare at her blankly.

<h1>Interlude – Early intercession</h1>\ <h2> The Ancients - Sheo</h2>\ <<set $chapter = 'Interlude - Sheo'>>\ Walking upon a road in the middle of nowhere, the Ancient known as Sheo looked up as he felt death in the air. He let his senses spread out, searching and seeking for the source. With calm steps he headed towards the old fortress in the distance that stank of death. That was the source, or the most potent one nearby at least. The forests and plains here looked like a giant had taken two pieces of land and crashed them together. The ground was full of cracks, and what looked like half a mountain was just dropped onto the plains. Yet, his as steps passed, the cracks fused together, leaving smooth earth behind him as he went. He really had elsewhere to be, but he would not ignore this. The fortress was dilapidated, mostly a ruin in some style long since forgotten. Yet, it was far from empty. It was full of death and pain. And at least six dozen people. Not that they would remain for long, for he knew what manner of people these were. He had after all, recently destroyed another place like this, purely by accident. A plea in the dark had come to him. Whatever it was said out loud or not was irrelevant. Someone had asked for help, lost alone in despair. He had answered, as he had done many times before. As he would do many times again. As he approached the gate, he found it closed. He felt eyes upon him from the walls, yet he kept walking. The first few arrows came at him unprompted, but he did not care. What few hit him did no harm, and could not pierce his robes. Instead he let his senses tell him more of the fortress. A number of the occupants were gathered in the courtyard. Twenty? Thirty? Arrows kept raining down on him as the Ancient lifted a hand, and snapped his fingers. The snap was far louder than it should have, a wave of force shooting out towards the gate. The arrows in the air exploded as they encountered the wave, before it crashed against the intented target, and the gates shattered just like the arrows had. Yet the wave kept going, hitting the gathered people in the courtyard while they gaped, and leaving naught but red paste behind. He walked in through the former gate just as the wave hit the wall on the other side of the courtyard, leaving taking out a sizable chunk of the wall too and dissipating soon after, the energy of the snap spent. No more arrows rained down on him as he approached the keep, and entered. The archers had fled inside, likely to warn the others. Only the massive red stain in the courtyard hinted that a number of people had just died. Though, could these people really be considered people anymore? Sheo did not really care. His mind was wandering; it often did when he was doing a chore. It was hard being him at times. He should have had all the time in the world, and often he did have more time than he knew what to do with. Once he had simply taken a nap, and seven centuries had passed. Someone had built a wall around him. He had literally been napping inside the wall to some city and only woke up when a boulder from a trebuchet cracked the wall. They probably thought he was a very realistic old statue or a grave; he often forgot to pretend to breathe. He hadn’t even needed the nap. Why they had incorporated him inside the wall was still a mystery for him. Being woken up by a trebuchet had not been his favorite either. The last few millennia, however, had been busy. The last… seven? Nine? Thirteen? He was bad at keeping track. A few millennia before Nuaran and the rest had shown up inside their private realm and begged for help had already been full of preparations. The millennia after the unofficial founding had been even busier, fighting and preparing. The last 150 years have been a bit boring, full of tedious work. Now here he was, taking a break from what he was actually supposed to be doing to hunt some mortal cult. He assumed it was a cult. He snapped his fingers again and this time sent a sphere of blue fire down a hallway of the old castle. It traveled down the hallway, causing cultists to flee in every direction, and shot out dozens of smaller balls of fire that homed in on the fleeing cultists, leaving naught but corpses behind. Each with a perfect little hole in their chests, right where the heart is. The Aspirants of Daborh. He had pulled the name out of the head of one of the original cultists in that place he had found the child. But that was the odd part. As soon as he had learned the name, their minds had gone… blank. All memories of their purpose erased, leaving only confusion. The sphere of fire hit a wall, and he let it vanish after burning a hole large enough for a man to walk through. Sheo approached with calm steps, just like strolling down a forest path on a beautiful evening. He had no urgency while he strode along, the corpses left in his wake turning to ash as he passed. The name of the cult meant nothing to him, cults came and went. To some, names held great value. Demons and the fey both had true names, names that were tied to their very being and nature. Yet for most, names were pretty but useless things. A name a mortal cult used; it could be anything. The name could mean something, or nothing. He did not focus overtly on that. This was not a true name, the magic tied to such things would be obvious to him. There was knowledge in the word itself. “Aspirant.” A person with ambition for something. Assuming Daborh was a person or a creature of some sort, the word took a sort of religious image. It fit the cult theory. Of course the name "Daborh" could be much like his own. The word "Sheo", the only complete description of himself. He was the lifeform known as "Sheo", that was the most accurate description of him. One he had chosen himself so the name itself was irrelevant. He could have chosen anything. The meaning of his name came from the countless millenia he had carried it. This Daborh could be similar if it was old enough. Still, there was no point in dwelling on that. There were clues that he could instead focus on. He could use this place to investigate if the name matched at least. But he would need to choose his target. As soon as he was through the hole in the wall, six cultists all came at him. Crude. At least some of the cultists were capable of basic magic, yet these just came at him with their knives and… was that a massive pair of pliers? The dried blood on them told him everything he needed to know. These were worthless. He did not even slow his steps, just let a little burst of mana travel in the air around him. All six cultists were disintegrated on the spot. The first clue he should focus on was the fact that something was clearly affecting the minds of these cultists. That was not much on its own. Any number of things could do that, from mortal magic users, to some magical beasts, to truly dangerous things. The first clue only had value combined with the other ones. Still, he should check if he could catch a cultist here to obtain more information. Preferably the leader. He had other obligations to keep him busy so he would just have to see what he could do. He walked through the room. Now it was right behind that wall. He walked through the wall without stopping, the wall disintegrating as he approached. The second clue was the fact that all information had disappeared from the minds of the cultists as soon as he learned it. That was important. It meant this Daborh was wise enough or at least intelligent to know that it needed to immediately retreat and wipe the cultists, least Sheo learn more from them. Or worse, track the connection back to the creature directly. This Daborh or whatever was behind the cult if it was not a creature, had some level of self-preservation instinct or perhaps prior knowledge of him. The thing was not arrogant enough to directly come into direct contact with him. Again, this was not much on its own, but it spoke to a lack of arrogance or a primal instinct to avoid beings such as himself. So probably not some mortal mage, arrogant on power then. He walked to an empty hallway, with cells on the sides. Ah, here it was. The prisoners. Now, where was the one he had sensed earlier, bound and abused but still very much alive. There, last cell on the left. He calmly walked past all the cells. The occupants in these cells were all dead. Mostly humans, a dwarf, a merfolk and what looked like a half an orc. Not a half-orc, half of an orc without the lower half of their body, guts full of maggots and spilling out. These cultists had been busy, and sloppy. Merfolk did not do well without plenty of water, and the orc corpse indicated that the cultists had to defend themselves. As a general rules, orcs were not easy prisoners. He would decide later what to do with the corpses. These people were already dead but considering what he sensed deeper inside this place, they were probably too far gone already before death. Not everyone had the mental resilience of a child who could mostly adapt to nearly anything. Death was sometimes a mercy, even if Sheo would have preferred to offer each a choice between living and death. Sheo walked past the cells towards the last one on the left where the only living prisoner resided. The cell was different from the others, as was the occupant. The third clue was the child… or was that coincidence? Some would call it fate, but he was far too old for such things. Coincidences happened all the time, and people took them as something meaningful when they were not. It did not matter in the end, meaning was often whatever one made of it, an interpretation that did not matter one bit in the grand scheme of things. Still, he had been a bit hasty while extracting the $child. He assumed that the child had been there for a specific reason. Yet, after calming down he had to consider that it could have been just a coincidence that the $child had been present. It was likely in fact, that it was just a mad cult torturing the innocent for reasons that only made sense to them. All logic said it had been far too many millennia for a mortal cult to know anything, for anyone to know anything so far into the past. He had lost track countless millennia ago and he had actually paid a modicum of attention. It had been a secret to begin with but a whole people knew once upon a time, so it could have gotten out easily enough. Still…. a mortal cult so many millennia later. No. That was beyond reason. A mortal cult could not know. Either it was a coincidence, or this Daborh might be old or have access to information passed down through the ages. Though information passed from one generation to the next tends to take on a life of its own which usually leads to misinformation. Still this line of thinking assumed that there was more to this whole affair than just a mortal cult torturing innocents, which in Sheo’s experience happened far more than one would think. He stopped in front of the cell door. This one had no bars; it was a solid door of metal. In fact, the cell behind the door seemed to be all metal as well. That seemed odd, considering how sloppy all the other prisoners had been handled. Though this prisoner would have been much more troublesome for the cult if not properly contained. He simply took a step forward and the door turned to dust as he willed it. The air was a sufficient conduit for him even if most found it far too intangible to use for magic. He could choose nearly any conduit for mana he wished but he was old and different from near any other magic user. Mana. The word was still new to his mind. It was the energy that pervaded everything and created the so-called Eternal Flow of Wocdes. He had heard it called many things, aether, essencefire, vitaligna and many others. They all meant the same thing, even if sometimes there was variety in the form the power took. That was what it all meant. Power that would bend to the will of those strong enough. Sheo walked through the dust of the door and stopped in front of the chained form. Bark-like skin the color of dried oak, hair made of vines and flowers all withered now, tired eyes slowly opening, vibrant green and brown. A dryad. An immortal guardian of the forest bound and abused by some mortal cult. It was rather pitiful in a way, but the natural way of things. Mortals coming into contact with immortals usually lead to this. Those immortal unlucky enough to be caught, usually by overwhelming numbers, were experimented on. Of course, here the dryad was not special, just another victim. She stared at him. Dryads were magical beings, and no doubt she had some inkling of what stood before her even if she could never fully perceive him. Her mouth opened and closed several times but all that came out was a sound, like wood cracking. She had no strength left, she had been drained and mutilated. She was naked, her leaves and flowers torn away. Usually, dryads grew more coverings on their bodies if needed, but this one was trapped in metal and cut off from nature. What mana her internal flow contained, had long since been exhausted so cut off from her forest. The Ancient’s eyes could see the faint flow of mana that connected her to her home even in her current state. Parts of her were missing. Fingers, toes, a part of her breast, other parts that were not visible from looking but Sheo’s eyes could see her as she was. A sliver off her back, a piece of what would be a hamstring in a mortal. She was made of wood, and for most mortals this would not seem like someone in horrible pain. To Sheo, it was obvious. He was neither mortal nor even a common immortal. Dryads could grow back their parts of themselves or even start over from saplings if their seed of life, what in mortals would be called the heart, was unharmed. Hers was intact but in this prison of metal, she had exhausted her mana. Sheo considered himself an average healer on his best day. He could do the magic but lacked that something that the best healers had. Not only skill in magic, but the understanding and desire to relieve pain, to fix the hurt. He liked to think, he did want to help, sometimes, but his perception of pain was far too twisted, and his healing suffered from it. Of course, average in his mind was still among the greatest masters on nearly any other scale. Still, compared to someone like Abalf, who lacked understanding of mortals even after all these millennia but hated seeing pain and suffering, or Irosia who was perhaps the kindest being he knew despite the mask she usually wore, Sheo was a poor healer. It was a matter of mindset, not magical capability. Luckily, dryads were not flesh and blood, but wood and magic. This dryad simply needed mana as she could heal herself. She simply could not draw on her forest’s power or even rest properly here. The Eternal Flow here would be hard to access for a being used to nature even if anyone could learn to draw on the mana from any source with enough practice. This dryad clearly did not know how. However, Sheo was not done with the place. He had no intention of leaving to take the dryad away now to a place where she could recover. She had not asked for his presence, and that did matter. He extended one hand slowly to the dryad’s face. A glowing white liquid seemed to form in the air near his fingers, suspended in the air. Mana gathered from the air and turned into a glowing liquid by his will. The dryad’s tired eyes locked onto the liquid and her mouth opened. She leaned and trashed forwards in her chains, making a pitiful whining sound. Sheo held his hand in front of her mouth, slightly upwards and let the liquid mana flow forth from his hand. As the first droplets touched landed inside her mouth, the effect was immediate. Her hair came back alive, wilted flowers blooming, leaves and vines grew to cover her breast and crotch. A habit the dryads had developed from centuries of interactions with the Folk of Flesh and Blood, a name they called all those who had such things. She drank greedily, trying to almost bite his fingers despite the mana manifesting nearer to her. Well, eating the flesh of magical beings was a way to recover mana as well, but generally frowned upon in dryad culture. He was also not also willing to let her eat his fingers, even if he could get new ones. That would likely kill her on the spot. Or mutate her into something he would rather not let into the world. Dryad matriarchs were protective of their young, and that would be a huge loss should he have to kill one because he let one young and tortured dryad destroy herself or become a monster out of negligence. Besides, his flesh was also not easily torn, not really flesh, far beyond her capability to harm and far too dense for her to process the mana within. As Sheo kept feeding her, her missing fingers grew back, then kept growing. Her hands and fingers grew and grew, wrapping around the chains holding her there, crushing and pulling until something gave way and the chains fell loose. The hooks on the walls had bent and deformed. The chains hung from her arms but now her hands returned to normal, then became thinner as her control grew. She never stopped drinking. The chains clattered to the floor and her hands grasped at his arm, wooden fingers squeezing with desperation. Her fingers grew into sharp claws, trying to pierce into his flesh. Sheo knew she meant no harm, she was a being starved for who knew how long, now clinging to sustenance. Her claws could not pierce his robe, let alone his flesh. Her legs began to grow now, even while she knelt there. Two trees emerging and breaking open the chains around her ankles. The cell was being filled, the trees kept growing, straining against the metal roof and walls, unable to break through. So, the branches reached for the only opening, the door he had destroyed. He was in the way of course. The branches covered him completely, trying to crush and pierce this obstacle on their way to freedom. They could not crush him, pierce him or even move him. He stopped gathering mana to feed her and she shrieked, trying to bite down on his hand like a rabid beast. Much as he expected, her bite did nothing to his hand. “Enough.” His voice was calm and clear. “Control yourself, Daughter of the Forest.” His voice carried just a hint of power, enough to shock her back into understanding her situation. The dryad froze, sanity returning to her eyes. Slowly, almost fearfully she looked up from his hand she was trying to chew on. Her green and brown eyes widening in shock and fear upon meeting his softly glowing white ones. She recoiled and shrank back, the branches retreating as she prostrated herself before him. He suppressed the urge to sigh. “None of that. Control is enough.” The dryad looked up slowly, afraid of offending him. He was not so easy to offend that a tortured soul in search of relief could manage it. “Stand if you can.” The dryad slowly stood up. She was a bit dazed and shaking. Eager to be out of here, but too afraid to make a run for it. “Now, do you know what they seek?” The dryad took a long time to answer. She could not meet his eyes, but only a few beings could when he did not hide the depth of his irises. He had been told they were unnerving, though Elri and Abalf seemed to like staring into them. “This one does not know. They carve and cut, tree and branch. Take our leaves and flowers. Burn and devour our wood.” Sheo tilted her head upwards and gazed into her eyes. He saw no lies, no deception. “They take pieces of you?” She nodded slowly, and he let her chin go. She turned her gaze to the floor rather than keep staring up at him. “Do you know who or what this Daborh is?” The dryad seemed confused, shaking her head. “This one has never heard the name.” That would have been far too easy. “Their leader then, do you know who or what leads them here?” “She is ash and fire, burns our woods, laughs at our pain.” The dryad shivered, the newly vibrant blooms in her hair wilting a bit at the thought. “Of the False Folk of Blood and Flesh, summoned from blood and misery.” Ah, that was how these mortals could capture a dryad. They had summoned a demon and made a deal with it. The dryads called them the False Folk of Blood and Flesh, creatures not native to the physical world. The term was not limited to demons nececarily, but her description of the leader told him enough. He had a target then. This demon of ash and fire could maybe know more. Or whoever summed her. Still, he had not sensed a demon present here. Either it was already gone, or powerful enough to hide from his basic senses. “Can you get out on your own? I have left a clear path.” The dryad’s gaze snapped upwards, hope blooming in the depths of her eyes. She slowly nodded; relief was evident in her eyes as he did not hold a grudge from her behavior earlier. “Go then.” He stepped to the side and simply let her go. The dryad did not need to be told twice. She scrambled past him, desperate. As soon as she was out of the room lined in metal, her limbs began to shift again, her form changed from that of a wooden woman into a wooden bear. Fingers and toes into claws that left marks on the stone as she ran, hard and fast through the swathe of destruction the Ancient had left on his way in. The Ancient walked out of the cell and turned in the opposite direction of the dryad. Then started walking forwards, spreading his senses out through the mana in the air. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[Sensing if his prey was still present. |Sheo2]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

He had a demon to kill. Or maybe capture… He should probably capture the demon, or the summoner. Though he had his doubts, there actually was a demon still present here. Still, it would be foolish not to take a look. So, he marched towards the next hallway, out of the dungeons. He was… slightly excited. Some old and powerful demon lady would be fun, if it was indeed such a being. Of course, these mortals did not make him hopeful, but so far they had been disappointingly weak. Sheo met twentyish more cultists on his way through the fortress and did not even slow down his walk. These minions had no information worth having, he checked a few of them. He would need to interrogate the demon or the summoner. So, he left behind naught but dust. Based on these cultist, whatever demon they had managed to summon was not all that powerful. It was a shame; he could use something to fight. He walked through the dusty hallways, lost in thought, until he reached the room at the center of this fortress. The door turned to dust before the Ancient, and he walked into the bloody heart of the fortress. The room the cult did their work in. A room full of mutilated corpses, blood, guts and gore. The air was suffocating with the stench of blood and decay, a rank mixture of gore and old rot clinging to every available surface. The corpses filling the space, cut or torn apart, limbs and chunks of flesh were strewn haphazardly across the floor. Bones and wounds, both jagged and smooth, exposed and glistening entrails spilling out from broken bodies. Gore and blood reached every corner of the room, smears of viscera clung to the walls. The floor was slick with blood, sticky in places from pools of dark crimson. Pieces of flesh, organs and bones lay scattered among the carnage. Sheo was unconcerned with the carnage surrounding him, it was nothing he had not seen countless times before. He did note, this was sloppy, much more so than the other branch he had wiped out. Were these people more gone, or was it the demon? It hardly mattered with everything already dead of course. Still, one had to wonder... How far spread were these Arpirants? They would need to be hunted down but the cold truth was, they were not a significant threat. Not based on what he had seen so far, but there could be more to then than he currently knew. Now, was there anyone still here? It did not seem like it, he did not sense anyone, but he let his mana scan the room in more detail and found what he expected. No demons, only traces. And the Eternal Flow was polluted by pain, despair and suffering. Suffering. Pain. Death. All these things in enough quantities could distort the Eternal Flow. Even normal people could leave behind traces of their will when their mana returned to the Flow if their will was strong enough. The sort of torture happening here would leave behind such pain, suffering, madness, and resentment. Mana remembered. Places of great death and suffering often lead to undead, the mana full of hatred and pain would fill the corpses and hunt the living. Tapping into the Eternal Flow to use magic was dangerous in places like this, pitting your will against the memories of mana, fighting against the hatred and suffering of the dead. Most magic users would use their internal flow to cast magic in places like this, if they had sufficient reservoirs of it. Even so, if the Eternal Flow was twisted enough, it could try to corrupt the mana of individuals as well after it left their body, trying to wrench control from them. Magic was dangerous under the best of circumstances, but places of great death were a hazard to even established magic users. None of it mattered to Sheo, he was not bothered by the memories of mana, not by the hatred and death. His will would squash all that in an instant. Instead, he focused on checking for traces of his prey. The demon first. He was not surprised to find the demon gone; his senses could not find it inside the fortress. The smell of ash still lingered even amidst all the gore, but the thing must have escaped long before he got here. He would have to hunt, though he was short on time. Ironic for an immortal, but there were things to do out in the world. If it proved too time-consuming, he would have to hire someone for the task. He was lost in thought, considering his options. Then he turned as he heard the groans and saw the undead rise just in time as the doors for the central chamber slammed shut. His eyes could see the mana forming a sealing spell in an attempt to trap him. The corpses filling the room floating together into an abomination of flesh and gore as if pulled by invisible strings, made of dozens of corpses, guts and viscera. A fleshweaver, a hulking mass of flesh with too many limbs, heads, and eyes, constantly rearranging as the monstrosity launched itself at Sheo in a sick blur of gore. Even in the blur of movement, he could see the bile dripping from a dozen mouths and see the empty dead eyes incorporated into the creature. The demon must have created it. Perhaps to delay him, or if the demon was particularly ignorant, then to kill him. Or… his mana probed the creature, and he confirmed the original corpse, the one the whole abomination was built upon, right at the center or the gory mass, contained much more mana than the others. It was standard practice to use a mage as the center. So far, the cultists he had encountered had been weak… Reaching a conclusion was not hard. He assumed the demon had killed her own summoner to create the fleshweaver, though it was not clear if it had done so before or after he arrived. It happened all the time if the demon was not bound properly, and the demon could have just rebelled against the summoner long before he got here. That even seemed likely, now that he considered it. Still, the sealing spell. It could be just a normal trap, for any intruder. Or a joke from the demon. Perhaps he needed to reconsider how much the demon knew… It could be a rather useless creature. Still, the demon must be long gone. He could not sense the creature, which meant it was far away or decent at hiding. Likely both. The question was what had happened? Had it done this before he arrived? Or did it escape because of him? What would the demon do now? Go on a rampage or try to further the cult’s agenda if this Daborh had gotten into its head like it did with the mortals? He had no answers right now. The fleshweaver was hurling towards him too, trying to tear him to pieces. Too bad it was so weak, he did not even bother to stop walking. If there had been half a million corpses for the fleshweaver to absorb, it might have managed to delay him for a moment. If the demon had cast a few hundred sealing spells, it might have bought it a moment of time. This newly born fleshweaver, made from a few dozen corpses, did not count as a threat to him. It was just another thing in the way. The undead monstrosity wailed and screamed as his will turned it to ash. That was the thing about magic—if your will was strong enough, you could just unravel spells. Just like that, he needed no movements or visible conduits for this. His will was enough with only a newly formed undead to contest it. Commands conducted through the air to the fleshweaver’s internal flow of mana, and it’s very being began to unravel. The pile of dust dropped to the ground, and he walked past it. Fire began spreading from his footsteps as he walked out of the fortress, spreading his senses in every direction. This place had not worked out. He had very little new information about the cult. The only real clue was this demon… that was now gone. And might not even know anything worth knowing. He had hoped the demon would be stronger than the foes he had faced so far. At least it was smart enough to hide… How disappointing. He had duties that could not be put off to go off galivanting after an errant demon through the wilderness. He currently had no way of knowing if capturing the demon would even be useful. It was sometimes boring being him. Most things safe to allow into Wocdes died far too easily, even to this version of him that need not be himself all the time. Still, being just Sheo was good after many millennia spent on duty alone. Service willingly given, it was not as if anyone could force him… but he was content being just Sheo again. Being Sheo was preferable at times, even if it was more complicated. If he was ever called to return to his true role amongst the Ancients, it would mean they had failed in one of their goals. Of course, he had known that from the beginning, their failure was only a matter of time. They would fail eventually, for nothing lasted forever. It could be today, a week from now, a year, or ten thousand years. It would come one day, and they would deal with it. Perhaps his intervention could delay the inevitable some time yet, if it came to it. He hoped that for a single millennium he could remain just Sheo. A brief dream to walk amidst this world to admire the long work of millennia. It had barely been 150 years since the last call to duty ended. Nothing in the grand scheme of the cosmos yet millions of lives had been lived in what he thought of as a brief interlude. Lives that burned brightly and brilliantly if he looked closely. How old had that $child been? Seven? Eight? A time that was nothing to him, yet an entire existence to the child. One full of pain and suffering at the hands of other mortals. Did the fact that to him it had been but a short period, barely worthy of notice make that pain lesser? Make life any less unfair? The world, less cruel? It did not. Time was relative, and he was a poor judge of mortal pain. Yet he, Sheo, had once made a promise to be there if no one else would. To help those who asked for it as a last resort, a mercy offered to those abandoned and despairing alone in the darkness. There were limits of course, there always were. There were places he could not hear, places he could not reach in time. Still, the promise held across millennia. It mattered as long as there were those who needed it. He was not blind to the hypocrisy of a being like him offering it, but no one else would. During times like this, at least he could afford to keep his promise without too much sacrifice. Even if he was busy and was needed elsewhere, the price for keeping this promise was not high in this current dream. Eventually every dream must end, and the dreamer wake to reality. He knew it well. Still, this dream was pleasant enough. The Ancient glanced back at the burning fortress. The stone was cracking and melting under the magical fire he had let loose. How many more such places were spread across Anwol? Or were they present on multiple continents already? It was just a mortal cult. A few dozen, or even a few hundred lives, were not much in the grand scheme of things… Yet the child. He had no more answers than he did upon entering. Coincidence, or something more? He had long since learned to trust his instincts when there were no answers to be had. His instincts told him to pursue this further, yet he would need to find something to hunt the demon since he himself was needed elsewhere. He could shatter himself once again, and spread around the world, but that usually ended badly. His fragments tended to amplify his worst traits, and caused too much chaos, if not outright damage. The others did not like him splitting himself apart and would be annoyed if he did so. He watched the fortress burn for a while, thinking about a plan. Adventurers… he knew too little of them for now. Perhaps in a few more centuries he would know some group, but this required a level of competence he trusted no random group to have. At least if what he suspected of the demon was true… Yet the cultists had been weak. How powerful of a demon could they summon? His problem came back to a lack of information. Still, more information could not hurt. Maybe a name to this demon. <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[He pondered on how to set about seeking such information. |Sheo3]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

There was one relatively easy way to acquire a name. Though it may lead to strained relations. Still, he did not care much though he would have to be discreet. That meant using a messenger instead of direct contact. The problem was that messengers that could reach the Infernal realm were not so common outside of a few. But using the official messengers would be no better than making direct contact. He had killed a good few number of cultists. It would not be hard to perform a little summoning and while what he had in mind was not suited to being messengers, he could make do. So, Sheo stopped walking. He had easy access to the recently deceased, assuming their essences still lingered. A wave of mana rolled out of the ancient, reaching every corner of the fortress formerly occupied by the Aspirants. His will snatched up what remained of the dead cultists, what remained of the fleshweaver and the lives lost to create the thing. All the mana left from people now dead. The Ancient pulled the mana to him, and wove a spell with his own flow, lights drawing a pattern on the air just above the ground. The summoning came together quickly. At the middle he places the mana of the dead, a bait to attract the correct type of thing being. An offering made of the dead. The spell activated and the Ancient snatched up the mana offering from the circle before it could be devoured. Sheo stared at the thing he had summoned blankly, waiting for something. A death wraith, a shadow given form. It was a figure of flowing black mist hovering in the air. It had no face, only an empty space beneath a shifting hood. The air around the wraith chilled and grew still, the grass and stone of the plains frosting over. Whispers echoed around them, yet no one spoke. The Ancient made no moves nor engaged, only stared blankly. The wraith stared back, hovering in place. Until it seemed to grow agitated. "I bring death," the wraith spoke in a deep gravelly voice. "Your kind always do. Never anything else. Just death." "I am death." The wraith seemed almost confused. "No, you cause death. You are more akin to a parasite in truth." The Ancient said blandly. “Though I suppose you don’t really care about your nature.” "Cease this chatter. I bring death." "Death has no meaning to me. It has no power over me. So, you can stop waiting for me to drop dead from your presence. It will never happen." The Ancient dangled the mana he had used as bait. “I summoned you for a reason, Wraith. So will you listen to me, or do I need to banish you and summon something else?” “I bring death.” The wraith said, almost annoyed. The Ancient just gave the wraith a blank look. “I’ll give you some of this.” The lifted one hand, where the mana from the dead was swirling in a circle. Not a flow visible to every eye, but both himself and the wraith could see it. “This is what you want. What you came here for? So, hear my request and receive some, not all. Alternatively, I banish you.” The wraith lifted one shadowy hand, and tried to swipe the mana, but got nothing. “One more try, and the deal is off.” The Ancient said. “I know your kind are rather secular, but I never took you for idiots. Or has it been such slim pickings in the last century that starvation has rendered you into a base beast?” The wraith growled at him. The empty hood stared only at Sheo’s hand. The Ancient tilted his head. “Truly? You are that hungry? Or that stupid?” A deeper growl. “The… abomination feeds on all mana, and leaves nothing for us.” It eventually rasped. “Do you mean the so-called Eternal Flow? Or is there a beast of some sort about? Because the Eternal Flow is not that quick. The cycle takes time; the bodies need to decompose. Even if they are completely destroyed, it still takes some time for the mana from the departed to return to the Flow.” He waved the mana from the departed around, watching the wraith’s head follow it. “New deal, you get some right now if you tell me what you mean.” “A beast… a thing…. It claws and pushes at the edges of the world, slipping through the cracks and taking all it can… Careful… smart…” Imagine that. Useful information. Sheo let a bit of the mana in his hand leave his control, and the wraith swiped at it immediately, eating it up. “Does this beast have a name?” The wraith did not answer, once again staring at his hand where the mana was. “I assume that means you don’t know. I suppose your kind never was concerned with names. That leaves the original deal I had in mind.” The wraith kept staring at his hand. “I need you to deliver a message.” Sheo said, and leaned closer to the wraith. “To the Infernal King.” <<nobr>><div class="choices"> <div class="choice-item">[[End Of Sheo POV|EndOfDemo]]</div> </div><</nobr>>

<<set $chapter = '???'>>\ <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 250%;'>\ <font face='fancy'> ''Interlude - Early intercession''</font> \ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<fadein 2s>><span class="text"> <div align='center' style='font-size: 200%;'>\ <font face='fancy'>''The Ancients - Sheo'' </font>\ </div> </span><</fadein>> <<timed 4s t8n>><span class="game-start-timed"> Click anywhere to continue... </span><</timed>> <<cont>><<goto 'Sheo1'>><</cont>>