CCT328

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> It may matter, it may not matter. Just be honest with me. I already know everything about you. [[I was a good person.|B1]] [[I was nobody.| C1]] [[I was hated.|D1]] [[I don't believe you.|E1]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Well you must have been loved by all. Do you believe in a heaven? (if:$SamCheck is true)[This leads to Samuel's story.] [[Yes, and I'd like to go. | BA1]] (if:$OdeCheck is true)[This leads to Odette's story.] [[No, but you may prove me wrong. | BB1]] [[Of course I do. Is this not it? | BC1]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> You sound like you've lived a regretful life. Did you ever feel like starting over? (if:$SamCheck is true)[This leads to Samuel's story.] [[Yes, all the time. | CA1]] (if:$OdeCheck is true)[This leads to Odette's story.] [[No. I thought it would get better eventually. | CB1]] (if:$RosCheck is true)[This leads to Rosetta's story.] [[I would rather return to nothing. | CC1]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Hm. Do you think you deserve to go to heaven then? (if:$SamCheck is true)[This leads to Samuel's story.] [[Yes. Because I believe I do. | BA1]] (if:$OdeCheck is true)[This leads to Odette's story.] [[No. But it's not like what I think matters. | BB1]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> You don't have to believe me. What really matters is that I already know everything about you. [[But we can try again. | A1]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Eager to enter paradise in both life and death. [[It is my calling. | Sam1]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> And why is that? [[Because only you can decide if I deserve it. If you say you know everything about me, then you must be my judge. | Ode1]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Very funny. You flatter me. I have nothing to offer you, so I would still like to know what you think of heaven. Perhaps you believe in something else? (if:$SamCheck is true)[This leads to Samuel's story.] [[Yes I believe in a heaven, and I'd like to go. | BA1]] (if:$OdeCheck is true)[This leads to Odette's story.] [[I don't think there is a heaven. What do you think? | BB1]] (if:$RosCheck is true)[This leads to Rosetta's story.] [[I would rather return to nothing. | CC1]] (if:$SamCheck is true)[This leads to Samuel's story.] [[I would like to start over. | CA1]] (if:$ElioCheck is true)[This leads to Elio's story.] [[I'd like to know you more, if that's alright. | BCA1]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Why is that? (if:$SamCheck is true)[This leads to Samuel's story.] [[I know so much better now.| CA2]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> You want to know more about me you say? Hmmm.... [[I really do. | Elio1 ]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image09.gif?v=055a906a> Why do you want to run away from it all, Rosetta. There is nothing that can hurt you here anymore. [[Look around you. | Ros1]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> You thought it would get better, but it did not because you didn't try to make it get better. Am I wrong? (if:$OdeCheck is true)[This leads to Odette's story.] [[No. I suppose that is my fault. | Ode1]] (if:$SamCheck is true)[This leads to Samuel's story.] [[Yes, actually. I did my best to be the best for everyone. | CA2]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Welcome to the afterlife. Tell me all about yourself. [[If I'm dead, will what I say be used against me?|A2]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image09.gif?v=055a906a> Nothing but endless seas of black. Nothing to be afraid of. [[You can't even sink. | Ros2]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image10.gif?v=055a906a> //She flinches. Rosetta's life began by the sea. Her birth was a rather unfortunate one. Her mother's water broke on a sunny day at the beach. With no time to waste and a series of unfortunate circumstances, her mother had to give birth in the ocean water. // [[//As Rosetta entered this world, her mother left it.// | Ros3 ]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image10.gif?v=055a906a> "If you already know everything about me, then you should know that I wish I was never even born.'' What an unfortunate thing to say, Rosetta. Despite how poorly life treated you, [[You were loved. | Ros4 ]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image10.gif?v=055a906a> "Please don't bring her up." Ariane just wanted to lift you up. [[She knew that if you felt no joy in the daytime, no solace in the sea, you would find it among the stars. | Ros5]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image11.gif?v=055a906a> //Rosetta recalls her fifth birthday, June 7th. After the death of Rosetta's mother, her father needed someone to help take care of her. On that day, he eventually found Ariane, an elderly woman.// [[//While she never knew her mother, all she needed was Ariane. //| Ros6 ]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image11.gif?v=055a906a> //While she was never beat as a child, Rosetta's father was not a particularly great one. He did not care about her in any way. Her grades nor her looks nor her friendships would tug at his heart. It was as though Rosetta was simply something he was forced to keep alive. // [[//Ariane was the complete opposite.//| Ros7]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image11.gif?v=055a906a> //Rosetta's heart always warmed and beat a little faster around that old woman. In the day, she would walk her to school. In the afternoon, she would have their shared playtime. In the night, she would read her stories as Rosetta fell asleep. Ariane's greatest wish for Rosetta was to follow her own dreams, but she never really had any passions or goals growing up.// [[//To encourage her to dream a little harder, they decided to decorate the ceiling with glowing stars.// | Ros8]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Do you remember how you crossed over, Rosetta? Do you remember how you entered What Lies Beyond? [["I... don't." | RosA1]] [["I don't." | RosB1]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> You have to try. It is the only way you can leave this place and get what you wanted. [["I remember... the night sky." | RosA2]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image12.gif?v=055a906a> Why do you lie to me. To yourself. Rosetta, I know what happened to Ariane. What happened to you. You must face it before you leave this place. [["Can you please ''stop'' saying her name. | RosB2]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Ariane knows everything. She sees how you lie to yourself. [["Shut up, beast. | RosC1]] [["If you say so, then prove it. | RosD1]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image12.gif?v=055a906a> "I visited the beach where I was born. After Ariane died, I felt like I had nothing left to look forward to. I was 17, and I stole my dad's car." [["Everything was hazy after that. Do you... know what happens?" | RosA3 ]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image12.gif?v=055a906a> You walked into the sea and never looked back. With every step you took, another breath left your lungs. You wished the night was filled with stars like the room she helped decorate, but all there was the empty black night. [[Not even the moon could bear to look at you. | Ros A4]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image12.gif?v=055a906a> "Please stop. I do not want to remember any of it." Rosetta. It is the truth you have to face. If you did not face it then, you must face it now. Contrary to popular belief, people do in fact owe the world something. After all, you are a part of it. [["Then what do I owe it? | Ros9]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> I have met Ariane before. She asked me if there was anything I could do with my omnipotence to help you. I told her I can only do what I must. And so she carried on. "Then take me to her. Let me see her again so we can... so we can continue." [[//Tears stream down Rosetta's face.// | RosD2]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Beast? You flatter me. You wish I was as mindless as such a concept. No Rosetta, I know all about who comes to meet me at the end. [["Then why are you as cruel as one!?" | RosC2 ]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image15.gif?v=a90778b4> You've always been such a strange man, Elio. "I don't get what you mean. Is it strange to have a conversation?" It is not strange to have a conversation. Small talk is normal. But this is not a normal scene. [[Look around you. | Elio2]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image20.gif?v=479fd3e8> Always the humble girl you are, Odette. In living and in death, you have always let others decide how things are for you. [["I'm not very smart you know." | Ode2]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> You always act like you know what is best for you and everyone. It's as though you are married to the concept of control itself. Whether or not you know better now or before is irrelevant. Let's talk about your future. [[Future? All there is left after a life like mine is heaven. | BA1]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image03.gif?v=737583c5> So bold of you to claim you know anything about your calling, Samuel. [["So you do know my name. Then you must know about my life."| Sam2]] (set: $argument = 2)

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image03.gif?v=737583c5> Your life was quite opulent. Many did love you, yes. You were born into wealth, yet you seemed to be quite the philanthropist. [["Stop telling me things I already know." | SamA1 ]] [["Is there a reason why it feels like you're stalling? | SamB1]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Always the impatient man, Samuel. Why don't you slow it down for while and look around you. [[//Samuel turns his head side to side.// | SamA2]] (set: $argument = $argument + 1)

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image03.gif?v=737583c5> Stalling? I do nothing of the sort, Samuel. [[Serious topics need to be handle carefully, after all. | SamB2]] (set: $argument = $argument - 1)

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image15.gif?v=a90778b4> There is nothing but an inky void around us. This is the space beyond death. It is what lies beyond. [["But you are at least here to light up the room." | Elio3]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image15.gif?v=a90778b4> That is a thoughtful way to acknowledge my existence. Most others want to know where they go from here. Death is something you experience only once in your lifetime. [["Is that not a contradictory statement? "| Elio4]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image16.gif?v=a90778b4> There is nothing contradictory about the natural. The world means everything and nothing all at once. It all depends on the eye of the beholder. [["Then what do you mean to others?" | Elio5]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image16.gif?v=a90778b4> To many, I am the grim reaper, taker of life. To some, I am St. Peter, the man by those pearly white gates. To others, I am Anubis, who weighs ones heart against a a feather. The reality is, I am the one who comes before all of that. [["If that's the case, what should I call you? | Elio6]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image16.gif?v=a90778b4> My name? I do not have one. But I suppose... you may call me the entity. "The Entity?" No. The entity. [["Why do you not treat this as a name? | Elio7]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> There is power in a name, much like yours, Elio. I am someone who holds both no power and all of it all at once. The entity is not a name, but it is what you may call me. On the other hand, you bear the name of the sun, ever radiant and warm. [["Then I suppose it would be a fitting name for you as well, entity? You glow so brightly after all. Are you sure you do not want a name like mine?" | Elio8 ]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Why do you keep asking about me Elio? Would you not like to know about where you are headed beyond this? [["I mean, it would be nice to know. | ElioA1]] [["But this is the chance of the lifetime. I could learn so much more!" | ElioB1]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Learn? You act as though you can take this information elsewhere. [["But that isn't the point, entity. I want to learn more about you right now." | Elio9]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Then ask away Elio. Ask me about heaven. Reincarnation. Hell. Limbo. Purgatory. Enlightenment. I would normally be the one to ask, but I know you were more of the inquisitive type. [[//Elio spent his life buried among books.// | ElioA2]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image17.gif?v=a90778b4> //From the moment he learned to read, he wanted to learn about everything. Why the tides grew at night. Why the sun changed colours in the afternoon. Why the birds sang in those early hours. Elio craved knowledge of all kinds.// [[//As a result, he was never particularly focused and could never keep a job.// | ElioA3]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image17.gif?v=a90778b4> //Despite everything, what mattered was his thirst for knowledge. It didn't matter what he used it for. What was important was that he found out eventually, so that it may satiate even just a drop of the endless wonder in his heart.// [["I would like to learn more about you specifically, entity." | Elio9]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image05.gif?v=737583c5> "There's nothing but inky darkness. It smells like nothing and sounds like nothing, yet it moves." What you see here Samuel is what lies beyond. Beyond the living, beyond death. Time has no meaning here. So let us take our time and discuss about what comes after. You might even wish this moment lasts for as long as it can. [["Is that a threat? | SamA3]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image05.gif?v=737583c5> A threat? I am simply presenting you the matter at hand. [[Do you remember your sons, Samuel? | Sam3]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image20.gif?v=479fd3e8> Nonsense, dearest Odette. Look around you. What do you see? [["I see..." | Ode3]] (set:$OdeA1 to false) (set:$OdeB1 to false) (set:$OdeC1 to false)

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image21.gif?v=479fd3e8> //As Odette looks around, the endless darkness begins to change its shape and colour. Inky black waters turn to lush green grass, and wildflowers of every colour begin to sprout from the ground. The dark empty sky fills itself with clouds, and then clears again to reveal a beautiful crescent moon, accompanied by endless speckles of starlight.// [["... What?! What's happening?" | Ode4 ]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image21.gif?v=479fd3e8> Welcome to your destiny, Odette. [["I don't understand? I thought I died. | Ode5]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image16.gif?v=a90778b4> About me? Well, I have only ever existed here. In what lies beyond. "Who created you, entity?" Created? You flatter me. I was not created with the intent of a being greater than me, I simply was. I am. I exist because I need to exist. [["Fascinating! Then you must be a god of sorts!" | Elio10]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image16.gif?v=a90778b4> A god? Titles as such do not apply. I am much more abstract than that. "Then you must be a sort of force of nature? As natural as gravity or even time itself?" You might be right, Elio. I cannot directly confirm anything, because there was never a need to define anything about me. I simply am the one who connects you to what comes next. [["What if I do not want to see what comes next?" | Elio11]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image15.gif?v=a90778b4> How could you not? There is nothing for you here. "But entity, have you not talked to everyone else who has ever died? Do you not know of their stories?" I do. [["Then I want to learn as much as I can. | Elio12]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image16.gif?v=a90778b4> "Your mind... at least whatever it is you have. It has the knowledge of a trillion libraries no one would ever get to read. And if I had no need to fear of dying or paying rent, then this must be paradise for me." Elio. This is not meant to be the final destination. [["Exactly, entity! This is only the beginning!" | Elio13]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> This is nonsense. I am sending you to where you must. "Please, entity." //Elio places his head against its soft glow. There is no feeling, yet he cannot put his hands through the entity's body. He closes his eyes.// "Please let me stay. I could be here with you for as long as possible. I know you will never run out of stories." [[//The entity extends its arms and reaches around Elio's body.// | Elio14]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image18.gif?v=a90778b4> Elio. If you stay here, then there will be nothing waiting for you beyond this realm. No Heaven nor Hell nor any other chance at living lies beyond. All you will know and see is this endless sea of darkness. [["That's not true. I'll have you won't I?" | Elio15]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image18.gif?v=a90778b4> I guess you will. [[//They melt into each other's embrace.// | Elio16]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image19.gif?v=802e6903> The two unite into one, and together the discover the stories of every life that ever came will come to be. This was Elio's paradise, his Arcadia. They will be one forever more. (set: $ElioCheck = true) [[Who will they next greet to what lies beyond? | Start]]

Welcome to What Lies Beyond. (if:$RosCheck is true)[Rosetta's story has been completed.] (if:$OdeCheck is true)[Odette's story has been completed.] (if:$SamCheck is true)[Samuel's story has been completed.] (if:$ElioCheck is true)[Elio's story has been completed.] [[Enter. | A1]] (if:$RosCheck is true and $OdeCheck is true and $SamCheck is true and $ElioCheck is true)[[All stories have been completed. The day is done. | End]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image01.gif?v=78ef27c5> [[Game Start. | Start]] (set: $RosCheck = false) (set: $OdeCheck = false) (set: $SamCheck = false) (set: $ElioCheck = false)

//And so, there were no more visitors for the day. The inky black darkness all around turned into the interior of a brick house. It was small, full of books and the smell of ground coffee. Elio had not known there would be a comfortable place for them to stay, but it had put him to ease. From there, they looked outside their window. Odette spun around in a field of flowers, dancing to her hearts content. The world finally sang their praises, and they could watch her be her truest self. Out the other window, Samuel had been reduced to near nothing. He had experienced everything he had done to the world tenfold back to him within every moment, ceaseless and unending. Not even the flames of hell could warm his frozen heart. He cannot hurt anyone anymore. Elio and the entity sat by the fireplace. They watched as the flame took shape. Rosetta had finally woken up at the hospital. Her father, startled, as he had spent the last few days worried for her life. For the first time in forever, she would see her father cry. They would talk about them, the ocean, and Ariane. They both promised to change. To find something to truly live for.// Thank you for playing. It has been a pleasure to be your entity.

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> They have decided for you to come back to Earth. It is simply not your time. "They? Who's they!?" The world. The universe. It has decided they are not done with you. Rosetta, you are young. You are barely even 17. [["So?!? I'm here now. Take me to see Ariane!" | Ros10]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Cruelty means nothing to me. You are arguing with a metaphorical wall. [[Face the truth Rosetta. Give the world what you owe it. | Ros9]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image11.gif?v=055a906a> //Rosetta recalls her past. She really did try to find something to look forward to. But every bite of food felt more tasteless than the last when Ariane left. There was no red nor blue nor yellow in the world around her.// Rosetta, you were a part of this world, and you took yourself away from it. "So? Who cares. It's all over now." It is not over. [[You still owe the world something. | Ros9]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Ariane is not expecting you so soon. She did not want you to meet me so soon. "Stop acting like you know her." [[Oh but Rosetta, I do. | Ros11]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> It has been decided. [[You are to return to the what lies before. | Ros12]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> "No! Please. Take me to Ariane!" I can't do that. Not since they found your body. [[You have been saved. Take care, Rosetta. | Ros13]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image13.gif?v=055a906a> //The dark ocean surrounding her began to dry up. The entity faded into the sky above her, and all that was left was sand. Beneath her feet, stones began to emerge. One by one, a path began to form.// [[//Rosetta follows it.// | Ros14]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image13.gif?v=055a906a> //Suddenly, a room appears on the horizon. Its walls and ceiling are covered in glowing plastic stars, green and fading.// [[//Rosetta walks up to a door and opens it.// | Ros15]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image14.gif?v=055a906a> //In an instant, all she could hear was panic. People calling for an ambulance. Her vision faded in and out. Her body was weak and resting on the sand.// [[//She looks to the side.// | Ros16]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image14.gif?v=055a906a> //Rosetta sees a silhouette approaching her from the horizon.// "Ariane..."//, she muttered. Instead, she sees her father run towards her. Rosetta's vision fades to black.// (set: $RosCheck = true) Rosetta lives. [[Who will next come to what lies beyond? | Start]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image21.gif?v=479fd3e8> You did. Are you familiar with the concept of Heaven? Of a paradise beyond the life you've known? "I mean, I do. But why would that matter to me?" I see that humility truly is your strongest virtue. [[Or perhaps it is denial? | Ode6]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image22.gif?v=479fd3e8> "I'm not in denial. I just don't understand why I would be deserving of a Heaven." If you're not in denial Odette, then words have no meaning. [[If you are so unsure of yourself, let us reflect. | Ode7]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image22.gif?v=479fd3e8> //Suddenly, Odette was small again. She was never particularly remarkable as a child, though her mother held a sort of grudge against her. Before Odette was born, her mother was apparently the talk of the town. She made everyone around her look and smile. She was a dancer of the highest caliber. She was a star.// [[//When Odette was born, everything about her mother changed.// | Ode8]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image22.gif?v=479fd3e8> //She became bitter. Odette's father did everything he could to keep the household happy, even proposing that he could work more hours so her mother could go back to living the life she used to live, but with her family at her side. She scoffed at the idea, and all she could feel was bitter towards Odette.// [[//When she found out Odette was play dancing when she wasn't looking, she snapped.// | Ode9]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image22.gif?v=479fd3e8> //Odette's father defended her against her mother. He could not understand how a mother could bear so much hate and jealousy towards such a young child. Eventually, her father lost his job, and Odette's mother refused to work.// [[//To relieve them of their burden, Odette ran away at the age of 17.// | Ode10]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image22.gif?v=479fd3e8> "Life became so much harder." Yet you did your best. "I feel like it wasn't much at all." Why do you say so, Odette? [["I hadn't fulfilled my dreams yet." | Ode11]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image23.gif?v=479fd3e8> "Crazy as it sounds, I wanted to be just like mom. She was a beautiful dancer. I saw her performances on tape when everyone else in the house fell asleep." And here Odette, you can do the very same thing. But first, you must tell me. [[Why do you think you deserve heaven? | Ode12 ]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image23.gif?v=479fd3e8> "Why do you ask? I thought you already knew everything." But you should at least be able to tell me why. You do not have to lie about anything. "To be honest, I am not so sure myself." [[You have to try. | Ode13]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image23.gif?v=479fd3e8> //Odette looked down at her feet. It was buried in the grass. She could remember everything and nothing all at once.// "I..." (if:$OdeA1 is false)[["I was a good friend." | OdeA1 ]] (if:$OdeB1 is false)[["I was kind to others." | OdeB1 ]] (if:$OdeC1 is false)[["I took care of Odile." | OdeC1 ]] (if:$OdeA1 and $OdeB1 and $OdeC1 is true)[[You were a good person. | Ode14]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image24.gif?v=479fd3e8> //One day, Odette's father decided to adopt a cat for her mother. He thought that maybe this could help her heal somehow. The cat's name was Odile. Unexpectedly, Odette's mother adored Odile, and as a result, she acted like only Odile existed. Odette could not believe it. How could she be replaced? How does her own mother care more about a cat than her? She eventually felt angry. She balled her fists whenever she walked past the feline. She felt like hurting it. She could've. It was small, and she was much much bigger. She could break Odile in more ways than one. But she did not. Instead, she cared for it. Fed it when others would forget. Played with it when she was lonely. Odile and Odette had a silent sort of companionship.// [[You were so kind to Odile. | Ode13]] (set:$OdeC1 to true)

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image25.gif?v=479fd3e8> //The way her mother's personality twisted postpartum baffled town. Some felt pity towards Odette, and others were cruel. Eventually, some kids spread the rumour that she was a demon child. That in secret, Odette would torment her mother, draining the light behind her eyes. Odette stood tall. She was called many names, though none hurt as much as 'Ugly Duckling'. For whatever reason, something about it stung. If she could pretend to not care about everything else, her weakness was being seen as unappealing. Deep in her heart, she wanted to be seen. Eventually, a boy had moved into the house across theirs. He was a quiet child, too shy for his own good. Despite all the rumours, the two became good friends. When he could not stand for himself, Odette could. She would not stand to see those close to her hurt. He moved away in a matter of months.// [[You were kind no matter how the world treated you, Odette. | Ode13]] (set:$OdeB1 to true)

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image26.gif?v=479fd3e8> //After running away, Odette made friends with several other girls. They became her sisters. Her confidants. They did everything together. They shared an apartment and split the rent. One day, one of the girls had fallen gravely ill. A deep fever took over her body, and Odette decided to step up and be the one to care for her. She would work long grueling hours, only to come home and take care of her. Even though the fever subsided, her sister's illness lasted for months. Her body ached constantly, and Odette had to feed and prepare her meals. Odette had sacrificed her time to rest and time to fulfill her passions for the health of her sister. This was her at 25. But it was all worth it in the end.// [[You did a fine job of being a good friend, Odette. | Ode13]] (set:$OdeA1 to true)

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image22.gif?v=479fd3e8> "I guess I was... good for something." For way more than you realize. Odette, what was the dream you wanted to fulfill? [["I..." | Ode15]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image22.gif?v=479fd3e8> "I want to dance. Forever and ever. I want the world to know how much I love it. I want to feel unburdened and free." [[Then it shall be yours, Odette. | Ode16]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image27.gif?v=479fd3e8> //And then, Odile was alone again. A fresh breeze blew through her hair. Slowly but surely, she began to dance. She could feel it. Freedom. Respect. Love. This was her paradise. A space for her and only her. And the world would always stand there, watching and admiring every step she took. This was her home.// [[Who will next come to what lies beyond? | Start]] (set:$OdeCheck = true)

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image06.gif?v=737583c5> "I'm a naturally born negotiator. Whatever the problem, we can talk it through." And you automatically assume there is a problem. So you know what we must talk about. [["I do not. And what is there to talk about, if you claim to know everything about me." | SamB3]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image06.gif?v=737583c5> I do. But the universe requires you to face this problem head on. [[Do you remember your sons, Samuel? | Sam3]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image07.gif?v=737583c5> //Samuel's brow furrows.// "My sons are my pride and joy. With my passing, I am confident to have raised them well enough to run the company, so that their sons may also inherit the meaning of good work and good judgement." They may inherit good work, but they cannot inherit the good judgement you do not have. [["I beg your pardon?" | Sam4]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image07.gif?v=737583c5> Samuel, you have failed your sons. You have failed all those around you, and have made their lives worse through your carelessness. (if: $argument is 3)[["Elaborate. Explain why you keep testing my patience." | Sam5]] (if: $argument is 1)[["What could I have done wrong? I swear I did everything right." | Sam5]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image07.gif?v=737583c5> (if: $argument is > 2)[Enough of your insolence. Heed my words.](else:)[You have poorer judgement than you think.] When your eldest son, Joel, mismanaged one of your factories, your company suffered a great loss. Instead of reprimanding him and using your great wealth to counteract the misdeeds, you fired many others. "I had to protect my son. He did not know." But he did. He bribed several of the managers to assist in covering for his personal crimes. And you knew about it. Did you not? [["I did. But we moved on and forgave. It was all we could do. " | Sam6A]] [["You have nothing against my son." | Sam6B]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> Nothing? I have everything. I know who he hurt and how he did it. It is not his time, but it matters. "Does it? Those are his sins." It does. You are his accomplice. He would have been brought to justice many times over if you would not have helped him cover up his mistakes. You have stifled all and any growth that could come to Joel's way. [[And your younger son, Abijah. | Sam7]] (set: $argument = $argument + 1)

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> You do not get to administer his life. Forgiveness was not something you could afford to give him, as you were not wronged. Not in that way at least. They had failed you. And you had failed them by refusing to let them face their consequences. You have stifled their growth, and have let others be hurt for it. [[And your younger son, Abijah. | Sam7]] (set: $argument = $argument - 1) (if: $argument is < 0)[(set:$argument = 0)]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image02.gif?v=737583c5> (if: $argument is > 2)[He was as blind as you. He feigned kindness for abhorrence.](else:)[Unfortunately, he was much like you. Delightfully ignorant. Blind.] Your youngest son revelled in the philanthropist parties you would regularly hold. Despite the charitable front, you did not hesitate to lay off others to accumulate wealth. He was the same as you. He expended others for his image. Assistants humiliated, shifting blame to employees for his shortcomings. All in the name of status and wealth. Samuel, I am not going to sugarcoat this. [[You are going to hell. | Sam8]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image06.gif?v=737583c5> "What? But those were all practically my son's faults. I had to help them because they were my children!" You only helped them. Any consequences that came from it, you left behind. Families fell apart because of your ignorance. People have gone hungry for your pride. [[For that, you shall pay. | Sam9]]

<img src=https://whatliesbeyondcct.carrd.co/assets/images/image08.gif?v=737583c5> //The inky black floor beneath Samuel turned into a bright screen red. His eyes became bloodshot, pressure built up from within. As his skin began to boil, his heart began to freeze, temperature lowering bit by bit until it was colder than the depths of space. He collapsed. Yet something kept forcing him to get up. Again and again, he became weak, and was forced to act in fear once more. Mirrors surrounded him. He could see what he had become as he suffered. He had become a nobody, doomed to experience pain for eternitity. Samuel shall suffer for forever.// [[Who will next come to what lies beyond? | Start]] (set:$SamCheck = true)